An essential component of physical security, cloud-based access control systems have emerged as a preferred way to manage access to physical places for SMBs and organizations of all sizes needing to protect their people and property.
Physical access control systems (PACS) offer a range of benefits, from improved security to increased convenience and cost savings. This article will explore 16 ways SMBs benefit from cloud-based, physical access control systems.
Access control systems enable businesses to restrict access to their buildings or areas within their buildings to authorized personnel only. This helps prevent unauthorized entry to protected or sensitive areas and provides real-time monitoring of access events, allowing facility managers to quickly identify and respond to potential security threats.
Access control systems help ensure the safety of employees, visitors, and customers by keeping people in the places they are supposed to be – and not in others. Businesses use these systems to control access to hazardous areas, limit access during emergencies, and minimize risks of workplace violence or threats such as active shooter incidents.
Internal theft is a significant global issue estimated to cost companies $2.9 trillion annually, with 33% of corporate bankruptcies in the United States* linked to employee theft. Vandalism and trespassing also cause significant damage to businesses, both in financial and business interruption costs. Deploying physical access control mechanisms that restrict access to unauthorized individuals helps reduce the likelihood of these events and mitigate economic damages.
Modern physical access control systems feature an open-API design that can be managed remotely with new functionality added anywhere, anytime. This flexibility is essential for businesses with multiple locations or distributed workforces.
Access control systems can be more cost-effective than traditional lock and key systems, as they eliminate the need for frequent rekeying and can reduce the cost of lost keys. In addition, cloud-based access control systems can be more cost-effective than on-premise systems, as they eliminate the need for costly hardware and software upgrades.
Physical access control systems can easily scale to accommodate changes in the size of a business or its workforce. This important benefit makes them an ideal choice for growing SMBs that need a flexible solution.
Building access control systems offer greater convenience for employees, as they can use their keycards, fobs, smartphones, or other mobile devices to access the building, campus, or any authorized areas. This built-in convenience of electronic access control eliminates the need for employees to carry physical keys.
Cloud-based access control systems give facility managers greater visibility into who comes and goes and all access events, enabling them to identify potential security threats and respond quickly.
Sensitive data such as financial records, client data, personnel records, and health information are often stored on company-owned servers. Restricting access to these IT rooms to trusted, authorized personnel help mitigate the risks of data breaches and theft.
Detailed reports and audit trails provided by access control systems allow businesses to track access events, monitor employee activity, and investigate security incidents providing valuable information for business optimization practices, compliance, and security investigations.
Cloud-based access control systems are deeply customizable to meet the unique needs of a business. This customization capability includes setting access rules, creating access groups, defining access schedules, and more.
Access control systems can help businesses comply with regulatory and insurance requirements related to building security and control of unauthorized access.
Access control systems provide businesses with an audit trail of access events, enabling them to track who has entered or exited the building or restricted areas. This can help increase accountability and reduce the risk of internal theft or security breaches.
Cloud-based access control systems with intelligent software enable seamless integration with other security systems, such as video surveillance and intrusion detection, as well as smart building technologies. The auto-update features and seamless integration with other security systems help bridge the gap between physical and cybersecurity for a holistic security solution.
Modern access control systems can provide business owners, managers, and employees peace of mind. They offer a reliable and secure solution for managing access to physical buildings and campuses, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or security breaches, and providing a sense of workplace security that enhances satisfaction, retention, and productivity.
And last but certainly not least, SMBs can achieve higher ROI on security investments in multiple ways. Modern access control systems are cloud-based, eliminating costly on-premise hardware expenditures and maintenance costs. Physical access control systems are typically provided on a subscription-type service, including software upgrades with robust encryption that keeps your access control system secure, thus reducing costly security breaches or incidents, which can have a significant financial impact on the business.
In conclusion, cloud-based access control systems offer a range of benefits for SMBs, from improved security to increased convenience and cost savings. These systems are a worthwhile investment for businesses looking to enhance the security and safety of their physical buildings and campuses, in addition to increasing employee satisfaction and productivity. With advanced analytics, customization, and scalability, cloud-based physical access control systems can provide SMBs with the tools they need to manage access events and ensure the safety of their employees, customers, and assets.
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PHDTech provides cloud-based VoIP and Commercial Security Solutions that help businesses harness the full power of technology to scale profitably, efficiently, and securely. PHDTech’s innovative solutions include VoIP & Business Telecom, Business Video Surveillance, Visitor Management, Access Controls, and Structured Cabling.
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Top 10 factors driving the need for access control What business leaders say is behind their decision to implement a physical access control system. Access
An essential component of physical security, cloud-based access control systems have emerged as a preferred way to manage access to physical places for SMBs and organizations of all sizes needing to protect their people and property.
Can controlling door access reduce workplace violence and decrease theft and vandalism? A recent study cites a 90% reduction – find out what access control systems are, and how they can benefit your business.
