Smart Access in Commercial Spaces by ASSA ABLOY

Smart access control refers to advanced electronic systems that manage entry to buildings using digital credentials like mobile apps, biometrics (fingerprints, facial recognition), RFID cards, or PINs, replacing traditional keys with networked, real-time verification. Architects integrate smart access control into commercial spaces early in the design phase to enhance security, efficiency, and aesthetics without compromising the building's overall vision. This involves using digital tools like BIM for precise planning and collaboration with security experts.

These systems use readers at doors/turnstiles connected to cloud or on-premise servers, authenticating users via encrypted data and logging events for audits. Features include remote credential revocation, time/zone-based permissions (RBAC), geofencing for auto-unlock, and integrations with CCTV, BMS, elevators, and HR software for unified control.

Key Reasons to Incorporate

Incorporating smart access boosts security by preventing unauthorized entry (no lost/stolen keys, MFA reduces tailgating), cuts costs (20-30% via no rekeying, energy savings from occupancy links), and enhances convenience for hybrid offices, managers grant visitor access remotely while tracking real-time occupancy. It supports scalability for growing offices whether in a single or multiple locations, complies with fire/safety codes and preemptively future-proofs against threats like insider risks.

These integrations boost operational efficiency by up to 20%, improve tenant satisfaction through contactless access, and support scalability for future upgrades. In commercial settings like offices and mixed-use developments, they enhance safety while maintaining design integrity.

Great. Now that we have established what it is and why we need to, let’s see when, which projects and how we are going to do it. 

Design Phase 

Architects start with site assessments to identify access points, security needs, and integration with building systems like HVAC and elevators. They use Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create 3D virtual models, simulating door reader placements, camera sightlines, and cabling paths to avoid conflicts and optimize coverage. This early coordination prevents costly changes during construction.

Conduct early site surveys to map access points like lobbies, elevators, and fire exits, defining security levels, user counts, and scalability needs. Engage certified hardware/security consultants and owners upfront to align on budget, electronic vs. mechanical options, and zoning, using BIM for 3D simulations of wiring, readers, and conduits to avoid change orders. Specify concealed infrastructure like PoE cabling and fire-rated locks, while planning for multi-tenant permissions and regulatory compliance (e.g., NFPA 101, the ADA or the EN specifications).

Execution Phase 

Smart systems such as biometric scanners, mobile credentials, and cloud-based platforms are selected for seamless connection to building management systems (BMS). Custom housings ensure devices match architectural finishes, like bronze panels blending with door hardware. Integration with CCTV, lighting, and AI analytics enables real-time monitoring and automation.

Select networked systems (e.g., card readers, biometrics, mobile credentials) compatible with BMS, CCTV, elevators, and visitor management for real-time control and audit trails. Install strategically: mount readers 1.2-1.5m high at entrances, use electric strikes for tenant floors, and ensure fire exits have REX sensors with auto-unlock. Test integrations thoroughly, peak-load simulations, fire linkages, and data isolation, followed by user training and monthly maintenance protocols.

Options and benefits:

Smart access control systems in commercial spaces offer diverse functionality options tailored for security, convenience, and integration. These range from basic credential-based entry to advanced biometric and cloud-managed solutions.

1. Credential-Based Options: Key fobs, cards, and PIN keypads provide reliable, low-cost entry by scanning RFID chips or entering codes, ideal for high-traffic areas like offices. They support temporary access for visitors via programmable cards and integrate with turnstiles or elevators to restrict floors.
2. Mobile and Contactless Access: Mobile credentials use smartphone apps via Bluetooth, NFC, or Apple Wallet for hands-free unlocking, enhancing hygiene and speed in modern workplaces. Users receive time-limited digital keys remotely, with geofencing to trigger automatic door release.
3. Biometric Authentication: Fingerprint, facial, or iris scanners verify identity without physical tokens, offering high security for sensitive zones like server rooms. Multi-factor setups combine biometrics with PINs, reducing tailgating risks while accommodating diverse users.
4. Cloud and Hybrid Management: Cloud platforms like Kisi or Brivo enable remote admin via web/mobile, with real-time monitoring, audit trails, and API integrations to BMS, CCTV, or HR systems. Hybrid options blend on-premise hardware with cloud scalability for enterprises.

Selection Criteria:

To incorporate smart access control effectively, start in the design phase with stakeholder collaboration and BIM modeling, then prioritize compliant hardware and system integrations during technology rollout. This ensures seamless aesthetics, scalability, and compliance in commercial projects. Selection criteria for smart access control systems in office buildings refine choices by balancing security, usability, and long-term viability. Elaborate evaluation across technical, operational, and financial dimensions ensures alignment with specific needs like hybrid workspaces or multi-tenant setups.

1. Scalability and Capacity: Prioritize systems that are able to handle significant growth in number of doors or users for adding floors or sites without hardware swaps across multiple locations. Check the capacity for event logging, audits and role-based access (RBAC) for dynamic privileges.
2. Credential Flexibility and MFA: Opt for multi-option support, mobile NFC/BLE, biometrics (e.g., Control iD fingerprints or facial recognition), cards/PINs, with seamless MFA to cut tailgating. Geofencing and temporary visitor codes enhance convenience for hybrid staff.
3. Integrating and Compatibility: Demand easy integration with open APIs for BMS, CCTV, elevators and visitor apps, PoE for simplified wiring and retrofit capabilities to integrates with new and existing security systems and arrangements.
4. Reliability and Management: Seek majority uptime in stand-by mode, battery backups and intuitive cloud dashboards for remote tweaks and avoid vendor lock-in with standard protocols. Factor in cybersecurity (encrypted data, SOC 2 compliance) and customer support.
5. Cost and ROI Factors: Compare the total ownership costs including upfront costs, subscriptions and savings, reduced breaches and maintenance.