How Access Control Provides a New Mindset for Your Company

As your business grows, your security needs change. One of the most important shifts is to go from an emphasis on locks and keys to a mindset of access control. How does access control differ from traditional locking up? And what does this mindset offer you? Here's a guide to meeting the security challenge of a thriving business.

How Does Access Control Differ From Locks?

Access control is the overarching idea of controlling who has access to what and when. At its most basic level, access control includes locks and keys. After all, by giving someone a key, you give them access to whatever is inside. But your control is limited. 

Modern access control goes beyond simply putting a padlock on a door and handing out keys. A smart lock, for instance, uses codes rather than physical keys. By issuing individual codes, your company knows who is accessing the area, how long they stay, and when they use it. You've elevated from simply keeping people out to understanding exactly how people utilize the locked space. 

What Does Access Control Include?

Locks and keys provide all-or-nothing security. But technology now allows you to tailor access for better information and control. You might issue codes to individual staff, complete departments, or even those who need to work on each particular project. Coded systems also allow access only on certain days or within certain hours. And these systems can remotely tell you if everything is locked up properly when tasks are done. 

Because you remove the physical aspect of most access control measures, oversight shifts to a more efficient remote basis. A key control system, for example, is a method for organizing all the physical locks within the company. Each authorized person uses a code to open a lockbox with physical keys. No one needs to be there to let in employees, vendors, or others. 

Good use of access control technology also integrates security and other company systems. A code might not work if the employee hasn't checked into work through the time-card system. Or it may not grant automatic access after a certain hour or on weekends. Codes can also work in conjunction with monitored cameras and live security services. 

How Can Access Control Improve Your Business?

Why should you shift your mindset from locks to modern access control? Rather than just keeping doors shut, it can help improve your finances, management, and risk. For example, you can regularly change codes to areas where cash is held or inventory is stored, reducing the risk of theft and loss. And if someone loses a door key card, the company isn't at risk as it would be with a lost key. 

You can also more easily monitor and control payroll expenses. When access codes are linked to individuals or departments, you know in real-time where your labor dollars are going. Rather than waiting for payroll to be completed before you can analyze how it's going, you see who is using overtime or which departments have completed their work and can start working on other projects. 

Finally, access control boosts risk management. Keys are only as secure as those using them. But when you control access to ignition keys through a key control system, only authorized persons can turn on expensive vehicles or dangerous equipment. You also know that all keys have been returned at the end of a shift. And you can immediately and thoroughly remove all access from departing employees. 

Where Can You Learn More About Access Control Options?

Do you think that your growing business might benefit from taking advantage of what modern access control technology has to offer? If so, start by learning more about your security needs and all the options available to meet them. Phoenix Access Control can help. Our security pros will work with you to find the best mix of traditional measures and smart technology. Call today to make an appointment.