Andrew Schonzeit

AwardWallet LLC provides a free service that helps consumers manage and track loyalty programs, including air, hotel, car rental, and credit cards. AwardWallet also helps people keep track of award-program balances by accessing program balance information, aggregating data from the various loyalty programs, and then making the information easy to use for the card user. The company’s robust system tracks 432 loyalty programs, roughly four times more than any competitor. More than 82,000 active members depend on AwardWallet to manage over 15 billion miles/points representing $304 million in value. By notifying members when their balances change and before their points expire, members can stay on top of their travel assets with minimal effort. OneCard solution AwardWallet’s solution is the OneCard, a credit card-sized plastic card that lists up to 30 different loyalty program accounts on a single card The average AwardWallet member belongs to approximately 10 loyalty programs. Some belong to as many as 60. Before AwardWallet, carrying around cards and keeping track of the information for every loyalty program was burdensome and ineffective. AwardWallet’s solution is the OneCard, a credit card-sized plastic card that lists up to 30 different loyalty program accounts on a single card. The OneCard also has a magnetic strip that enables users to check in for flights at airport kiosks without using their ID or credit card. With the introduction of the OneCard and the rapidly growing user base, AwardWallet needed a way to print and encode these cards cost effectively and efficiently. FARGO Direct-to-Card printer/encoder AwardWallet found that with the DTC4500 printer, they could produce professional-quality, full-color ID cards with security encoding – all in one print transaction AwardWallet’s executives evaluated four printers, including HID Global’s FARGO Direct-to-Card (DTC) printer/encoder; the FARGO DTC4500 was recommended by AwardWallet’s security systems integrator, IDESCO Corp. AwardWallet found that with the DTC4500 printer, they could produce professional-quality, full-color ID cards with security encoding – all in one print transaction. In one pass, the device can print, encode, fluorescent print, and laminate security cards, single- or dual-sided, in less than half a minute per card. They also found the printer easy to use, and it integrates seamlessly with existing IT networks and databases. AwardWallet selected the FARGO DTC4500 printer for the following reasons: Ease of integration with existing system at AwardWallet. The DTC4500 printer’s software gives programmers control over all the features that the company would use, including setting controls for card printing and encoding, diagnostics, upgrades, audits and enabling printer security. Simple to use. AwardWallet provides its services to members with a staff of fewer than 15 people. Therefore, it was imperative that the printer be easy to use. The FARGO DTC4500 required only a few quick, simple steps. Low cost per print and fast print speed. When compared to the other three printers, the FARGO DTC4500 featured the best cost per print and was the most efficient, which was a critical factor for AwardWallet and their ability to meet the growing demand for OneCards. Ability to print on both sides of the card. Many members have so many loyalty programs that a one-sided card does not hold all their information. Dual-side printing was a must to serve AwardWallet’s clientele. Card printing Because AwardWallet is anticipating printing upwards of 10,000 cards per year, the best solution out there is the DTC4500 FARGO printer" “Because AwardWallet is anticipating printing upwards of 10,000 cards per year, the best solution out there is the DTC4500 FARGO printer,” said Andy Schonzeit, IDESCO Corp. “It’s a robust printer that can handle a large volume of card printing while still maintaining the highest quality.” “We’re growing rapidly and expect to hit 100,000 users by early 2012,” said Alexi Verschaga, co-founder at AwardWallet. “Our supply is quickly depleting, so we just ordered ten thousand more OneCards for our growing demand.” FARGO DTC4500 printer With the HID Global FARGO DTC4500 printer, AwardWallet can produce the new OneCard for their growing customer base, some of whom order two or three OneCards for the entire family. The FARGO printer can keep up with the demand for the OneCards at a low per-card cost, which also enables AwardWallet to continue offering the OneCard as a free value-added service, even as the company expands and keeps track of over 15 billion miles and points for its members. “Every time I use the printer, it blows my mind at how easy it is to produce the cards,” commented AwardWallet’s Alexi Vereschaga. “I quickly and easily print cards that not only look very professional but also contain the data that enables our clientele to manage their many loyalty programs.”

Idesco Corp. a New York-based security systems integrator, announces it will be exhibiting at the 27th annual ASIS NYC Security Conference & Expo at the Jacob Javits Centre in New York City on June 7th and 8th. The show brings together more than 2,500 security and law enforcement professionals from the public and private sectors and will feature two days of education, exhibits, and networking. As the leading expert in ID Card Solutions, Idesco will be exhibiting at booth #401 and showcasing a broad range of ID card printers ranging from desktop to oversized printers for events. Idesco ID printers Attendees will have the opportunity to visit Idesco’s booth and see the latest security solutions and ID printers for any type of application. A wide variety of printers will be on display at the booth that can be used for various applications in the event, healthcare, corporate and education markets. All major ID brands will be represented including HID, Zebra, Matica, and IDP. “We are extremely excited to exhibit at the ASIS NYC Conference & Expo once again this year and help security professionals in our own backyard make important decisions about selecting the right security solution,” says Andrew Schonzeit, President of Idesco. “We are proud to be the trusted security advisors in the NY area and continue to bring the latest technology to our customers.” Attendees can stop by for a free printer demonstration at Booth #401 at the ASIS NYC Conference & Expo and see first-hand the wide range of printers that Idesco offers its customers.

The XXL 2.0 ID card printer is a unique solution designed to personalise oversized ID cards on demand Idesco, a New York-based security systems integrator, announced significant enhancements to its XXL 2.0 ID card printer for oversized badges. Optional UHF encoders are now available, making the XXL printer the first portable card printer capable of personalising oversized badges with RFID and UHF encoding. UHF card applications offer a far greater read range, added memory and more reliability. Customers can now streamline the flow of visitors while delivering increased access control and efficiency. Enhancements to XXL 2.0 ID card printer The XXL 2.0 ID card printer now comes in a brand new dark burgundy colour. The card feeding rollers have also been improved to simplify the card feeding process. The XXL 2.0 ID card printer is a unique solution designed to personalise oversized ID cards on demand. Widely adopted by event managers all around the country, the XXL printer is used to secure major venues, concerts, award ceremonies, tradeshows, and other corporate functions. The XXL printer can print up to 180 full cards per hour in colour, and up to 1,400 cards per hour in monochrome. Standard in personalising oversized badges “Our XXL printer has quickly become a standard in personalising oversized badges on the spot. Over the years, Idesco has secured major events and I believe that the latest printer enhancements will definitely bring incredible value to our customers,” says Andrew Schonzeit, President of Idesco. “We had received many requests for UHF encoding and we are very happy to offer a comprehensive solution that perfectly meets our clients’ needs.” Save Save

Idesco's XXL 2.0 ID Badge Printer will help improve safety at the Little League World Series Idesco a New York-based security systems integrator announces it will be a security provider for the 70th Little League World Series, the final event of the Little League International Tournament and the most prestigious youth baseball and softball competition in the world. The Little League World Series will take place August 18th – 28th at the Lamade and Volunteer Stadiums in Williamsport, Philadelphia. As part of being a security provider, Idesco has provided The Little League Baseball with the XXL 2.0 ID card printer for free, to have until the conclusion of the event. The oversized ID badge printer will be used to print over 700 ID badges to visually identify members of the media and to show their proper credentials. Hundreds of media professionals from around the world from print to television and radio will be attending the event. Being able to identify the members of the media quickly and efficiently is important to the safety of the attendees. On demand ID personalisation Idesco is the exclusive US Dealer for the XXL 2.0 oversized card printer. The XXL 2.0 ID card printer is a unique solution designed to personalise oversized ID cards on demand. Oversized photo ID cards let users visually scan a crowd and identify at a glance who has proper credentials and access rights to designated areas. “As you can imagine, with an event of this size, the ability to visually identify authorised members of the working media from organisations all over the world can be a challenging task. This year Idesco really ‘stepped up to the plate’ to provide us with the latest oversized credential printer technology to make media credentials that are larger than our typical ID badges so that they are more prominent and easier to read.” states James Ferguson, Director of Security for Little League Baseball and Softball, Inc. Idesco has secured major eventvenues in the past and with theXXL 2.0 printer, securing large-scale events has become a loteasier Quick identification With thousands of people attending this esteemed event that takes place over the course of 10 days with 2 phases, it is important to have security measures in place. By having the advantage of the large ID badges to quickly identify media personnel within the crowd is beneficial to the overall security of the event.  “We are proud to be a security provider for such a prestigious event and to offer the XXL 2.0 card printer to The Little League World Series. Idesco has secured major event venues in the past and with the XXL 2.0 printer, securing large-scale events has become a lot easier.” states Andrew Schonzeit, President at Idesco. “It is a true honour to offer this outstanding solution to help protect not only our children and staff, but also the attendees of this premier event.” Plug & Play driver Easy to use, the XXL 2.0 printer features a Plug & Play driver for Windows and Mac, standard USB, and a convenient display, making it a great choice for an event of this magnitude. Ideal for such a largely scaled sporting event the XXL printer can print up to 180 full cards per hour in colour, and up to 1,400 cards per hour in monochrome. The production power gives The Little League World Series staff the ability to print the large quantity needed for this event as well as the ability to print badges instantly for those who register late. Additionally, the cards are extremely durable and can be flipped manually to issue dual-sided badges. Save

What factors should an end user consider when looking for a professional systems solution provider? Andrew Schonzeit, President of IDESCO Corp., New York, knows what it takes to have an award-winning, top-in-its class systems integration company. For more than seven decades, the company has grown, morphed and continued to move into the world of value-add integrated solutions contracting. They’ve received numerous industry and business accolades and increased their stature in the security industry and end-user community. Here, Schonzeit provides six tips listing what end users should look for in a professional systems solution provider:   1. See the end results Always ask for project references and make an on-site visit to a couple of jobs if possible. This way you can see if the integrator has the insights into a specific vertical market and its nuances. Integrators need to be problem-solvers, and that means knowing what might be applicable in the healthcare market, versus education for example, or how to approach legacy equipment without a total overhaul if the budget won’t allow. There are many potential scenarios – a good systems integrator can come up with viable solutions for most of them. 2. Assess applicable certifications and credentials Depending on the type of work, many technicians are required to have certifications from manufacturers, basically attesting that they are up to speed on the latest versions of the products and have been factory-trained on operations. A number of associations also have training and credentialing; for example, the Electronic Security Association, Irving, Texas, and the ASIS International, Alexandria, Virginia. Obtaining and maintaining credentialing is a good gauge of how serious a company is about keeping its employees up to speed on ever-changing technologies. With well-established firms, you’ll have greater assurance that you can stay with these companies and grow your security as needed in the future 3. Scrutinise service and support Can you call the company directly and have the phone answered by a friendly and knowledgeable source? Or are you able to leave a voice or email message and get a quick response? Having a support team that works closely with the customer is one of the most important factors in having a successful installation. There should be responsible support team members who are on top of the project and can answer questions if challenges arise so as not to delay the scheduled timeline. 4. Look for experienced designers What’s the philosophy when it comes to designing a system? Look for firms that do everything from start to finish – consulting, design-build, final testing and commissioning, and after-installation 24/7 support. Remember that it’s the consultative approach that’s important, so select a security company who can provide you input prior to any technology or hardware discussion, first considering the specific challenges or issues at the facility. 5. Vet product manufacturers There are many manufacturers in the security industry, so it’s critical for a contractor to offer proven products that have a long history of stability, reliability and scalability. With well-established firms, you’ll have greater assurance that you can stay with these companies and grow your security as needed in the future without starting from scratch. 6. Consider due diligence on market expertise It’s impossible for everyone to know the nuances of every business, so select contractors who have experience in your target market, whether it’s healthcare, education, government, institutional or corporate and enterprise facilities. They should understand the rules, regulations and other mandates required of security for the particular facility.  

Beyond the need to install new systems, often overlooked is how schools are going to pay for security upgrades Limited financial resources are a common pain point for primary/secondary schools looking to implement cutting-edge security technology. But security needs persist despite scarce resources. All school administrators want to do everything in their power to secure their facilities against threats. More schools are recognising the benefits and, in some cases, requirement of upgrading systems to meet evolving threats. The solution is to find creative, cost-effective ways to support these installations. Aiming maximum security amidst fund scarcity Schools need maximum security and yet they have to work with limited budgets, says Andrew Schonzeit, CEO of integrator Idesco. “There certainly is a demand to enhance school safety, but to do so, schools have to look at the bigger picture and think in terms of solutions,” he adds. Integrators like Idesco can help by providing integrated security solutions that cover all their needs from ID cards to access systems and security cameras. “Many schools might think that they cannot afford such a solution, but with the latest technologies, they certainly can,” Schonzeit says. “I believe technology is being underutilised in primary/secondary schools because many schools feel intimidated by solutions. I think the security industry has come a very long way in development of apps for smart phones and iPad devices that are essentially one or two clicks. It is up to security integrators to provide powerful tools that customers feel very comfortable to use.” Choosing the right technology IP access control brings costs down by eliminating panels, excess wiring, and third party electricity at each door The Department of Homeland Security makes grants and funds available to schools for security upgrades and to address school vulnerabilities, Schonzeit says. The primary/secondary education market should be taking advantage more of the technology that is available right now. Schools are starting to have a very strong network infrastructure backbone, which is a resource schools should be looking at to assist them in terms of implementing a solution. Schools should also try to maximise the use of mobile devices to control access to their premises and to intervene quickly in case of an emergency, Schonzeit says. One way to use the network backbone is by adding IP access control, which brings costs down by eliminating panels, excess wiring, and third party electricity at each door. This means that more doors, in existing buildings, can be protected on a tight budget. Isonas, a provider of IP access control, has very close integration with both Video Insight and Milestone video management systems. Isonas feeds access control data to each of these video platforms, allowing them to be the command/control for both access control and video. “As budgets are tight, few districts can afford to put access control across an entire district at one time,” says Rob Mossman, CEO of Isonas. “The integration and the Pure IP structure means that a district can roll in access control school by school without having to manage two separate software packages during the expansion.” Beyond the need to install new systems, often overlooked is how schools are going to pay for security upgrades. At times, it is a matter of school boards making the tough choice to place a higher priority on security measures than other worthwhile programs competing for funding, says John Mosebar, vice president, marketing, Aiphone Corp., a manufacturer of audio and video intercoms. "I believe technology is being underutilised in primary/secondary schools because many schools feel intimidated by solutions. I think the security industry has come a very long way in development of apps for smart phones and iPad devices that are essentially one or two clicks" Recognising government grants Also, the federal government, most states, and private organisations offer many grants to pay for some portion of school security, Mosebar says. But often these grants are not well publicised, making it difficult especially for smaller districts without dedicated grant personnel to apply. This is an area where the security industry – through one of its organisations – could step up to research the various grant offerings and make them available through one website. “It would be a tremendous public service,” says Mosebar. Prioritising security requirements Partially in response to cost challenges, implementing electronic access control in phases is more common in schools than other environments. Schools and districts decide the most critical openings from a security and traffic flow perspective, and prioritise them first, according to Allegion. Priority lists vary among schools, but most start with the perimeter so they can lock down a facility and keep intruders out. Some schools look at crime statistics and prioritise schools by location, starting first with those in the highest crime areas, adds Minu Youngkin, Allegion vertical marketing manager. Others look at traffic flow and determine which openings are most problematic, or put them at the greatest risk, and add access control to those first, says Youngkin. Greater system functionality is another aspect of costs. A key opportunity for security technology in primary/secondary schools is creating more automated systems that lessen or eliminate human delay in response and notification, says Bruce Montgomery, Business Development Manager, Honeywell. Creating an automated “If this, then what?” protocol streamlines a school’s approach to violence and improves response time. A one-button approach – where only one action is required to notify teachers, students and police, trigger a lockdown and provide video surveillance and campus access to law enforcement – is ideal for managing the broad range of communication and logistical challenges in the event of an emergency.

Idesco will offer the latest access control, video surveillance and ID card solutions to property managers Idesco Corp., a leading New York-based security systems integrator, today announced it will be exhibiting at the BuildingsNY show at the Javits Convention Center on April 28th and 29th. Idesco will be at booth #106 to offer the latest access control, video surveillance and ID card solutions to property managers and building owners. Video surveillance and access control solutions: Attendees will have the opportunity to visit Idesco’s booth and find the best security products for any kind of property ranging from commercial, industrial, and institutional. With video surveillance cameras, access control systems and ID card printers set up at the booth, Idesco has all the security needs of building owners covered.  “We are very happy to exhibit at the BuildingsNY show in the heart of NYC where we can make a difference with our savvy security solutions.” says Andrew Schonzeit, President of Idesco. “As a leading provider of integrated security solutions, it is important for us to always be in touch with organisations in need of a true security partner to keep everyone safe and secure.” Attendees can sign up for a free security audit with Idesco at the BuildingsNY show at Booth #106.

Idesco will also showcase a wide array of ID card solutions Idesco Corp., a leading New York-based security systems integrator, recently announced it will be exhibiting at two major NYC Shows in the month of April. Both shows are well established in the security industry and draw security professionals and local property managers/building owners. Idesco will be at booth #415 at the ASIS 25th Annual New York City Security Conference & Expo and at booth #106 at the BuildingsNY Show. ASIS security conference & expo The ASIS New York City Security Conference & Expo will take place on April 22nd and 23rd at the Javits Convention Center and brings together over 2,500 peers from the public/private sectors to address the most critical issues facing today's security professionals around the world. To help solve these critical issues, Idesco will be showcasing the latest access control and video surveillance technology along with a wide array of ID card solutions. BuildingsNY show The BuildingsNY show will take place on April 28th and 29th at the Javits Convention Center and focuses on products and services that help building owners/property managers with all phases of their buildings’ lifecycle. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit Idesco’s booth and find the best security products for any kind of property ranging from commercial, industrial, and institutional. With video surveillance cameras and access control systems set up at the booth, Idesco has all the security needs of building owners covered. “We are very happy to exhibit at two major trade shows in the heart of NYC where we can make a difference with our savvy security solutions.” says Andrew Schonzeit, President of Idesco. “As a leading provider of integrated security solutions, it is important for us to always be in touch with organizations in need of a true security partner to keep everyone safe and secure.” Idesco both at ASIS Attendees can sign up for a free security audit with Idesco at both ASIS (booth #415) and the BuildingsNY (booth #106) shows.

School administrators are now choosing products that make the biggest, long-term impact on campus security Well-publicised events such as the U.S. school shootings at Columbine and Sandy Hook lead to an increased demand of security equipment to protect kindergarten through 12th grade (primary/secondary) education campuses. But do they also result in buying decisions made on impulse that don’t necessarily meet a school’s most pressing security needs? Increase in demand for security systems In the immediate aftermath of the December 2012 Sandy hook massacre, for example, many security manufacturers saw significant interest in their solutions. Through 2014, that momentum slowed somewhat as school administrators became more deliberative in their selections, choosing products that made the biggest, long-term impact on campus security, says John Mosebar, Vice President, Marketing, Aiphone Corp. Planning cost-effective school security “Mass shootings put public pressure on school officials to act quickly to deter active shooters on their campuses,” says school security consultant Paul Timm, president of RETA Security. But in reality, these shootings are still relatively rare. Schools need to be prepared for the everyday events that cause problems and put a strain on tight budgets, he says. Those events include burglary, vandalism, gangs and drug sales. Electronic security products can help reduce these incidents. “There’s always value to increased awareness,” says Timm. “Sometimes there’s a kneejerk reaction – let’s install bulletproof glass – but wouldn’t we rather have some improvement in safety measures than no improvement? Hardly ever it is a totally wasted expenditure, but we’re trying to educate people to have a holistic, balanced approach.” That’s where professional integrators and risk assessments play an important role. “Here’s what I tell schools,” says Timm. “I’m not focused on the active shooter. I want to help you with the emergency of an active shooter, but don’t forget your environmental emergency plans (such as tornadoes). We’re always more concerned about what puts people in danger, such as lack of access control, which is relevant to an active shooter, or domestic violence or a mentally ill person. I think there’s an overemphasis on active shooter.” Preparing for a security breach Timm compares being prepared for a security breach to the importance of holding fire drills in the school environment. The dangers of fire in educational environments first became top-of-mind some 54 years ago after fire broke out in the Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School in Chicago, Ill. A total of 92 pupils and three nuns could not escape and died from smoke, heat, fire and toxic gases. As a result of the tragedy, today every school does fire drills and has fire systems. "We prepared the kids,” says Timm. “We should prepare people for acts of violence, just as we prepare them for fires or weather emergencies. There's too much violence to say we shouldn't run some drills." Integrating surveillance with access control and intrusion systems in combination with physical deterrents such as laminate on windows and bulletproof mantraps as well as rigorous personnel training drastically improves the likelihood of a positive outcome stemming from an incident Employing various security technologies for a safe educational environment School shootings are devastating to the students, faculty and community, says Bruce Montgomery, Business Development Manager, Honeywell. “I would hope it wouldn’t take an awful incident to prompt administrators to make improvements,” he comments. “That said, many schools have benefitted from taking more precautions, as there unfortunately still are many schools lacking adequate security. Many schools, for instance, have installed surveillance cameras for security purposes. But cameras alone aren’t enough to prevent an incident. Integrating surveillance with access control and intrusion systems in combination with physical deterrents such as laminate on windows and bulletproof mantraps as well as rigorous personnel training drastically improves the likelihood of a positive outcome stemming from an incident.” Anytime there is a school tragedy, the security and safety of the facility gets plenty of attention, says Andrew Schonzeit, CEO of Idesco, a security integrator. “I think when something happens, facilities become reactionary to what they believe they need to make them more secure, or feel more secure,” he says. ”Schools might implement their own internal lockdown drills and then, after a few weeks, there is a return to a sense of normalcy.” Unfortunately, it takes a tragedy to gain awareness, but that should not be, says Schonzeit. Primary/secondary education facilities should have a revolving three-year security plan that involves assessments, costs and a schedule for implementation, he says. “With each of these events comes the realisation that an incident can happen anywhere,” says Sean McGrath, vice president of marketing and business development, ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions. “So in that sense, they are a wake-up call and spur quick action from schools that have put off security reviews. In this rush to action, some administrators make the mistake of not considering a holistic approach to security. They may install a few new products without first completing an audit of their facility and carefully researching all available options.” That’s a mistake.

Schools are unlike commercial buildings or other facilities in several ways, and the differences impact how they should be secured. For one thing, the inhabitants are mainly children and won’t carry card credentials. Also, schools have distinct traffic flows and are open all hours of the day for after-school activities and evening and weekend usage. “Security solutions must take into account this flexible and fluid schedule,” says Minu Youngkin, vertical marketing manager, Allegion. Also, schools tend to have a longer selling cycle – typically an average of 18 months, Youngkin adds. The sales process is also more complex and involves multiple stakeholders. Other considerations include propped doors, multiple visitors, high staff turnover and competing budgets. Each school presents its own unique challenges The changing education environment is also among the unique challenges of the primary/secondary education marketplace. “I think the typical classroom setting is long gone,” says Andrew Schonzeit, CEO of Idesco, a security integrator. “Every school is unique and should be treated as such; you may have to alter your installation schedule to not interfere with the day-to-day flow of the school schedule.” For example, there are technical schools available in the 9-12 grade range, and many schools now offer co-teaching classrooms for children on the autism/Asperger’s spectrum. “Ultimately, you want to provide a solution that is driven by the needs of the client,” adds Schonzeit. Another important point is that the needs of all primary/secondary schools evolve very quickly and from one year to the other, their security requirements might change. As an integrator, it is essential to anticipate these changes and provide each school with a scalable solution that can be adapted at any time, says Schonzeit. Primary/secondary school security is different from other types of installs, agrees Rob Mossman, CEO of Isonas, an IP access control company. The motivations in primary/secondary schools are different and more urgent. The windows of time for installation are tighter. Buildings are often older and budgets are tighter. He says IP technology provides a solution for primary/secondary schools because the flexibility and cost savings fit these unique problems. Upgrading basic school security Reducing costs by improving system efficiency is not a new concept, but with growing interconnectivity of formerly disparate building systems, the opportunity to leverage connected upgrades may continue to gain ground Schools are beginning to rethink the basics, adds John Mosebar, vice president, marketing, Aiphone Corp., a manufacturer of audio and video intercoms. That trend will result in taller and stronger fencing to protect campuses, for example. More lighting will illuminate schools at night. And CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) principles will guide building design and landscaping to maximize security benefits. From advanced video management systems integrated with access control authorisation technology to intrusion sensors linked to email and text message notification, true end-to-end solutions can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each education installation, says Bruce Montgomery, business development manager, Honeywell. Native integration between access control, video and intrusion products and services streamlines the user experience, providing one unified platform at a cost-effective price point, he adds. The primary/secondary school market is also increasingly interested in security features combined with or complemented by automation features, says Montgomery. As schools revamp their systems to improve and integrate intrusion, access and video systems, there is an opportunity to present additional lifestyle enhancements, such as lighting and HVAC control, that improve ease-of-use while simultaneously reducing costs and easing environmental burden. Reducing costs by improving system efficiency is not a new concept, but with growing interconnectivity of formerly disparate building systems, the opportunity to leverage connected upgrades may continue to gain ground among this group of customers. ASSA ABLOY’s smart door opening solutions ASSA ABLOY provides all the components to create door opening solutions that meet the needs of any end user application – doors, frames, locks, hardware, gasketing, door controls, electronic access control devices and key systems. By bringing all these doorway components together, ASSA ABLOY is able to create solutions that address common security challenges. For schools, these challenges include the obvious like classroom and perimeter security, durability and reliability. Then there are the not-so-obvious factors, such as noise abatement, energy efficiency and sustainability, storm shelter requirements (depending on geography) and accessibility needs. ASSA ABLOY Group brands work together to create door opening solutions that address all these school-related issues. New locking and access control innovations are filling the technological void that occupied the realm of medium security doors, says ASSA ABLOY. Long trapped in a vacuum between high- and low-security openings, medium security is now filled with electronic locking solutions that secure doorways without draining budgets. The void was the result of a technology gap that left facilities with a difficult choice – protect the assets behind these doorways with simple mechanical locks or over-secure the openings with costly hardwired devices. There was no continuum of technologies to bridge the gap between high- and low-security openings. Electronic locks have now evolved to the point where it’s possible to examine every opening in a facility and customize the level of security needed for each door. The motivations in primary/secondary schools are different and more urgent. The windows of time forinstallation are tighter. Buildingsare often older and budgetsare tighter Wireless access control locks Today’s wireless access control locks are making it possible to implement online access control on any facility doorway, even if it’s in a remote part of the school. This will give administrators better control over all facility doorways without having to run expensive wiring and making other infrastructure improvements. Impact of sustainability Sustainability is another big issue that impacts security of schools. Buildings that want to improve energy efficiency can now choose an access control solution that consumes up to 97 percent less power than previous generations of technology, says Sean McGrath, vice president of marketing and business development, ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions. Product transparency is another hot sustainability-related topic. May new construction projects will only consider products that have Health Product or Environmental Product Declarations that list material ingredients and their potential health impact.

Idesco will now offer In Motion Identification technology that includes facial recognition and behavioural analytics Idesco Corp., a leading New York-based security systems integrator, recently announced its strategic partnership with FST Biometrics, a leading provider of biometric access control solutions. Idesco will now offer In Motion Identification™ (IMID) technology that includes facial recognition and behavioural analytics to swiftly identify those with access authorisation, while preventing entry of unauthorised visitors. FST Biometrics' secure access solution, IMID Access, is non-invasive, fast and accurate. IMID Access provides a seamless user experience as it eliminates the need to stop and sign in.  The users simply walk through as they are identified in motion and granted access to buildings and facilities. In extreme secure access situations, IMID Access also provides voice recognition for an added layer of verification. “Idesco prides itself on being at the forefront of new technology so we are excited to add In Motion Identification to our portfolio.” states Andrew Schonzeit, Idesco’s President. “FST Biometrics’ unique and innovative technology will help companies keep their employees and visitors safe and secure while simplifying the entire entry process at their facility.” Customers can get a free demo of the FST Biometrics’ In Motion Identification™ solution at Idesco’s state-of-the art showroom in Manhattan, NY. “Idesco’s experience and expertise are essential in implementing our ground-breaking technology and will certainly create high value to the customers, while generating meaningful business potential for both parties.” said Yaron Zussman, CEO of FST Biometrics America.