Security access systems

It has been announced that next year will see IFSEC move to a brand-new dateline of 19 - 21 May and welcome three prestigious events alongside it at ExCeL London; Security & Counter Terror Expo (SCTX), Ambition and Forensics Europe Expo. Focal point for security industry Building on a rich history of the two exhibitions - IFSEC steeped in the trade and commercial security world and Security & Counter Terror Expo immersed in national security – the collaboration of these key events has been designed to meet the strength of demand for a central focal point for the security industry. The additional synergies between the first responder focused, Ambition and Forensics Europe Expo, which currently run alongside SCTX, and FIREX International as well as the wider security community, also lend additional diversity and strength to this new alliance. Extensive security products on display ExCeL London will become the global destination for the security community, pushing the boundaries of security product innovation and expertise ExCeL London will become the global destination for the security community, pushing the boundaries of security product innovation and expertise. 38,000 trade, commercial, public and policing security professionals will unite at one venue to discover the most extensive range of security suppliers on offer. In doing so, the industry will see a single marketplace for the security ecosystem made up of installers, government end users, corporate end users, integrators, manufacturers and distributors. The announcement of the move to stage IFSEC and SCTX together at London’s ExCeL from 2020 is already being warmly welcomed, as the security industry look forward to seeing one sole event for the whole community. “This has come at the perfect time for the security industry. The BSIA are excited to be supporting this major new partnership between the UK’s two leading security exhibitions. We have a long-standing partnership with IFSEC and we look forward to extending our welcome to SCTX.” Mike Reddington, CEO, BSIA Dahua Technology to participate in IFSEC, SCTX “Dahua is excited to see this partnership between IFSEC and SCTX in 2020. It will provide a rewarding balance of end-users, consultants, installers and integrators. This presents a fantastic opportunity for likeminded end-users and integrators to exchange ideas with manufacturing security professionals.” Steve Norman, Sales Director, Dahua Technology UK & Ireland  “Risk UK, Benchmark and Professional Security Installer welcome the news that Security & Counter Terror Expo is running alongside IFSEC in 2020. We have a long-standing association with this market sector via Risk UK magazine and associated media. We look forward to supporting SCTX and IFSEC in 2020.” Mark Quittenton, Managing Director, Risk UK, Benchmark and Professional Security Installer Magazines Hikvision to take part in SCTX and IFSEC 2020 Hikvision are pleased to hear the news that IFSEC and Security & Counter Terror Expo will run alongside each other in 2020" “Hikvision are pleased to hear the news that IFSEC and Security & Counter Terror Expo will run alongside each other in 2020. This is a good move forward for the security community, and we look forward to supporting this.” Justin Hollis, Marketing Director, Hikvision UK & Ireland “IFSEC is always a great success for BRE Global / LPCB and we’re looking forward to showcasing the dynamic Attack Testing Zone to the SCTX and IFSEC 2020.” Richard Flint, LPCB Physical Security Certification Scheme Manager, LPCB / BRE Global security industry to attend “IFSEC never stops surprising me. Great move for the whole security industry, getting SCTX alongside IFSEC in 2020. It’s going to be a massive set of shows.” Roy Cooper, Managing Director, Professional Security Discussing this move for the market, the organisers of IFSEC and SCTX share their thoughts as they announce the culmination of these 18 month-long discussions to co-locate these events. “The security industry is both broad and complex – and in recent years Clarion and UBM have come to realise that in this environment both IFSEC and SCTX had evolved in ways which were seeing them become increasingly complementary in both profile and audience.” said Tim Porter of Clarion Events. SCTX 2020 to be global Counter Terror arena This is a great fit for IFSEC as it strengthens our message of the critical nature of security as a major global issue" ‘’SCTX is by far the most prestigious and market leading event in the counter terror arena, with a proven track record in drawing a high calibre audience of government specifiers, law enforcement and related crime intelligence agencies.” added Gerry Dunphy of IFSEC. “This is a great fit for IFSEC as it strengthens our message of the critical nature of security as a major global issue. IFSEC will also highly complement this offering by continuing to champion integrated security for the trade and commercial markets. The prospect of these events, working in harmony, promoting expertise and guidance for the broader security environment has already been met with immense anticipation by the security community.”  Bringing the events together will offer exhibiting manufacturers and distributors an unrivalled opportunity to access the entire end-to-end security audience, with a greater number of security product buyers in one venue than any other security event across the globe. Over 600 exhibiting companies will join to represent all aspects of the security sector, ranging from the latest developments in commercial and corporate security through to critical national infrastructure and policing.

Viking’s attractive E-series entry phones are now able to utilise powerful features available on Panasonic door phone station cards. “Customers can utilise the features offered on a Panasonic door card with a reliable Viking entry phone.” – Joanne Minke, Viking Electronics Product Specialist. Replace Panasonic door phone models KX-T30865 and KX-T7775 by using the PAN-1A and one of Viking’s E-Series entry phones. Simply connect the PAN-1A between the Panasonic door phone/door opener card and your E-Series phone of choice. The PAN-1A can also be used with non-Viking entry phones designed to work on analogue extension/FXS ports. Colour video cameras and proximity readers Use the PAN-1A for applications where a Viking Electronics entry phone is preferred, in applications demanding increased reliability, and applications where a more attractive entry phone is desired. Viking’s E-series entry phones are available in multiple colours, chassis and sizes. Surface and flush mount options are available. Additional features such as colour video cameras and proximity readers are available for select models. Each E-series entry phone is available with Viking’s Enhanced Weather Protection (EWP) option for increased weather resistance and lifespan in harsh or exposed environments.

The PSIA will show continued momentum for its Physical Logical Access Interoperability (PLAI) spec at ISC West 2019. “In past demos we were able to show some exchange of records between PACS systems, but this year we will have six vendors, and demonstrate existing employee identity data sets, which can be passed to other systems in the security environment beyond having just a clean start,” said David Bunzel, Executive Director of the PSIA. Commercial PLAI agent One of the critical components is the introduction of an independent commercial PLAI Agent by Cruatech of Dublin, Ireland. This Agent acts as central hub, to allow interchange between disparate PACS and biometric vendors. “The introduction of the Cruatech Agent provides the means to effectively provide solutions to enterprise customers, solving an important problem in the industry–finding a method to have a single trusted source in an enterprise environment,” said Darren Wieder, Financial Director of Advanced Solutions for Convergint Technologies. LenelS2 will showcase its new commercial PLAI adapter during the demo. “Our customers have been requesting PLAI and we believe it provides an effective means to support this industry need,” said John Marchioli, Product Manager, Software Platforms, LenelS2.

Cobalt Iron Inc., global provider of enterprise data protection SaaS, and Tech Data Corporation, a global technology distributor, have announced a distribution partnership for Cobalt Iron products, including the company's Adaptive Data Protection (ADP) SaaS enterprise backup solution, throughout the United Kingdom. Analytics-driven data protection Tech Data is globally renowned end-to-end technology distributor "As we continue to expand the Cobalt Iron footprint in the U.K. market, Tech Data will be a valuable partner in addressing customer and partner demand for next-generation automated and analytics-driven data protection," said Mark Ward, chief operating officer at Cobalt Iron. "Tech Data has both an impressive reputation and extensive reach in these markets, and we look forward to working together to drive business partners' awareness of the benefits that smart, secure, automated data protection everywhere brings to the enterprise." Tech Data is globally renowned end-to-end technology distributor, and the company offers not only a broad portfolio of products, services, and solutions, but also the specialised skills and expertise in next-generation technologies that enable channel partners to bring innovative products and solutions to market. Data security The new partnership between the two companies will make Cobalt Iron products and solutions even more visible and accessible to business partners in the U.K., enabling them to deliver increased cost savings, simpler operations, and greater flexibility in providing expansive data-protection environments to their end-user customers. Tech Data has a key role to play in enabling partners and MSPs to deliver intelligent, automated solutions" Cobalt Iron ADP enables partners to deliver a cloud-based backup-as-a-service leveraging the most intelligent analytics and automation. The solution modernises backup, delivering the features and scale of enterprise data protection along with the flexibility and economics of cloud consumption. ADP also eliminates complexity, reduces management, scales easily from terabytes to exabytes, and provides the simplicity absent in today's backup technologies and tools. Tech Data Ian Jeffs, business unit director — Data Center, at Tech Data U.K., said: "The addition of Cobalt Iron to our next-generation solutions portfolio means we can give resellers an opportunity to address the rapidly evolving backup needs of enterprise customers who are moving to hybrid and highly distributed infrastructures. As a trusted advisor to the channel, Tech Data has a key role to play in enabling partners and MSPs to deliver intelligent, automated solutions and thus increase customer satisfaction and grow their revenues and margin opportunities."

The new IndigoVision Nedap AEOS Integration allows events from Nedap AEOS systems to be seamlessly combined with IndigoVision’s security management solution, Control Center, giving complete video and alarm management in a single user interface. All of IndigoVision’s integrations are designed with the user’s security in mind and the Nedap AEOS Integration is no different. Since 1980, Nedap has been a pioneer in the design and manufacture of electronic access control systems. With the new IndigoVision Nedap AEOS Integration, one can trigger live video, move PTZ cameras, start recordings and send notification emails automatically, helping to dramatically decrease operator response time. Responding to incidents from single interface Nedap’s AEOS access control is clearly growing rapidly in the marketplace, there’s a lot of positive buzz about it"Events from Nedap AEOS can be forwarded to Control Center allowing operators to respond to incidents from a single interface. Examples of supported Nedap AEOS events are direct door alarm, door manual unlock, door open too long and badge no access events. Commenting on the Nedap AEOS Integration, IndigoVision’s Software Product Manager Giles Raine said, “Nedap’s AEOS access control is clearly growing rapidly in the marketplace, there’s a lot of positive buzz about it - so it’s great to be adding this integration to our portfolio. Nedap themselves have been outstanding in their support during our development of the integration, making them a pleasure to do business with.” Custom security management solution IndigoVision’s Nedap AEOS Integration is not only designed towards enhancing your security but also to give you the flexibility and choice to create a custom security management solution that works for you. When you use any one of IndigoVision’s integrations you can be sure that you won’t be let down.

any2any is offering mobile services to enterprises and co-working space providers. They operate a cloud-based solution enabling secure and dynamic access to spaces. Configured to match the dynamic security needs of companies, building owners, and space providers, LEGIC and any2any have entered an official partnership. The aim is to further the use of LEGIC technology in enterprises and the flexible shared space market. LEGIC – any2any integration any2any welcomes the opportunity to partner and integrate LEGIC into their mobile applications as trusted access and authentication are key enablers to enterprise customers. any2any’s ability to combine different use cases and interact with different LEGIC OEM partners has increased their ability to create seamless experiences for their customers e.g. visitor experiences that combine branded visitor management, with parking, booking of conference rooms & desks, and vending opportunities. any2any welcomes the opportunity to partner and integrate LEGIC into their mobile applications as trusted access and authentication are key enablers to enterprise customers “LEGIC enables us to offer a great range of experiences that allow our customers to take greater responsibility of their experience ecosystem, leveraging existing technology that they trust, and on-boarding new services that ultimately improve the experiences of their employees, partners, and customers”, tells Allan Chester, CEO any2any. Secure and authenticated access He continues, “The LEGIC technology is helping us to unlock the availability to services and space, making them accessible, authenticated and secure. Together we are matching the demands for dynamically configuring the security and space needs for companies, building owners and space providers. In addition, we are increasing the opportunity for secure transactions to be done in those spaces, saving minutes for our users to do something better with their time.” any2any is a cloud-based enterprise experience platform whose passion revolves around using technology to improve the human experience. Since 2015, they have been growing rapidly delivering to large enterprises technologies and services that remove ‘frictions’, save minutes, and improve the individual experience. Secure connected solutions any2any translate any technology, any service into secure connected experiences with out-of-the-box solutions that include a unique visitor management solution, canteen services, liquid access, parking solutions, and a working solution offering for flexible co-working environments. All delivered via mobile applications, or web-based applications.

The access control industry tends to be more conservative when it comes to the adoption of new technology and services for end users, but that doesn't mean that 2019 won't provide a significant amount of progress through emerging trends taking shape in the industry. In addition to the increased adoption and acceptance of the cloud, mobile credentials and biometrics are becoming more mainstream, and integrations between manufacturers will take centre stage. Here, we take a look at these and other trends helping to shape the coming year. Cloud-based products We're continuing to see a demand by end-user customers for customised responses to certain actions within an access control system For many access control manufacturers, the core of the business is in more traditional products, with a high percentage of installs continuing to be these kinds of projects. However, over the last couple of years, cloud-based products have emerged as a viable option for customers. We've seen more of a willingness for end-user customers to inquire whether this is an option for them, citing ease of use, remote management, cybersecurity and more as part of their foray into this branch of access control. The cloud has established its reputation as being quicker to install, more flexible for customers to access and manage both their access points as well as the video associated with these doors, and placing less pressure on internal (or in some cases, non-existent) IT teams to help set up and manage an access control system. Mobile credentials applications We're continuing to see a demand by end-user customers for customised responses to certain actions within an access control system. For example, if there's an alarm set off during the day along a perimeter, the ability to automatically execute a lockdown and simultaneous email or message to everyone within the building alerting them to the issue is critical. The desire for this kind of flexibility within a system is prompting manufacturers to build new simple to use graphical tools into their systems that allow customised action responses that are proportional to the level of alarm. There's a strong desire by many of today's companies to be able to use mobile phones for access control and as such, manufacturers are either developing their own mobile credentials applications or integrating their systems with these kinds of products. Over the last couple of years, cloud-based products have emerged as a viable option for customers Future of biometrics As companies start to ask about whether their facilities are safe enough, they're often more willing to consider access control that takes security to a new level, such as the implementation of biometric readers. Biometrics is getting more usage in professional security applications and many customers want to move away from using physical cards for access control. Manufacturers that don't currently have biometric hardware in place are starting to integrate with readers designed to offer this functionality in an effort to meet the demands of customers. The dramatic rise in facial recognition biometrics is something that will likely shape the future of biometrics as costs start to decrease. While the access control industry is highly fragmented, we're seeing a trend toward increased partnerships and open-platform technology that helps end users achieve the kind of comprehensive security that they desire. Video management platforms We're seeing a trend toward increased partnerships and open-platform technology that helps end users achieve the kind of comprehensive security that they desire For example, there are a number of access control providers that are providing paths toward full integration with lock manufacturers and vice versa in an effort to meet the needs of clients who may have purchased locks but a high powered access control system to properly manage them. There's also a large shift toward full integration with video management platforms and access control systems to fully integrate the two into a single, user-friendly experience and give end users more control over both. Additionally, manufacturers are looking to provide customers with a single system that meets the needs they have with regards to video, intrusion and access control. Right now, I don't think there's a system that can fully deliver on the promise of being exceptional at all three, so integrations and partnerships remain important to achieve that end goal. Access control world An increasing number of end users are realising the holes in the current Wiegand protocols that have been in place since the 1980s, along with the large number of ‘off the shelf’ equipment that's now available to allow outsiders access through readers that operate under these protocols. As a result, in the last decade or so, OSDP has come onto the scene and is growing in popularity. One of the most important steps for access control manufacturers in 2019 will be to listen to customers who are concerned with this vulnerability and work toward fully supporting OSDP in an effort to protect these access control systems. It's an exciting time to be a part of the access control world, as we finally see results from all of the hype centred around the cloud, biometrics, mobile credentials, hacking protection and strong partnerships come to fruition. As 2019 begins, look for these trends to grow in popularity and for manufacturers to really listen to the end-user customer they serve and respond in kind.

Public spaces in cities and suburbs are important places for community development and promoting outdoor recreation. These areas may include main streets, parks, promenades, band shells and fields. Such locations are often utilised by public event planners for community activities, including summer festivals, wintertime ice skating rink installations, music concerts and art fairs. As the year drew to a close, holiday and Christmas markets as well as major New Year’s Eve events, presented cities with constant public event security needs. The public nature of these events increases risks of incidents with high-speed vehicles that put attendees in danger. Fortunately, there are three ways for public space managers to prevent casualty-causing collisions and further promote the use of local public areas. Developing an effective action plan    When strategising how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring It is important to have a plan developed before an incident or accident occurs. Warning systems, utilising doppler radar and digital loop technologies, alert guards to abnormal vehicle velocity changes in the surrounding area. Managers of public areas should organise a meeting with public safety authorities and local agencies to discuss what must immediately occur when a high-speed vehicle is approaching a public event. When strategising how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring. Having such a reaction plan in place combines technology and strategic planning to ensure everyone is on the same page to effectively target a threat and promote overall event safety. Securing public areas  Ideally, there will be no need to implement a well-conceived action plan. After all, taking preventive measures to secure public areas where events take place is important to keep people safe from accidental vehicle collisions and intentional attacks. Protect attendees by clearly separating pedestrian and vehicle locations using security devices such as – Barricades Portable barriers Bollards Install guard booths  Avoid the risk of vandalism and theft, making sure people are safe when walking back to the cars at night by keeping parking areas illuminated with flood lights. Install guard booths with employees who monitor activity in the parking area and who are prepared to react if an alert is triggered. Furthermore, prevent accidental collisions by clearly marking the parking area with informative warning signs and using barricades to direct traffic. These three tips can be used by public area managers to promote security at the next community event. Additionally, the technologies used to secure an event can also be used as infrastructure for year-round security. Installing gates that shut when the public space is closed or using aesthetically pleasing bollards are steps any public area manager can take to promote community safety.

The extensive analysis and discussion preceding any decision to implement a new physical security solution – whether it’s hardware, software or a combination of both – often focuses on technology, ROI and effectiveness. When it comes to deciding what type of security entrances to install at your facility, you will almost certainly also consider the aesthetics of the product, along with throughput and, if you’re smart, you’ll also look into service concerns. Each of these factors has its important place within the evaluation process, and none should be overlooked as they all have a significant effect on how well your entrances will perform once they are installed. Culture influences door solution decisions How significant will the change from current entrances to security entrances be for employees? Still, one additional factor actually trumps everything: if you have not considered your organisation’s culture in choosing a security entrance, you may be missing the most important piece of the puzzle. Culture is a part of every other decision factor when selecting an entry solution. Before you make a decision about what type of entrance to deploy, you need to consider and understand the values, environment and personality of your organisation and personnel. For example, how significant will the change from current entrances to security entrances be for employees? If people are accustomed to simply walking through a standard swinging door with no access control, this will be a culture change. Beyond this, whether you are considering a type of turnstile, a security revolving door or possibly a mantrap portal, simply walking through it will be a significant change as well. Training employees on door security You’ll want to know whether employees have ever used security entrances before. If these types of entrances are in place in another part of the facility, or in a facility they’ve worked in at an earlier time, the adjustment will not be as great as if they’ve never used them at all. Consider, too, how your personnel typically react to changes like this in the organisation or at your facility. They may be quite adaptable, in which case there will be less work to do in advance to prepare them. However, the opposite may also be true, which will require you to take meaningful steps in order to achieve buy-in and train employees to properly use the new entrances. With the increased importance of workplace security, discussing new entrances with  workforces will help maintain a safer environment Communicate through the decision-making process All of this will need to be communicated to your staff, of course. There are a number of ways to disseminate information without it appearing to come down as a dictate. Your personnel are a community, so news about changes should be shared rather than simply decreed. As part of this process, you’ll need to give some thought to the level of involvement you want for your staff in the decision-making process. Finally, do not overlook the special needs among your personnel population. You undoubtedly have older individuals on staff, as well as disabled persons and others who bring service animals to the office. Entrances need to be accessible to all, and you never want to be in the position of having a gap in accessibility pointed out to you by the individual who has been adversely affected. New security entrance installation By communicating early and often with your personnel, you can alleviate a great deal of the anxiety Once you have made the decision about which security entrances to install, training your personnel on how to use the new security entrances – both before and after the installation – will help to smooth the transition. Because workplace security is such a big issue right now, it makes sense to discuss the new entrances in the context of helping to maintain a safer environment. They will prevent violent individuals from entering, decrease theft, and most of all, promote greater peace of mind during the workday. If you can help them take control of their own safety in a responsible way, you have achieved much more than just a compliant workforce. By communicating early and often with your personnel, you can alleviate a great deal of the anxiety and concern that surrounds a significant change in the work environment. Schedule group meetings Consider your employees; what type of communications do they respond best to? A few suggestions to educate staff on the benefits of the new entrances include: Typically, you would communicate a general message 2-3 months in advance and then provide more specific information (for example, impacts to fire egress, using certain entrances during construction) in a follow up message closer to the installation date. Schedule group meetings to: announce the rationale for increased security, share statistics on crime, review the new security changes that are coming, show drawings/photos of the new doors/turnstiles, and show the orientation videos available from the manufacturer. These meetings are an excellent way to work through user questions and directly address any concerns. Once the installation of a new security system is complete, it is a good idea to have an "ambassador" on board to help employees use these new systems Ensure you monitor public areas If you are implementing a lot of new changes, such as a new access control system, new guard service and security entrances, you might consider hosting a ‘security fair’ on a given day and have the selected vendors come for a day with tabletop displays to meet employees and answer questions during their lunch. This could be a great way to break the ice in a large organisation. Make user orientation videos (provided by the manufacturer) available in several ways, for example: Intranet Site Monitors in public areas—lounges, cafeteria, hallways, etc. Send to all staff as email attachments Immediately after installation, once the doors or turnstiles are operational but before they are put into service, train ‘ambassadors’ on how to use the door/turnstile. Have these people monitor and assist employees during peak traffic times. What is the ultimate success of the installation? By communicating clearly and openly with your population you can greatly facilitate adoption and satisfaction If you have thousands of employees, consider dividing them into groups and introduce the new entrance to one group at a time (Group A on Monday, Group B on Tuesday, etc.) to allow a little extra orientation time. Place user education ‘quick steps’ posters next to the door/turnstiles for a few weeks to help employees remember the basic steps and guidelines, e.g., ‘stand in front of the turnstile, swipe badge, wait for green light, proceed.’ Ask your manufacturer to provide these or artwork. While there are always going to be people who are resistant to change, by communicating clearly and openly with your population you can greatly facilitate adoption and satisfaction. Your responsiveness to any issues and complaints that arise during and after the implementation is equally fundamental to the ultimate success of the installation.

A futuristic alternative to plastic cards for access control and other applications is being considered by some corporate users in Sweden and the United Kingdom. The idea involves using a microchip device implanted into a user’s hand. About the size of a grain of rice and provided by Swedish company Biohax, the tiny device employs passive near field communication (NFC) to interface with a user’s digital environment. Access control is just one application for the device, which can be deployed in lieu of a smart card in numerous uses. Biohax says more than 4,000 individuals have implanted the device. Using the device for corporate employees Every user is given plenty of information to make an informed decision whether they want to use the deviceCurrently Biohax is having dialogue with curious corporate customers about using the device for their employees. “It’s a dialogue, not Big Brother planning to chip every employee they have,” says Jowan Österlund, CEO at Biohax. Every user is given plenty of information to make an informed decision whether they want to use the device. Data capture form to appear here! “Proof of concept” demonstrations have been conducted at several companies, including Tui, a travel company in Sweden that uses the device for access management, ID management, printing, gym access and self-checkout in the cafeteria. Biohax is also having dialogue with some big companies in the United Kingdom, including legal and financial firms. Österlund aims to have a full working system in place in the next year or so. A Swedish rail company accepts the implanted chip in lieu of a paper train ticket. They accept existing implants but are not offering to implant the chips. Österlund says his company currently has no plans to enter the U.S. market. The device is large enough to locate easily and extract if needed, and small enough to be unobtrusive Access control credential The device is inserted/injected below the skin between the index finger and the thumb. The circuitry has a 10-year lifespan. The device is large enough to locate easily and extract if needed, and small enough to be unobtrusive. The only risk is the possibility of infection, which is true anytime the skin is pierced, and the risk is mitigated by employing health professionals to inject the chip. Use of the device as an access control credential or any other function is offered as a voluntary option; any requirement by an employer to inject the device would be illegal, says Österlund. It’s a convenient choice that is made “based on a well-informed decision by the customer.” Aversion to needles, for example, would make some users squeamish to implant the device. More education of users helps to allay any concerns: Some 10% of employees typically would agree quickly to the system, but a larger group of 50% to 60% are likely to agree over time as they get more comfortable with the idea and understand the convenience, says Österlund. Protection of information The passive device does not actively send out any signals as you walk. It is only powered up by a reader if a user has access rightsIn terms of privacy concerns, information contained on the device is in physical form and is protected. The passive device does not actively send out any signals as you walk. There is no battery. It is only powered up by a reader if a user has access rights. With use of the device being discussed in the United Kingdom, there has been some backlash. For example, Frances O’Grady, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has said: “Microchipping would give bosses even more power and control over their workers.” A big misconception is that the chip is a tracking device, says Österlund. It isn’t. “We love people to get informed,” says Österlund. “If they’re scared or apprehensive, they can just read up. It’s not used to control you – it’s used to give you control.”

A rapid string of merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions as 2018 passed into 2019 suggests the physical security industry may be on the verge of a busy year of companies buying other companies. Observers have noted a large amount of investment capital currently available to be invested in security M&A, and plenty of entrepreneurial companies are looking to be acquired. Joe Grillo, CEO of ACRE, previously hinted at upcoming M&A activity for his company by the end of 2018, foreshadowing ACRE’s late-year announcement to acquire access control company Open Options, Addison, Texas.The VaaS cloud-based image capture platform includes fixed and mobile license plate reader cameras driven by machine learning Just days later, in the midst of the holiday season, Qognify announced its plan to acquire On-Net Surveillance Systems Inc. (OnSSI) and sister company SeeTec GmbH. Then came an even larger announcement: Motorola has acquired VaaS International Holdings Inc., a data and image analytics company for $445 million. The VaaS cloud-based image capture and analysis platform includes fixed and mobile license plate reader cameras driven by machine learning and artificial intelligence. Most recently, ADT announced yet another acquisition, Advanced Cabling Systems, a technology integration company in the South, thus continuing consolidation on the integration side of the business. There are likely to be further mergers and acquisitions in the video surveillance supply base in 2019 Continuation of the trend In the case of the Qognify and Motorola deals, Jon Cropley, Principal Analyst, Video Surveillance & Security Services, IHS Global Limited, sees them as the next chapter in an M&A trend going back several years. “I think this is a continuation of what we have been seeing in recent years of video surveillance software vendors being acquired,” he says. In the face of intense price competition, vendors have found it increasingly difficult to compete based on hardware features" “In the face of intense price competition, vendors have found it increasingly difficult to compete based on hardware features and are looking at software to offer unique competitive advantages.” In short, he sees it as a continuation of a trend that previously saw Canon acquiring Milestone Systems and Briefcam, Panasonic acquiring Video Insight and Tyco acquiring Exacq. “There are likely to be further mergers and acquisitions in the video surveillance supply base in 2019,” adds Cropley. “However, a spree of large-scale mergers and acquisitions is not expected.” Memoori, another market research firm, forecasts that the value of acquisitions could actually decline marginally in 2019 in value terms but increase in number. This observation is based on Memoori’s charting of physical security deals over the last 18 years. Jim McHale, Managing Director of Memoori, says there have been four cycles of increase and decline in activity, often exaggerated by billion dollar deals in one year such as the merger of Johnson Controls and Tyco of $165Bn in 2016. Access control when combined with identity management is punching well above its weight, and this trend has continued Access control to open systems Only time will tell whether the new year pattern of M&A activity is a coincidence or a harbinger of a busy M&A year ahead “It may be too early to make judgements on the future based on the last four weeks, but there are some interesting points that can be made when compared with our 2018 analysis,” says McHale. “Access control when combined with identity management is punching well above its weight, and this trend has continued. "Acre has been a major contributor and has completed some 10 acquisitions. In general, the access control business has been slow to move to open systems, and hopefully we can expect this trend toward openness to continue as it will give additional growth to the business.” For more commentary from Memoori, see their report “Major Trends in the Global Access Control Market 2018”. Only time will tell whether the new year pattern of M&A activity is a coincidence or a harbinger of a busy M&A year ahead. While past trends may provide a glimpse of what’s coming, there are always new variables. It’s a sure bet the overall trend toward consolidation will continue but predicting the pace and timing of individual transactions is almost impossible. In any case, it will be interesting to watch how 2019 unfolds on the M&A front, among other factors in a changing industry.

Security integrators are often tasked with a multitude of responsibilities which could include a variety of installation, integration or design tasks made up of sprinkler systems, fire alarms, access control, HVAC, video surveillance systems and networks; and then pile on maintenance, training and analytics. Traditionally, most security integrators have installation backgrounds but are now expected to be IT savvy, too. Even the most proficient IT professionals may not fully grasp the complexity of adapting computer servers for use with video systems. It’s not the area of expertise of security integrators as the complexities between IT data and video data are significant. Therefore, security integrators depend on system builders to provide solutions to meet the needs of video systems expertly and with few hassles. It’s a simple enough ask, but not so easy to deliver. Tom Larson, Chief Technology Officer, BCDVideo, lists some of the challenges: The gap between reality and customer expectations End users should expect a security integrator to provide services and a wide product line to ensure the right equipment for any size job Sometimes there is a gap between what a security integrator expects from a video surveillance solution (in terms of validation testing, dependability, technical support) and the performance of available choices, especially in the case of low-cost or generic equipment. Extra service and support are needed to bridge the gap. Unfortunately, some manufacturers entering the market have failed to deliver, and integrators (and their end user customers) have paid a price. The network is often overlooked Security integrators should pay special attention to engineering the network and calculating the bandwidth and storage needed for video projects, especially given how technology evolves so quickly. Security is an appliance-driven business, and integrators who just want to add another server to expand storage or functionality without configuring the network run the risk of i/o bottlenecks and other system failures. End users should expect a security integrator to provide services and a wide product line to ensure the right equipment for any size job. Unfortunately, traditional IT resellers are often married to a singular solution limiting their knowledge of a good fit for the job. Buying a video server based on a low price aggravates the problem, as “Frankensteined” or generic servers tend to generate additional costs over time Servers are mistakenly considered a one-time expense One mistake purchasing agents make and security integrators have a hard time quantifying is viewing video storage as a capital expense (as one more component of a security system) rather than considering ongoing operating expenses. Buying a video server based on a low price aggravates the problem. “Frankensteined” or generic servers tend to generate additional costs over time, such as firmware or supply chain issues, and some systems builders have failed to provide support to offset those costs. In fact, the high costs over time of supporting inexpensive servers have been unsustainable for some system builders, who have left integrators and end users holding the bag, and in some cases, the liability. Adapting to sustainable strategies “Systems builders to the video surveillance market must adapt and invest to meet the demands of security integrators’ expectations, and they need a business model that enables them to provide a substantial level of support and commitment,” says Larson. “Working with high-quality manufacturers and providing tried-and-tested, certified equipment upfront ensures manageable costs over the life of the system. Products that are fully tested and contain no firmware bugs ensure smoother installations. By providing adequate technical support to the security integrator and managing IT variables over the life of the system, the systems builder makes it possible for a security integrator to specify and install a video server as easily as any other system component.” Keeping IT professionals on staff to deal with server issues is cost-prohibitive for security integrators Taking a longer-term view and considering total cost of ownership is a more sustainable strategy for integrators, says Larson. Investing upfront in a higher-quality server is rewarded by dependability and lower service costs over the life of the system. And the lower costs of supporting a higher-quality server create a more sustainable business model for the integrator, thus ensuring the integrator and end user will have ongoing support. Adapting server technology to video applications Security integrators deliver a different skill set than IT integrators, who tend to be more hands-on in terms of updating firmware and providing maintenance. Keeping IT professionals on staff to deal with server issues is cost-prohibitive for security integrators, who therefore depend on systems builders to provide that expertise. They develop a long-term relationship with a systems builder they can depend on to meet their needs for each job. Larson says the best scenario for a security integrator is a combination of a high-quality server systems builder that understands the specific needs of the security integrator market. Adapting server technology to video applications requires knowledge of both disciplines. Dependable technology adapted to the needs of the video channel ensures successful installations and happy, long-term customers.

Manufacturer ROCKWOOL International A.S. has chosen Nedap’s Global Client Programme to secure its offices and factories worldwide. AEOS, the physical security platform by Nedap, installed during the programme, enables ROCKWOOL to establish a truly global security policy and unified work processes. An advanced project rollout, the Global Client Programme is developed for large multinationals and offers several benefits, including standardisation across sites, shorter implementation times and cost efficiencies. Standardising company’s security measures The Global Client Programme connects all of ROCKWOOL’s factories and office premises, and standardises the company’s security measuresROCKWOOL has 28 factories across the world. The Global Client Programme connects all of these factories and ROCKWOOL’s office premises, and standardises the company’s security measures throughout the world. Fokko van der Zee, managing director at Nedap Security Management, says: “The implementation of a standardised security solution across the world is a complex process. It involves a large project spanning many years and involving many stakeholders, and demands a high level of project management. In the absence of a structured program with defined guidelines, a global security rollout is likely to be a stressful execution. That’s why we set up our carefully designed Global Client Programme.” ROCKWOOL Digital Service Lead, Matthew Thorne, agrees: “We’ve worked with Nedap over the past few years and recently became a member of their Global Client Programme. Now we’re equipped with the people and tools we needed to standardise our physical security solution. The Global Client Programme also minimises risk and guarantees compliance. It really meets our needs in every possible way.” Central security platform saves money The programme helps achieve cost savings by avoiding initial setup costs per site and having one central security platform instead of severalThe Global Client Programme is designed to ensure monitoring and control during every step of the rollout process. Timon Padberg, responsible for business development at Nedap Security Management, explains: “The repetitive nature of local site deployments allows us to work with models and templates, such as standard proposal and calculation documents. We can therefore produce a scalable process that ensures uniformity and a consistently high quality of implementation across each site.” By using the Global Client Programme, ROCKWOOL is aiming for uniformity and alignment across all sites. The programme also helps achieve cost savings by avoiding initial setup costs per site and having one central security platform instead of several. Moreover, there are significant savings on operational and maintenance costs due to shared services and economies of scale.

ProdataKey (PDK), an innovator of cloud-based network and wireless access control products and ASSA ABLOY, the pioneer in door opening solutions, announced the completion of a campus-wide security upgrade at Glenaire Retirement Community in Cary, North Carolina. Modern Systems, of Yadkinville, North Carolina, has installed a fully integrated wireless lock and access control solution securing 370 doors spread across the community’s main building entrances, public access areas, offices and residential apartment units. It makes use of ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio wireless locksets with PDK’s cloud access control software, providing administrators with the ability to remotely lock and unlock doors, set specific hours for maintenance workers’ access to buildings, continuously monitor door use, and easily retrieve system-wide reports. ASSA ABLOY IN100 Aperio wireless locks feature sleek readers integrated with the door hardware, helping to preserve the upscale aesthetic of Glenaire’s many buildings. Accessing PDK software from mobile device System management of PDK software can be handled completely from any mobile device or computer browserThe system will continue to grow, with expansion to all electrical rooms, storage rooms, mechanical rooms and closets, bringing the total to approximately 650 doors, as well as another 190 apartments and 40 assisted living units. As new doors come online, they will appear within the completely scalable PDK interface with no interruption to service or administrative functions. System management of PDK software can be handled completely from any mobile device or computer browser. Modern Systems was able to upload the user database from Glenaire’s legacy access control system to PDK’s cloud servers, allowing residents to retain use of their existing cards, which previously were used only to open the front doors of main buildings. With the PDK/ASSA ABLOY system, they now use those same cards to access public areas and their own private residences. ‘Guest’ cards, with more restricted access, are available for residents to give to family or friends as appropriate. Customised card permissions have also been established for staff groups, including service workers, nursing professionals and dining staff. Integrating security solutions When a resident is missing, administrators will be able to quickly call up cameras from the last door where the resident used his or her access cardModern Systems plans to soon facilitate an integration between the PDK software and several other security solutions they have installed at Glenaire. Mapping between doors and surveillance cameras, which are part of a new Milestone Systems video management solution, will not only enhance security but assist with Glenaire’s missing resident protocol. When a resident is missing, administrators will be able to quickly call up cameras from the last door where the resident used his or her access card. They also plan to connect the facility’s Situational Awareness and Response Assistant (SARA) risk management solution and mass notification system, from Status Solutions, with PDK. This integration will be important both in campus lock-down situations, as well as to assist with entry for response teams during medical emergencies. Glenaire’s Director of Facility Services, Ryan Ferguson, says he was wowed by the cloud-based PDK solution, which he says, “has the most modern, up-to-date access control software of anything I’ve seen. In addition, we were able to install the wireless PDK/ASSA ABLOY solution in about half the time it would have taken to install a wired solution, and for about half the cost.” Protection from cyber vulnerabilities The fact that all updates and security patches are automatically installed, system expansion is pain-free and limitless"Cory Jackson, PDK’s Vice President of Strategic Sales, adds, “The Glenaire project demonstrates the many ways in which our cloud solution makes sense for enterprise scale customers. “The fact that all updates and security patches are automatically installed, system expansion is pain-free and limitless – even across multiple buildings or sites, we offer seamless integration with solutions from valuable partners like ASSA ABLOY and others, and the customer’s in-house network is not exposed to any potential cyber vulnerabilities, are all reasons that PDK is gaining traction with larger customers.” “Retirement communities like Glenaire face a very unique set of challenges. The ability to provide a sense of security to residents and their families while still creating an environment that feels like home is paramount,” says Caleb Allen, electro-mechanical specialist for ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions. “We were happy to offer them a solution that made it easy and affordable to install comprehensive access control throughout the facility.”

IDF Aluminium has installed transom closers, solenoid locks and hook locks from Alpro Architectural Hardware at a building in a historic section of London’s Finsbury Square. 4 Chiswell Street backs onto the Artillery Ground which has seen archery in Tudor times, some of the first organised games of cricket in the 1730s and even a hot-air balloon flight in 1784. The four-storey structure was refurbished by main contractor Parkeray to a design by Ben Adams Architects that created column-free office space with exposed concrete soffit and a signature golden mesh & grille facade based on curtain walling with bold circles. Automatic voltage regulation The glazing is unusual since the Reynaers’ curtain walling for the double-height reception uses innovative bracketry to support massive panes from Euroview Architectural Glass. The Alpro closers are on the distinctive gilt exterior doors and the client is also benefiting from solenoid bolts in the door heads. Alpro transverse action deadlocking bolts offer high levels of physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg Alpro transverse action deadlocking bolts offer high levels of physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg, a bolt throw of 14mm and models with oversize pins. The advanced microprocessor module provides power reduction allowing for continuous operation without heat generation as well as automatic voltage regulation, dual monitoring and access control features to fully monitor and control movement. Installers can use housings from the same series for surface mounting which facilitates the securing of glass doors. Dress plates are offered for a clean finish. Public sector environments The 4 Chiswell Street refurbishment was carried out with tenants in occupation and even involved use of abseiling techniques to replace glazing. A temporary reception was created for access and egress. Daylight has been maximised and floor-to-ceiling height is used wherever possible in a design that meets the Equality Act and includes a revised fire strategy. IDF specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of aluminium doors. The door projects are often in business and public sector environments where usage may be high but maintenance costs must be minimised. IDF has 30 years’ experience in the shop front and commercial door market. The company ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all of its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors. The client portfolio covers transport, local government, healthcare and education from schools through to universities.

Boon Edam Inc., a global provider of security entrances and architectural revolving doors, announced that Utrecht University in The Netherlands has installed a custom-made, TQM manual revolving door at the entrance to the school’s newest addition, the Viktor J. Koningsberger building, dedicated to the faculties of Geosciences, Science and Medicine. Renowned Rotterdam-based architects, Ectory Hoogstad, were asked to create a building at Utrecht University that would serve as an addition to two other existing buildings: the Minnaert building and the Buys Ballot building. The new entrance had to be functional and recognisable, but also belong to the story of the building as a whole"Joost Ector, Director and Project Architect, explains, "All buildings had to be combined into one educational centre for the science faculties. We solved that very simply by making a kind of 'loop' on the first floor; a circuit that runs through all the buildings. A new building has been added on the corner, and that is what has become the Koningsberger building. Through the 'walk', all buildings are now connected, and the students can easily walk from one building to another.” Functional and aesthetic entrance The central themes in the design of this iconic building are lightness, openness and transparency. These properties are reflected in the façade and play an important role at the main entrance. "Of course, we want you to be able to enter the cluster of buildings from all sides of the campus easily,” says Ector. “So the new entrance had to be functional and recognisable, but also belong to the story of the building as a whole. You walk down to the building, make that little turn through the entrance and then you suddenly see that the big atrium going up a hundred times. We just love that!" TQM manual revolving door Once we decided to go with a manual revolving door, there was obviously only one name that stood out - and that was Boon Edam"When it came to selecting the entrance to the new building addition, Ector said his choice for the revolving door came naturally. “Once we decided to go with a manual revolving door, there was obviously only one name that stood out - and that was Boon Edam. We knew that Boon Edam made premium products and was capable of doing what we needed when it comes to these kinds of custom-made solutions. We came to our final solution after close consultation with their experts." The TQM manual revolving door installed at the Koningsberger building is nine meters (29-1/2 feet) high and is constructed almost entirely of glass. Nine-meter high rotating parts were not desirable, so a different solution was chosen. Installing illuminated cylinder A special tall, illuminated cylinder was installed above the revolving door for an impressive and recognisable appearance. "Our inspiration were old houses, such as canal houses,” explains Ector. “There is sometimes a kind of 'lantern' incorporated in the skylight above the front door in these old-fashioned homes. We utilised this in the TQM revolving door. “The cylinder was pulled upwards, and an illuminated element was manufactured. This constructed feature can be seen from both the outside and inside and serves as a beacon of light in the evening to help guide and locate the entrance.”

HID Global, globally renowned trusted identity solutions provider, and Phunware, Inc., a fully integrated enterprise cloud platform for mobile that provides products, solutions, data and services for brands worldwide, has announced their collaboration to improve the experience for hospital patients and visitors to find their way within medical facilities, using wayfinding on their mobile phones. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination.  Wayfinding and HID Location Services  Phunware and HID are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardised technology “The combination of Phunware’s market-leading wayfinding and mobile engagement capabilities with innovative HID Location Services will ultimately revolutionise wayfinding within healthcare institutions,” said Phunware co-founder and CEO Alan S. Knitowski. “It’s easy for visitors and patients to get lost in hospitals, and every time they do it puts appointment times and patient satisfaction at risk. With our location-aware app on a mobile device, we equip the visitor to get instant, turn-by-turn navigation that creates a better experience than that which is currently available on the market.” Phunware and HID are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardised technology to provide a better wayfinding and visitor engagement experience inside the hospital, across campus and even in parking lots.  Unified Healthcare IoT solutions Healthcare organisations can easily lay out the foundation for IoT applications, such as wayfinding" “Wayfinding is one more application that we are integrating into HID’s unified healthcare IoT solution to make it easier for healthcare systems to manage a growing demand for automated and streamlined experiences,” said Rom Eizenberg, Vice President of Sales, Bluvision, part of HID Global. “With HID technologies, we have changed the location-aware landscape, delivering location as a service. Now, healthcare organisations can easily lay out the foundation for IoT applications, such as wayfinding.” Healthcare IoT-enabled platform HID’s healthcare IoT solution-enablement platform simplifies the delivery of real-time location of clinicians, patients and devices. The platform is enabled by Bluvision (part of HID Global). Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform Phunware’s Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform also provides enterprise-level mobile wayfinding, engagement, data and more for other vertical markets, including retail, residential, hospitality, media and entertainment and more.

Critical infrastructure requires locks that are proven, tested and trusted. Sometimes electronic locking is the right choice; at other times, mechanical locking does the job. With CLIQ mechatronic locking technology, one water utility combined both in a single, secure system controlled by powerful, intuitive CLIQ software. O des Aravis is responsible for water capture, storage quality, analysis and delivery of around 700,000m3 annually to homes and businesses in the Aravis Mountains region of France. PROTEC2 CLIQ key-based access control with programmable, battery-powered keys now secures 30 opening points across their premises. These robust locking devices are suited to protecting high-security openings, including a potentially dangerous room with high-tension electrical cabling and equipment. They are already deployed at critical infrastructure sites all over Europe. Controlling and modifying access rights The mechatronic CLIQ system enables the utility’s facility managers to control, modify and trace every important accessThe mechatronic CLIQ system enables the utility’s facility managers to control, modify and trace every important access. They know who goes where, and when. They are aware of activity affecting all critical doors; it is even impossible to leave one unlocked. Because CLIQ is a flexible, key-based system, O des Aravis can also retain some mechanical locks at the site, operated by the same secure keys and with the same PROTEC2 high-security disc cylinders. CLIQ software makes it easy and intuitive for O des Aravis to manage their entire locking system. “The programming software platform is very simple to use. We can easily grant or forbid access rights to any user,” explains Laurent Schutz, Water and Sanitation Process Manager. CLIQ Web Manager software The CLIQ Web Manager software is built to help companies like O des Aravis manage complex workflows. System administrators can program, amend or delete keys remotely. It’s straightforward to generate time-stamped audit trails for any lock or key, to track access in detail. The Web Manager can generate attendance reports for staff and contractors. Yet despite all these features, the CLIQ Web Manager requires minimal IT investment: it runs in the cloud and is accessed via an encrypted connection to a standard web browser. On demand audit trails of lock/key If a key is lost, a security manager can deactivate it instantly with a couple of clicksAt O des Aravis, comprehensive audit trails for any lock or key are available on demand. These also sync automatically when a user key is updated or revalidated. If a key is lost, a security manager can deactivate it instantly with a couple of clicks, ensuring buildings and clean water supplies are not put at risk. “There is very good communication about software updates,” says Laurent Schutz. “It is highly professional.” We live in a world of diverse threats to our critical infrastructure. For Aravis Mountains residents, winter skiers and summer hikers, these refreshing alpine waters are safely locked down — thanks to CLIQ wireless access control.