How Integrated Access Control Solutions Benefit Your Property

 

 

Access control systems are effective security solutions but are best implemented when integrated with other security features. In other words, access control integrations are essential in creating a cohesive and comprehensive security solution.

So, we created this guide to educate you on what integrated access control solutions are and how they can benefit you. Additionally, you’ll learn what to consider when integrating systems and, more importantly, about the best access control system that supports integrations.

This guide covers:

• What is an integrated access control system?
• Best access control system with integrations
• Benefits of integrated security systems
• Considerations for access control integrations

 

 

What is an integrated access control system?

An integrated access control system is a security solution that combines multiple technologies and features to create a cohesive platform. More specifically, integrated access control creates a comprehensive security system that is easily managed and monitored from a single interface.

Access control solutions can integrate with the following:

• Video surveillance
• Motion sensors and alarms
• Visitor management systems
• Elevator controls
• Building automation systems (BAS)
• Parking management systems
• Smart locks
• Turnstiles and gates
• Property management software

Of course, integrated access control solutions can take advantage of technologies other than those listed above. Regardless of the integration, the goal is the same: Create a cohesive security solution to enhance security without compromising efficiency or effectiveness.

 

Best access control system with integrations

The best access control system that supports a wide range of integrations is ButterflyMX.

ButterflyMX is a cloud-based access control company that’s been installed in more than 10,000 buildings and garnered more than 20,000 five-star reviews. By choosing ButterflyMX, you can integrate with property management software, smart locks, security cameras, and more, creating a cohesive security solution.

With ButterflyMX, you can manage multiple integrations through a single platform. Accessible via mobile app or online dashboard, ButterflyMX gives you the flexibility to manage your system remotely or on-site.

Within the ButterflyMX OS, you can efficiently manage permissions, review audit logs, or grant access remotely. Therefore, the streamlined workflow enhances the property security and boosts productivity, ensuring effective management of your property’s operations.

 

Benefits of integrated security systems

Integrating your access control system and other security features creates a comprehensive solution that better serves your property.

Security system integrations benefit you by:

• Centralizing management
• Enhancing security
• Offering customization and flexibility
• Simplifying data collection and reporting
• Lowering costs
• Complying with regulations

 

Centralizing management

An integrated access control solution simplifies property management by centralizing everything in one place. Within a single platform, you can manage access credentials, review entry logs, grant access remotely, and more.

You and your staff work more efficiently by eliminating the need to use multiple software interfaces or technologies. Meanwhile, your security solution is more effective at preventing and capturing security risks.

Not to mention, many tasks can be automated. For example, ButterflyMX access control integrates with a variety of property management software. That way, when a new resident signs their lease, the system automatically assigns a role and credentials. Then, when a resident moves out, their access credentials are automatically revoked, streamlining your workflows and maintaining security.

 

Learn how ButterflyMX integrates with property management systems:

 

Enhancing security

Pairing multiple security features to work seamlessly improves the overall security and safety of your property. These systems are not only effective at capturing suspicious activity but also better at deterring it.

For instance, integrating access control with video surveillance enables real-time monitoring of access events. Then, you can use live video footage with access event data to better capture individuals trying to enter, verifying that only authorized personnel are granted access. Moreover, integrations with intrusion detection systems enable your system to notify you immediately of unauthorized access attempts or security breaches.

With multiple integrated security features working seamlessly, you create a layered defense that keeps employees, customers, tenants, and guests safe.

 

Offering customization and flexibility

Access control systems that support integrations adhere to your property’s security requirements while also scaling as it grows.

Integrated access control solutions are customizable in the following ways:

• Establish time- or date-restricted access rules for specific areas of the property.
• Manage user roles by defining their access roles according to their position.
• Choose how to authenticate individuals using your preferred credentials: mobile app, PIN code, key card, fob, etc.
• Define how your security system reacts to certain access events, such as locking all doors when an alarm is tripped.
• Review reports on access events, user activity, and security incidents for better insight into your property’s security.
• Scale your access control by easily adding or removing access points as your property evolves.

 

Simplifying data collection and reporting

Collecting data from multiple sources can get overwhelming, which is why access control integrations ease the process. Rather than collecting and reporting data from a variety of sources, integrated security systems help you gain insight into all of your data at once.

As a result, you receive a cohesive report on data, enabling you to identify common behaviors or trends. With this information, you can identify areas in which your security system or policies can improve. After all, data-driven decision-making will only improve how your property operates.

 

Lowering costs

While an access control system’s upfront costs are significant, the long-term cost savings outweigh the initial investment. As mentioned above, integrated access control solutions streamline management workflows, reducing or completely eliminating the time required to complete tasks. In turn, you and your staff can perform more critical duties.

Additionally, scalable access control systems adjust seamlessly as your property grows, eliminating another large investment. Integrated access control systems also have fewer maintenance requirements and protect your property more effectively. So, your access control system will deliver a strong return on investment.

 

Complying with regulations

If you operate a hospital, dispensary, or other highly regulated business, your access control system may need to be integrated with other security features to comply with regulations. For example, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) includes access control in their physical and technical safeguards for the healthcare industry.

Local, state, and federal regulations will vary depending on your industry, but it’s critical you maintain a compliant security system that includes an access control system. Otherwise, you could face serious fines, license revocations, and lawsuits.

 

Considerations for access control integrations

While integrations for access control are essential, you should know what to consider for the best experience.

Before integrating, you should consider the following:

• Compatibility
• Scalability
• User experience
• Customization
• Training and support

 

Compatibility

Before choosing a security feature or an access control system, you should learn what types of integrations they support. Unfortunately, you may discover some hardware or software is incompatible with your desired security solutions.

For that reason, cloud-based access control systems offer the most suitable solution for integrations. They provide a versatile platform that integrates with a wide range of security features, and most continue to add integrations, which you can benefit from after installation.

 

Scalability

How easily can your access control system scale alongside its integrations and your evolving property? By choosing scalable technologies and integrations, you can support an increasing number of users, devices, and access points without compromising performance or security.

 

User experience

Assess the impact of access control and integrations on the user experience. If the system is too difficult to understand or isn’t easy to use, it will not only dampen the user experience, but it’ll also serve as a security risk. Ensure your system’s integrations are intuitive to use, provide consistent functionality, and minimize disurptions to your property’s operations.

 

Customization

Determine what kind of customization you require for your access control system and the integrations it supports. Do the configuration options align with your security requirements? Evaluate your current security features, policies, and reporting to gauge whether the customization level will suffice.

 

Training and support

The system and integrations you consider should provide the necessary training and support for your team to succeed. Prioritize platforms that provide robust training programs and resources tailored to you and your staff’s training. In addition, verify the technical support is responsive, knowledgeable, and available to assist you with troubleshooting.

Pro tip: We recommend you ask about the availability of different support channels, such as phone, email, live chat, and a knowledge base.