The standard for work environments today is that there is no longer a set standard for how they operate. Flexible schedules and hybrid working structures are becoming increasingly popular across industries, and coworking spaces are common in metropolitan cities. Access to physical spaces has to adapt to these changes and the needs of modern workforces. Traditional keys and swipe cards do not offer the level of security and convenience that modern-day professionals require, and Apple access control has been a central tool in managing this. By utilizing digital platforms such as Apple Wallet for physical access purposes, companies can operate in a new era of efficiency and flexibility.
How does Apple’s access control work?
Apple’s access control functionality refers to using its digital network, particularly Apple Wallet, to manage secure and contactless access to controlled spaces like offices. With this system, employees and other authorized individuals can use their iPhones or Apple Watches to access office spaces. This eliminates the need for physical keys or badges, which can be easily misplaced and pose risks to security if accessed by unauthorized persons. Human errors like losing keys happen, so removing as many moving parts as possible can help better manage access and security.
Benefits of Apple’s access control for hybrid workspaces and coworking spaces:
Efficiency and cost-effectiveness: A hybrid workspace is one where employees do not have to be physically present for all working days. In a space that employees may need to access at different times, it may not always be practical to supply each individual with physical means of access, such as keys or access cards. A solution might be having security personnel on-site to give employees access when needed. This is also not very practical or cost-effective. In companies with multiple locations, digital access means that employees can be granted entry to multiple buildings without needing to navigate multiple keys or other access control systems.
Administrative burden: Being able to control access remotely can significantly reduce the administrative burden, as companies can permit or revoke access with minimal inconvenience and immediate effect. This is especially important regarding security, as a company can immediately and remotely disable access permissions for someone leaving the company. Other personnel changes can be similarly managed, helping companies to ensure high-security standards and efficient HR processing.
Security features: Physical keys or access cards can be easily misplaced and cause major security concerns. For example, one misplaced key could result in locks having to be changed and new keys distributed to all employees. This is costly, inefficient, and inconvenient for the company and its employees. Apple access control uses biometric controls such as facial recognition or fingerprint identification to limit unauthorized access. It makes granting access much smoother, removing some of the admin associated with managing keys and access schedules.
Components for successful integration:
Some considerations must be made for companies interested in implementing Apple’s access control features to ensure smooth and successful integration.
Compatibility: For businesses that already have existing access control systems in place, it is important that any new system can be integrated smoothly so as not to inconvenience employees. One way to manage this might be by gradually introducing the new access control system to ensure all authorized personnel are granted access. It would also be necessary to ensure that all employees have compatible devices that will allow them access. Otherwise, the system will not be effective.
Cloud-based management: Administrators can control access permissions remotely, which is one of the features that makes Apple’s access control so convenient for users. This is mainly for companies where access may need to be granted or revoked for employees in various locations. Being able to do this remotely and in real-time is a significant time-saver and does not compromise on security. Companies that receive frequent deliveries, use the services of contractors or deal with sensitive materials on-site will see the benefits of real-time remote access permissions. Additionally, cloud-based systems can help companies keep digital records, allowing administrators to see who has accessed which buildings or areas of a workspace. This has security advantages and helps with monitoring, evaluation, and timekeeping. Many organizations require this kind of control and visibility, which can significantly support their auditing and reporting.
