In this blog from HID, European Channel Sales Director, Matt Haynes talks about the importance of robust access control and gives his advice on what SMBs (SMEs) should be thinking about when choosing access control systems.
News headlines are often dominated by major cyberattacks and security breaches targeting large corporations. These breaches often lead to financial losses, reputational damage and even legal repercussions. But the reality is, cyber threats and security breaches don’t discriminate by company size. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the backbone of the European Union’s economy (according to the EU’s latest annual report on small and medium-sized enterprises, SMBs make up over 99%), are equally vulnerable.
Why access control is important for SMBs
As the first line of defence in physical security, ensuring robust access control measures has become imperative for businesses of all sizes, including SMBs. According to the recently published State of Physical Access Control Report, over half of all organisations are looking to upgrade their physical access control system within the next six years. This is not surprising, when you consider how many still rely on legacy technology, including nearly a third (28%) that still use highly vulnerable magnetic stripe technology.
Common challenges SMBs face
The challenges for small businesses are many — and that is especially true when it comes to security solutions. Unlike their larger counterparts, SMBs often have tighter budgets and smaller teams. A single security breach, even a seemingly minor one, can be devastating for a small company. Financial losses, reputational damage and even legal repercussions can cripple an SMB’s operations and potentially force closure. This is why prioritising robust security is crucial for SMBs.
Yet, premium security solutions have traditionally been limited to enterprise customers, leaving SMBs vulnerable to risks.
It’s important that as an industry, we democratize access to advanced security technology by delivering comprehensive solutions that provide high-level security without the “extra” features tailored for large enterprises that often warrant the increased price tag. Finally, we can begin empowering SMBs to fortify their premises against threats.
Future-proofing your business: Scalable access control solutions for SMBs
By implementing a well-designed system, SMBs can ensure that they are protecting their people, property and business without breaking the bank. It’s a crucial first step in building a robust security posture, allowing them to focus their limited resources on additional security measures like data encryption and employee training.
7 key considerations for SMBs when evaluating access control systems
Here are the most important factors small and medium-sized businesses must keep in mind when choosing an access control system that’s right for their needs.
- Balancing security and cost
Affordability: Ensure the system offers a good balance of features and affordability. Look for solutions that provide high security without the excessive costs typically associated with enterprise-level systems.
Scalability: Opt for systems with scalable features. Start with basic functionalities and expand as your business grows to avoid unnecessary upfront costs.
- Simplified installation and deployment
Ease of Installation: Choose systems that are simple to install, potentially offering pre-configured systems or cloud-based solutions that significantly reduce installation time and downtime for the business.
Minimised disruption: Ensure the installation process does not disrupt daily operations, allowing employees to continue their work without significant interruptions.
- User-friendly management
Intuitive Interfaces: Prioritise solutions with user-friendly interfaces that make managing user access and credentials straightforward, even for businesses with limited IT staff.
Remote management: Cloud-based systems can offer remote management capabilities, enabling easy access control management from anywhere, reducing the need for on-site adjustments.
- Robust security features
Secure Technology: Look for systems offering secure credential technology, such as Seos®, and robust access logging for audit trails to enhance security and compliance.
Integration capabilities: Consider systems that can integrate with existing security measures, like cameras or alarms, to create a layered security approach.
- Flexibility and adaptability
Variety of Credentials: Ensure the system supports multiple credential types, including cards, key fobs and mobile credentials, to provide flexibility for different use cases and future needs.
Future-Ready: Choose a system that can evolve with your business, allowing easy upgrades and integration of new technologies as they become available.
- Reliable support and service
Technical Support: Make certain the provider offers reliable technical support for troubleshooting any issues that arise, ensuring the system remains functional and effective.
Proven Reliability: Opt for systems from established and trusted providers known for their reliability and quality in the access control industry.
- Simplified ordering and management
Streamlined Process: Select systems with a straightforward ordering process, such as pre-programmed credentials that save time and reduce complexity in selecting the right components.
Standardised solutions: Standardised, pre-configured sets of readers and credentials can simplify the procurement, installation and management processes.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find an access control system that meets your security needs without breaking the bank or requiring excessive time and resources to manage. Remember, a well-chosen access control system can provide peace of mind and contribute to a safer and more secure work environment for your employees and your growing business.
Maximising security doesn’t need to be complex. For secure access that grows with your business, check out HID Signo™ Express and Seos Essentials.
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