Seven Ways Access Control and Video Can Be Used Beyond Security in the Built Environment
Members of SIA’s Built Environment Advisory Board share tips on how video and access control system data can be used to optimize building operations, drive revenue and more.
1. Using Occupancy Data From Video and Access Control Systems to Understand Space Utilization and Building Efficiency
In the smart building market, occupancy sensors are traditionally deployed to drive automated control of HVAC + Lighting for energy savings, occupant comfort and health. Following COVID, real estate owners began analyzing occupancy data to understand how space is utilized to manage a real estate asset portfolio and return to work strategy. Video with artificial intelligence-based people detection and/or two-way access control solutions can offer occupancy data without compromising privacy.
“Building owners and tenants can uncover valuable insights on their spaces by tapping into occupancy data created by physical security technology.”
– Dan Cremins, senior business development manager, Delta Intelligent Building Technologies; chair, SIA Built Environment Advisory Board
2. Using AI-Based Video Analytics to Identify Safety and Operational Issues
In any building environment, advanced video analytics can be used to perform remote audits to understand potential safety and operational efficiency issues. This is especially true for multisite applications where it is difficult for department managers to constantly visit different sites to ensure compliance. Today, AI-based video analytics can identify wet floors, unattended garbage, blocked exits, empty shelves, workers not wearing safety equipment and other issues, and the results can be compiled into a video- and image-based report for easy auditing.
“Managers of every building are tasked with ensuring business standards are being met, and AI based video analytics can be used to quickly audit operations in any space, any time.”
– Angelo Tebano, director of channel sales, North America, March Networks
3. Shifting Access Control From a Cost Center to a Revenue Driver
Access control systems have long been viewed as necessary overhead, a cost incurred to ensure security and compliance. In today’s commercial real estate market, it’s becoming an opportunity for value creation. By offering access to premium amenities, shared spaces or tiered services, building operators can unlock new monetization paths. When paired with ethically managed data insights, access control can shift from front-office necessity to front-office differentiator.
– Andrew Campagnola, director of product management, Kastle Systems
“Real estate groups across the market are increasingly using access control not just to secure space, but to activate it. It’s no longer just about keeping people out. It’s about creating opportunities to invite the right people in.”
4. Using Physical Security Solutions to Identify and Manage Maintenance Issues
Physical property maintenance is a balancing act between emergencies and scheduled upkeep. It’s human nature to address the most urgent issues, and maintenance professionals often find themselves bouncing from one emergency to the next. This can be an expensive way to maintain property, and many maintenance teams are increasingly short-staffed.
Video surveillance and AI will be able to help property owners, and their maintenance professionals look for and address malfunctioning openings, hardware, windows, elevators, HVAC systems, plumbing and other maintenance concerns early on, before they have the chance to seriously damage property or become injury or life safety concerns. This will allow for problems to be addressed in the early stages, before issues go from minor to major problems.
“Video and AI will combine to help maintenance professionals nip issues in the bud. In addition to helping identify problems early on, it will also improve proximate cause assessment and help solidify maintenance related warranty and subrogation claims. Lower cost maintenance and reduced injury risk will improve life safety and lead to fewer incidents, better insurance terms, fewer lawsuits and reduced maintenance-related expenditures.”
– Aaron Gutsu, partner, Architectural Security Hardware
5. Using Video Systems’ AI Analytics to Track Customer Movement Patterns, Dwell Times and Product Interaction in Retail Environments
Retailers gain insights into customer behavior, popular product placement effectiveness and store layout optimization. This data helps increase sales conversion rates, reduce customer wait times and improve inventory positioning. Heat mapping shows which areas attract attention and which are underutilized. Moderate ease and cost. New camera deployments can be designed with this benefit and use case in mind to be ready to go as soon as they are installed. Existing camera infrastructure can often be upgraded with analytics software rather than complete replacement.
“We’ve seen clients reduce operational overhead by 15-20% and eliminate manual counting tasks by implementing retail analytics as part of their surveillance systems. Instead of treating security as a cost center, you’re transforming it into a revenue-generating asset, providing extremely valuable data to other departments in the organization, that provides 24/7 business intelligence without additional hardware investment.“
– Chris Wilson, senior product manager, Hanwha Vision
6. Using Access Control Data to Automate Property Operations and Streamline Workflows
In multifamily and commercial properties, access control systems do more than manage entry—they generate valuable data that can be used to automate operational workflows. By analyzing patterns such as unit access by maintenance teams, cleaners or vendors, property managers can automatically trigger tasks, verify job completion, and optimize staff deployment. For example, when a technician badges into a unit, the system can log the visit, start a time tracker and notify residents of entry. Post-access, automated workflows can trigger inspection follow-ups or surveys, which not only improves operational efficiency, but also enhances transparency and resident experience.
“Access control systems are becoming the digital backbone of property operations helping developers, owners and managers better understand how their spaces are being used.“
– Nolan Mondrow, CEO, RemoteLock
7. Enhancing Modern Living With Advanced Access Control Systems
Access control systems have evolved beyond their traditional roles, offering innovative solutions that enhance the living experience in multifamily buildings and universities. By integrating space reservation capabilities, these systems provide a more personalized and convenient environment for residents and students alike.
In multifamily properties, residents can effortlessly reserve common areas like media rooms for parties and social gatherings, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Similarly, universities can leverage these systems to grant students the ability to book private spaces, such as music practice rooms, fostering an atmosphere conducive to creativity and learning.
“Access control systems are about not just security, but also enhancing community living and educational experiences, bringing people together in meaningful ways.“
– Robert Gaulden, go-to-market director, Zentra Access, Allegion
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