Security has always been a core value for facilities managers – but as technology evolves and changes, so do the ways in which managers keep their tenants safe.
One recently established access control company hopes to improve workplace efficiency and security with the growing universality of the smartphone. Openpath, founded in 2016, announced the launch of its newest product at the 2018 Global Security Exchange (GSX) Conference & Expo.
“We built an app to open a door. It can be done from anywhere,” says Openpath co-founder and president James Segil. “The problem was solved to not have to carry a badge.”
What It Can Do
The new reader, which joins the ranks of Openpath’s other smart readers, allows tenants to enter their building or office by leaving their smartphone in their bag or pocket. That’s because of the Touch access feature, which automatically recognizes a user’s smartphone as they approach, even if it’s in a purse or pocket. The user can instead enter with only the wave of their hand or touch of the reader. A key card, fob or opening an app is not required, though the option to use them is still available to ensure flexibility.
“It’s nice for landlords. It’s an amenity,” Segil says. “Digital access control is quick and easy.”
Related: Simplify Access Control with Smartphones
The Mullion Smart Reader has a snap-on faceplate that comes in a variety of colors, allowing it to blend into the aesthetics of an entry. Once installed, Mullion (like all Openpath readers) uses Bluetooth technology and motion detection to authenticate the user and unlock the door. If there’s ever a problem, a call to Openpath will instigate remote diagnostics. “The customer can have instant support and solutions,” Segil says.
If you have a visitor coming, users can text them a link to access the door. The visitor just needs to click on the link – no log-in required – say they want to unlock and the door unlocks. Openpath also integrates with visitor management systems and uses encryption at every level.
“It’s cloud-based,” Segil adds. “You don’t need hardware or to worry about upgrading.”
How to Get It
If this sounds like something that could improve the security of your building, visit openpath.com for more information and quotes.
Valerie Dennis Craven contributed to this article with reporting from GSX.
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