In 2021, a lot had happened to the world, and the security industry is no different. Throughout last year, there have been several developments in both access control and time and attendance, all helping to keep businesses and consumers safe, whilst adapting to new changes and challenges.   

Mobile access control

Also known as smartphone access card or mobile access credentials, mobile access control is using a mobile phone to access a door reader using Bluetooth or NFC (Near Field Communications). It’s a continuously growing area, and mobile access control has been rapidly adopted in 2021 and is likely to continue into 2022. Although always available, mobile access control has grown in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic as it offers a contact-free entry method and offers increased flexibility to homeworkers who only need office access occasionally.

Mobile access control also has the added bonus for many businesses that it reduces the cost of access control, through the lack of keycards or fobs which must be programmed. Not only are these physical access control often lost by employees but can also be used by trespassers to gain access to the site which they should not. Mobile access control adds an extra layer of security through the phone’s lock methods including face recognition and fingerprints.  

“Cloud-based” access control

Many businesses have started the transition to remote/ cloud-based working and software to reduce on-site processes and increase real-time access for home working. Access control is no different and there has been an increase in demand for virtual server/ cloud-based access control over the past year as offices have reopened following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Remote dial in for access control gives businesses more control over business operations and can even achieve a higher level of security through real-time data collection, automatic software updates and integrating more security solutions into one access control framework. Another benefit is it allows for better multi-site management through central control, even globally, and can grow as a business develops into new areas and markets.  

Mobile app time tracking

Similar to access control, the use of mobile phones in time and attendance tracking is growing in popularity. Using mobile apps instead of paper gives both employees and employers immediate access to timesheets, work schedules and allows employees to punch in/out if needed.

Mobile apps allow employees to clock in from wherever they are, which is perfect for homeworkers and employees who work from multiple business sites. They’re a user-friendly method that can also help with payroll, record keeping and helps employers closely monitor attendance.  

Biometric attendance tracking

Due to COVID-19, businesses have been investing in new ways to manage time and attendance for their employees, trying to keep them safe. Other than using mobile phones, biometric attendance tracking has also become more popular in 2021. Using fingerprints, facial recognition and even eye scanning, technology now allows for employees to punch in and out, and track their attendance, without the need for physical cards or fobs.

Biometrics also ensure that the right employee is working when scheduled to and for businesses, can also reduce “buddy punching”. Helping to reduce misconduct related to time and attendance also helps employees track their time effectively and, in some instances, in a contact-free way.  

Find out more

Here at TouchStar, we pride ourselves in using the latest technology in access control and time and attendance, including cloud-based technology, mobile apps and access control hardware that benefits both the employee and employer. Get in touch today to see how we can help your business.   

ABOUT THE AUTHOR – LYNDEN JONES

Lynden joined Touchstar ATC (formally Feedback Data) in a sales role for Access Control in 2010.  Prior to joining the company, Lynden held both Production and Account Manager roles, gaining wide technical and commercial experience within the electronics market.  

In 2013 Lynden was promoted to Sales Director and in 2017 he took overall responsibility of the business as Managing Director.As well as running Touchstar ATC, Lynden still remains extremely active in the sales and key account management aspects of the business. When not involved in the business, Lynden is a keen performance car enthusiast.