15 Mar 2021

The pandemic has caused a global supply-chain shortage of chips used in access credentials. Ordering replacement cards has become even more difficult and may have a huge impact on lead times causing a disruption in your security program. Some MIFARE products may have a lead-time of at least 10 weeks, while other products and a variety of Java Cards are being forecast at up to 26 weeks for chip supply.

It’s time to think about transitioning to a mobile access control solution. AMAG’s Symmetry Blue Bluetooth reader and Symmetry Mobile app provide a frictionless solution that eliminates the need for access credentials.

Going mobile is more affordable

Phase-out cards gradually as organisations can use both access cards and a mobile phone to open doors. Symmetry Blue supports a gradual transition as organisations invest in the upgrade as budget allows or to meet specific timelines. Symmetry Mobile supports mobile or physical credentials.

Going mobile is more affordable as pricing structures have changed. In the past, solutions were only available that charged per credential, making it cost-prohibitive for large companies to migrate. With Symmetry Blue, organisations are charged per reader, immensely reducing the overall investment.

Saving time and money

It’s more affordable to issue a temporary mobile credential if someone forgets their card or a visitor needs a card As the vaccine is administered and the world slowly starts getting back to normal, organisations will see many additional benefits of going mobile.

Employees no longer need to go to the badging office, have a photo taken and wait for their card. Replacing lost, stolen or forgotten cards is eliminated, saving time and money. It’s more affordable to issue a temporary mobile credential if someone forgets their card or a visitor needs a card.

Additional benefits

Implementing mobile credentials supports Return to Work strategies and compliance with governing authorities. Mobile credentials support physical distancing with a frictionless setup. Employees no longer need to physically interact with the security team or visit a badging office to have a photo taken or pick up a card. All devices, photos and credentials are managed from a remote location.

As COVID-19 continues to impact access to worksites, organisations have the need to provide health screenings to employees. With Symmetry Mobile’s form functionality, companies can require that employees respond to a health questionnaire before their physical or mobile credentials are activated. If the employee’s answers do not align with the company’s policies, the employee’s credentials can be disabled. An audit trail helps companies remain in compliance.

Symmetry Mobile app

Does your organisation manage more than one access control system? Symmetry Mobile operates with multiple access control systems, making it ideal for large, enterprise end-users who acquire businesses and manage more than one system.

It also allows users to store multiple credentials on a phone. Rather than carry multiple cards, users can call up whichever credential they need to access a specific location or building.