Boon Edam - Experts & Thought Leaders

Boon Edam Inc., a global pioneer in physical security entrance products, announces the launch of its innovative Speedlane Compact Platform. This modular platform, designed for the Lifeline Speedlane Compact Optical Turnstile, offers a groundbreaking solution for facilities seeking advanced entry control while preserving existing floors. Modern entry solutions “Preserving architectural integrity is a priority for many historical and high-design buildings,” said Patrick Nora, President and Managing Director, of Boon Edam Inc. “The Speedlane Compact Platform allows us to meet these needs, offering modern entry solutions that adapt to spaces without requiring invasive and costly floor modifications.” Speedlane Compact Platform The platform supports a weight capacity of 500 lbs per square foot for high stability and features integrated conduits The Speedlane Compact Platform addresses the unique challenges of facilities where trenching or drilling into floors is restricted or undesirable. With a free-standing, modular design, the platform offers an ADA-compliant foundation that ensures accessibility in high-traffic environments without compromising structural integrity. The platform supports a weight capacity of 500 lbs per square foot for high stability and features integrated conduits to accommodate streamlined power and low-voltage wiring. Custom finishes, such as anti-slip coatings and stainless-steel tread plates, are also available to align with various aesthetic and functional needs. Modular configurations Boon Edam’s commitment to innovation is evident in the platform’s adaptability. Its modular configurations can accommodate single or multi-lane setups and seamlessly integrate with additional entry solutions like Winglock Swing gates. The innovative and versatile Speedlane Compact Platform allows modern secured entry solutions to be installed in spaces ranging from historical landmarks to new state-of-the-art facilities. Seamless experience “Our platform is not only about innovation. It’s also about offering a seamless experience for architects, facility managers, and end users alike,” Nora added. “With this launch, Boon Edam sets a new standard for adaptive and non-invasive entry solutions, ensuring that both historic and modern spaces can thrive without compromise,” concluded Nora.

Alcatraz AI, a global provider of frictionless, AI-powered biometric access control technology revolutionising security through facial authentication, is excited to announce their attendance at Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2024 from September 23rd-25th in Orlando, FL. While at the conference, Alcatraz AI will present its latest biometric access control end-to-end technology, Rock X, at its booth (#3000). For the first time, Alcatraz AI will be showcasing the system’s discreet, flat mount, and low-profile configuration on a Gunnebo 1080 turnstile, demonstrating the technology’s sleek integration capabilities. Alcatraz AI platform Rock X raises the ability to be mounted flat on turnstiles, offering a sleek and obscure plan to market Powered by the Alcatraz AI platform, Rock X delivers efficient user profile management, industry-pioneering privacy controls, and seamless performance, solidifying its role as the best-in-class in secure biometric enterprise solutions. Rock X introduces the capability to be mounted flat on turnstiles, offering a sleek and unobtrusive design to the market and forgoing typical industry-standard mounts often needed for access control devices. This enables a cohesive, frictionless, and aesthetic-driven security solution. New standard in access control As the latest offering, Rock X sets a new standard in access control, featuring frictionless and secure facial authentication technology for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. It also comes in a variety of custom colours to align with company branding and aesthetics.  Join Alcatraz AI at their booth for a conference-long launch party for Rock X. Event celebrations begin the morning of September 24th and will continue throughout the duration of the show. Event attendees can expect: 9:30 am ET: Complimentary coffee bar at Alcatraz AI’s booth up until 1:00 pm ET. 10:30 am ET: Formal presentation of Rock X product features and a live demonstration of Rock X installed in a low-profile configuration on a Gunnebo 1080 turnstile, showcasing innovative, updated design aesthetics and seamless product integration.  First biometric solution Two winners will be announced on September 24th at 2:00 pm ET via the Alcatraz AI LinkedIn page In addition to the celebratory launch event, all those who visit Alcatraz AI’s booth have the opportunity to enter their GSX 2024 giveaway. Attendees who register for the giveaway and scan their event badge will be entered for a chance to win Bose QuietComfort Headphones. Two winners will be announced on September 24th at 2:00 pm ET via the Alcatraz AI LinkedIn page. “We are thrilled to officially launch Rock X at this year’s GSX conference,” said Tina D’Agostin, CEO at Alcatraz AI. “We are introducing the first biometric solution that seamlessly integrates with building aesthetics." Alcatraz AI’s technology D’Agostin added: "Alcatraz’s newest technology emphasises privacy by design, while also achieving a perfect balance between aesthetic appeal and low-profile turnstile integration. This enables a clean look and provides the same high level of security that customers have come to expect from Alcatraz AI.” In addition to the Rock X booth launch party, Alcatraz AI’s technology will also be showcased at several partner booths. These booths include: Alvarado (#2027), Automatic System (#1827), Boon Edam (#2413), Genetec (#2612), Gunnebo (#1709), Smarter Security (#2343), and the JCI Technology Showcase Room S230 A+B. There are lots of opportunities for patrons to view and learn about the security solutions offered by Alcatraz AI.

ASIS International and the Security Industry Association (SIA) have closed out a successful second annual Security LeadHER conference, a unique event dedicated to advancing, connecting and empowering women in the security profession. The sold-out event took place June 24-25, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona, bringing together more than 400 security professionals from seven countries. Security LeadHER 2024 builds on the tremendous success of last year’s inaugural event, gathering attendees of all backgrounds and genders. This year’s conference – a day-and-a-half program featuring industry-pioneering subject matter expert presenters – offered inspiring keynotes, educational sessions and networking opportunities. The 2024 agenda featured a diverse range of presentations and discussions addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in the security industry. Keynote presentations Event also featured multiple networking breaks, a networking lunch and a lively evening reception Session topics included the power of authenticity in leadership, addressing and overcoming imposter syndrome, managing the multigenerational workplace, fostering male allyship in the security industry, negotiation tactics and more.  Additionally, attendees enjoyed motivating keynote presentations from Henna Pryor, two-time TEDx and global keynote speaker, workplace performance expert, author and executive coach at Pryority Group; Debby Stone, CEO and executive coach at Novateur Partners and Amanda McPherson, confidence coach and speaker. The event also featured multiple networking breaks, a networking lunch and a lively evening reception at The Duce, providing ample opportunities for attendees to connect with peers and industry pioneers. Security LeadHER conference “Following the tremendous success of our inaugural event, we’re thrilled to see Security LeadHER 2024 sell out with over 400 attendees from seven countries,” said Mary Gamble, Esq., MBA, CPP, chair of the ASIS Women in Security Community. “This partnership between ASIS and SIA has proven to be a catalytic force to develop and promote the success of women in the security industry and will have a positive impact for years to come.” “The second annual Security LeadHER conference was nothing short of spectacular. It was inspiring to see so many established and emerging women leaders in one room, and the energy was palpable,” said Alice DiSanto, vice president of global marketing at Rajant Corporation and chair of SIA’s Women in Security Forum. LeadHERs in security Amazing ward of “leadhers” donated to the Greater Phoenix Area by supporting Dress DiSanto added: “Our expert speakers addressed the most pressing personal and professional issues facing women in security and shared actionable tools and tactics for leadership development, collaboration and risk-taking to cultivate a bolder presence. This conference is unlike any other in our industry, and the 2024 event fostered connectedness, enriched lives and grew engagement among the ‘LeadHERs’ in security. We can’t wait to do it again next year!” As part of this year’s Security LeadHER conference, the amazing community of “leadhers” contributed to the Greater Phoenix Area by supporting Dress for Success Phoenix and the Bra Recyclers by accepting donations on-site during Security LeadHER 2024. Investment in Security LeadHER Event organisers SIA and ASIS are profoundly grateful for the generous support of the sponsors who have made Security LeadHER 2024 possible. Their commitment to advancing, connecting and empowering women in the security industry is truly commendable. These organisations are not just sponsors; they are catalysts for change in the industry, actively promoting diversity and inclusion. Their investment in Security LeadHER demonstrates a shared vision for a more equitable and dynamic security sector. Together, they are paving the way for the next generation of women pioneers in security. Sponsors include Premier Sponsors|Apple, Dorma Kaba, HID, Intel, Wesco, Executive Sponsors|Axis Communications, Salto, Securitas Technology, Partner + Bag Sponsor | Allegion, Partner Sponsors | Assa Abloy, Boon Edam, Genetec, GSA Schedules, Inc., i-Pro, Ontic and Sage Integration. Security LeadHER 2025 will be held June 9-10 in Detroit, Michigan.

In the competitive world of physical access control, Big Tech companies are seeking to play a larger role. Physical access competition Apple Wallet continues to stake its claim on mobile credentialing. Amazon One Enterprise is pushing a palm-based identity service. Google/Nest offers smart locks for home access control, with identity and access management provided in the Google Cloud. The entry of these big companies in the historically fragmented physical access control market is causing disruption and foreboding new levels of competition.  Apple Wallet impacting credentialing trends  The popularity of mobile wallets and contactless technologies in general has grown, creating more demand At Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference in June 2021, the company announced support for home, office and hotel keys, including corporate badges and student ID cards, in Apple Wallet. Later, the company announced Hyatt as the first hotel partner to support the technology. Since then, the popularity of mobile wallets and contactless technologies in general has grown, creating more demand for a seamless solution such as Apple Wallet. Easy access  In 2023, HID Global announced the availability of their employee badge in Apple Wallet, allowing staff and guests to easily access corporate spaces with their iPhone or Apple Watch, including doors, elevators, turnstiles, etc. Employees just need to hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near the reader to unlock.  Factors affecting the rate of adoption However, implementing and maintaining an Apple Wallet-based access control system can incur costs for hardware updates, software licencing, and ongoing maintenance. Factors affecting the rate of adoption include the need to upgrade existing infrastructures to accommodate the technology, and the necessity for access control manufacturers to develop and implement integrations with Apple Wallet.  Benefits of adoption Keys in Apple Wallet take full advantage of the privacy and security built into the iPhone and Apple Watch With larger companies leading the way, some smaller ones might take longer to catch up. There is also a need to educate building owners and administrators to see the value and benefits of switching to Apple Wallet-based access control. Convenience and greater security can accelerate adoption. Keys in Apple Wallet take full advantage of the privacy and security built into iPhone and Apple Watch. Sensitive data protection A compatible app, specific to the building’s access control system, is needed. Once added, credentials are securely stored in the iPhone's Secure Enclave, a dedicated hardware chip designed for sensitive data protection.  Holding an iPhone near an NFC-enabled reader enables transmission of encrypted credentials. In addition to Near Field Communication (NFC), some systems also utilise Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for added security, longer read range, and hands-free unlocking. Phones need sufficient battery charge to function.  Amazon One Enterprise Enables Palm-Based Biometrics  In November 2023, Amazon Web Services Inc. (AWS) announced an identity service providing comprehensive and easy-to-use authentication for physical and digital access control. The system enables users to employ their palm as an access control credential, allowing organisations to provide a fast and contactless experience for employees and others to gain access to physical locations as well as digital assets.  Physical and digital locations Physical locations include data centres, office and residential buildings, airports, hotels, resorts Physical locations include data centres, office and residential buildings, airports, hotels, resorts, and educational institutions. IT and security administrators can easily install Amazon One devices and manage users, devices, and software updates using AWS’s Management Console.  Elimination of physical credentials An advantage of the Amazon approach is the elimination of physical credentials such as fobs and badges, and digital elements such as personal identification numbers (PINs) and passwords. AWS says security is built into every stage of the service, from multi-layered security controls in the Amazon One device, which is the same technology used in the Amazon Go retail stores, where shoppers can pay for purchases by scanning the palm of their hands. The devices combine palm and vein imagery for biometric matching and deliver an accuracy rate of 99.9999%, which exceeds the accuracy of other biometric alternatives, says the company. AI and ML The palm-recognition technology uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to create a “palm signature” that is associated with identification credentials such as a badge, employee ID or PIN. Boon Edam, a revolving door and turnstile manufacturer, offers Amazon’s palm biometric technology on its equipment, and IHG Hotels & Resorts uses the technology to provide employees a convenient way to identify themselves and gain access to software systems. Google and Nest Devices in Access Control  When the Nest × Yale Lock is connected to the Nest app, a resident can unlock a door from their phone Google’s Nest devices include smart locks for home access control. The Google Nest × Yale Lock allows access control via both physical keys and passcodes accessible through the Google Home app. When the Nest × Yale Lock is connected to the Nest app, a resident can unlock a door from their phone. Passcodes can be created for family, guests, and other trusted persons. Alerts can be provided whenever someone unlocks and locks the door. When Nest “knows” a resident is away, the door can lock automatically. Voice control, Google Home app Voice control, using Google Assistant integrated with various Nest devices, enables use of voice commands to lock and unlock doors, thus adding another level of convenience. Smart home devices from various manufacturers can be controlled through the Google Home app. SMART Monitoring ADT’s Self Setup smart home security systems integrate Google Nest smart home products with ADT security and life safety technology, including SMART Monitoring technology. Microsoft Azure is another company that could impact access control. The Microsoft Azure Active Directory is an identity and access management platform that could be extended to physical access control, leveraging existing user credentials. Long-Range Impact on the Security Marketplace  Big Tech companies are creating platforms for managing access control data, integrating with other security systems Increasingly, Big Tech companies are creating platforms for managing access control data, integrating with other security systems, and offering analytics for optimising security and building operations. Big Tech is also actively researching and developing new technologies for access control, such as facial recognition, voice authentication, and AI-powered anomaly detection.  Access control communication and integration As their involvement in physical access control grows, Big Tech companies could potentially gain more influence in setting industry standards for access control communication and integration, similar to how they have become dominant in other areas such as mobile platforms. Given their expertise in user interface design and data analysis, Big Tech companies could help to direct how future access control systems are managed and how users interact with them, including more intuitive and user-friendly operations. Future of physical access control Existing concerns about privacy, security, and potential dominance by a few Big Tech companies could spill over into physical access control. However, traditional security companies, startups, and industry consortiums are also actively developing innovative solutions. Ultimately, the future of physical access control will likely be shaped by a combination of many different players and technologies – large and small. 

Close collaboration with customers has been a hallmark of the physical security industry for decades. And yet, less ability to collaborate face-to-face to discuss customer needs has been a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. “True innovation, which comes from close collaboration with customers, is more difficult to achieve remotely,” said Howard Johnson, President and COO, AMAG Technology, adding “Not being able to visit in person has not been helpful. Kurt John, Chief Cyber Security Officer at Siemens USA, adds “We need to plan intentionally with a strategic approach for collaboration and innovation.” Securing New Ground virtual conference Security experts from three manufacturers reflected on the impact of COVID-19 on the physical security industry Security experts from three manufacturers reflected on the impact of COVID-19 on the physical security industry at a ‘View from the Top’ session, during the Securing New Ground virtual conference, sponsored by the Security Industry Association. Their comments covered business practices during the pandemic and the outlook for technology innovation in response. “We had to pivot quickly on business models and create a cross-portfolio team task force to discuss how we can leverage technologies to help customers [during the pandemic],” said John, adding “We are having outcome-based conversations with customers about their businesses and operations, and how we can combine short-term benefits with long-term growth and flexibility.” But some of those conversations are happening from a distance. Results-oriented approach in remote work environment After the pandemic took hold, Siemens shifted rapidly to remote work and embraced other infrastructure changes. “We had to refocus and lead with empathy, flexibility and trust,” said John, adding “We gave our staff flexibility to set their hours and used a results-oriented approach.” There is also a social element missing in the work-from-home model. “Virtual coffee machines do not replace being there in person,” said Pierre Racz, President and CEO, Genetec, adding “Small talk about the weather is important psychological elements.” Positives in using multi-factor identity management He predicts that, in the future, office hours may be reduced, but not floor space, with space needed for in-person collaboration and long-term social distancing. Employees will come to the office to do collaborative work, but can work from home to accomplish individual tasks that may be ‘deferred’ to after-hours, when the kids have been fed. When the pandemic hit, Genetec had resumed 95% of their operations within 36 hours, thanks to their use of multi-factor identity management. They did not suffer from malware and phishing issues. “Multi-factor is really important so that well-engineered phishing campaigns are not successful,” said Pierre Racz. Shift to ‘Zero Trust’ model All three panelists noted a coming skills gap relating both cyber security and systems integration Remote working technologies are shifting to a ‘zero trust’ model, in which access to systems is granted adaptively based on contextual awareness of authorised user patterns based on identity, time, and device posture. For example, an office computer might have more leeway than a home computer and a computer at Starbucks would be even less trusted. The approach increases logical access security while providing users their choice of devices and apps. Skills gap in cyber security and systems integration A growing skills gap has continued throughout the pandemic. “Where we have vacancies, we have struggled to find candidates,” said Howard Johnson. All three panelists noted a coming skills gap relating both cyber security and systems integration. New technologies will clearly require new skills that may currently be rare in the workforce. Cyber security will become even more important with growth in new technologies such as AI, machine learning, 5G and edge computing. A workforce development plan is needed to address the technologies and to enable companies to pivot to new business needs, said John. Adoption of temperature sensing solutions From a technology viewpoint, Johnson has seen attention shift to the reception area and portal, away from touch technologies and embracing temperature sensing as a new element. There have also been new requests for video and audio at the portal point, to create methods of access and egress that do not require security personnel to be present. “Some customers are early adopters, and others are waiting for the market to mature before investing,” Howard Johnson said. “Security companies have been faced with the need to respond rapidly to their customers’ needs during the pandemic, but without seeming like ‘ambulance chasers’,” said Pierre Racz. In the case of Genetec, the company offered new system capabilities, such as a 'contamination report', to existing customers for free. Move to a hybrid and flexible work environment In the new normal, the pendulum will swing back to the middle with more flexibility and a hybrid approach" An immediate impact of the pandemic has been a reduction in required office space, as more employees have worked from home, raising questions about future demand for office space. “The pendulum tends to swing to the extremes,” said Kurt John, adding “In the new normal, the pendulum will swing back to the middle with more flexibility and a hybrid approach.” “Users will be much more careful about letting people into their space, which requires more policies and procedures,” said Lorna Chandler, CEO, Security by Design, who participated in a panel at Securing New Ground about how the pandemic is changing commercial architecture and access control. “Users should also be careful in the rush to secure premises from COVID-19 that they don’t violate HIPAA laws or create other potential liabilities,” adds Chandler. Continuum of mechanical and electromechanical devices Mark Duato, Executive Vice President, Aftermarket, ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, said a “Continuum of mechanical and electromechanical devices is needed to protect premises and ensure convenient operation of an access control operation.” “First and foremost, the immediate reaction to the impact of COVID-19 is to rush to educate and invest in technologies to increase the ability to analyse people,” said Duato, who also participated in the access control panel. Shift to touchless, frictionless access control “The move to touchless, frictionless access control “is really a collaboration of people, process and technology,” said Valerie Currin, President and Managing Director, Boon Edam Inc., adding “And all three elements need to come together. Touchless and frictionless have been in our market for decades, and they’re only going to become heightened and grow. We’re seeing our business pivot to serve markets we have not served in the past." More and more data is a feature of new systems, but is only helpful when it is analysed. “We all live in a world of data, or IoT and sensor technology,” said ASSA ABLOY’s Mark Duato, adding “But we don’t want to be crushed by data. Data is only helpful when you can reduce it to functional benefits that will help us innovate. We have to take the time to squeeze the value out of data.”

Serving customer needs is the goal of most commerce in the physical security market. Understanding those needs requires communication and nuance, and there are sometimes surprises along the way. But in every surprising revelation – and in every customer interaction – there is opportunity to learn something valuable that can help to serve the next customer’s needs more effectively. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: what was the best lesson you ever learned from a security end user customer?