HID - Experts & Thought Leaders

Enhancing enterprise security is high on the list of priorities for businesses across sectors. Within the retail industry, there is an additional focus on enabling new ways of working through management tools. Integrated solutions and applications help to create a robust security landscape and ensure a future-ready posture as organisations look to address emerging risks and create better experiences for next-gen employees. Physical access control (i.e., the readers on the door and the credentials that individuals present to them for authentication) is not only one of the first interactions employees have with security technology but is also the first line of defence in security programs. Good user experience The balance of a good user experience and strong security is critical, though striking that balance has been a challenge historically as security teams are tasked with prioritising safety and protection. Innovative companies who want to go beyond traditional access control have found the balance of a frictionless user experience and strong security in mobile access solutions. Żabka is one of the largest European retail companies with 7000 locations across Poland Żabka is one of the largest European retail companies with 7000 locations across Poland and the Czech Republic. Innovation is in its DNA and the organisation is known as an early adopter. From introducing AI to create an autonomous and checkout-free shopping experience to launching a cloud-based platform to better the franchise management process, Żabka has actively embraced continuous change and improvement. When implementing security for its new headquarters in Poznań, Poland, Żabka returned to its pioneering roots, requiring a highly secure, automated solution that enabled the integration of custom applications and simplified the use of other building-wide office functionalities. Physical security components Żabka’s vision included seamless access starting at building entrances with employees using their mobile phones to ‘badge’ into the building. From there, the same mobile credential would unlock turnstiles, authenticate floor access in elevators, track time and attendance and release documents at shared printers. Most importantly, user data would need to be secured via encryption and authentication through appropriate access keys with the introduction of new users being completely under Żabka’s control. The implementation of an ecosystem with multiple capabilities — including a migration from plastic cards to mobile identities, surveillance tools, access management, and physical security components to underpin the entire solution — also necessitated collaboration between partners who shared Żabka’s spirit of modernisation and vision for a seamless user experience. Traditional plastic credentials Żabka’s comprehensive ecosystem utilises digital access control processes The project team included HID Global who managed the transition from traditional plastic credentials to mobile identities, with Zonifero to develop a custom mobile app, and Cynergy to complete the installation of hardware and embedded components. Żabka’s comprehensive ecosystem utilises digital access control processes and integrated surveillance tools with a security management platform enabling Żabka to migrate completely to the use of mobile identities. The move to HID Mobile Access has changed the experience of employees, visitors, HR, and security administrators by accelerating and automating access control management for the entire building. Integrated surveillance tools Mobile identities, contactless employee onboarding, touchless visitor management, time and attendance, and integration with the security system of the entire building are now aggregated and facilitated within the smartphone app. Security administrators remotely managed a pool of allocated mobile identities The ability to manage the access control system from anywhere with no physical contact was especially valuable. Launched amid the pandemic, the new infrastructure enabled Żabka employees to maintain social distancing and limit contact through automatic and remote activation of access. Security administrators remotely managed a pool of allocated mobile identities and individual access to users’ devices, thereby solving the problem of storing physical cards, facilitating credential transfers, issuing new credentials in the case of lost or damaged ones, and deactivating cards in the event they were lost or stolen. Mobile identity functionalities Żabka implemented mobile access on a large scale with mobile IDs in use by about 800 employees. The retailer also plans to implement further mobile identity functionalities, such as opening parking lot gates, making cafeteria purchases, and seamlessly logging in to computers. Steve is responsible for leading and coordinating demand generation programs and channel marketing activities for HID's Physical Access Control Solutions (PACS) business area in Europe. He has over 20 years of experience working in B2B marketing, 15 of which have been in the safety and security industries.

Founded in 2010, Avolon is the third-largest aircraft leasing company in the world with 824 aircraft and 145 customers in 62 countries. Its new global headquarters in Dublin is comprised of 6,967 sq m (75,000 sq ft) of secure office space across six floors that houses its IT, catering, legal, and communications departments. Need for a centralised monitoring solution Avolon’s new premises in the upmarket Ballsbridge area of Dublin provided an opportunity for the company to rethink its approach to building security. Avolon was looking for an innovative, flexible solution that could be personalised to individuals, easily accessed, and managed remotely. Additional requirements included: the need to provide different levels of security clearance in different areas of the building, the ability to manage individual security clearances, the facilitation of access outside of the usual workday, and secure parking lot access for employees and visitors. As a global company, Avolon wanted a solution that could be deployed worldwide to provide a consistent experience for its employees, regardless of their location. HID’s flexible access control solution Powered by Seos® technology, the solution uses BLE and iCLASS® readers to create a secure access control solution Avolon partnered with systems integrator Summit Security Systems Ltd and deployed HID Mobile Access at its Dublin headquarters. Powered by Seos® technology, the solution uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and iCLASS® readers to create a secure, convenient, and flexible access control solution for its headquarters. The building’s security system enables credentials on smartphones via an app rather than on physical access cards and uses iCLASS SE® mobile-enabled readers installed at points of access. Key benefits of a mobile access system include: Employees are less likely to forget smartphones, which they always carry than an access badge Security clearances are more efficient and easily changed because security status is provisioned to an app A cloud-based central control system provides security administrators with easy oversight, access to a complete set of metrics, and the ability to manage a network of premises around the globe Employing various access control measures Avolon has implemented a range of different solutions for different parts of its premises that can vary by time of day. For example, elevators utilise access control measures to ease the flow of people within the building during work hours, while assuring that after-hours access is more controlled. Employees simply twist their iOS or Android™ phones when they approach the parking readers to gain entry The ease-of-use and security also extend to the parking lot, which benefits from HID’s “Twist and Goes” feature. Employees simply twist their iOS or Android™ phones when they approach the parking readers to gain entry. Avolon encourages its employees to cycle to work and has extended mobile access to a secure employee bike parking area that links directly into the shower and changing facilities. Advantages of mobile access solution The HID Mobile Access Solution provides many advantages over the previous card-based system including after-hours access (vital to a 24/7 business like Avolon), ready access to secure rooms, and easy management of security clearances. With HID Mobile Access, fine-grained security access for a global network of offices is controlled centrally through a cloud-based portal. Access levels can be set on an individual basis so they are very flexible and can be modified as needed. “Using a mobile phone is much more convenient than access cards. People forget their access cards, but their mobile phone is with them all the time,” said Allan Dawson, facilities project manager at Avolon. “It’s much more efficient. For example, we now have much lower instances of people leaving the perimeter and having to ask for re-entry because they’ve left their pass in the office.” Worldwide installation of physical access solution In the future, Avolon anticipates expanding its new physical access solution across its global campuses. “As well as deploying in our Dublin head office we have also deployed in our New York, Florida, and Hong Kong offices,” said Dawson. “The benefit of using a global platform means our people can travel between offices with their security status intact and ready to go for each location.”

Award-winning security manufacturer, Gallagher Security is reflecting on the success of its recent Integrate 360 event held in Durban, South Africa. Held at Premiere Splendid Inn Umhlanga, Durban on February 20, the event attracted 65 Channel Partners, End Users, and consultants from across KwaZulu-Natal and wider South Africa to showcase the latest in Gallagher’s innovative technology suite, discuss features and solutions ear marked for the future, and gain insights into the wider security industry, and key trends for the year ahead.  Latest innovations and integrations The event provided a total agenda, including learning sessions, displays, live demonstrations Gallagher was joined by a number of their pioneering Technology Partners including ATG Digital, CathexisVision, HID, RunRite Electronics, Stratus Technologies, Suprema, Traka/Assa Abloy, and Turnstar Systems who shared their latest innovations and integrations with Gallagher with attendees.    The event provided a comprehensive agenda including knowledge sessions, presentations, live demonstrations and valuable networking opportunities for attendees. Discussions on the future of the security industry Gallagher Security South Africa, Group Operating Officer, Morne Grobler says, “This year’s Integrate 360 event was another success and a highlight of our annual event’s calendar. We value every opportunity to come together with our Channel Partners, End Users, consultants, and members of the wider security industry to share insights, network and participate in meaningful discussions on the future of the security industry.”  He adds, “Investing the time to connect with our industry peers and build relationships is a powerful step towards strengthening our regional activity and continuing to unlock even greater value for our customers through the power of our people and our solutions.”

If recent physical security events are a guide, the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) will be everywhere at the upcoming ISC West 2025 exhibition in Las Vegas. Cybersecurity solutions are another core focus at today's physical security events, and ISC West will likely follow the trend. Attendees will also be looking for advancements in access control systems, including biometric technologies and integrated security platforms, among other hot topics. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the big topics of discussion at ISC West 2025?

Access control solutions will continue their evolution in 2025 as organisations assess and adapt to dynamic and increasingly dangerous threats. Trends to watch include the growing adoption of mobile access credentials and digital IDs, and the integration of digital and physical security and other technologies. Other ongoing trends include the integration of AI into access control solutions and the increasing adoption of contactless biometrics for enhanced convenience.  New access control innovations As these trends gather momentum, they highlight the pivotal role access control systems play in combining security and convenience, every hour of every day. Organisations must strike the ideal balance between a secure environment and satisfying user experience if they are to meet increasingly vocal demands for both. Achieving this balance not only delivers the expected user experience but also delivers multi-layered threat protection while introducing exciting new access control innovations.  Digital technologies and open standards Modern access control solutions deliver a faster pace of innovation and dramatically improved capabilities Modern access control solutions deliver a faster pace of innovation and dramatically improved capabilities as compared to what was possible in the past. The primary objective is no longer simply to secure places and assets so they are beyond the reach of the wrong people. Now it also must be as easy as possible for authorised individuals to enter a building or access digital assets. Mobile access credentials and digital IDs are increasingly a preferred solution for achieving this seamless and convenient access experience. Technology convergence is happening at a rapid pace and this convergence makes it possible to integrate digital and physical security with real-time location systems and other technologies. Together, these converged technologies provide multi-layered protection against both cyber and physical threats while also enabling valuable new capabilities.  2024 State of Physical Access Control Report As AI is increasingly incorporated into access-control solutions, we will see even more powerful ways to leverage access control data for analytics use cases. Almost 40% of respondents to our 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report said they were looking to do this. Equally consequential is the rise of fast, frictionless and easy contactless biometrics solutions in a wide range of applications including healthcare, where 32% of respondents to our recent 2024 State of Healthcare Security Report said their facilities have already implemented this technology for authentication. Looking at the broader marketplace, nearly one in four (23%) respondents to our 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report cited biometrics when asked to “name the top three trends shaping the wider access control industry in the near future.” Evolution of access control solutions As access control solutions become increasingly central to secure and convenient daily life, these and other trends will have an ongoing impact on all market sectors from healthcare and banking to the corporate real estate enterprise and business and college campuses. At the same time, those responsible for a facility’s digital and physical assets know that these trends – and security in general – will never be a static proposition. The only constant is change. Threats will never stop evolving, and those tasked with protecting organisations against these threats must never stand still. The evolution of access control solutions that we saw during 2024 will continue through 2025 and beyond, and organisations will need to remain thorough and vigilant as they address today’s ever-expanding attack surfaces and ever-evolving attack schemes.

An attention-grabbing exhibit at GSX 2024 in Orlando involved a robot dog that could open a door.  Boston Dynamics robot dog ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the robotics demonstration, featuring the Boston Dynamics robot dog that could open a door using either an HID credential or a mechanical grip. This innovation represents a shift toward more autonomous security solutions and is suitable for environments where human access may be limited. ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the Boston Dynamics robot dog Operational efficiency Eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology It was one of many eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology, and offering practical solutions to the industry's challenges.  For security professionals, the advancements presented opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and to maintain a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving market.  Control ID face identification Alongside their robot demonstration, ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification.  Access Controller, providing advanced facial recognition access control. From identity management to AI-driven surveillance systems, GSX 2024 offered a glimpse into the tools that can streamline processes, increase security, and reduce costs. Here are some other highlights. ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification More integration with critical infrastructure  A major theme at GSX 2024 was the increasing integration of security solutions with critical infrastructure. ALCEA (formerly ASSA ABLOY Critical Infrastructure) is an example. Their globalised software solution ALWIN is designed for managing access control, visitor management, and other security factors across multiple locations. ALCEA's approach involves not only internal collaborations within ASSA ABLOY but also partnerships with external organisations. An example of innovation is the Neenah Foundry lockable manhole cover, blending safety and security. Solving identity management challenges  The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies Identity management continues to be a key focus in the security sector, and AMAG Technology addresses this need with its Symmetry Connect product. The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies. For professionals overseeing identity access management, Symmetry Connect provides a streamlined, automated approach, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. AMAG also sees a growing demand for efficient visitor management systems, especially in the post-COVID landscape. AMAG’s products cater to the need for enhanced security without overburdening staff.  AI and cloud-based surveillance solutions  Axis Communications highlighted its advancements in AI and cloud-based video management systems with its AXIS Camera Station Edge and Pro products. These solutions can connect seamlessly to cloud systems, providing security professionals with easy access to surveillance data anywhere. With the increasing need for centralised management, Axis’s offerings ensure that security teams can efficiently manage surveillance with minimal infrastructure. Axis also showcased its commitment to AI-driven analytics based on superior video quality. There were also networked audio solutions for public announcements and background music, among other uses. Body-worn cameras for corporate and school uses  Traditionally focused on law enforcement, Axon is now expanding its body-worn cameras and TASER technology into corporate and school security environments. Their Axon Body Workforce camera is a practical solution for protecting frontline workers in high-risk environments.  Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness, a significant benefit for large campuses or remote locations. As more industries adopt corporate surveillance systems, Axon’s offerings provide flexible, scalable solutions that address the need for real-time, actionable intelligence.  Cloud-based access for smart buildings  Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options Brivo showcased how cloud technology is revolutionising access control by offering systems that integrate seamlessly with other smart building platforms. Their open API approach enables collaboration with IT teams, bridging the gap between physical security and IT management. Brivo’s new partnership with Comcast Smart Solutions illustrates how large enterprises can implement advanced solutions, including access control while maintaining flexibility. For professionals managing complex building environments, Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options.  AI-powered multi-sensor camera  Hanwha focused on an AI-powered multi-sensor camera, equipped with an NVIDIA processor capable of running complex analytics. In addition, Hanwha’s new AI camera technology can process multiple video streams simultaneously, either stream from its sensors or outside cameras, enabling better tracking of objects in complex environments. Their eight-channel AI Box, which converts legacy cameras into AI-enabled devices, is an attractive solution for professionals seeking to upgrade existing systems without the need for complete overhauls. For security teams looking to enhance situational awareness, Hanwha’s AI-based offerings provide advanced, scalable solutions.  Workflow management and hybrid cloud security  Genetec continued the theme of integrated solutions with their Operations Centre module for Security Centre, which consolidates work management into a single platform. Built on lean management principles, this system simplifies workflow for security professionals, promoting real-time collaboration across mobile and web platforms. As the industry shifts from on-premises systems to hybrid cloud solutions, Genetec’s products provide seamless transitions for organisations. Their new SaaS Security Centre also allows for natural language video searches in multiple languages, making it easier for global teams to manage operations across locations.  Simplifying remote surveillance  The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency is demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service Eagle Eye Networks showcased their continued international expansion, highlighting a new data centre opening in Saudi Arabia and new hiring initiatives in Australia and Europe. Their “Eagle Eye Anywhere” solar-powered camera system exemplifies the move towards flexible, easy-to-install solutions that can be deployed in remote locations. Integrators benefit from simplified maintenance through remote management, reducing the need for on-site support and ensuring operational continuity. The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency, as demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service, reflects the broader industry’s shift toward managed security services.  Tailored solutions for commercial clients  Everon continues its transition away from its former identity as ADT Commercial. Claiming the status of a competitive commercial integrator, Everon is reinventing itself by offering customised billing and monitoring solutions for a range of industries. Their cloud-based business intelligence platform, which combines video surveillance with data analysis, is aimed at enhancing operational awareness by detecting anomalies such as OSHA violations or retail point-of-sale exceptions. With AI-driven dashboards, clients can customise their security solutions to meet specific needs, reflecting a growing demand for tailored, data-driven security applications.  Innovation through cloud and mobile LenelS2 is part of Honeywell, and they emphasised their investment in cloud and mobile solutions at GSX 2024. Their "Enterprise OnGuard Cloud" platform, launched in June 2024, is a testament to the growing demand for cloud-enabled access control systems. With the addition of NFC-enabled Blue Diamond credentials, LenelS2 is pushing towards smarter, more secure mobile access options. The strategic combination of Lenel’s solutions with Honeywell’s infrastructure offers users enhanced engineering capabilities and global reach. This reflects a broader market trend of integrating mobile devices into physical security protocols.  Bringing AI to everyday security LPR system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying security risks March Networks highlighted their new AI-driven smart search feature, designed to help security teams quickly detect operational anomalies in retail and financial environments. From identifying misplaced cash in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to detecting "jackpotting" attacks on ATMs, their solution highlights the increasing importance of AI in enhancing both security and operational efficiency. Their Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying and responding to security risks in real-time, emphasising the practicality of AI in daily security operations.  Driving sustainability in security  Securitas showcased its commitment to sustainability, a growing concern for businesses across all industries. By providing CO2 data for clients and promoting digital tools like mobile credentials, Securitas is leading the charge in creating greener, more sustainable security solutions. Their focus on remote services and occupancy insights offers companies a way to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing security operations. The company’s alignment with science-based targets and circular economy practices signifies the increasing role sustainability will play in the security sector.  Future lies in integration  The GSX 2024 trade show revealed that the future of security lies in intelligent integration, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based management systems. The innovations presented will help security professionals streamline their operations, enhance situational awareness, and future-proof their systems. As these technologies continue to evolve, professionals must stay informed about the latest advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the security marketplace. GSX was a great place to start. At the end of the day at GSX, it wasn’t just the robot dog that was opening doors …. to the future of security systems. {##Poll1727925373 - Of the important factors highlighted at GSX 2024, which do you consider most when adopting new security solutions?##}