In a landscape where building security is undergoing a profound transformation, the latest biennial report from a global leader in access solutions offers a striking glimpse into the future of access control, drawing on insights from nearly 500 professionals across security, facilities management, and IT sectors. This comprehensive study reveals a historic milestone: wireless systems have overtaken traditional wired setups for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in the industry as digital, mobile, and wireless technologies redefine how organizations manage secure environments. Beyond mere security, the report uncovers broader implications, touching on sustainability, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency. It paints a picture of a market in rapid evolution, where innovation meets practical demands. As organizations worldwide grapple with balancing cutting-edge solutions against real-world challenges, the findings provide a roadmap for navigating this dynamic terrain. Let’s explore the key trends and themes shaping this transformative era in access control technology.
The Rise of Wireless Technology
The ascent of wireless access control systems stands as a defining feature of the current market, with deployments surpassing wired-only configurations for the first time in the report’s history. This shift, characterized as a “wireless-first” mindset by industry experts, underscores the growing preference for solutions that offer flexibility and scalability. Unlike traditional wired systems, wireless setups minimize the need for extensive cabling, slashing both installation time and ongoing maintenance costs. This efficiency resonates with organizations aiming to modernize their infrastructure without disrupting operations. The trend reflects a broader digital transformation, where adaptability is paramount. As building management becomes increasingly complex, wireless technology provides a streamlined approach to securing diverse environments, from corporate offices to sprawling industrial sites. This milestone signals not just a technological preference, but a fundamental rethinking of how security systems are designed and implemented in today’s fast-paced world.
Beyond the practical benefits, the dominance of wireless systems highlights a shift in organizational priorities toward cost-effectiveness and ease of integration. Facilities managers and security professionals are drawn to the reduced infrastructure demands, which allow for quicker deployment across multiple locations. This is particularly valuable for businesses with dynamic needs, such as expanding campuses or temporary facilities, where wired solutions often prove cumbersome. Additionally, wireless systems pave the way for seamless upgrades, ensuring that security measures can keep pace with technological advancements without requiring overhauls. The report suggests that this trend is not a fleeting one, but rather a foundational change in how access control is perceived. As more stakeholders recognize the long-term value of wireless setups, adoption rates are expected to climb further, solidifying their place as the standard for modern security frameworks. This evolution challenges traditional norms and sets a new benchmark for efficiency in the industry.
Sustainability Driving Decisions
Sustainability has emerged as a cornerstone of access control strategy, with a notable 27% of surveyed professionals citing it as their primary factor in technology investments. Given that buildings contribute approximately 30% of global energy consumption, as reported by the International Energy Agency, the push for energy efficiency is hardly surprising. Wireless systems, along with energy-efficient innovations like battery-powered locks, are increasingly viewed as environmentally friendly alternatives. These solutions reduce energy demands by eliminating the need for constant power through wired connections, aligning with broader organizational goals around reducing carbon footprints. This focus on sustainability transcends mere compliance, reflecting a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship. As green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM gain traction, access control technologies are playing a pivotal role in helping organizations achieve these standards.
Moreover, the emphasis on sustainability is reshaping how security solutions are evaluated and selected. Beyond energy savings, there’s a growing recognition of how access control can contribute to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives. Manufacturers are responding by providing detailed documentation, such as Environmental Performance Declarations, to support organizations in meeting certification requirements. This trend is particularly evident in sectors like commercial real estate and public infrastructure, where stakeholders face mounting pressure to demonstrate eco-friendly practices. The report indicates that sustainability is no longer a secondary consideration but a strategic driver influencing long-term planning. As organizations strive to position themselves as leaders in responsible building management, the integration of greener access control systems becomes a competitive advantage, blending security needs with environmental responsibility in a way that benefits both business and society.
Mobile Access on the Fast Track
Mobile access management has transitioned from a novel idea to a mainstream solution, with 17% of respondents now operating fully mobile credential environments—a significant leap from just two years ago. The decline in those still planning adoption, dropping from 39% to 26%, further illustrates a maturing market ready to embrace this technology. Mobile credentials deliver unmatched convenience, allowing users to access secured areas via smartphones, thereby reducing reliance on physical cards or keys. This shift not only enhances user experience but also bolsters security through encrypted, easily revocable digital credentials. The operational agility offered by mobile solutions is a key draw, enabling real-time updates and remote management. As skepticism around mobile access wanes, it’s clear that this technology has become an integral component of contemporary security infrastructure.
The rapid uptake of mobile access also speaks to its alignment with modern workplace demands, where flexibility and efficiency are non-negotiable. Organizations benefit from streamlined processes, such as issuing credentials instantly to new employees or contractors without the delays associated with physical tokens. Additionally, mobile solutions contribute to sustainability by cutting down on plastic card production and waste. The report highlights a marked reduction in resistance, with fewer professionals doubting the viability of mobile systems for their specific needs. This acceptance is fueled by tangible benefits, including improved audit trails and integration with other digital tools. As mobile access continues to gain ground, it’s poised to redefine user interaction with security systems, making entry and exit processes smoother while maintaining robust protection. This evolution underscores a broader cultural shift toward digital-first approaches in managing secure environments across diverse sectors.
Navigating Cybersecurity Hurdles
Cybersecurity remains a critical concern in the access control landscape, especially with stringent regulations like the EU’s NIS2 Directive on the horizon. Encouragingly, 84% of respondents report their organizations as either compliant, working toward compliance, or exempt from such mandates. However, a troubling 16% acknowledge being unprepared, exposing a vulnerability that could lead to significant penalties. The report emphasizes that cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue but a regulated risk with legal consequences for non-compliance. As access control systems become more interconnected with IT networks, the potential for cyber threats grows, necessitating robust safeguards. Addressing this challenge requires ongoing collaboration between physical security teams and IT departments to ensure a unified defense strategy. The stakes are high, and readiness is essential to protect both data and physical assets.
Delving deeper, the convergence of physical and cyber security underscores the need for comprehensive training and awareness across organizational levels. Many professionals still lack a full understanding of how access control data intersects with broader cybersecurity frameworks, creating blind spots that could be exploited. The report suggests that manufacturers and end-users must work together to close these gaps, leveraging tools and protocols that meet regulatory standards. Beyond compliance, there’s a pressing need to integrate access control into enterprise-wide risk management plans, ensuring that security measures evolve alongside emerging threats. This proactive approach can mitigate risks before they escalate, safeguarding operations in an increasingly digital world. As legislation continues to tighten, organizations that prioritize cybersecurity preparedness will not only avoid penalties but also build trust with stakeholders, reinforcing their reputation as responsible custodians of sensitive environments.
Aligning Security with Business Objectives
Access control is expanding beyond its traditional role, aligning closely with IT, sustainability, and workplace experience strategies. Innovations like Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) exemplify this trend, enabling organizations to harness access data for purposes like occupancy analytics and ESG reporting. Industry analysts point out that cloud-based platforms and intelligent integrations are transforming security systems into multifaceted tools for data-driven decision-making. This convergence allows building managers to optimize space usage, reduce energy waste, and enhance occupant satisfaction—all while maintaining top-tier security. The shift reflects a growing understanding that access control contributes to broader business goals, rather than functioning as a standalone silo. Such integration is critical for organizations aiming to create smarter, more responsive environments that adapt to evolving needs.
This alignment also highlights the strategic value of access data in operational planning and efficiency. By connecting access control with other systems, such as HVAC or lighting, organizations can achieve significant cost savings and environmental benefits. For instance, real-time occupancy data can trigger adjustments to energy usage, cutting unnecessary expenditure in unoccupied areas. The report notes that this holistic approach is gaining traction across sectors, from corporate offices to educational institutions, as stakeholders recognize the potential for security systems to inform wider business strategies. The move toward cloud-based solutions further amplifies this trend, offering scalability and remote management capabilities that traditional setups cannot match. As access control becomes a central pillar of smart building ecosystems, its role in supporting organizational objectives—from cost reduction to sustainability—will only grow, reshaping how security is perceived and prioritized.
Shaping the Future of Access Management
The access control market is reaching a stage of maturity, with digital and mobile systems becoming the norm rather than the exception. Resistance to adopting new technologies is diminishing, as convenience and enhanced security emerge as key drivers of change. Wireless solutions, with their lower energy requirements, are well-positioned to maintain dominance, especially as sustainability remains a shared priority across industries. The insights from the report suggest that organizations are increasingly focused on modernizing their security infrastructure to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. This maturation signals a shift toward viewing digital access not as an experiment, but as a standard that balances innovation with practical outcomes. The emphasis on user-friendly, efficient systems will likely continue to shape investment decisions in the coming years.
Looking back, the comprehensive analysis provided by this year’s report offered a clear view of an industry at a turning point. It spotlighted the unprecedented rise of wireless systems, the critical role of sustainability, and the swift adoption of mobile credentials, while also addressing persistent cybersecurity challenges. The convergence of access control with broader organizational goals stood out as a transformative theme. Moving forward, stakeholders are encouraged to prioritize intelligent integrations and regulatory compliance while demonstrating measurable returns on investment. By leveraging access data for operational and environmental gains, organizations can elevate security beyond its traditional scope. This roadmap, informed by the perspectives of hundreds of industry professionals, serves as a vital guide for navigating the complexities of modern access management, ensuring that security solutions contribute meaningfully to smarter, more sustainable buildings.
