Over the past decade, and certainly since the pandemic, office design has undergone a significant transformation, driven by flexible working for staff teams, alongside advances in technology and a growing focus on sustainability.
Among these changes, the security of offices and opportunities for remote management in line with new ways of working have seen a significant benefit with the rise of cloud-based systems.
The Impact of Cloud-Based Access Control on Office Security
Cloud-based access control systems are transforming the office experience, particularly for tenants. When security is integrated cohesively from the outset of a project, property owners can derive much more value from the system.
Recent surveys of architects and building engineers reveal that 56% have an established security integration process beginning in the design phase, while 41% plan to implement one soon.
88% reported an increased demand for integrated security in the last decade. Even among the 7% who have not yet included physical security in their design process, 98% anticipate a shift within the next five years.
Benefits of Early Integration of Security Systems
Integrating physical security early in the design phase has many advantages. A well-integrated access control system provides numerous functionalities that office tenants seek, such as personalised access, mobile entry options, and real-time notifications about suspicious activities.
Users desire convenient and efficient security measures that ensure their safety without being intrusive. Cloud-based solutions fulfil these needs by offering flexibility and immediate access to security updates.
The choice between cloud-based and on-premise access control systems hinges on several factors. Cloud-based systems offer scalability, cost-efficiency, and enhanced protection.
They integrate seamlessly with other building systems and can automate visitor management, room booking, temporary access restrictions, and security alerts.
Connectivity allows for options to centralise both new and legacy software programs, which provides significant benefits for property management.
Leveraging Data for Enhanced Tenant Experiences
One of the standout advantages of cloud-based security systems is the wealth of data they collect, which can be used to further enhance the office experience for tenants.
With the rise of flexible working arrangements, data on occupants’ behaviour can inform adjustments to office layouts based on actual usage patterns. Project managers can use this data to optimise property management plans, determining which spaces require more frequent maintenance or how to adjust heating and cooling systems according to occupancy levels.
A data-driven approach ensures future buildings are not only safer but also more attuned to the needs and preferences of their occupants, leading to smarter, more efficient, and user-friendly spaces.
Architects and planners can leverage this information to create designs that enhance security while improving overall functionality and user experience.
The Financial Case for Early Security Integration
Surveys indicate customers are increasingly prioritising security in their briefs and are willing to allocate significant portions of their budgets toward it. Considering security from the project’s inception presents a valuable opportunity to future-proof a property.
As hardware and software access control solutions grow in sophistication, the tenant experience will only improve. Integrating the right combination of technology from the beginning ensures that buildings are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of tenants and stay ahead in a competitive market.
The evolution of office design is increasingly intertwined with advances in security technology. By embracing cloud-based security systems from the design phase, architects and property owners can create safer, more sustainable, and more efficient office environments that cater to the needs of modern tenants.
As the demand for integrated security solutions continues to rise, those who prioritise early integration stand to gain a significant competitive advantage, in terms of cost savings, enhanced tenant satisfaction and operational efficiency.
