Owners and administrators of businesses worldwide are adapting to technological advances that affect all aspects of service and operations. By integrating and adapting to new technological platforms and systems, companies can remain competitive while making their operations more efficient. Mobile access control is one example of how technology enhances how businesses operate: a digital solution to access control that can streamline processes, improve security, and enhance convenience. Mobile access control allows employees, contractors, and visitors to enter buildings using credentials provided to their smart devices, often through digital wallet access. Implementing a digital access control system has many advantages for companies, though it does require thoughtful and structured planning. This article will discuss best practices for rolling out a mobile access control system that maximizes benefits and minimizes disruption to operations.

Assess company’s access needs and goals:

Knowing exactly what your business requires in terms of access control will determine the type of service or solution you choose for your business. Each company will have different requirements depending on many factors, which call for specific solutions. Here are some points to consider:

1. Identify access points and zones: The first step is to identify all of the access points to the building (or area that your company operates in). A key point to consider if your company uses a shared working space is whether there are shared access points, which will require cooperation with other companies. Once all access points are identified, the building or workspace should be mapped into specific areas or zones. For large companies with multiple departments, employees might be granted access to specific areas or floors only, and any areas or rooms containing sensitive documents or items can have restricted access permissions.

2. Define user types: Consider different categories of people that may require access to the building or specific zones at any time. This might include full-time and part-time employees, contractors, and visitors. Access permissions may vary amongst these users.

3. Define goals and metrics: Before implementing a digital access control system, consider what you are trying to achieve. Goals may include reduced administrative burden for security or reception staff or improved customer reviews on visitor management. Setting metrics for these goals will help you measure the system’s impact once installed.

Choose the right technology and vendor for your needs:

Once you have established your company’s needs and goals, you can make informed decisions regarding the service provider and specific technology you want. Choosing a system that supports digital wallet access and that can be easily implemented and integrated with any existing systems is important when deciding on your access system. You may need to consider scalability for your business’s future needs. Below are some considerations:

1. Start with a pilot program: Implementing digital wallet access on a small scale might be a good idea for businesses that occupy large spaces for multiple departments or have offices in multiple locations. This can help companies test usability and identify potential concerns on a smaller scale.

2. Create a realistic timeline: Ensure that each step of the process and all user requirements are outlined clearly. Changing access permissions overnight can cause confusion and complications for employees if digital wallet access credentials have not been set up. Allowing all authorized personnel a specified amount of time to ensure they are confident with the new system will help ensure a seamless transition.

Focus on user adoption and training:

Making sure that everyone is comfortable with the new system is essential for it to be useful, especially for companies with a large number of employees, multiple teams at different locations, or remote workers. This may be especially relevant for reception or security staff who manage visitor access.

1. Training sessions and resources: Create training opportunities and accessible resources for employees. These should include guides on how to set up digital access permissions, troubleshooting tips, and contact points for any problems that are encountered.

2. Encourage feedback: Once the system has been implemented fully, ask employees for their feedback on it, especially as it relates to the company’s defined goals. It is important to know the system’s impact and employee satisfaction with it.