The access control industry is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by rapid advancements in technology and evolving security priorities. In a thought-provoking presentation, Lee Odess of AMAG Technology delved into the trends reshaping this sector, emphasising the need for stakeholders to adapt to a digitally transformed future. His insights paint a compelling picture of an industry on the brink of profound change.
Odess described the current landscape as one of significant disruption. The changes over the next three decades, he asserted, will far outpace the cumulative transformations of the last 30 years. To remain relevant, industry players must rethink traditional strategies, embracing the opportunities presented by technology to redefine security and access control.
A particularly striking observation was the shift from a people-centered approach to one driven by technology. Historically, access control revolved around identity management, ensuring the right person had the right access. Today, however, he says there’s an increasing focus on technology-based solutions like visitor management systems. This transition reflects a broader trend toward efficiency and digital integration, reshaping the way organisations approach security.
Providing a historical perspective, Odess traced the roots of electronic access control back to 1973, when check verification technology gave rise to the first integrated systems. This progression, from basic identity verification to sophisticated electronic access solutions, underscores the industry’s capacity for reinvention. Yet, despite its estimated $10 billion global market size, Odess characterised the sector as a “cottage industry,” highlighting its untapped potential for innovation and expansion.
He also pointed to key technological milestones that have propelled access control forward. The creation of the internet in 1969 set the stage for interconnected systems, while Salesforce’s introduction of Software as a Service in 1999 transformed the way software is delivered and consumed. The 2007 launch of the iPhone marked another pivotal moment, accelerating the adoption of mobile technology and raising consumer expectations for convenience and integration in security solutions.
Odess’s message was clear: the industry must embrace digital transformation to thrive in this new era. The shift is not just about upgrading technology; it’s about rethinking how access control is designed, delivered, and experienced.
As the access control sector moves into uncharted territory, the challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities. For those willing to innovate and adapt, the future promises remarkable growth and relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Certainly food for thought.