Anita Joseph caught up with GUSTAVO GASSMAN – Vice President, Emerging Markets at HID, to discover how the company is using security and technology to enhance user experience.
What is HID’s outlook for 2024?
HID’s outlook for 2024 is highly optimistic, building on our exceptional performance in 2023, particularly in emerging markets. We have a robust pipeline for the year and strong expectations from both our business and investment sectors. This will increase resource allocation, especially in the Middle East, where we’ll see significant investments and expanded on-ground operations.
What trends does the access control sector anticipate worldwide versus GCC?
Some trends have been stable in the last few years and will continue. One of them that is important for HID is mobile. So having everything on the mobile phone is important as everyone uses it. So, mobile access is the same. As a result, we are investing many resources and solutions to give people the freedom to perform access control on mobile. So mobile is our latest trend acquiring popularity we see and where we are putting our efforts to improvise and work efficiently.
How are the global movements of digitalisation and sustainability impacting HID?
Digitalisation and sustainability are major driving forces for HID, and we’re heavily invested in aligning with these trends. Mobile access is a prime example. By virtualising credentials, we eliminate plastic waste from traditional cards and reduce shipping needs, minimising our environmental footprint. This also aligns with the growing consumer preference for convenience and security offered by mobile solutions. Furthermore, we launched sustainable physical credentials made from bamboo, catering to workplaces and applications where personal devices are restricted. This innovative option further reduces plastic consumption and provides a responsible alternative for environmentally conscious customers. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond product development. We optimise our logistics and internal processes to minimize resource usage and emissions. The combination of innovative products, strategic operations, and environmental awareness positions HID as a leader in the access control industry for the digital and sustainable future.
Can you tell us about your partnership with Apple for its wallet?
Absolutely! Our partnership with Apple Wallet unlocks seamless access experiences for users worldwide. Currently, we’re live in 34 countries, and global coverage is on the horizon. While Apple determines the specific rollout timeline, we’re thrilled with the positive response we’ve seen so far.
Here’s what users can expect:
- Imagine ditching bulky keycards and storing your credentials on your iPhone or Apple Watch. Apple Wallet makes access effortless, whether entering an office, gym, or hotel room.
- Apple’s robust security protocols always protect your credentials. With multi-factor authentication and biometric verification, unauthorised access is virtually eliminated.
- Apple Wallet seamlessly integrates with existing HID access control systems, making the transition smooth and user-friendly.
We’re confident that Apple Wallet will revolutionize how people access physical spaces. We’re actively working with Apple to expand our reach and bring this innovative solution to the Middle East and beyond. Stay tuned for exciting updates!
How about the smart building systems changing the way the Access Control works?
Smart building systems transform access control from a simple security measure into a dynamic contributor to building intelligence. Beyond controlling who enters and exits, access control acts as a data powerhouse, feeding valuable insights to optimise smart building functions. By tracking occupancy through access control data, systems can adjust lighting, heating, and ventilation based on real-time needs, minimising energy waste and reducing operational costs. Additionally, integrated access control systems provide granular control over access rights, allowing for dynamic perimeter security adjustments and immediate responses to security threats. For example, specific doors can be automatically unlocked in an emergency for safe evacuation.
Building systems can learn individual preferences through access control data, such as preferred temperature settings or lighting levels. This data can personalise the occupant experience, boosting comfort and overall satisfaction. This can also be combined with other sensor information to gain deeper insights into building usage patterns and occupant behavior, thereby enabling data-driven decision-making for improved resource allocation, space optimisation, and predictive maintenance. HID is at the forefront of this integration, developing innovative solutions that harness the power of access control data to make smarter, more efficient buildings. The future of access control lies in its seamless integration with intelligent systems, creating a truly connected and responsive built environment.
How have Hybrid Work Models impacted your business?
The rise of hybrid work models has been a boon for HID, accelerating the adoption of our mobile access solutions in a way we couldn’t have predicted. We’ve been at the forefront of mobile access technology for over a decade. We saw its potential to streamline access control and offer unparalleled convenience, even before the pandemic’s remote work surge. Flexibility became paramount with hybrid models blurring the lines between office and home. Employees needed seamless access remotely or in the office for a few days. This is where mobile access shines, offering secure and convenient entry via smartphones or wearables.
While some building owners worry about reduced space utilisation due to hybrid models, we see a different opportunity. Mobile access offers valuable data insights on building usage patterns, allowing for optimised space allocation and resource management. This can lead to cost savings and even the creation of flexible co-working spaces.
Additionally, combining robust security with exceptional user experience is a rare feat. Mobile access achieves both. It eliminates physical keycards, reducing the risk of loss or theft and offering enhanced security by offering multi-factor authentication and biometric verification. Additionally, it eliminates the need for physical badge pickups and access control desk interactions, saving valuable time and effort for both employees and building managers.
The hybrid work trend is here to stay, and mobile access is perfectly positioned to evolve alongside it. We’re constantly innovating and exploring features like secure guest access, visitor management, and integration with smart home systems. Mobile access will be key in shaping the future of secure and convenient workspaces.
