Benefits of Cloud-based Access Control Systems
Published on : February 15, 2020
What are some of the benefits of cloud-based access control systems?
- Flexibility
- Ease of Use
- Accessibility
- Enhanced Security
- Integrations
- Increased Collaboration
- Competitiveness
- Less Capital Expenditure
Everything, from important data used by companies to personal photos of individuals, is moving to the cloud. More and more businesses are ditching traditional access control systems to reap the advantages that technology has to offer. From centrally managing and monitoring access to increasing collaboration and reducing costs, here are some of the benefits of cloud-based systems.
Flexibility
A cloud-based access control system should allow you to centrally manage and monitor access across office locations. The system is ideal for businesses with fluctuating workforces and high turnover, as well as those with multiple sites to manage. Unlike hardware, the systems provide a high level of flexibility for growing businesses. This allows them to work around user-friendly software that does not require troubleshooting. In addition to that, it allows established companies to simplify their access systems by automating the process of removing employee credentials. With this, the human error-prone manual process of traditional access control systems is eliminated.
Ease of Use

Transferring data from an on-premise hardware system is necessary to gain access to the information. This is true for traditional access control systems. With cloud-based systems, there is no need to transfer or relocate any data. Simply log in directly to the web portal or system to view it. You are not only simplifying the work of the employees but you are also allowing them to use their work hours wisely.
Accessibility
Since the data is in the cloud, you can easily access it anywhere you are. Unlike on-premise systems, cloud-based access control systems enable real-time updates which allow the business to act faster. For instance, hotel guest management becomes easier because of the real-time updates. Any message or status sent from hotel rooms to cloud-based systems is immediately visible to administrators. Indeed, there is complete transparency when implementing a cloud-based system in the business that makes operations more efficient.
Enhanced Security

Cloud-based access control systems have automatic software updates because they are already hooked to the internet. With updates, the cloud becomes optimally patched. Given that the access control system runs through the cloud, the efficiency of its systems increase and the risk of human errors or negligence is reduced.
Apart from the automatic update feature of cloud-based access control systems, it can also be integrated into the business’ security system for easy surveillance access. Simply put, anything uploaded to the cloud will be at your fingertips. You will be able to access footage associated with real-time events.
Integrations
Compared to on-site premises systems, cloud-based access control systems allow for seamless integration with other cloud-based applications. This integration feature of any cloud-based software enables the automation of workflows. For hotels, having a cloud-based access control system means you can integrate other software used for operations. These include visitor management, door schedule, security tracking, as well as other related functions carried out in the business.
Increased Collaboration

Given that data is stored in the cloud, employees can access the system anytime. With that, the management also has the right to edit access anywhere and any time it is required. This feature allows the entire company to conduct efficient workflows without losing access despite the internet connectivity because of updated patches. Apart from real-time updates, there will surely be a higher participation level among the workforce. For businesses that require plenty of collaboration, team members are given equal opportunity to provide their input for the project through a cloud-based access control system.
Competitiveness
Cloud-based access control systems are enterprise-class technology implemented by businesses with complex operations. Hotels obtain a competitive advantage if they are able to offer rooms to visitors faster. For instance, room service can immediately prepare a hotel suite once the visitors leave to accommodate new guests coming in. The immediate action taken by the room service depends on the status sent by the front desk or reception after checking out the previous occupants. Indeed, cloud-based access control systems effectively communicate the chain of operations throughout an entire company in an organized manner.
Less Capital Expenditure

Employing a cloud-based access control system means there is no need for high-cost hardware. Take note, unlike a cloud-based access control system that updates automatically, hardware may require plenty of servicing and maintenance. Regardless of whether you call for third-party service or employ your own IT personnel, storing data in on-premise hardware remains more costly than locating information in the cloud.
Key Takeaway
Changing operations at work can make or break the workflow of the business. Indeed, not all systems work for all types of businesses. With that, taking a careful look at the benefits of cloud-based systems should help you determine if it is suitable for the nature of your operations or not. At the end of the day, the goal is to optimize work, minimize human errors, reduce costs, and maintain a competitive advantage in the industry.