By complementing mechanical systems, smart tools help streamline day-to-day management, enhance visibility of access activity and reduce the administrative workload associated with key handling.
Smart systems make it possible to manage entry remotely, issue and revoke permissions in real-time and create a transparent record of activity, all without relying solely on physical keys. This isn’t just a technological upgrade; it reflects a broader shift in how buildings are managed and how facility professionals deliver value.
Meeting operational pressures with smarter security As expectations placed on facility teams continue to rise without additional budget or resource, so does the need for tools that improve efficiency and reduce manual tasks.
Smart access systems provide the opportunity for access can be granted remotely through a mobile app or cloud platform, instead of site visits to hand over keys or meet contractors. Permissions can be updated or removed instantly, with no need for physical exchanges or costly key replacements.
For facilities with high turnover, temporary users or external service providers, this offers a significant advantage in improving both convenience and security. Digital access doesn’t replace the role of mechanical security but rather works alongside it to deliver a more flexible, responsive approach.
Beyond daily management, these systems help support long-term strategic goals. As organisations strengthen compliance with data protection and safety standards, having a clear, auditable access log becomes increasingly valuable.
In sectors where safeguarding and accountability are critical, such as education, healthcare or housing, smart tools help demonstrate that access is being managed consistently and responsibly.
Remote management also enhances responsiveness. Whether overseeing multiple sites or reacting to out- of-hours issues, facility managers can act quickly from a mobile device. This improves operational resilience and frees up time for teams to focus on higher-value tasks, rather than chasing lost keys or coordinating manual access.
Finding the right fit for facility environments Selecting new security technology requires careful consideration. Not all solutions are designed for the demands of facilities management. Some may lack the robustness for commercial environments, while others might be too complex to implement at scale or incompatible with existing infrastructure.
For facility managers working within budget constraints and limited staffing, a smart access system must be easy to use, secure and adaptable over time.
The right platform should meet current needs while offering the flexibility to scale with future requirements. Gradual implementation, often starting with priority areas and expanding as resources allow helps minimise disruption. Integration with other systems and the ability to manage permissions across multiple user groups are equally important to long-term success.
"The right platform should meet current needs while offering the flexibility to scale with future requirements."
Supporting smarter facilities with
flexible technology ABUS One allows a range of digital locks and devices to be managed through a single app, with features tailored to real-world building operations. Managers can assign access for specific times, track entries and exits in real time, and adjust permissions remotely - all via smartphone or smartwatch.
The system supports a variety of smart products including door cylinders, motorised locks, Bluetooth padlocks and secure key storage units. Using encrypted SmartX technology, devices are compatible with Wi-Fi and voice assistant integrations, making it possible to upgrade access control gradually across a facility, in line with operational needs.
ABUS One is also designed to minimise disruption. Facilities teams can continue operating as normal during installation, and users can be onboarded with minimal retraining.
As buildings evolve and the demands on those who manage them increase, so too must the approach to security. Smart technology and access control offers facility managers new ways to improve responsiveness, streamline operations and enhance compliance, all complementing trusted mechanical security with tools built for modern environments.
ABUS One is a clear example of how smart access platforms can help meet these evolving expectations, providing a practical and scalable route towards smarter facilities management.
www.abus.com/uk
www.tomorrowsfm.com
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