ASSA ABLOY highlights benefits of connected access

Integrating digital access control with building systems can help organizations reduce costs, improve efficiency and manage security risks. ASSA ABLOY outlines five practical benefits of connecting access technologies with existing infrastructure.

Integrating digital access control with building management systems is becoming an important part of modern security infrastructure. Technologies such as ASSA ABLOY’s connected access solutions allow organizations to extend existing systems, centralize access management and reduce operational complexity without replacing their entire infrastructure.

David Moser, SVP and Head of Digital Access Solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA, recommends adopting platforms with a degree of openness to support future expansion.

“We can work with our customers to implement a new integration-ready digital access solution from scratch. Here we encourage them to adopt platforms which are ‘open’ to some degree: this simplifies ongoing scalability and ensures they are future-proofing this investment,” Moser says.

“Alternatively, we can extend the reach, functionality, and connectivity of an existing security or access system with compatible technologies which administrators continue to control from their existing, familiar interface. This way we create more joined-up knowledge and information for the business.”

Extending digital control

Connecting digital devices such as battery-powered locks, mobile-operated padlocks, electromechanical door devices, biometric readers or electronic escape route technology can help transform fragmented building systems into a cohesive network.

For example, organizations can replace mechanical locks with wireless devices and integrate them into existing access management software. Administrators can continue using a single interface rather than managing multiple standalone solutions.

“Integration can also break down operational siloes, fostering collaboration between security, facilities, and IT teams as well as day-to-day efficiencies that business leaders will notice on the balance sheet,” Moser adds.

Integrating visitor management with access control can simplify contactless check-in. Similarly, connecting digital IDs with room booking software and door access can reduce manual administration.

ASSA ABLOY identifies five practical benefits of extending digital access connectivity.

Less workflow waste, fewer errors

Extending an existing access system can simplify daily operations while improving security. Instead of switching between platforms, security managers can use one interface to configure, monitor and audit connected devices across buildings and sites.

Working within a familiar environment reduces staff training requirements and minimizes human error. Consolidation can also lower long-term administrative costs. Real-time audit trails and status updates provide additional transparency and accountability.

Data-driven efficiency and risk reduction

Connected access systems generate data that organizations can use to improve space utilization. For example, occupancy information can show how and when different areas of a building are used. Facilities managers can then adjust space requirements and energy consumption to reduce costs.

Access data can also support predictive risk management. By examining repeated failed access attempts or unusual entry times, security teams can identify potential incidents earlier. This supports a shift from reactive to proactive security management.

Compliance and the threat landscape

Extending system connectivity can help organizations address compliance requirements and evolving security challenges. The ENISA Threat Landscape 2025, cited by ASSA ABLOY, highlights increasingly sophisticated threats involving both digital and physical systems.

According to ASSA ABLOY, extending digital access control to additional openings can help close security gaps. The company also highlights interoperability standards such as ONVIF and OSDP when selecting connected access technologies.

Smarter credential management

Managing physical keys and digital credentials becomes simpler when organizations avoid maintaining multiple independent access systems. Users can rely on a single programmable credential for authorized access rather than carrying several cards, fobs or keys.

Centralized credential management can also reduce the time required for issuance, tracking and deactivation. Replacing mechanical locks with wireless devices can reduce costs associated with lost keys, emergency rekeying and unplanned service visits.

Scalability with future-proof systems

Scalability remains important as organizations expand and security requirements change. ASSA ABLOY emphasizes the role of integration partners that provide region-specific support and certified solutions aligned with local standards.

Where appropriate, organizations can expand an existing system without replacing the entire infrastructure. New connected devices can be added incrementally as requirements evolve, allowing access platforms to adapt without major system overhauls.

ASSA ABLOY’s connected digital access solutions

“Security managers may not know what comes next. But with a connected system, built on architecture which enables even greater connectivity in the future, they do not need to,” Moser says.

ASSA ABLOY offers several technologies designed to connect with new and existing access systems.

Aperio Wireless Locks integrate with more than 130 access control systems. They support centralized management, online and offline operation, RFID cards and mobile credentials.

ABLOY CUMULUS is a cloud-based, mobile-first platform supporting digital access devices and mobile credentials through open APIs and SDKs. It also provides audit trails and real-time status monitoring.

CLIQ Programmable Keys & Cylinders combine mechanical locking with electronic access management. The range includes more than 60 cylinder and padlock variants, alongside management software and integration capabilities.

ABLOY Electric Locks support integration with access control, alarm and building management systems. They are designed for high-security and high-traffic doors.

effeff Electric Strikes enable remote unlocking and integration with access control, intercom and building management systems.

effeff ePED Electronic Escape Route Technology combines electrically controlled emergency exits with access control and security system integration.

Control iD Biometric Readers provide facial and fingerprint recognition. They can operate independently or integrate with broader access control systems.

For more information on ASSA ABLOY’s Digital Access Solutions, see the Digital Access Solutions brochure.