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Across the country, residential estates face significant challenges in managing security and access control.
One challenge may be attributed to the rapidly evolving security technology sector, which results in estates having multiple syetems with incompatible technologies in use. Systems are frequently fragmented, leading to inefficiencies and potential vulnerabilities.
Twenty 4 Seven Security Solutions, a company specialising in the installation and servicing of residential security systems, embarked on a project designed to establish the security needs of mixed-use developments, understand the expectations of homeowners, and unpack the real-world processes and challenges around the multiple levels of access control.
Recognising the need for a streamlined and integrated access control system, clear criteria for the new system where set. Integration capabilities, ease of use, and robust technical support were non-negotiable requirements.
THE GOAL
The objective was straightforward yet ambitious: to create a unified and user-friendly access control system. The solution needed to be easy to maintain while ensuring a seamless experience for residents, visitors, and contractors. By integrating various components into a single platform, they aimed to improve efficiency, enhance security, and simplify daily operations for residents and staff.
THE SOLUTIONS
After careful consideration, a combination of technologies were selected, each for its proven reliability and integration capabilities.
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- Access control: Impro Portal was selected as the backbone of the system, offering a trusted and robust platform backed by years of success in South Africa. Its strong local support and warranty added confidence to the decision.
- Touch-free access: Idemia’s advanced hardware, known for its exceptional quality and integration with Impronet, was implemented to enhance user experience.
- Video management system (VMS): Cathexis, was chosen for its seamless integration with Impro Portal and its reliable local support.
- Visitor management: LlamaNET emerged as the ideal choice for visitor management, boasting less than 1% downtime over a decade of service. LlamaNET’s integration with Impro Portal and Cathexis allows visitor information to overlay on CCTV footage, enabling easy identification directly from surveillance images.
For the selection process, Twenty 4 Seven Security Solutions relied on their experience and confidence in trusted technologies. As the project was not merely a theoretical exercise, it included a case study where system integration and implementation were carried out. Professional input from system integrators ensured optimal design and functionality.
THE REVIEW
The results of the project exceeded expectations.
Key achievements include:
- A single interface for reporting on residents, visitors, contractors, and deliveries.
- Convenient visitor management via a mobile app or WhatsApp, with real-time notifications for residents.
- Simplified enrolment through a unified Impro Portal window, saving time and reducing complexity.
- Innovative features, such as the integration of Hikvision face readers and Idemia Waves for users with poor fingerprints, further enhance accessibility and security.
These features, coupled with the system’s scalability and minimal maintenance requirements, would solidify a development’s position at the forefront of residential security solutions.
PROJECT SNAPSHOT
Tagholders, main gates, vehicle lanes, pedestrian turnstiles, and remote gates/doors. Wave Readers, Sigma Lite Readers, Keypad Readers (visitor codes), and Hikvision face readers
The results of the project clearly indicate that the growing concern within the market regarding integration can be addressed by leveraging technology and trusted partners. A scalable, reliable, and user-friendly system that meets the needs of residents while setting a benchmark for others to follow has been successfully achieved.
INTELLIGENT INTEGRATION AND STRATEGIC DECISION- MAKING CAN RESOLVE COMPLEX CHALLENGES IN ESTATE SECURITY, PROVIDING VALUABLE INSIGHTS TO STAKEHOLDERS NATIONWIDE.
