Many office tenants are faced with an important decision when it comes to their business space: installing smart locks or keeping the traditional lock and key system. Smart lock technology is growing in popularity. It’s important to realize smart locks have benefits and risks that need to be considered before installing them in your office space.
A smart lock is an electronic mechanism that replaces traditional locks and keys. Instead of having to turn the key in the exterior deadbolt, smart locks allow users to open their doors using either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology on their smartphones. That means no more searching for misplaced keys! They're operated by an app, which users can download to their smartphone. The smart lock is making its way into commercial properties everywhere. Rather than using standard locks or keys, smart locks are also popular with both apartment renters and office tenants because of their convenience and potential cost savings.
As smart technology becomes more and more prevalent, smart locks are becoming an important part of the office environment. Smart locks make access to your office easier but can also be an inconvenience if you lose your smartphone or forget your smart lock code. Here is some important information to consider on smart locks and their potential benefits (and disadvantages) in an office setting.
Some benefits for smart locks include:
- Easy access to the office when you want it and easy exit during emergencies or when leaving for the day. The smart lock can be programmed to open automatically for specific times of the day or under certain circumstances such as when the office is unoccupied.
- A smart lock can be programmed with a digital key to allow access for guests and outside workers, and it can assign different permissions for each smartphone used to gain entry into the building.
- You no longer have to worry about losing your key or carrying keys in your pocket; smart locks can be accessed remotely from smartphones or tablets.
Some disadvantages to smart locks include:
- You may lose access to your smartphone and will need to contact the smart lock company for help. It would be inconvenient if you lost your smartphone and couldn't get into your office.
- If smart locks are installed on all the doors to your office, it may take time for everyone in your office to get their smart lock code or use their smartphone if someone else typically opens the door for them. It might be frustrating for some workers to have an additional task added to their day.
- Your smartphone might run out of battery, break, or become damaged. If this happens, you will need to contact a smart lock company for a replacement smartphone and a new smart lock code.
This type of technology continues to grow in popularity, but smart locks are not for everyone. Regardless of whether smart locks are right for you, it is important to realize that there are many smart lock benefits and smart lock risks that need to be considered before deciding on installing smart vs. traditional locks.
Overall, smart locks can be an ideal solution if you need to replace traditional key or deadbolt systems in your office space. They offer convenience while still providing security, and smart locks with cloud-based access provide added peace of mind.