HID report identifies key trends in access control for 2024

HID has released its 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report, identifying five significant trends shaping the future of access control technologies. The report, produced by IFSEC Global in partnership with HID, surveyed over 1,200 security professionals globally. This comes at a notable time for the industry, with the market for access control technologies in Australia expected to grow by more than 8% between 2024 and 2032, as per data from IMARC.

According to Steve Katanas, Regional Head of Physical Access Control Solutions for the Australia and New Zealand region at HID, the industry is evolving to meet market demands. "As AI, automation and smart, interconnected technology become the new standard for buildings and facilities, it is rational that secure and convenient access control technologies become smarter in tandem," stated Katanas.

The report reveals five key trends currently influencing the access control industry:

Mobile Access and Digital IDs

Mobile access credentials and digital IDs are increasingly prevalent. The report highlights that nearly 39% of organisations now actively use mobile identities. Touchless/contactless solutions and mobile access technologies are cited as the top trends by 48% and 44% of respondents, respectively.

Open Standards and Smart Buildings

Open standards are now fundamental for converged security solutions, integrating physical access control with other building functions. Nearly 48% of organisations utilise access control or badge scanning systems to monitor building usage. Moreover, 43% of respondents identified smart buildings and flexible workspaces as top trends, while 32% cited the integration with other business functions as another significant trend.

Sustainability

Sustainability considerations are increasingly influencing business decisions about access control. Almost 63% of respondents noted that those responsible for sustainability are either consulted or have some influence when upgrading physical access control systems.

Artificial Intelligence

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in access control is on the rise. About 38% of survey participants expressed interest in incorporating AI or machine learning into their access control solutions, although an equal percentage remains unsure of the benefits. Only 23% reported no plans to integrate AI technologies.

Biometrics

The market for biometric technologies, particularly contactless solutions, is expanding rapidly. The global biometrics market is projected to reach USD $136.18 billion by 2031. The facial recognition segment alone is expected to grow from USD $3.83 billion in 2020 to USD $16.74 billion by 2030, which signifies a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16% from 2021 to 2030.