If you’ve ever had your airline text or email you with notice of a change in your flight status, then you know the value of electronic messaging as a service. A similar email and text messaging function for key control systems provides management with timely alerts for any action that has been pre-programmed into the system.

When developing a technology solution, one important step in the process is designing features that make the item easier to use, scalable or compatible with and easily integrated into other components in a system. Imagine a smart phone with no smart features or a card access system that can’t be integrated with a video surveillance system — or a key control and management system that offers only a locking metal cabinet.

When considering the implementation of an automated key control system, there are several points that need to be identified and addressed before that important final decision is made. Ultimately it comes down to four basic areas that can provide the foundation for a long-term successful key control and asset management plan. Those key parameters relate to key security, key access, key tracking and scalability.

Liability exposure is a critical concern of public and/or private businesses. While maximizing insurance coverage helps to alleviate financial risk, it’s an even smarter move to minimize the risk of an incident occurring in the first place.

Opera houses, performing arts centers, museums and other cultural facilities tend to be large, spread out complexes with a maze of corridors, work rooms, storage areas, loading docks and other non-public spaces in addition to the areas that are open to visitors. To establish a comprehensive and efficient physical security system for these kinds of facilities, management should look to implement a blend of automated technologies including a key control and management system.