Managers and operators of multi-tenant facilities are consistently looking at which technologies and solutions can enhance security within their buildings. Whether it’s a commercial building with multiple office tenants or an apartment complex that provides residential housing, knowing who is coming and going is paramount.
While an important part of an overall security plan, many facility and security managers can attest that access control cards and other credentials are easily lost, stolen, and shared. Sometimes relying on this technology alone is not enough, but the addition of a video intercom system can add another layer of security. Video intercoms enable facility managers and tenants to visually confirm the identity of the person requesting access.
Remote management from any location
Whether it’s a residential or office complex, managers and operators can no longer rely solely on a video doorbell or a basic call system to meet today’s more comprehensive security need. A full-service, IP video intercom system allows users to audibly and visually confirm the identity of guests.
Due to labor shortages, many multi-tenant facilities are being operated with fewer onsite staff. In these cases, an intercom system with remote monitoring allows calls to be routed to any location – providing additional support when staffing is low. This becomes a workforce multiplier, as the employee is not required to be onsite to handle basic requests, such as granting access to a mail room for package deliveries.
Giving tenants control with mobile
Remote management capabilities of an intercom system are also gaining popularity with tenants, who want to play an active role in vetting and permitting visitors to enter their space. As the number of outside deliveries increase – including take-out food orders or online orders– a main benefit of a video door station is being able to see who’s requesting access before unlocking the door.
Tenants can leverage this capability either through their own tenant station, or by using a mobile app. Pairing an intercom system with a mobile app can provide a business with valuable flexibility without requiring a dedicated person to manage a front desk, but can still be accessible when a visitor arrives. This flexibility can extend beyond being in the office to also include stepping away for other work duties, taking a lunch break, or working remotely..
Audit trail benefits
A valuable feature that intercom systems offer that is often overlooked is the ability to provide an audit trail. This is valuable to many building managers as they can easily request logs from certain dates and times, in case of an incident or possible security breach. For example, if someone was let into the building after hours, or if there’s unknown activity at the front door, building staff or security can access historical video footage to see who has been there. Since an IP intercom system can integrate with cameras and a network video recorder, video can be streamed to a third-party NVR, offering a 24/7 security and surveillance system for your building.
