The Access Control Summit 2023 (ACS23) recently took place in Washington, DC, bringing together professionals from the global access control and smart lock industry. CEO of the Access control Executive Brief and organiser of ACS23, Lee Odess, provides a round-up of the key takeaways from the event.
Lee Odess (right), hosting a panel discussion at ACS23 in Washington DC
Bringing together professionals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, the Access Control Summit 2023 garnered significant attention and participation from individuals and organisations around the world who are actively involved in this industry.
With a strong emphasis on networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, ACS23 proved to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on attendees.
The summit was held at the prestigious location of the AIADC (part of the Washington Architectural Foundation), a venue that holds special significance for the organisers and served as a testament to the importance and influence of ACS23 in the industry.
The venue itself provided an inspiring backdrop for the various activities and discussions that took place during the summit, further enhancing the overall experience for all participants.
Our goal was to provide a unique opportunity for attendees to connect, collaborate, and gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of the access control and smart lock industry – something which I believe we achieved.
So, what were my key takeaways from ACS23?
1) Digital transformation
The impact of digital transformation on various aspects of the industry was explored in depth, allowing participants to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and emerging trends.
2) Access control shifting from door-centric to consumer-centric approach
The discussions centred around a consumer-centric approach, emphasising the importance of understanding consumer needs and preferences. This shift from a door-centric approach to a more holistic and inclusive perspective was a recurring theme throughout.
Attendees were encouraged to explore innovative ways to enhance accessibility and create value beyond the traditional realm of security measures.
This highlighted the need for companies to adapt their workflows, automate processes, and embrace integrated marketing approaches that encompass the entire consumer experience.
3) Data and interoperability
Another key area of focus at ACS23 was data and interoperability. Those in attendance recognised the significance of refined data and its accessibility to third-party systems. In order to facilitate seamless integrations between hardware and software, technical standards that support business needs were discussed at length.
This acknowledgment of the importance of data and interoperability paved the way for future advancements and collaborations within the industry.
Linked to this was the networking opportunities the event provided. Attendees actively engaged in discussions and established connections to facilitate the exchange of ideas, as well as lay the foundations for future collaborations and partnerships.
Hear more from Lee Odess on the future of access control in episode 11 of the Security in Focus podcast…
