ParqEx is excited to announce that we have built a new, highly sought-after access control feature for property management and staff. With the most recent update of our property management admin app, authorized users can use an Access + Controller. Read on to learn more about how the Access + Controller facilitates on-site access control needs!

Product Feature:

The latest update to ParqEx‘s Property Parking Management admin app introduces the Access+ Controller module, a significant enhancement to streamline access control management within residential properties. This new module is designed as a pop-up feature within the PPM V3 app. It provides on-site admin staff and management teams with an intuitive interface to assist residents, unit owners, and tenants experiencing difficulties with the ParqEx access control app on their phones while on the property.

Purpose:

The Access+ Controller’s primary objective is to ensure seamless access control at various points, such as parking area gate arms, garage doors, pedestrian doors, and secure elevators, especially when users encounter technical issues with the standard app. This module enhances the overall user experience by reducing wait times and frustration caused by app-related problems. Additionally, it enhances the overall experience of property management staff by giving them control of these access points, versus previously not being able to accommodate users’ frustrations.

Workflow:

1. Identifying the User:
   • Upon hearing from a resident, owner, renter/tenant, or guest having difficulty gaining extry or exit at an access point, an admin staff member initiates the “Access+ Controller” pop-up within the PPM V3 app.
   • The admin staff member must then select the user they are assisting. This user could be a resident, a unit owner, or a renter/tenant of the property.
2. Reason for Access:
   • The admin staff then selects from a predefined list of common issues why the user cannot operate the access control via the app. These reasons include internet connectivity issues, app error messages, user error, guest access without reservation, unfamiliarity with the app, and expired reservations.
3. Detailed Notes:
   • The admin staff must enter additional notes detailing the specific request or any pertinent information about the situation. This step is crucial for record-keeping, security, and future reference.
4. Operating the Access Point:
   • Once all necessary information is entered, the admin staff gains access to the controls for operating the required access point, granting the user essential access.

The “Access+ Controller” module within PPM V3 is a testament to our commitment to enhancing property management solutions. By swiftly and efficiently addressing common user issues, we aim to improve the living experience in residential properties, making them more secure, accessible, and user-friendly. For our existing ParqEx clients, use the latest version of the Property Parking Management admin app. 

For prospective clients: Our team listens to requests and builds features for property management and owners seeking access control solutions! Don’t hesitate to book a demo with us. We will provide detailed information on what ParqEx can do for your property, listen to any specific requirements your property may have, and accommodate them as needed!

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In an overwhelmingly connected world, traditional lock & key systems are antiquated. These systems are no longer the most reliable means to ensure the security of properties. Technology is ever-evolving, and as technology advances, access control systems have emerged as essential aspects of property security. Access control technology has reshaped how we access properties, from residential or commercial properties to businesses that require easier access solutions for their customers, like AirBnB, VRBO, etc. If you want to learn a bit about the evolution of access control technology, its ever-developing impact on property security, or how access control can help your property, you will find all the answers in this article. 

The Evolution of Access Control Technology

Like all technology, access control technology has come a long way. Gone are the days of the simple mechanical locks of the past. Digitalization and smart devices have paved the way for innovative solutions offering enhanced security for property owners and managers and overall convenience for everyone using the system. Here are some key stages in the evolution of access control technology:

Keycards and Fobs

First, the technology needed to rid the world of traditional metal keys that anyone could replicate. Thus, one of the earliest advancements in access control was the development of keycards and fobs. These cards would be issued to one person and could be swiped or tapped against a reader at the entry and exit of a property to grant access. This first evolution of access control technology diminished the risk of key duplication and provided a newfound, although relatively basic in retrospect, level of security.

Keypad Entry Systems

Second, keypad entry systems were introduced. The concept of keypad entry systems relied on personal identification numbers (PINs). Each user had their unique PIN and needed to enter that PIN onto the keypad to gain access. Sure, this offered another level of security, but as you can imagine, sharing PINs or PIN theft was prevalent, thus proposing a new security threat.

Biometric Access Control

One of the most significant leaps in the evolution of access control technologies is undoubtedly biometric tech. This impressive technology brought a noteworthy leap in security. Fingerprints, facial recognition, and retina scans enabled properties to be secured based on people’s unique physiological characteristics. Biometric access control minimized all security risks but was not a likable solution for most properties worldwide. This top-of-the-line technology is undoubtedly suitable for government, tech giants, etc., but not for the residential property seeking ways to increase security via access control for their hundreds of residents that come and go constantly.

Smartphone-based Access

This is where it gets good! The widespread use of smartphones unlocked a world of possibilities. Sure, it took a bit of time for everyone to succumb to the draw of smartphones, but once most of the world had one of those in their hands, people’s smartphones led to the development of mobile-based access control. Property owners could now grant or revoke access remotely using dedicated mobile apps. This evolution of access control technology allowed for real-time control over property access and greater flexibility. Learn more on how smartphone-based access control could suit your property’s needs.

Cloud-based Access Control

The next necessary step in the evolution of access control technology was using one online platform and controlling multiple properties with a few clicks of a button. Cloud-based technology did that! It transformed the access control landscape by enabling centralized management. Property owners and managers could now control access to multiple locations from a single platform. See how cloud-based access control has streamlined administration and offered insights through data analytics.

Impact on Property Security

As you can imagine, the integration of access control technology into property security has had several noteworthy impacts:

1. Improved Security: Access control systems, especially the later versions, significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry. Biometric data, encrypted credentials, and smartphone-based access make it more complicated for unauthorized users to gain access through traditional means.
2. Activity Monitoring: Modern access control systems have a thorough and detailed log of all entries and exits, creating an electronic trail of precisely who accessed the property and when. This feature assists with any investigation and provides valuable insights in case of security infringements.
3. Customizable Access Levels: For properties with a higher need for security, property owners can now assign specific access levels to individuals. Only authorized personnel can enter restricted areas, minimizing potential internal security threats.
4. Remote Management: Cloud-based access control technology enables property owners and managers to control access remotely. So, if you are traveling and need to tweak your access list, have at it! Access permissions can be adjusted in real-time, even from different geographical locations.
5. Reduced Costs: The old-school traditional lock and key systems require frequent rekeying in case of lost or stolen keys, which gets costly. Access control systems eliminate this need, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Furthermore, access control systems allow property owners and managers to reduce the staff needed daily, thus reducing costs even further.
6. Integration with Other Systems: Access control technology can be integrated with preexisting systems such as security systems equipped with surveillance cameras and alarms, and property managememt software systems. API integration capabilities provides a comprehensive property ecosystem equipped for day-to-day operations and any task that may be needed regarding security. Udoubtedly, this gives property owners and managers more peace of mind.

Challenges and Considerations

While access control technology offers numerous benefits, there are also challenges to consider:

• Cybersecurity: As access control systems become more digital, they are susceptible to cyberattacks. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures to prevent unauthorized access and monitoring access logs is crucial in protecting the system from hacks. (See how ParqEx’s team helps minimize these threats).
• Dependency on Technology: Relying solely on technology can be risky. Sometimes, tech fails, Wi-Fi is down, or lines have been broken. Backup plans should be in place for system malfunctions or power outages. (Check out ParqEx’s backup plans when technology malfunctions).
• User Education: User education is crucial as only some have experienced more technologically evolved access control systems. Moreover, users must know best practices for securing their credentials. Weak passwords can compromise the safety of the entire system. (Learn how ParqEx prioritizes user education and provides several knowledge-based articles for any scenario).

Access control technology has reshaped property security by offering advanced features, improved convenience, and exceptional defense against unauthorized access. From the evolution of keycards to the rise of biometric systems and cloud-based management, this technology has transformed how we protect valuable assets and how we come and go from the gym, the office, and our homes. For the property owners and managers reading this and seeing the value in access control, book a demo with ParqEx, and we can demonstrate how our access control technology will reshape your property’s security and management.

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Pet-Friendly Neighborhood

Are there parks near your property? Is there a pet store nearby? Do you have a vet in your neighborhood? If the answer is yes to all of these questions, it is a good idea to have a pet policy at your property. Pet owners do their homework before moving into a new neighborhood. If there is a vet a couple of blocks away, a pet store where they can quickly find some dog or cat food that they are running low on, and a park for their dog to run around, then it will be a no-brainer for these pet-owners to sign a lease with your property.

Pet Amenities

Are you already sold on adding a pet policy for your property? Here are some additional pet amenities that will set your property apart from other pet-friendly properties. First, a dog run with complimentary poop bags and waste disposal stations is desirable for potential renters. Living in a multi-unit building is sometimes a hassle for dog owners who have to let their dogs out to do their business every few hours. Accordingly, having a dog run, where dogs can be off-leash doing their business, on the property can certainly alleviate some of those struggles.

Second, a pet washing station will undoubtedly be a highly value-added perk. Dog owners can attest that there is no bigger hassle than bringing a muddy dog into an apartment. Providing a designated dog washing station will alleviate that stress and is a huge selling point for any property owner.

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Parking and ParqEx clearly go hand-in-hand. Yet, we are definitely more than just parking! ParqEx continues to be the pioneer in building a reliable mobile access control system for every industry. Gone are the days of using fobs, key cards, keys, guest passes, etc. With its reliable access control system in place, ParqEx’s Access + Premium Touchless can open any door ranging from pedestrian doors, main entrances, elevators, meeting rooms, common areas, office sensitive areas, and receptions with just a few taps of a smartphone. 

Based on research, we know that accessibility through secure mobile devices is the name of the game. Advancements in technology continue to prove that the future of secure access is in mobile credentials, which we have been pioneering for six years. The future is here; let us touch doors no more!

Real-estate owners and investors: are you looking for ways to future-proof your property’s technology and increase its security? Keep reading!

What is ParqEx Access Control + Premium Touchless?

Access + Touchless is our proprietary access control technology that provides reliable mobile access to people entering and exiting a property. This access control system provides a highly secured touchless option that grants authorized-only access to any locked interior or exterior door. With this system in place, smartphones become a universal remote control that eliminates the need for keys, fobs, or touching of any door handle!

How it Works!

The process is really quite simple! First and foremost, property owners and managers are in complete control of who gains authorization to which doors. If some entries are exclusively for authorized personnel, only that group of people will gain access. On the other hand, as more people use the main door, the access control app will open main entrances to a broader group of individuals. Authorized users have to approach the access door, open their ParqEx Access + App on their smartphones, and tap the corresponding access point on the app. Via a cellular network, the app will then send an access request signal to the ParqEx hardware controller (a “white box” the size of a hockey puck). If the user is authorized to enter, the ParqEx access controller will send a signal to the power control arm and thus activate the opening of the door. After the pre-approved individual enters, the door automatically securely closes behind. To summarize, it truly is a touchless two-step process for the users: approach the door and click the corresponding button on the Access + App.

Easy Installation!

ParqEx’s Access + Touchless system uses simple hardware and software, resulting in an effortless installation. Here’s how the installation of our hardware and software works:

• The Free Access Control + App

Right from the palm of their hand, Access + App can give users access to just about any access point at any property. For property owners and property managers, our admin portal serves as a hub for central management. Owners and managers can decide who gets access to their property, at what doors and access points, and even when! 

• Power Door Control Arm Operations

For us to perfectly retrofit any door at any property, all we need to do is is install our little “White Box” along with a simple control arm on the door. With the control arm in place, it will receive control signals from our “White Box,” which will grant secure opening and closing doors for authorized users only.

• Access Control + Signal Controller – White Box

The aptly named “White Box” is perhaps the most fundamental technology for the Access + Touchless operating system. With the “White Box” in place, the tiny 3-inch piece of hardware will receive the request of entry from the Access + App through a cellular connection and immediately send an operating signal to the control arm on the door for pre-approved users and visitors.

• Thorough Admin Reporting, Monitoring, and Alerting System

Our admin portal can manage just about everything for management and staff. Our extremely easy-to-use admin interface provides full comprehensive reporting in real-time, allowing you to instantly know who is coming and going from your property and through which entry and exit points. Through this unique and robust reporting, monitoring, and alerting system, management can easily manage authorized users, revoke access rights, blacklist specific individuals if necessary and receive alerts when the system detects suspicious activities when monitoring your property. 

Benefits of ParqEx’s Access Control + Touchless

Indubitably, touchless features are the current trend that all tech companies are trying to attain. The beauty of ParqEx’s Access Control + Touchless is that our technology is future-proof! Embrace the future and invest in it with ParqEx. Some benefits of Access + Touchless include:

• Cut Costs

Not only does Access + Touchless eliminate the need to touch and handle doors, but it also eliminates antiquated pieces of technology. Fobs, codes, keys, cards, guest passes, etc., can now be dismissed, which will thus save you thousands of dollars of operating costs. Access + Touchless will not only cut costs, but it will also get rid of all headaches regarding lost fobs or keys! Management and staff will be relieved, and the overall experience of authorized users will dramatically improve at your property.

• Absolute Owner Control

ParqEx’s Access Control+ Premium Touchless system quickly grants access to authorized users, along with continually storing all activity on the property in its database. Upon an owner’s demand, all information pertaining to who came through which access point, at what time, is stored and can be retrieved whenever needed. 

• Easy Management

Security of the property is managed and maintained easily through the Access + Premium Touchless dashboard. Management has ultimate control of who can gain access to the property through this dashboard.

• Real-Time Access Log

Properties are always striving for ways to improve security. With Access + Premium Touchless, you will gain full transparency of every entry and exit of your property. The access log is not limited to who came and gone; it also records when and which door the individual entered and exited through! 

• User Ease and Convenience

Easy and touchless entry and exit make accessing your property painless for all authorized users and visitors. They now no longer need to worry about having their keys or fobs readily available. Meanwhile, they gain an increased sense of security regarding doors and handles they do not have to touch!

Access Control + Premium Touchless In Use

ParqEx has seen success in the use of its Access + Premium Touchless technology. A great example of it being put to use is at a multi-student residence named Monarch in Buffalo, New York. On-site, the management team had security issues at their property. With students continually coming and going, they did not want a fob or code system. They feared that students would share their codes and their fobs with other non-authorized users. Due to this security risk, they knew fobs and codes were not a suitable solution for their property. They also had no way of monitoring who was coming and going from the property. Management wanted an easy-to-use system that would provide them insight into who accessed the property while simultaneously providing easy access to authorized users and students.

The ParqEx Access + Premium Touchless solution simplified the entire process for management and students alike. Since ParqEx’s installation at the Monarch building in Buffalo, New York, there have been thousands of secure entries on site. Moreover, they have experienced about 40% savings and an incredible increase in customer satisfaction.

Want to learn more about how “We’re More Than Just Parking”? Click here.

An Integrated Solution For Every Industry!

There is no limit as to the type of property or industry this technology can provide value to. ParqEx’s Access + Touchless intends to be in place at any building or property with any access type (pedestrian doors, office doors, elevators, main entrance, recreational rooms, workout rooms, offices, etc.). ParqEx’s Access Control + Touchless technology will undoubtedly be of interest to apartment buildings, condos and HOA’s, office buildings, vacation homes, vacation rentals, hospitals, schools, campus housing, small and large businesses, hotels, and so much more!

Does your property already have a security system in place? No worries! Our technology will seamlessly integrate with third parties for properties with preexisting security features, resulting in an even more robust security system. Our tech certainly works as a stand-alone security system but will just as easily work in tandem with other security systems if needed.

Inquire about Access Control + Premium Touchless

ParqEx has come to recognize that customers are looking for a system that is simple and incredibly user-friendly. Access + Touchless continues to prove to be that smart and safe solution for any industry looking to heighten their security and transparency while tightening their control on who is accessing their property. Additionally, it can drastically reduce operating costs while eliminating antiquated technology such as fobs, key cards, keys, guest passes, codes, etc. With Access + Touchless in use, people no longer have to worry about having their fobs or keys; they have to have their smartphone in their hands. Say goodbye to the days of managing passes and fobs and step into the future!

Real-estate owners and management: are you interested in ways of ramping up your property’s security along with increasing overall customer and employee satisfaction? ParqEx Access Control + Premium Touchless is market-proven and is available. Reach out to ParqEx for an easy quote along with more information.

We look forward to hearing from you and helping with your property’s needs!

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