HID report reveals top trends in physical access control industry

HID has published its 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report, which outlines five key trends in the access control industry. The report, created in partnership with IFSEC Global, surveyed over 1,200 security professionals worldwide between November 2023 and January 2024. It provides a comprehensive overview of the changes impacting the sector.

One significant trend identified is the growing adoption of mobile access and digital IDs. The report highlights that nearly 39% of organisations currently use mobile identities. Responses indicate that touchless/contactless solutions and mobile access are recognised as the two largest trends, with 48% and 44% of respondents, respectively, identifying them as shaping the broader industry landscape.

Another key trend is the role of open standards in advancing smart buildings. These standards facilitate more integrated security solutions, where data from physical access controls not only secure premises but also optimise building usage. The survey shows that 48% of organisations already use access control systems to monitor building usage to some degree. Additionally, 43% of respondents see smart buildings and flexible workspaces among the top three emerging trends, while 32% indicated integration with other business functions as a significant development.

Sustainability has also emerged as a critical factor in decision-making processes related to access control systems. According to the report, about 63% of professionals stated that those responsible for sustainability have some influence or are fully consulted when it comes to upgrading these systems. This trend underscores the increasing importance that organisations place on sustainable practices and technologies.

The report sheds light on the rising incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within physical access control solutions. AI capabilities are becoming more prevalent, with 38% of respondents expressing interest in integrating AI/machine learning into their access control systems. However, the same percentage remains uncertain about the benefits, and 23% have no plans to adopt AI technologies. This indicates a growing yet cautious approach to AI implementation.

Another notable trend is the expansion of the biometrics market. The global market for biometrics is projected to reach USD $136.18 billion by 2031, with the facial recognition market expected to grow to USD $16.74 billion by 2030 from USD $3.83 billion in 2020. This reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16% from 2021 to 2030. The growing role of biometrics, especially contactless solutions, points to the increasing demand for advanced and secure identification methods.

The data and insights presented in the report offer a detailed look at the current and future direction of the physical access control industry. These trends highlight how the sector is evolving, driven by technological advancements and a shifting emphasis on sustainability and integrated solutions.