As with most things in life, the quality of the answers you get depends on the quality of the questions you ask! Imagine if I asked 3 people to quote on buying me a car. I might be thinking about a Holden Sedan, but they quote me on a Ferrari, a Toyota 4WD and a stretch Hummer. How do I compare these quotes against each other? Especially if I know nothing about cars? Worse still, no one quoted me on the Holden Sedan that I had in my mind. If someone had sat with me and asked a pile of questions and then documented my needs, I would have had 3 quotes on a Blue 2020 Holden Commodore with a 6cyl diesel that I could compare.

Tip: Have an expert create a formal scope of work, after establishing your security needs.

Another Tip: Be specific in what you want to achieve. The most important decision is about the database! What info do you want to hold? Where will it be stored? Do we set up remote access so we can email reports, instantly program new credentials & delete lost credentials?

Credential Format: High or Low Security? The change from one format to another requires changes in readers and fobs.

Here is a checklist of things you should consider before asking for an Access Control quote

• Do you require high-level or low-level security?
• Do you have an existing access control system that needs replacing/upgrading or is it a new installation?
• Should the access control database be in the cloud or on-site PC?
• Do you want 24/7 monitoring? Know when the system is tempered with, has power failures or low battery levels, so issues can be resolved quickly?
• Do you need lift level control? Only go to your level in the lift.
• Do you need to integrate with existing CCTV or Intercom systems?
• Do you need to integrate with planned / future CCTV or Intercom systems?
• How important is a quick turnaround for fob/remote control orders?
• How important is a quick turnaround for fob/remote control cancellations?
• Does a Site Manager/Property/OC Manager require remote system access?
• Where is a secure place for the access control hardware?
• In case there is a power interruption, would you like to avail of UPS (uninterrupted power supply)?
• Would you like the system to be maintained and the warranty extended?
• For Body Corporate: Who pays for new credentials? Will the OC contribute?
• Will some readers have Bluetooth / code pads / multi-format?
• Do you want to add more controlled doors?
• Will the garage remotes form part of the access control system?
• Will you allow mobile credentials? For all or some?

Yes, there is a lot to consider, and there is a lot more than listed above. Engage an expert in your design process to ensure you get it right.