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Market shift to biometric security

In a market in which as much as a quarter of people are unemployed, the issue of crime perpetuated against business remains a concern. It is a primary influence behind the rollout of biometric solutions to accurately identify people and effectively control access.

Teryl Schroenn

Teryl Schroenn, CEO of Accsys, says there is a definite shift in the market towards biometric technology. “Traditional systems, including cards, are still in use, but there is a shift in the market towards biometrics. Fingerprint technology still dominates the market. It is very much like the fax versus e-mail situation – businesses still use faxes to communicate, but it is the exception and not the norm,” says Schroenn.

“The reason for the growth of biometric technology is because it is cost-effective, accurate and not easily compromised,” Schroenn continues. “Fingerprint algorithms can be manipulated, but it is extremely difficult and fingerprints are still considered the most accurate way to identify people. Many thought that palm technology would overtake that of fingerprint identification, but that is not a noticeable trend in South Africa.”

Schroenn also points to the use of photographs and application of facial recognition technology as part of access control systems. One finds evidence of this with international travel, for example.

However, the issue of hygiene still impacts on user behaviour when it comes to technology systems. In environments where hygiene is of concern, such as within a hospital or corporate business, there is still reluctance by people to use technology which is based primarily on touch, and this is where the reduction in cost of face technology is starting to impact. Looking ahead Schroenn believes biometric technology will be used extensively to control sensitive areas of a business – such as those that regulate data or money, for example.

While there are many products and solutions currently available in the marketplace, Accsys warns decision makers to conduct a thorough review of sellers, their track record and the existence of a sales structure.

“Ultimately it is not only the product that is being purchased, but the offer and guarantee of service and support. Consider your business requirements first and then inspect the credentials of prospective service providers,” Schroenn says.

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