In a 2020 study, experts projected that nearly 5 million people around the world would be using coworking spaces by 2024. This estimate seems to become a reality as more and more entrepreneurs, freelancers, startups, and digital nomads seek out safe spaces that prioritize convenience and productivity. As the owner or operator of a coworking space, the door entry system you choose is critical to meeting those criteria and creating an environment where professionals feel both welcome and secure.
While traditional door entry systems—like turnstiles and keys—remain on the market, they’re usually less than an ideal for a coworking space, where people come and go at all hours. To stay competitive and meet customer expectations and preferences, coworking spaces need automated door entry systems that offer a simple, reliable experience for members and reduce overhead.
Whether you’re starting a new coworking space and investigating your door entry options or hoping to upgrade the existing system in an outdated building, understanding what’s available is a crucial first step. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the ins and outs of door entry systems, including why you need one and how to choose the best solution for your coworking space.
The advantages of using a door entry system for your coworking space #
The goal of a good door entry system is to make life easier for all parties: You, your staff, and your members. Depending on the type of system you choose, you can also achieve several other benefits.
24/7 monetization #
Deploying a door access control system allows you to get the maximum value from your space. Rather than limiting your hours of operation, you can allow members to enter at any time of day or night, even with the same number of employees. You can also connect it with your coworking management software to offer this unlimited access as a premium or add-on feature based on the membership package.
Another option is to extend your door entry system beyond your main entrance, increasing your revenue by offering access to meeting rooms, private offices, and event spaces. This enables you to fully utilize your available space, customizing permissions so members and guests can pay for the spaces they need when they need them.
Unmanning spaces #
Employing security teams and assistants for a coworking space can quickly get expensive, particularly if your space is open around the clock. With a modern door entry system, constant coverage is no longer necessary because you can fully automate, control, and monitor entries and exits remotely. When security or administrative personnel are on site, they can focus their attention on improving the member experience and building an amazing coworking community rather than worrying about repeatedly unlocking doors or modifying access permissions.
Data analysis and reporting #
Unlike traditional door entry systems, modern solutions can track the number of visitors who enter and exit a locked space at any given time. This real-time tracking and reporting empowers better decision-making for your space. For example, based on what you learn about member patterns and space utilization, you might consider extending or modifying hours of availability, developing new premium access levels based on space usage, investing into and promoting especially profitable rooms, or reinventing less used spaces.
Types of door entry systems for coworking spaces #
Owners and managers of coworking spaces have several options to consider when selecting a door entry system. While they all achieve the same basic purpose—allowing members to unlock doors–they offer very different levels of security, convenience, and control, as well as monetization possibilities.
Mobile access #
Mobile-based access control systems have completely transformed door entry systems, making them more secure, convenient, and flexible. If you deploy a door access control solution with a mobile app, you can issue temporary permissions to guests, make changes to membership levels, and grant access to visitors quickly and remotely.
Entry is seamless and fast for all membership groups. They can use their mobile device, such as an Apple Watch or phone, to unlock the door simply by opening the Kisi app before approaching the entrance. Rather than digging out a key, membership card, or fob, they can then tap on the door and it will immediately open for them.
Some coworking software integrate with mobile access solutions, like Kisi, so you can enable members to use your coworking app for door entry. Badges in Apple Wallet are another modern access method where members don’t need an additional door app.
QR codes #
Coworking spaces are increasingly adopting QR codes for door entry systems due to their convenience, familiarity, and enhanced security features. QR codes provide a seamless, contactless entry method that is both user-friendly and efficient. Members can simply scan a code using their smartphones, eliminating the need for physical keys or cards, which can be easily lost or forgotten.
Coworking spaces with a diverse set of users and high turnover can especially benefit from QR code entry stems. It simplifies access management, allowing operators to quickly grant or revoke entry permissions without the hassle of physically collecting and issuing keys, cards, or fobs.
Additionally, QR code entry systems offer robust security advantages. Each QR code can be uniquely generated for individual members, with customizable expiration times and usage logs. This granular control helps prevent unauthorized access and allows space managers to monitor and report on who enters and exits the premises.
Integration with existing digital infrastructure, such as coworking software, further enhances operational efficiency. For instance, members can receive their entry codes via email or an app, streamlining the check-in process and ensuring that only those with active memberships gain access. Access rights can also be granted based on membership levels.
Enable seamless QR access and management with the Kisi Terminal Pro
Ensure frictionless entry while reducing overhead with seamless unlock and check-in methods, including QR codes.
Turnstiles and speed gates #
Turnstiles are physical barriers that prevent members from entering a space. Some turnstiles, such as speed gates, can incorporate cards or QR code readers for faster access, but others require an on-site employee to allow entry or buzz in a visitor.
In addition to offering less convenience than other door entry systems, turnstiles are also less aesthetically appealing and could suggest that the building isn’t up-to-date. This, in turn, could dissuade potential members from using your coworking space.
Key fobs and membership cards #
Coworking spaces often choose keycards and fobs for door entry systems because they are familiar and easy to use. These physical tokens are simple to carry and provide quick, intuitive access, minimizing entry delays during busy times.
Key cards and fobs, while affordable, are also problematic because members can exchange, lose, or forget them. Some membership cards include barcodes that members scan before entering the space. Others use RFID or NFC technology, which is more versatile and effective because it allows for enhanced control and stores user information.
