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Modern-day access control systems utilise electronic components to deliver a seamless keyless experience. Users and guests can enjoy an efficient, secure, and flexible solution that regulates who has access to different areas within your building or facility. The ability to monitor who enters and leaves the premises, and when, helps keep your business and property safe; it also lends a streamlined and professional feel to your operations.

The best door access control systems offer building operators greater functionality, flexibility, and oversight. They allow you to:

• Boost security by allowing only authorised users and visitors into certain parts of your building or facility. This reduces the chance of people accessing areas they do not hold credentials for – whether maliciously or by mistake.

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• Prevent unauthorised users, residents, visitors or guests from entering restricted areas where sensitive information, like customer data, might be stored.

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• Eliminate the need for mechanical keys, lock replacements, and complicated system configurations.

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• Choose from two primary access control solutions – cloud-based access control or on-premise access control – and different access methods.

Which are the most popular access control systems?

There is a wide range of access control systems available on the market today. One option is the use of contactless proximity smart cards or RFID cards, which are issued to authorised personnel to grant access to spaces fitted with a card reader. Card-based access control systems are a popular choice because they are easy to use; the cards can also be easily deactivated if lost or stolen. In addition, the best card access systems can provide a detailed audit trail of who has accessed specific areas and when. 

Mobile-based access control is another widely-used possibility. These systems utilise smartphones and digital technology like Bluetooth LE and NFC. They are becoming increasingly popular due to the high level of security, flexibility, and user experience they offer.

Other common access control methods include PIN code keypad access, biometric access – such as facial recognition – and access via Apple Wallet using an iPhone and Apple Watch. Each of these methods boasts its own strengths and can be applied to different use cases but, ultimately, the choice of which method to implement will depend on the specific needs of the facility and organisation.

Choosing the best access control systems for businesses

Selecting the access control system best suited for your business depends on many factors, including use case, security needs, technology, integrations, installation size, and cost. The key is finding the right balance between your needs, project specifications, operational requirements, and functionality. Ultimately, the goal is to allow users to enter buildings when necessary while keeping unauthorised guests out of off-limits floors, zones, and spaces altogether – all while streamlining management to digitise your building operations.

Access control systems are an essential part of any business or building operations and security. They allow you to keep track of who is coming into your building, where they're going, and how long they have been inside. This can help ensure that unauthorised people cannot gain access to sensitive areas of your facility.

Take a look at the 10 features to consider when selecting an access control solution:

1. Access methods and ID management. How do I manage access rights, methods, and permissions in a select access control system?
2. Security requirements. What level of security do you need?
3. Facility needs. What is the size and layout of your facility, the number of people who need access, and the type of assets you want to protect?
4. User needs. What are the needs and preferences of the users and visitors who will be accessing the facility? Consider factors such as ease of use, access method, and operator needs.
5. Integration. Does the access control system need to integrate with other security systems, such as video surveillance or alarms, or to extend access control to elevators?
6. Scalability. Will the system need to accommodate future growth or changes in your facility?
7. Compatibility. Does the system work with your existing doors and IT infrastructure? Retrofit installation requirement that prioritizes existing doors.
8. Cost. What is your budget, including installation and ongoing maintenance costs?
9. Maintenance and support. What level of maintenance and support does the brand provide? Do they offer a warranty or service agreement? 
10. Compliance. Does the access control system comply with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) criteria, cybersecurity and environmental regulations, and all other relevant certifications and standards for your industry or location?

At SALTO Systems, our certified security partners can give you all the information you need to determine the ideal access control system for your needs. But, before making your decision, here are a few other tips to help you pick the best access control system:

• Don't rely on the cheapest option – it may cause more problems in the long run. 
• Don't underestimate the importance of user training and support. 
• Avoid access control systems that are not scalable or flexible enough to meet your future needs.
• Avoid access control systems that don’t adapt to your needs, existing infrastructure, and existing doors.
• Avoid access control solutions that don't comply with GDPR or cybersecurity requirements and environmental policies.
• Don’t choose an access control system that cannot adapt to different access points or doors, or those which require wiring and entail high hidden costs.

The top access control system solution

This is not an easy question to answer, but SALTO Systems’ product and service offerings certainly stand out. We offer a broad range of solutions, including stand-alone card-based access control systems, mobile access solutions, and wireless locking systems including cloud-based or on-premise access control solutions. 

One of our unique features is our use of wireless smart access technology and HW customization capabilities – allowing our wire-free systems to be easily installed and configured without the need for extensive wiring or infrastructure additions.

SALTO’s best-in-class access control systems also offer a range of advanced features such as real-time monitoring, remote access control, audit trails, and different keyless access methods.

We are well known for our innovative approach to access control, and our solutions have been implemented successfully across a variety of industries and applications. Our robust systems are designed to be seamless, user-friendly, and flexible, allowing for easy integration with other security systems and technologies. Indeed, this is one of the reasons why so many businesses continue to trust us with all of their keyless access control needs.

Looking to learn more? Click here to discover more about SALTO’s smart locking solutions for smart building management, and follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates

In March, we visited Rebuild Expo 2023 in the Spanish capital of Madrid. The sixth annual edition of the event brought together over 22,000 visitors for a discussion on the future of construction.

Madrid’s IFEMA Conference Centre played host to Rebuild 2023 between March 28 and 30. The event’s sixth edition exceeded all expectations, welcoming a total of 22,854 attendees, including architects and engineers, residential developers and operators, who came together to share their thoughts on the future of the construction industry.

The emergence of smart buildings, which have been designed to integrate the latest technologies such as smart access and cloud-based property management solutions, has opened the door to new ways of operating multi-family assets. All signs now point to the smart access revolution making its arrival on the multi-family residential stage.

Technology and automation must bring added value to property operations 

Redefining properties as connected spaces equipped with dynamic technological services has seen new opportunities arise for property management companies in the multi-family sector. With buildings increasingly seen as innovative environments, we are now more often able to harness smart solutions to deliver an improved experience for both residents and property owners. 

The SALTO Homelok smart access platform provides a safe and convenient environment for all kinds of users, as well as virtually recording all the latest resident access information for every door on the property. 

• Improved building security thanks to extensive visibility and monitoring.
• Central key allocation management.
• Streamlined digital experience for residents.
• Seamless keyless solutions across every access point.
• Increased efficiency and reduced property management costs.
• Integrated smart living ecosystem 
• Cybersecurity and IoT convergence to reach its potential as a fully multi-family all-in-one smart access interconnected ecosystem
• Quick and easy wireless installation with minimal disruption.

Sustainability and digital transformation in multi-family real estate 

The current trend in real estate is undoubtedly evolving towards a more sustainable model based on technology and digitisation. An increasing number of new tools are enhancing the residential experience, optimising operations and saving costs, not to mention aiding sustainability. Following the latest eco-design criteria, our Environmental Product Declaration - EPD looks to incorporate renewable materials and ensure products last as long as possible in an attempt to achieve building decarbonisation. Indeed, one of the most engaging forums at the event addressed how properties are embracing digital transformation, promoting decarbonisation and looking towards circular economies.

The building and construction industries combined are currently responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions around the world, with operational emissions such as climate control and lighting accounting for some 28%. Rebuild 2023 underlined the increasing demand from architects, developers, property managers and operators, who are all now looking to harness new technology and materials to minimise emissions. The event boasts huge potential in the fact it brings together all the agents throughout the building process value chain. This setting of transformational exploration is the perfect chance for networking among a wide variety of attendees.

Learn how SALTO Homelok technology is transforming the management of Multi-family, Coliving and BTR properties

The multi-family residential market is changing rapidly as products and services are increasingly going digital. Modern residents demand connected homes and units fitted with all the latest technology. Of course, smart living is about far more than simple access control–it extends to the creation of a fully connected building ecosystem that functions according to each property’s needs, whether that be a multi-family block, a single-family home, vacation rental, coliving or assisted living establishment. As a widely recognised global market leader in smart electronic access control solutions, SALTO is well-positioned to help drive innovation in multifamily dwellings and provide the experience demanded by both residents and building owners.

Benefits of SALTO Homelok

The SALTO Homelok is the perfect example, with a wealth of smart building expertise and ground-breaking innovation. It delivers a unique combination of flexibility and control built around the following five value propositions:

1. Streamlines operations to boost operational efficiency.
2. Enhances residents’ digital access experience.
3. Future-proof cloud-based SVN smart standalone access-driven hybrid technology without the need for infrastructure.
4. Enables a complete smart building ecosystem.
5. Guarantees end-to-end security, safety and privacy.

Designed specifically for the residential market, SALTO Homelok is an all-in-one solution that integrates smart access control technology, hardware, cloud software, digital keys and more to implement a comprehensive smart living ecosystem.

To find out more about SALTO Homelok and what it can do for you and your property, get in touch with our team today.

Follow SALTO Systems on LinkedIn or Instagram to keep up with the latest news in the world of access control.

SALTO offers an access solution and door handles options that blends seamlessly into your hotel’s interior design.

SALTO specializes in providing you hospitality solutions with the perfect finish. Functional and stylish, SALTO access solutions help ensure your overall design style is upheld down to the smaller details, enhancing the guest experience.

Your hotel is special. It has a unique character, personality, and ambiance that guests will respond to positively. SALTO is the perfect finishing touch to this, providing you with an aesthetic catered specifically to your needs.

We understand the importance of access solutions. SALTO's refined design and craftsmanship is meant to be integrated seamlessly into any space. It offers a variety of options to fine-tune the mood for your hotel's interior design.

The SALTO products and accessories are designed to complement the brand, style, and expression of your hotel. We make them with you in mind, because that’s what matters. SALTO design handles and finishes are integrated with our access control solutions to combine style with reliable security and flexibility.

Partners, interior designers and architects can choose from an extensive range of finishes, door handles and door lock accesories from world-leading designers to complement your property’s image and door type.

Choose the reader finish & handle designs that best fits your hotel style

Stylish design is part of SALTO’s DNA, so when it comes to selecting handles for your doors we believe you should be able to choose from the very best available.

When it comes to integrating smart and seamless access solutions into key areas of the hotel including room interior design, corridors, and business areas, you can trust SALTO to deliver your perfect fit. 

Visualize your next project

The SALTO MyLock configurator lets specifiers, architects, partners, and end users design and choose locks and products to see how they will look on different door types and styles.

With the SALTO MyLock online configuration tool, you can select an electronic lock model and door type and customise your selection with a range of colours, finishes, and handle options.

Modern Hotel interior design - Oakwood Premier Hotel

The Oakwood Premier in Melbourne offers luxury accommodation for corporate travellers - a sophisticated place to stay, work and entertain. Guests can choose a room or serviced apartment, and use the co-working space, boardrooms, bars, lounges, 40th floor fine dining restaurant, and Technogym. The Oakwood Premier wants to be the preferred destination for business travellers looking for luxury and service.

Tell us your style and project, and SALTO will match you with the right designer handle and door hardware to create a design that fits your personality. Follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates.

In today's world, access control is an essential part of any building's operations and security system. Smart access solutions have also evolved with the increasing need for smart buildings and the rise of cloud-based technology. However, choosing the right access control solution can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider, including cost, use case, installation size, technology, integrations, and security. 

Building operators can choose from two primary access control solutions: cloud-based access control and on-premise access control. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between the two and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each. 
 

Cloud-based access control solutions 

Cloud-based access control solutions (ACaaS - Access Control as a Service ) store the software and all the data in the cloud. The cloud-based system allows administrators to manage and control access to their facilities, devices, and data from anywhere with an internet connection. These solutions are becoming more popular because they offer flexibility, scalability, future-proof integration capabilities, and cost savings.

Cloud-based access control solutions are hosted on remote cloud servers. This means that system operators can manage their installation from anywhere with an internet connection – and with no need for any physical infrastructure. These solutions typically involve the use of software as a service (SaaS) platforms to ensure that they are secure and up to date, which offer a range of benefits to organisations, including:

• Scalability: Cloud-based access control solutions are highly scalable, which means that buildings can easily add or remove users, locations, or other resources as needed. 
• Flexibility: One of the significant advantages of cloud-based access control is that the cloud service provider is responsible for maintaining the infrastructure. This means that organisations do not have to worry about maintaining the hardware or software required to run the access control system, increasing flexibility and system capabilities.
• Cost-effectiveness: Cloud-based access control solutions often require lower upfront costs than on-premise solutions, as they do not require organisations to purchase and maintain expensive hardware, physical infrastructure and software. 
• Integration capabilities: With cloud-based access control solutions, organisations can easily integrate their access control systems with other cloud-based services, such as video surveillance, intercom, visitor management, PMS, or intrusion detection systems. 
• Ease of use: Cloud-based access control solutions are typically designed with user-friendliness in mind, which means that they are easy to set up, configure, and use.
   

On-premise access control solutions 

On-premise access control is an access control solution where the access control infrastructure is installed and managed on-site by the organisation, with an IT Infrastructure hosted on-site. The solution consists of hardware and software installed on the organisation's servers and is accessed through a local network. 

One of the significant advantages of on-premise access control is that organisations have complete control over the solution – including the security of the infrastructure. This means that organisations can customise the solution to meet their specific security requirements. On-premise access control solutions offer many other benefits, including:

• Enhanced security: These access control solutions offer enhanced security as all access control data is stored within the organisation's own network and infrastructure, which means that there are fewer points of vulnerability. 
• Performance: On-premise access control is not dependent on an internet connection. This makes the solution more reliable and less susceptible to outages caused by internet connectivity issues.
• Control: With on-premise access control solutions, organisations have greater control over their access control systems – they can customise these systems to meet their specific security requirements. 
• Customisation: On-premise access control solutions can be customised to meet the specific needs of organisations, which means that they can be tailored to meet the unique requirements of different industries or organisations. 
• Compatibility: On-premise access control solutions are often designed to be compatible with a range of other security systems and hardware, which means that organisations can integrate them with other building management systems technologies.
   

Cloud-based vs. on-premise access control: Which is right for your organisation?

When choosing between cloud-based and on-premise access control solutions, there are several factors to consider. These include the size of the organisation, the number of locations, the industry application, the security requirements, and the integration capabilities. 

For small organisations with limited IT resources or an organisation with multiple locations, a cloud-based access control solution may be the most practical option. This is because cloud-based solutions require minimal hardware and software maintenance, reducing the burden on the organisation's IT staff. 

For larger organisations with more complex security requirements, an on-premise access control solution may be the better choice. On-premise solutions offer not only more customisation options but greater control over the entire security infrastructure.
 

SALTO’s innovative smart access solutions

SALTO offers smart access control solutions for businesses and organisations. We provide three main smart access control platforms: SALTO Space on-premise, as well as SALTO KS and Homelok cloud-based solutions.

SALTO Space:  A standalone, virtually networked, wired, and wireless online smart access control data-on-card platform.

SALTO Space is a fully-integrated, stand-alone, wire-free, smart-locking platform and web-based software management tool, with an on-premise system that brings seamless access to every door in any building in an efficient, safe, and secure way. It is a flexible and scalable access control solution that can be customised to meet the specific needs of each customer. It provides a high level of security, ease of use, and control over access to buildings and rooms.  

SALTO Space on-premise is ideal for organisations that require advanced access control functionality but prefer to manage the system on their own hosted servers. SALTO Space combines the reliability, security, and scalability of an on-premise access control solution, with the flexibility and availability of stand-alone, SVN-powered, and networked smart electronic lock technology.

SALTO KS: Scalable and flexible cloud-based smart access control solution, with best-in-class real-time capabilities.

SALTO KS (KaaS: Keys as a Service) is a scalable cloud-based Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) solution, built to fit anything from small and midsize businesses to large enterprises and multi-site organisations. It is designed to be user-friendly and easy to manage, with a simple web interface that allows administrators to manage access – from anywhere, at any time. 

SALTO KS is ideal for businesses that want a turnkey access control solution that can be easily scaled up or connected to a third-party system. SALTO KS smart access solution offers multiple ways of opening doors, including digital keys. It supports a wide range of smart, keyless access methods to improve user experience and the security of any type of building or door. It also delivers advanced security features on a fully remote and wireless cloud-based smart access management platform.

SALTO Homelok: All-in-one cloud-based smart access solution for residential living.

SALTO Homelok is a smart access solution that offers managers and owners a convenient and secure way to control access, improving security across all types of residential properties. A comprehensive and cloud-based smart access control solution, it includes both hardware and advanced software technology for the residential, multi-family, and smart-living industries. 

Homelok provides a smart, modern, easy-to-install and maintain electronic locking solution without the cost and complexity of traditional mechanical access control methods, including Apple Wallet. It is designed to secure every part of any type of residential property – from apartment unit doors to perimeter access points and common areas.

Make the best selection

Choosing between cloud-based and on-premise access control solutions can be a difficult decision, as both types of solutions offer their own unique benefits. Ultimately, the best solution for your organisation, property, or building type will depend on a range of factors, including your security requirements, use case, keyless entry method, and IT infrastructure. 

However, by considering the benefits of each type of solution, you can make an informed decision that will help you protect your facility's critical assets. With the right access control solution, you can bring smart building management into a new era of capabilities, including keyless entry, remote opening, and flexible access scenarios; users, staff, visitor, and resident access management, and more efficient building security and operations management.
 

Looking to learn more? Click here to discover more about SALTO’s smart locking solutions for smart building management, and follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for the latest updates.

Discover how we at SALTO are celebrating International Women’s Day, and the actions we take to promote equality all year round.

8 March marks the annual celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD). Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1975, this commemoration is an opportunity for our global community to stop and reflect on women’s social, economic, and political achievements. It’s also a time to reexamine the obstacles we must overcome to achieve gender equality. 

At SALTO Systems, we strive to do our part in creating a more just world where everyone is provided the same opportunities and resources. That’s why, in honour of IWD 2023, we’re taking stock of the initiatives we’ve created to promote equality in our organisation and community. 

Social responsibility in the tech sector

This year’s celebration of International Women’s Day comes with an important theme, as established by the UN: ‘DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality’. The goal is to address the global inequalities that exist within the world of technology – including access to internet and digital education – and to celebrate the women who are already leading the tech revolution.

In our modern world, we’re increasingly dependent on internet-powered interactions. Everything is backed by tech, from attending work meetings to calling loved ones, making a purchase, booking a doctor’s appointment, or even unlocking our front doors. More and more daily activities are being digitalised and automated in order to make our lives better and more efficient.

Yet, in 2022, an estimated 37% of women around the world still don’t use the internet, according to the ITU. But the same isn’t true for men: roughly 259 million fewer women have access to the internet than men, even though they account for nearly half the world's population.

As a leader in the tech sector, SALTO believes we have a social responsibility to empower and celebrate women in the digital sphere.

Sustainable Development Goal #5: Gender Equality

Gender equality has become a hot topic in the last few decades. The issue has sparked meaningful conversations amongst governments, organisations, and individuals on the best ways to promote equity. The United Nations lists Gender Equality as Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #5, aiming to empower women and end all forms of gender discrimination by 2030. 

SALTO supports SDG #5, paying close attention to issues like women’s employment and access to leadership roles.

DEI and ESG at SALTO

We believe gender equality fits into the greater picture of intersectional social progress. However, it can only be tackled by firm DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. DEI is a key part of our ESG (environmental, social, and corporate governance) strategy – reflected in both our company policies and the activities we participate in throughout the year.

Our interpretation of DEI translates into the following policies:

• Diversity: our employees reflect a wide range of attributes, views, identities, and backgrounds;
• Equity: all employees in the company receive adequate support and opportunities for growth; and
• Inclusion: every employee feels respected, valued, and safe at SALTO.

For SALTO, these policies act as not only promoters of equality and peace, but also drivers of innovation, productivity, and growth.

We also spearhead various social responsibility initiatives, including but not limited to:

• The Corporate Equality Plan, aimed at promoting equal opportunities and social inclusion in the workplace;
• Robust safety and security measures, including comprehensive training, information, and supervision; and
• Health and sports initiatives, including the SALTO Running & Cycling Team and Free2Move.org, our in-house program empowering disabled athletes to reach their goals.

Our commitment to the SDGs>

In September 2015, all 193 UN member states agreed to adopt the 17 official SDGs. In 2020, SALTO Systems joined its ranks, making a commitment to promote progress by becoming a member of the Global Compact. 

This pledge implies a promise to align our operations with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour-safety standards, the environment, and the fight against corruption. With this move, SALTO joined thousands of companies worldwide in carrying out corporate actions, policies, and practices that help to create a better world.

SALTO takes this responsibility very seriously. In addition to our strong policies on DEI and gender equality, we’ve achieved ISO 14001 certification. We are also ranked Silver by EcoVadis and have become 100% carbon neutral at our factory and in all offices across the world. These are significant steps in making keyless, smart access technology more sustainable.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating International Women’s Day now and every day by embracing policies and initiatives that promote equality, progress, and a better future.

Check out our official webpage to discover more about SALTO’s keyless security solutions. Keep up with the latest news in the world of access control by following us on Linkedin and Instagram.

#SaltoSystems #EmbraceEquity #DigitAll

It has been a big year for SALTO Systems, and we’re proud to share our biggest achievements with you.

From launching a variety of innovative products to spearheading new platforms and solutions, as well as serving a greater range of industries, 2022 has been a testament to what we can achieve through our continued inspiration, dedication, and passion.

This year, we also witnessed tremendous growth within the SALTO group of companies and reaffirmed our commitment to sustainability, recognizing our social responsibility to build a better world. We are grateful for our 2022 successes and are hopeful for what lies ahead in the coming year. 

New Product Launches

XS4 Original+

We started the year with the newest addition to the SALTO lock family: the XS4 Original+. This universally compatible electronic lock is the latest evolution of our flagship product, the XS4 Original. It features:

• a newer, more advanced chipset 
• improved functionality
• the most cutting-edge technologies
• a sleek, beautiful design with a flat reader now available in two colors

Read more about the XS4 Original+ product launch here.

The next-generation XS4 Original+ takes all you love about the world’s most trusted, flexible smart locking solution and future-proofs it with the latest technology to elevate door security and access control for our customers and partners around the world.

First Online Electronic Cylinder Configurator

Up next, we added the powerful and versatile Neo Cylinder to our online MyLock configuration tool. With this move, we effectively launched the first online configurator for electronic cylinders on the market. 

Now, architects, project managers, and our partners can access the largest range of matching door hardware finishes, with vast options for finishes and accessories to turn any door into a secure, electronically-operated smart access point. It is also quite flexible, incorporating an array of door standards, product configurations, and architectural styles to meet any design or aesthetic demand.

You can learn more about our launch here.

FSC-Certified Wooden Guest Key Cards

Furthermore, we took yet another step into the world of sustainability with the release of our eco-friendly, FSC-certified Eco Guest Key Cards. Made from wood fiber, they allow us to play an active role in reducing plastic waste. 

Read more about our Eco Guest Key Cards here.

Our innovative wooden key cards give our partners in the hospitality industry a viable alternative to traditional plastic key cards and allow them to provide their guests with a stress-free, socially-conscious experience.

Access Control Platform and Solutions

SALTO Homelok

After transforming smart access control in the corporate, academic, healthcare, workspaces and hospitality industries, SALTO turned its eye to residential applications with the launch of our new SALTO Homelok platform. 2022 was the perfect time for this release as more and more people start to embrace safe, convenient smart home living.

SALTO Homelok is a compact smart access solution that sets a new standard for residential living. 

It also generates an abundance of benefits for our residential, multi-family and smart-living business partners, including:

• Easy installation, use and maintenance
• Simple, convenient and safe access via keycard, smartphone and even Apple Wallet
• Suitability for any property type, from single-family or multi-family residences to vacation rentals and more
• Boosted operational efficiency by making property management simpler and more convenient
• Guaranteed security, safety and privacy, even for your data
• Enhanced digital access experience for residents
• Ability to enable the smart living ecosystem in any home or multi-family residential building. 

Discover more about our SALTO Homelok launch in this post.

SALTO KS 200,000 online locks & ISO 27001 certified

SALTO KS successfully surpassed 200,000 locks online. his is a result of hard work and dedication on behalf of the entire team, SALTO Business Units, our Technology Partners, and everyone involved in selling and installing SALTO KS at impressive sites around the world.

In other news, SALTO KS renewed its ISO 27001 certification. This confirms our cloud-based, smart access solution’s commitment to high data protection standards, conforming to the industry’s best practices.

Read more about SALTO KS ISO 27001 certification here.

SALTO Space and Gantner NET.Lock Integration

SALTO revolutionised smart access yet again by teaming up with leading RFID/NFC solutions developer, Gantner. Recognising that smart storage lockers are pivotal to the modern workplace, we went to work developing smart lockers that are convenient and easy to use. 

The result? We fully integrated SALTO Space with the Gantner NET.Lock system to provide smart keyless storage space for mid to large-size locker installations requiring a comprehensive locker management solution with maximum convenience and real-time management. By using pre-existing staff ID cards as locker keys, the resulting electronic lock system has proven to be the most powerful in the market. We’re glad to report that this solution can securely manage many different storage systems, among them:

• Staff lockers
• Office furniture
• Storage rooms
• Parcel locker system

Explore our smart access solution with Gantner here.

Industries

SALTO continues to raise the bar with our industry-specific solutions, which continue to create positive results for our customers and partners. 

In hospitality, we worked with St. Falls Ski Resort based in Australia to set up over 90 access points for the 40-boutique-apartment hideaway. We overcame the challenge of an old legacy access control system by replacing it with our premier SALTO Space Hospitality Solution.

Read more about our solution for St. Falls Ski Resort here.

Moreover, we successfully implemented integrated smart access solutions for Salon Lane, a coworking space for beauty professionals in Sydney. We also launched our Technology Partner Program for companies looking for a complete smart building experience.

Company Group News

In 2022, the SALTO group of companies grew by leaps and bounds in a variety of ways. Our expansion was sparked mainly by the acquisition of Cognitec Systems, a leading innovator in automated facial recognition, and Bluefield Smart Access, where we now have a major stake.

SALTO also had a major showing at ESSEN 2022, the German biennial trade show. It was a wonderful opportunity for all our companies to meet face-to-face again after a long time apart. 

Read about ESSEN 2022 here.  

We further expanded our operations in the Asia-Pacific region and opened up new XSperience Centres in Germany, Portugal, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, and Australia - our new innovation hub in Melbourne.  

Now, SALTO Systems has a diverse mix of 1,500 people from 80 countries working in over 40 offices around the world - we are proud to be creating the smart building of the future.

ESG and Sustainability

SALTO is proud to announce that we have effectively achieved carbon neutrality across our group of companies. In 2022, we successfully offset CO2 emissions in all our offices and factories - a big step towards a carbon-free future.

Discover SALTO’s ESG commitment here.

We received a Silver classification in the EcoVadis global evaluation program, ranking among the top 25% of companies for our sustainability policies and initiatives. 

Read more about our Silver EcoVadis classification here.

SALTO also continued its focus on sustainability with various initiatives, including our sponsorship of Free2Move.org. This is in line with our mission to adopt sustainable models that generate meaningful environmental and social impacts.

Thank you 2022…welcome 2023

All in all, 2022 has been a year of growth, progress, and greater social responsibility. Apart from all the milestones we have achieved, we are proud to have provided effective solutions that meet our customers’ and partners’ specific needs. We may not know what lies ahead, but we are already looking forward to all 2023 will bring!

Season's greetings and Happy Holidays to you!

Csuites is the first premium flexible workplace in Asia that is designed to facilitate the need of enterprises with a large team of 50 to 200 members. The workspace solution caters to small and medium enterprises, enabling shorter leases, immediate move-ins, as well as security and sustainability credentials. Csuites aims to provide the benefits of a coworking space but with the quality and comfort of a next-generation enterprise space that would otherwise be forced to take a traditional lease. 

Csuites aims to create an environment that promotes corporate innovation, collaboration, well-being, and growth amongst its members. They are also mindful of the impact on people and the future and are consciously committed to lowering their carbon footprint through a mix of sustainable design and strategies.

Read on to find out how the integration between SALTO’s cloud-based access control solution SALTO KS, and Office RnD, the provider of software solutions that power flexible working, has helped Csuites reach their goal of offering high-end technical solutions that enhance their coworking member experience.

Csuites was looking for a cloud-based solution that could integrate with their space management tools and allow the operations team to manage access easily. The access control solution Csuites was looking for had to be secure, user-friendly, and seamless. Also, the solution SALTO offers (SALTO KS) includes the Digital Key feature, which aligns with Csuites’ vision of providing a seamless experience for their members, where they can have all their workplace needs within their mobile app, including opening doors.

The integration setup with OfficeRnD is really easy and seamless. The integration allows their Member Experience team to easily set up the door access and manage everything member-related in one single platform. They rarely have to go into the SALTO KS admin portal once the access group is set up. This makes the operation procedure easy and such a time saver so that the Csuites team has time to focus on what matters.

As Csuites is catered for corporates, they have to ensure that the fit-out quality and technology are progressive and the best in class. The design, layout, and amenities of the space also have to be catered to the need of their target market, which is spacious, with ample natural sunlight, and different types of workstations to enhance focus and collaborative work.

Csuites has been built with a people-centric design in mind. One area championing is wellness in the workspace. The office suites feature sound-dampening walls, and noise-canceling duct works to reduce the sound emanating from utility pipes. Another wellness aspect is the variety of work desks in each office suite, which include sit-stand desks, team tables, and desks along the windows.

The technology guiding principles are based on our customers’ needs. Taking into consideration that large corporates generally have preferred technologies. As such, the technology they have in place needs to be agnostic and seamless. Shared meeting rooms and event spaces will need to be equipped with high-quality audio and visual technology. Security is a big concern for most corporates. Therefore, Csuites need a reliable, safe, and secure physical space powered by technology. 

Some of the key design features of Csuites:

• Ultra-low power lighting of 4.3 W/m2, more than 50% reduction vs SS530:2014
• All water fittings in the project are rated 3 ticks under PUB Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme
• Acoustical Treatment: All office suites and meeting rooms are sound-proofed, and feature noise-canceling duct works to ensure maximum privacy and minimal distraction
• The base building is awarded Green Mark Platinum. 
• Active Workspace Elements: height-adjustable desks, high-quality ergonomic furniture and fixtures, and a diverse workplace typology to meet the needs of today’s dynamic workforce
• Biophilic Design: Full glass ceiling-to-floor facades provide an abundance of natural lighting, while natural elements such as wood and ample plants create a healthy, green, and well-ventilated space
• Extensive use of materials certified by the Singapore Green Building Council and Singapore Green Labelling Scheme 

Companies looking for new workspaces today want places with services that can better support their employees, and there is a major focus on well-being, talent attraction, and enhanced productivity.

About 35% of the total floor area at Csuites has been set aside for communal spaces that encourage people to interact. On the fifth floor is a fully serviced reception, and the common area for tenants will feature a café managed by ‘Huggs’, an event space for up to 150 people, as well as a variety of informal collaboration spaces. These are places where members can work at their leisure and where they can additionally hold informal meetings.

Each office suite has at least one meeting room, depending on its size, but other meeting rooms and a boardroom can be booked through a dedicated mobile application for members of Csuites. The app is designed by London-based space management platform OfficeRnD and allows Csuites tenants to unlock workspaces they have booked with their mobile phones.

Csuites also maps out heavily booked areas and collect data on space utilization rates throughout the workspace. By having data about how many people are in the space and what time they are there, they can get a sense of which areas are popular and which aren’t. Csuites will use the data to better furnish the spaces that are used more frequently, with more seats or work desks to better meet demand usage there.

Csuites is the first in Asia to provide premium, flexible workplace options for larger enterprises. They have 10 suites available, and each will be supported by additional hot-desking and flexible workspaces when required. Walls between the office suites can be removed to create a larger office space for larger-sized groups. 

The 10 private suites range from 50, 75, 95, and 170 people. Each office is equipped with 1.5-meter sit/stand desks, ergonomic chairs, lockers, indoor plants (to provide good air quality), and a utility area for storage and printer. The office also comes with ensuite meeting rooms with excellent acoustic treatment. One-third of our space is allocated for common shared amenities like a board room, event spaces, nursing mothers room, multi-faith room, first aid room, phone booths, shared meeting room, cafe, and pantries (including fridge and cabinet allocated for each office, instead of a shared fridge as you normally see in coworking spaces).

Traditionally coworking spaces provide a pedestal under the table, which restricts the movement and space one can have. Csuites provides lockers in the office, freeing up the workstation, and there are no table legs between a cluster of work desks to draw the distance between two members closer to promote collaboration. 

The design and the amenities allow larger corporations to network with other companies of similar scale. This might be quite new to the corporates that usually have their own traditional office, with no option of networking with other people aside from their colleagues.

As Csuites is also the only flexible workplace in Singapore that clinched Singapore Green Mark for Healthier Workplaces Platinum certification in 2020, which recognizes sustainable and resource-efficient solutions, SALTO is even more proud to have established this unique integration.

Want to learn more about how your coworking space could benefit from an access control integration that will offer your members a seamless experience? Feel free to contact our teams; they will be happy to demonstrate how SALTO can help.

We've partnered up with one of the leading coliving consultants to launch a six-part monthly blog post series. In the fifth instalment of our 6-part Coliving Blog Series, we dive into senior coliving and how shared living is a concept for all ages. Different from assisted living, senior coliving offers a solution for those who want to live an independent yet community-driven life as they age.

SALTO has been in the business of smart locks for 20 years, and we’re continually evolving to meet the needs of our clients. We believe that by understanding our users, along with the changing demographics, we can provide the best solution. 

Today, our expert coliving consultant and Community Experience Specialist  Leah Ziliak shares how the coliving demographic is shifting below: 

When you think about the term ‘shared housing’ what image comes to mind? If you’re picturing a space full of budget-conscious millennials, you’re not the only one. Search 'coliving' and you'll likely see a thousand images of 20-somethings working from laptops amongst trendy decor.

And that’s all well and good. Millennials are a great demographic for this new type of housing sector. But they’re definitely not the only demographic.

As a consultant in the coliving industry, I find there are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to coliving. People assume that shared living is only for the young…and only for those looking to save some cash. Today, we’re going to look at coliving from a different perspective. 

Remember the TV sitcom, ‘Friends’? Rachel, Ross, and the crew showed the world that living across the hall from your closest friends could be a pretty ideal scenario. But, let’s not forget, long before ‘Friends,’ we had ‘The Golden Girls’ demonstrating that aging with your friends could be pretty sweet too.

The need for a community doesn't end when you hit 30. Who's to say you can't live with an engaging group of friends well into your senior years? Coliving for seniors is of growing interest, and I believe it’s the perfect housing option for many who are looking for a sense of community as they age. And, apparently, I’m not the only one.

What is Coliving for seniors?

Let’s recap for a moment. What exactly is coliving, anyway? Coliving is one of the biggest trends in real estate at the moment. Offering a sense of community, flexibility, quality design, engaging communal spaces, and a host of extra perks and amenities, coliving enables people to live a more connected lifestyle. 

Not only is coliving great for millennials, but it’s also an obvious solution to the growing need for community-based senior living. Coliving is the future of senior housing. And here’s why:

Cost of Senior Living:

The cost of senior housing has skyrocketed over the years. According to Genworth Financial, the average cost of assisted living in the United States alone is $4,500. However, average pricing varies greatly from state to state. For example, in parts of the Northeast, the average monthly cost is over $7,000 per month.

$7,000 per month! A person could live at a resort for those prices. And, in fact, some do.

For several years I worked onboard cruise ships, and I was amazed to discover that there were quite a few ‘regular’ guests in their 60s and 70s who had given up their homes to live full-time onboard cruise ships.

Why? 

Apart from the obvious perks of travel and relaxation, it was actually cheaper for them to live onboard a floating resort than it was to move into an independent living community in the U.S.  And, with food and entertainment provided, along with a sense of camaraderie with fellow guests and crew, why wouldn't you?

While living on the high seas isn’t the best fit for many, the point is boomers are looking for alternative living solutions. And many seniors do not have the kind of funds to afford many of the assisted/independent living communities that currently exist.

Loneliness in seniors

When it comes to living scenarios, apart from affordability, one of the biggest struggles we face as we age is loneliness. According to the CDC, nearly one-fourth of adults 65+ are considered to be socially isolated. 

The impact that loneliness has on our well-being is tremendous. Social isolation increases a person's risk of premature death in staggering ways, rivaling the statistics of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. A person who is socially isolated also has a 50% increased risk of dementia.

Having social connections and a sense of community not only helps us to lead happier lives, but it also helps us have healthier, longer lives as well.

Benefits of shared housing for seniors

There are many different types of coliving that exist for all ages and all demographics; there are options for student coliving, digital nomad coliving, luxury coliving, health and wellness-based coliving, and many more.

And while the entire shared living industry is already talking about senior coliving, there honestly aren’t as many senior projects as you’d expect to see…yet. But, I predict that coliving for the 60+ demographic will be one of the biggest segments of an already rapidly growing industry. In part because it’s greatly needed, but also because there are just too many benefits to ignore.

Community/Events

Another one of the many perks of living with a group of like-minded people is the sense of community that comes along with it. Coliving spaces are designed to engage residents and create an environment where members feel at home.

Unfortunately, senior living facilities often get stuck with a bad reputation. That’s because many people still have an outdated view of what community living for retirees can look like. (Secret: there’s much more to the senior living experience than afternoon bingo and shuffleboard.) 

With coliving, events are about more than simply entertaining residents, it’s about building a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Activities are often community-led and enable a much more modern, expansive experience. Think skill shares, volunteer opportunities, language courses, happy hours, dinner parties, tech classes, and afternoon sports. (Pickleball, anyone?)

Coliving is the modern solution to senior living that many are looking for. At SALTO, we strongly believe in the power of bringing people together. Community is the key. 

Affordability

Not only does senior coliving give residents an affordable option, but it also enables them to have access to higher quality spaces that their budget might not have allowed for otherwise. 

For example, a person might not have been able to afford a pool or daily yoga classes on their own, but as a community, they can benefit from sharing these resources. From electric bicycles and a communal garden to weekly housekeeping and cinema rooms, residents have access to higher quality and more choices when it comes to spaces and amenities, leading to a higher quality of life overall. 

Another area where affordability comes into play is in terms of shared care costs. For example, the cost of a caregiver could be split amongst the residents. A particular resident might not need a full-time helper on their own, but they might benefit from assistance with chores every once in a while or help with basic medical care. 

Opportunities like this make it easier for a person to live independently as they grow older instead of moving into a more costly assisted living facility. Sometimes, an occasional helping hand makes all the difference.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is a massive benefit for seniors within coliving spaces. From an operator's point of view, management of shared spaces can be made even easier by utilizing access control systems. Offering safe, instant access with keyless entry not only enables a seamless experience, but also gives residents peace of mind.

Implementing tech also opens up a variety of options to enable more personalized perks for users. For example, some spaces offer on-demand concierge services via an app, so users can choose which amenities they’d like to add to the living experience. From food delivery and housekeeping to transportation and prescription delivery services, residents can easily select the solution that works best for them. 

For operators, this opens up opportunities to offer premium services for its members. Residents have more choices, along with a more personalized ala carte experience, while providers have the potential for additional revenue streams.

Learning Opportunities

Coliving spaces often offer a variety of learning opportunities, from skill shares to actual courses. Many spaces have an emphasis on continued personal and professional growth. The desire to learn and experience new things doesn’t leave as we grow older.

I recently read about a project at Arizona State University called Mirabella. The university created a senior living community on campus, calling it ‘the world’s coolest dorm.’ Residents have access to college courses, amenities, and activities and are invited to participate in student mentor programs. Some senior residents even conduct guest lectures and act as adjunct professors, while others volunteer with their favorite sports teams.

While a lot of these programs come with a high price tag, these university-inspired retirement communities demonstrate the value that many seniors place on continued learning and being part of a larger community. Mirabella sold out of every single unit more than a year before the project was even completed. The demand is there. 

Senior coliving spaces can provide learning opportunities both on-site as well as through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. As demonstrated at Mirabella, the opportunities that exist through multi-generational learning experiences are vast. 

Staying Healthy

An emphasis on health and wellness is a key component of most coliving spaces, and it becomes an even bigger aspect of senior living. By focusing on actively maintaining and improving the health of its residents, seniors are able to live independently for longer.

Many coliving spaces have fitness centers or classes, as well as mental well-being programs. For example, Gravity Coliving in London offers physical training sessions and nutrition masterclasses, as well as access to mental health services through their community app.

The same concepts and opportunities that we’re seeing in millennial-focused coliving can be easily adapted for senior coliving as well.

Safety/Tech

Coliving offers a sense of safety and security for its residents. In many spaces, you’ll find 24/7 CCTV, a security team, along with smart lock systems for safe, easy access. Senior coliving projects also often have convenient access to hospitals, on-call doctors, and specific safety protocols in place.

Many spaces place emphasis on technology, making sure residents are able to stay up-to-date and informed. Whether that’s teaching members basics like how to video chat or utilize voice assistance or offering more advanced classes to further their education. The modern senior is tech-savvy and connected, and coliving spaces are helping them stay that way. 

SALTO understands the importance of providing safe and convenient tech solutions to users.  By implementing tech solutions that make life easier for its residents, operators can increase retention rates and help members live independently longer. Tech solutions enable coliving operators to modernize and rethink spaces to create a more user-friendly living experience all around.  

The Future of home sharing for seniors

In the United States, where 10,000 people turn 65 every single day, the need for senior living solutions is becoming even more critical. But Americans aren’t alone in this issue. At 19%, Europe has the highest proportion of the elderly population in the world. Community-focused shared living for seniors is a strong trend that is taking place all over the world. 

With senior coliving being such a solid solution for aging adults, why aren’t there more options available in this sector? In my opinion, it’s only a matter of time before we see an influx of these kinds of projects. Coliving is still a developing real estate asset class, and as the industry expands, so will the key demographic. I believe that senior coliving is set to make waves sooner rather than later in the real estate industry.

Wishful thinking? Perhaps a little. All I know is that when I’m of retirement age, I want to live in a supportive community that prioritizes connection, and experiences and encourages growth in all areas. And, there are millions of others around the world who are of the same thought. 

For the young and the young at heart, coliving is the answer.

Don’t want to miss out on the latest from the world of access control? Follow us on LinkedIn and/or Instagram to stay up to date.

Keep an eye out for the final of our Coliving Series which will focus on coliving 2023 and where the industry is heading to. For more information on how you can offer your residents a seamless customer experience, contact our team of experts here.

Founded in 2016 SaaS (Software as a Service) Holistic Building Experience technology platform Spaceti is used by both landlords and occupiers to enhance the building experience for the users and gather and manage all of their data in one place. Spaceti was the first-place winner in the prestigious Worldwide Proptech startup competition by MIPIM in 2019. Spaceti offers its client adaptability and scalability with a range of flexible, interoperable modules allowing clients to customize their solutions based on their key-organizational priorities. And is today running in over 200 workplaces and has global coverage with localized partner support.

We are very excited to announce Spaceti as a technology partner. By integrating with our cloud-based access control solution SALTO Keys as a Service, Spaceti users are enabled to reserve meeting rooms for specific timeframes through the Spaceti Booking System and automatically get access to the rooms for the reserved times and days.

SALTO took this opportunity to ask Spaceti’s CTO & Co-founder Ondrej Plevka about the integrations’ possibilities and what he foresees for the future:

Spaceti offers a Holistic Building Experience platform and works with clients to realize their smart building development vision. Can you give us an example of how this works?

The example has 3 levels of human interaction with the smart building. 

• Passive. We collect data from sensors on occupancy, air quality, or energy consumption and show it in real-time to people or process them in our historical analytics proprietary tool. 
• Active. We enable people to book spaces (workspaces, meeting rooms, parking spaces, etc.), get context on what services the building can offer, and be a part of social features like Newsfeed or Events. 
• Interactive. People can open doors with their phones based both on static access or dynamically based on the booking of a given space. Also, they can interact with smart lockers and share their access with colleagues. Last but not least, people can call elevators from their phones.

How do you help companies to enhance their performance of spaces over time?

We provide a Workplace analytics solution that enables companies to enhance their workplace performance by using that space more effectively. Our solutions help companies to become more flexible, agile, and responsive to future changes in the workplace environment by providing a better understanding of office layouts, and patterns in utilization per department and gathering insights into employee preferences for better comfort and improve their workday performance.

What would be the ideal digital infrastructure for a company, according to Spaceti?

We believe that the ideal digital infrastructure for a company must be capable of supporting modern and secure APIs, allowing each system to be used as a building block. The ideal digital infrastructure should also be prepared to connect to a cloud and enable the business to adapt to change.

It is a well-planned digital ecosystem that maximizes the value of data, integrates internal and external systems, and offers a platform for business innovation.

You help companies with data to transform vacant areas into flexible coworking spaces. How do you feel the workplace is changed positively because of your platform?

Spaceti's data-driven approach is helping companies transform vacant areas into flexible workspaces that meet the needs of both tenants and employees. Based on a data-driven approach, we help companies identify which spaces need to be transformed and create a space that can be used for any work: from traditional offices to co-working spaces, coffee shops or restaurants, or even recording studios.

An excellent example of this transformation is The Music Station. Together with our partners, we helped Warner Music Spain create a new creative co-working environment for Warner Music employees, artists, composers, producers, and managers, providing them with a powerful tool to enhance the building and workplace experience while enabling hybrid and flexible work via the mobile app.

Read the case study here

We believe that our platform positively changes the workplace because it provides a holistic solution for companies to establish a space-efficient and cost-effective workplace environment while satisfying the needs of tenants and employees.

Do you think becoming data-driven is the only way to elevate operational efficiency for a company?

As data-driven operations have evolved, they've become a must-have in today's rapidly changing business environment because they also provide support to other parts of operations within a company.

How does the integration between Spaceti and SALTO KS help companies scale?

Spaceti integrates with SALTO KS to create a strong competitive solution for both static and dynamic keyless access based on Spaceti Booking System. The easy installation of SALTO KS, combined with its fast connection to the Spaceti mobile app, helps companies scale through simple implementation.

Can companies also integrate with your product when they would like to learn more about their use of gas, air quality management (temperature, humidity, CO2, etc.), and smart parking, for example?

Yes, we offer integration with third-party systems. Our cloud infrastructure is prepared for quick integration and provides a modern and secure API. 

Please contact one of SALTO’s sales teams for more information. They are more than happy to give you all the information you need!

Would you like to become a SALTO technology partner? Fill in this form, and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Every two years the trade fair for security in Essen, Germany, is a big part of our joint efforts to put SALTO Systems on the (security) map. With every edition, the ESSEN security fair is getting more popular. With over 1000 exhibiting companies and more than 40000 visitors for the 2022 edition, this is almost an understatement. This year’s edition in September was a special version with all the SALTO group companies present after a period of not being able to see each other face to face. 

At the Essen fair, we could see the names of the group companies proudly presented on SALTO staff sleeves. Together, the companies form a collective of solutions that fit the needs of multiple verticals. The Essen security fair was the ideal opportunity to see first-hand the latest products and technology available and provided an opportunity to network and build partnerships with members and executives in the industry. 

While combining these companies, SALTO Systems remains the heart and soul of the company: including the founders that once started a small business in lock manufacturing. The ‘small business’ SALTO Systems once was, has grown out to be an industry leader in electronic locking and smart access with market-leading positions in key geographies and a diverse range of services with, currently, not only specialized in top-notch hardware but additionally the software which makes the hardware smart. It was a very special moment to see employees of all SALTO group companies intertwine: Clay Solutions, Cognitec, Contidata, Conlan, Bluefield Smart Access, Gantner, and Danalock were among the 120 people present from SALTO!

“SALTO has significantly expanded our range of products and services over the past two years through the acquisition of several technologically-innovative companies. At Security Essen, we’ve showcased the interaction of the different solutions of our Group companies live for the first time. - Axel Schmidt, Managing Director SALTO Germany.
 

With all these specialties combined, SALTO continues to push boundaries by expanding the envelope of what is possible and how the latest and emerging technologies can be used to create keyless buildings that are smart to own, operate, and manage. Think of face recognition, smart locker- and payment solutions, license plate recognition, and cloud-based access control. Besides expanding the company with the group companies, we have been growing our solutions with technology partners. By collaborating with all these partners we continue to develop the technologies and solutions that will help customers in various industries to drive intelligent building management and smart access technologies with more integrated and streamlined keyless and contactless solutions.

If you missed us at ESSEN  make sure to join us at one of our upcoming events. For details on these events – or to learn more about us – visit our events page here.

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