Hospitality

Reimagine the guest experience with a simple, smooth check-in process that will have guests coming back to your hotel every time. Delivering a memorable guest experience is essential for any hospitality property, if not only to benefit from word-of-mouth and positive reviews on travel platforms. And while implementing a new guest check-in process can be stressful, it’s also important to note that there is a huge difference between simply registering a guest and welcoming them to your facility. Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel valued and appreciated as they arrive, check-in, and pick up their keys is the most crucial part of the guest journey. So although you might think self-check-in systems in hotels sound futuristic, remember that people have long been checking in online for flights. 

After three years of a global pandemic, the importance of digitizing the guest experience has become clear. Guests now prioritize safety and health more than ever before, and the hospitality industry has had to adapt to meet these needs. Contactless technologies, such as mobile or self-check-in kiosk terminals and digital keys, have become essential in providing a safe and secure environment for guests and staff alike. However, it's not just a question of safety – a digitized guest experience also offers greater convenience and efficiency, enhancing satisfaction while improving the check-in experience overall.

With the ability to optimize, streamline, and accelerate both remote and on-site guest check-ins using a simple tool that can be integrated with your property management system (PMS) and channel manager platforms, you can ensure a seamless experience – right from the moment guests walk through your doors.

Benefits of self check-in hotels

Simplify and automate operations to make your guest's check-in experience a breeze. Enhanced efficiency and security are guaranteed with SALTO Hospitality solutions. You will enjoy complete control over your facility from a single fast and secure hotel management platform that allows you to manage every aspect of your check-in process professionally and effectively. What’s more, SALTO Hospitality solutions can be seamlessly integrated with your existing hospitality management tools, among a host of other benefits including:

1. Reduced check-in times. 
   Guests can complete check-in within a matter of minutes, rather than waiting in line at the front desk. This not only improves the guest experience but also frees up hotel staff to focus on more important tasks.
    
2. Increased efficiency. 
   Automate most steps of the check-in process, allowing staff to spend less time on administrative tasks and instead focus on providing excellent customer service. This will lead to a warm welcome for arriving guests.
    
3. Improved guest experience.
   By providing a smooth, seamless check-in experience, hotels will improve their overall guest experience. This can lead to higher levels of guest satisfaction, loyalty, and positive reviews.
    
4. Security and safety.
   Leveraging advanced access control technology and integration with other hotel systems provides a safe and secure environment for guests and staff alike, ensuring peace of mind throughout the stay.
    
5. Streamlined operations. 
   Automating check-in processes can help reduce errors and streamline front-office workflows, leading to a more efficient and effective hotel operation.

Smart hotel technology: business cases

Salto Hospitality’s integrated access control system is a single point of entry for guests across all types of accommodation, including boutique hotels, resorts, hostels, B&Bs, lodges, and large hotel groups. It allows guests to use their room key at any door throughout the property, from their rooms to perimeter or facility access and hotel amenities.

SALTO's automated mobile check-in solution allows visitors to check in using their mobile devices. They can complete the check-in process, receive their room key, and even pay for their stay – all by using their smartphone. Easy integration with other technology partners gives you the option of combining the tool with third-party services to boost efficiency and security. This ensures convenience for guests and reduces the workload for staff members.

• Streamlining safety and security at the door
  SALTO provides a whole host of features and benefits designed to improve the guest experience, streamline operations, and increase security. Extend smart access beyond hotel rooms and apply it throughout your property. Deliver seamless, hassle-free access to entrance and perimeter access doors, elevators, gyms, business areas, parking, and more. Guests, staff, and visitors can use their smart key, or mobile device as a digital key, to access any door that is equipped with SALTO's technology. This provides guests with seamless and convenient keyless access at any door – making the need for multiple keys or access cards a thing of the past.
   
• Level up your guest experience with digital keys
  Give your guests a fully digital and connected experience by allowing them to check in or out, make changes to their stay, and access any facility in seconds – all from their smartphone.
  
  The use of digital keys offers several benefits for both guests and staff alike. Visitors no longer need to carry around keys or keycards, eliminating the risk of losing or misplacing them. It also provides a more convenient way to check in and out, as guests can simply use their mobile devices to gain access to their rooms.
   
• Sync registration data
  Automatically sync PMS registration data to any SALTO smart access platform, or use the SALTO web app’s intuitive software interface to streamline front-office workflows and processes, allowing for faster check-in. 
  
  Salto's electronic locking systems can be integrated with many hotel property management systems, enabling hotel staff to automate the check-in process and cut down on the time it takes to assign rooms and issue keys. With this integration, guests can receive their room key as soon as they arrive at the hotel, without the need to wait in line at the front desk.
   
• Reduce check-in times
  Speed up the group check-in process. Allow people traveling together to check in all at once and simultaneously avoid long waits to start their holiday.
  
  The adoption of self-check-in systems is on the rise around the world.  Hotels can now feasibly offer a fully online self-check-in experience using contactless mobile solutions or self-check-in kiosks. Place self-service check-in technologies integrated with SALTO Hospitality solutions at your hotel front desk to guarantee a fully automated processing service alongside the classic welcome reception.
  
  Overall, SALTO Systems' Hospitality solutions offer a broad range of integrations that can help speed up the check-in process and provide guests with a smoother, more streamlined experience. By leveraging mobile access technology and integrating with existing PMS systems, SALTO helps hotels improve operational efficiency and enhance the guest experience.
   
• Extended stay
  Give your guests the ability to easily request an extension without the hassle of visiting the front desk. Once their request has been approved and their booking amended, they will immediately be notified of their updated stay details.
   
• Re-rooming
  With SALTO's electronic locking systems, hotel staff can quickly and easily update access rights to guests’ rooms in real-time. This means that if a guest needs to change rooms, hotel staff can deactivate the guest's access rights for the old room from the front desk and activate access rights for the new room – all with a single click. This process can be completed in a matter of seconds and gives guests immediate access to their new room without having to switch keys or keycards.

The hospitality industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, and the digitalization of the guest check-in experience is now more critical than ever before. Smart hotel check-in solutions – such as those offered by SALTO Systems in conjunction with our Technology Partners – provide an array of benefits, including increased efficiency, enhanced security and safety, and, crucially, a next-level guest experience. 

Provide the modern, easy access option guests are increasingly coming to expect with the use of digital keys or key cards, which offer convenient, secure, and instant access. With SALTO Hospitality’s integrated access control system and automated mobile check-in solutions, guests can enjoy a seamless and convenient check-in experience while hotel staff can focus more on delivering excellent customer service. With guest satisfaction naturally at the heart of any successful hotel business, smart check-in solutions can prove to be a real game-changer for the hospitality industry, and SALTO Systems is at the forefront of this revolution.

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

As technology advances, so does the risk of potential crime or fraud. Luckily, we can leverage technology to prevent this exposure and provide ourselves a more secure experience in our daily digital activities. 

The standard practice of login credentials in the form of usernames and passwords can make it easy for criminals to invade your privacy, steal this information and gain access to personal accounts. This is where two-factor authentication comes in – it offers an added layer of security, protecting us from unauthorised access.

Two-factor authentication (2FA), or multi-factor authentication (MFA), can be used as an added layer of security for your account on top of your username and password. When 2FA is enabled, your account has extra protection should your credentials or device ever be compromised. A user’s identity is verified through a combination of two separate components,or factors, to confirm their authenticity. The first factor is the set of credentials used to log in to your account, while the second can take the form of a code sent to a device or portal to which you have access. 

Without access to this second factor – typically a personal device – the hacker or cyber criminal cannot enter your account. 

SALTO Systems regards your security as our highest priority. That’s why we offer two-factor authentication across all our smart access platforms, giving you the opportunity to enable a more secure experience for your daily building operations. Read on to learn how to use this feature and enable it on your SALTO KS and SALTO Space account!

SALTO KS - Cloud-based smart access platform

How to enable and use 2FA as a SALTO KS user

Step 1: To enable 2FA, sign in to your SALTO KS account and navigate to the Profile page. Here, click on ‘Manage Profile and Settings’ beneath Profile Information.

Step 2: From there, scroll down to your ‘Security & Services’ section, where you can choose to either have two-factor authentication ‘Enabled’ or ‘Disabled’.

Step 3: After you have enabled 2FA, you’ll be required to enter your password again for security purposes. You will then need to select your 2FA method of choice – whether that’s an authenticator app, SMS or email.

Step 4: Once you sign in, you’ll be asked for a verification code, that is, the second factor. Depending on the 2FA method you have enabled, you must provide this code by using your authenticator app or checking messages for the verification code sent to you via SMS or email.

Step 5: In the event you’re unable to log in using one of the authentication methods you’ve configured, you can use the Recovery Code. This is generated for you when enabling your 2FA method.

SALTO Space - Smart standalone, virtually networked access control platform

How to enable and use 2FA as a SALTO Space user

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security used to ensure that people trying to gain access to an online account are who they say they are. First, a user will enter their username and password. Then, instead of immediately gaining access, they will need to provide the code sent to their personal device via an authenticator app.

To get started, a user must download and install a free 2FA app like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator on their smartphone or desktop. At login, the user first enters a username and password and then, when prompted, inputs the code shown on the app. This code is only valid for a minute.

Step 1: Press ‘TURN ON’ two-factor authentication. It will display the following screen:

Step 2: Follow the steps provided, enter the authentication code, and press ‘TURN ON’

Step 3: The operator will then activate 2FA (two-factor authentication).

SALTO Systems is committed to providing you with a fast, easy, and seamless access control experience that is also safe and secure. Our best-in-class access control solutions offer a range of advanced security features, ensuring your systems are safe from hacks, attacks, and cyber crimes. 

With two-factor authentication, alongside real-time monitoring, remote access control, audit trails, and different keyless access methods, our robust, high-tech solutions can be easily integrated with other security systems and technologies.

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

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

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.

The SALTO smart locker system offers numerous benefits for managing lockers and cabinets, from enhanced security and efficiency to increased data tracking and integration.

How does a smart locker work?

Keyless access to lockers and cabinets is a rapidly expanding trend championing convenience, security, and efficiency. Our SALTO smart locker system uses electronic lock technology to allow you to lock and unlock your locker with a smart key card or smartphone. Smart locks can also be used on cabinets and parcel delivery applications, making them more secure and smarter than ever before.

Our SALTO smart locker system offers numerous benefits for managing lockers and cabinets, from enhanced security and efficiency to increased data tracking and integration options. Our electronic locker management products set new standards in security, manageability, flexibility, and design that modernise virtually any locker type. SALTO is home to a range of smart access management platforms. These include SALTO Space on-premise networked infrastructure, SALTO KS cloud-based access control platform, and GANTNER eLoxx smart locker management platforms.

With the SALTO and GANTNER smart locker system, you can create a customised experience that meets your organisation's specific needs. The system allows you to manage users, access rights, and inventory easily. Plus, it provides real-time data tracking on locker use, so you can see how many times a locker has been opened and by whom.

When it comes to managing lockers and cabinets, the SALTO smart locker system is a perfect choice — here's why.

Advantages of Salto smart lockers:

1. Enhanced security: SALTO smart locks can be securely opened by RFID, PIN code, or via a mobile device. This ensures that only authorised individuals can access the lockers or cabinets.
    
2. Easy, time-saving and convenient: With the SALTO smart locker system, users and members can quickly and easily access their assigned locker or cabinet without the need for physical keys or combinations. Users simply use their smart RFID key cards, a PIN code, or smartphone to gain access – much more convenient than traditional mechanical systems.
    
3. Increased efficiency: Eliminate wait times in crowded areas by enabling multiple users to access their assigned locker or cabinet simultaneously. SALTO and GANTNER smart locks are perfect for high-traffic areas such as universities and large workplaces.
    
4. Improved tracking: Track the usage of lockers and cabinets, providing valuable data on usage patterns, popular times of day, and which are used most frequently. This information can optimise locker and cabinet placement and inform future planning and decision-making.
    
5. Flexibility: The SALTO smart locker system can be programmed to assign and reserve lockers or cabinets in advance based on the user's preferences regarding location, calendar, user profile, or locker size. This provides a personalised experience.
    
6. Reduced maintenance costs: Smart locker systems require less maintenance than traditional locker systems, as electronic locks are less prone to damage and wear and tear. This can lead to reduced maintenance costs over time.
    
7. Customisable: Designed for both new and retrofit installations to suit specific needs, technology, and use case requirements, our locks feature a simple plug-and-play battery-operated solution. This means retrofitting existing coin or key locks is an option for any locker.
    
8. Communication: SALTO and GANTNER smart locks provide users and members with real-time communication, such as notifications of locker availability, reminders of expiration dates or reservation times, and updates on locker or cabinet maintenance with connected locking systems. We guarantee maximum security combined with maximum convenience.
    
9. Integration: Integrate with other systems such as mobile apps, cashless payment, or corporate smart cards. Build access to control systems to provide a seamless and integrated user experience.
    

SALTO offers solutions for organisations of all sizes, from smart corporate offices to coworking spaces, healthcare, education, fitness centres, attractions, leisure, and sports associations around the world. 

Are electronic lockers safe?

The SALTO smart locker lock offers protection against theft to a wide range of lockers, cupboards, display cabinets – whatever you choose. Our smart locker locks are integrated into the SALTO wire-free electronic access solution for your peace of mind.

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

Coliving Consultant and Community Experience Specialist, Leah Ziliak is one of the world's leading experts in the industry. In the second post of our 6-Part Coliving Blog Series, Leah shares how the Hybrid Hospitality trend is changing the way we think about travel and hospitality. 

Working from the rooftop of a trendy hotel in Cape Town with 200 Mbps internet, a dedicated call room, and a barista serving up the perfect flat white, it's easy to see just how much the hospitality world has changed over the last decade. Remember when the 'business centre' of a hotel meant a couple of clunky desktops facing a beige wall with a printer?

With a coworking space, community events, group fitness classes, and even a mini movie theatre and a popcorn machine, this is more than just a hotel; it's an experience.  A Hybrid Hospitality experience.

Hungry? Scan a QR code at your coworking desk and the cafe downstairs will deliver your falafel wrap and cold-pressed juice right to you. Bored? Download the community app and you’ll see a list of social events to choose from. Stressed? Book a massage using your smartphone and easily access the spa with keyless entry. 

So, what exactly is Hybrid Hospitality?

Hybrid Hospitality is essentially a blend of the traditional hotel experience, with elements of the coworking and coliving spaces as well as

restaurants, wellness, retail and more. With Hybrid Hospitality, people can live, stay, eat, drink, work and socialise all in one dynamic space. Hotels, hostels, restaurants, bars and other hospitality venues are making the shift to create multifunctional spaces that foster connection and enhance the overall guest experience. 

Hybrid Hospitality is a growing trend, and for good reasons; it’s enabling hotels to expand their offerings, bring underutilised spaces to life, connect guests to a community, and draw in a whole new demographic.

So, why are we seeing such a massive push toward Hybrid Hospitality?

1. Consumer Trends: 
   
   In recent years, the hospitality industry has seen a shift in consumer trends. Millennials especially were looking for more out of the hotel experience and wanted to be part of a connected, engaging environment.
   
   Traditionally, hostels offered a great community experience, but were lacking when it came to high-quality spaces and superior hospitality experiences. On the flip side, hotels offered great spaces and excellent hospitality, but lacked any sort of community or connection.
   
   Because of this, we saw innovative hostel brands listening to those needs and creating a more elevated experience, offering work-friendly environments, well-designed spaces, private room options, and expanding the typical backpacker demographic.
   
   We also saw hotel brands focusing on community, events, neighbourhood integration, keyless access solutions for increased flexibility,  and rethinking common areas to create an experience that went beyond just a comfy bed and room service. 
    
2. The Pandemic Effect:
   
   Since the beginning of the pandemic, we’ve seen an even greater expansion of the Hybrid Hospitality trend. The number of remote work opportunities has grown exponentially, meaning that people have more freedom to choose how/when/where they work. The work-from-anywhere movement has had a massive impact on the hospitality industry.
   
   Why take just a weekend trip, when you can bring your laptop and make it a month-long trip? Providing guests with ‘live-and-work-friendly’ spaces enables brands to cater to these longer-term stays.
   
   We’re also seeing a rise in remote work retreats and workations, with some companies offering travel perks to their employees, such as the ability to spend up to 6-8 weeks working from a location abroad. Employees are more mobile than ever before and the hospitality industry is ready to act as a home away from home for this new business traveller.
    
3. Digital Nomadism:
   
   With the rise of remote work, we’ve also seen an increase in long-term travellers. Digital Nomads often give up their homebase altogether and choose to live from different hotels, hostels, and coliving spaces around the world.
   
   It used to be that business trips and vacations were the only reason to leave home, now for an estimated 35 million digital nomads around the world, ‘home’ is constantly changing and can be anywhere in the world. Extended travel was once only a privilege for the super wealthy, but has now become an opportunity for the everyday remote worker. Hospitality brands are adapting to the needs of this growing demographic.
   
   Hospitality brands are adapting to the needs of this growing demographic who have a different set of requirements than your typical vacationer. Digital Nomads are incredibly well-travelled, tech-savvy and place a high value on freedom and flexibility within their living spaces.
    
4. Expanded Amenities:
   
   For many years, ‘hotel amenities’ were limited to a few different things - bathrobes, a gym, tiny bottles of shampoo and overpriced laundry services. But, in the modern-day hospitality world, it can (and should) be a whole lot more. And, as more and more forward-thinking brands provide these extras to their customers, expectations will be higher.
   
   Today, amenities can mean providing guests with opportunities to socialise through community events and connecting to the city in a more authentic way. Many hybrid hospitality brands are also looking to serve as a neighbourhood hub and integrate more effectively into the local community.
   
   Amenities can also mean implementing tech-driven services like digital check-in, keyless entry, and the ability to make restaurant or spa reservations from your smartphone to create a flawless overall experience.

In general, this new wave of guests are looking for much more from their hospitality experiences and brands are finding unique ways to provide increased value to their customers by offering flexible workspaces and tech-driven solutions such as a digital key to access the facilities on-the-go. 

With endless hospitality options out there, why not spend your money with the brands that truly align with who you are and what you need?

The Hybrid Hospitality model not only benefits consumers who now have a myriad of interesting choices at their fingertips, it clearly benefits the industry as well. By providing these unique customer-centric experiences, hospitality brands are able to generate new revenue streams, optimise their spaces, create brand loyalty and appeal to a much wider range of guests.  Not to mention, they’re able to enhance their entire guest experience in a very forward-thinking way.

The coliving concept is not simply a fad that will be fast forgotten - it’s an exciting time for the entire hospitality industry, but it’s also a key turning point for brands that want to stay competitive and relevant in the future. There are plenty of spaces in the world where you can get a quiet night’s sleep and a decent meal. But, the brands that are standing out above the rest are the ones who are creating something truly unique - both functional and engaging. It’s a whole new modern hybrid world out there and the smartest brands are here for it.

Salto Systems offers cutting-edge smart access technology to businesses for a complete smart building experience.

We are now thrilled to announce that we are offering other best-in-class technology leaders the opportunity to partner with us for an integrated and improved customer offering.

Why to become a Salto Technology Partner?

Salto’s Technology Partner program empowers best-in-class technology companies to link into our access control Technology Platforms and integrate and certify their solutions within Salto's smart locking product portfolio.

As such, we are looking for third-party systems to integrate with our smart access technology architecture with the aim of improving any type of facility’s operations in terms of efficiency, flexibility, and security. Our aim is to provide you and your customers with the ultimate smart keyless living experience. 

Technology partners will benefit from these integrations by delivering comprehensive solutions that unite smart access control, security, building automation, software, property management software, operations, and more, in an all-in-one integrated technology platform.

In a nutshell, by partnering with Salto, companies can offer improved access control solutions for their customers and overall operations enhancements for complete building management.

Salto offers a range of solutions to technology partners

Through the SaltoTechnology Program, our partners will have access to the following solutions:  

• Smart access experience, delivering seamless, keyless building experiences to users.
• Wireless technology for electronic locking solutions via an on-premise network or the cloud. 
• Mobile device access and digital key solutions.

• Secure and robust performance across all products. Salto is trusted by industry-leading companies worldwide and offers this peace of mind to potential partners.

Salto’s Two Main Solutions

Salto was the early leader in cloud-based access control technology and has become a major player in keys-as-a-service providers over traditional access control solutions, accelerating digital access transformation projects. The Salto portfolio now includes world-class software management, cloud solutions, and mobile applications for businesses of all types and sizes.

• Salto Space: Technology partners can benefit from Salto’s stand-alone, virtually networked, wired, and wireless online smart access control platform
  
  Salto Space is a fully-integrated, stand-alone wire-free smart-locking platform and web-based software management system that brings seamless access to every door in any building in an efficient, flexible, safe and secure way. 
  
  Our partners are offered a smart access control on-premise platform that’s designed to work in a wire-free environment. 

Click here to learn more. 
 

• Salto KS: For a truly unique offering, Salto’s technology partners can make use of a scalable and flexible cloud-based smart access control solution with best-in-class real-time capabilities.
  
  Salto KS offers proven reliability and recognized stability for our technology partners. This service provides higher functionality and performance than what is possible with a traditional mechanical key access solution. 
  
  Our Salto KS cloud-based access control product range offers a flexible solution that requires no software installation with remote management capabilities and endless integration possibilities for our partners.

Click here to learn more. 

Technology partners: bringing excelence to customers

Technology Partners benefit from a wide product range across numerous industries

Salto Systems offers cutting-edge solutions across a range of industries, including; Commercial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Retail, Coworking, Shared Living Spaces, Corporate Smart Offices, Fitness Centers & Gyms, and Residential.

Our current partnerships include a broad range of integrated systems, such as Property Management Systems, Check-in Solutions, Mobile Apps, CCTV Security Cameras and Video Surveillance, Intercoms, Room Management Systems, Time Attendance, Booking, Management software, Visitor / Identity Management, Elevator / Lift Control, and Point of Sale software.

Technology partners are not limited by their industry by any means. SALTO Systems is confident that we can find a smart access solution for virtually an interested technology leader.
 

Technology Partners have online access to Salto’s customizable smart access technologies

Salto Systems offers an online platform for partners to customize their access solutions. Our technology partners will benefit from our extensive product portfolio for their systems integration, which includes:

• Electronic Locks and cylinders for Doors: We have an extensive range of electronic door locks that make use of wireless, keyless, card access technology, as well as a range that makes use of a keypad with a unique safety code.
• Wall Readers and Controllers: Control access with sleek, easy-to-fit wall readers that offer contactless, keyless access and control.
• Locker Locks: Safely store contents with electronic locker locks that make use of pre-programmed keyless technology to give authorized users access to the locker content.

Become a Technology Partner today

Contact Salto Systems, and we will not only demo how our product works, if you’re interested in becoming a technology partner, we’ll also discuss a truly unique integration solution. 

We are confident that our innovative and customizable technology will be able to support our certified Technology Partners so they may better their service offering. 

Technology Partners can look forward to becoming a SALTO certified technology partner to deliver even more innovation for their brand, bringing their customers so much more in the keyless living experience. 

Learn more about becoming a technology partner and sign up today

Part of our continuous effort to support growth while maintaining performance, reliability, and predictability is defining SLO’s (Service Level Objectives). Those are meant to define the expected service between the provider and the customer. They are specific measurable characteristics such as uptime, operations, and speed. For the cloud-based access control solution SALTO KS we will explain which SLO’s we measure and why.

Uptime

Up to now, our major focal point for measuring our overall Service Level Objective has been to look at the uptime of each individual service in our ecosystem and make sure those are at least adhering to our percentage of 99.9700%. The fact that we are meeting and exceeding that percentage for quite some time now is a great achievement of which we are very proud!

So?

Well, the high uptime percentage doesn't say that much about the customer experience. With a high percentage of platform availability, SALTO KS customers will be able to reach the platform and services, and the platform will do what it is supposed to do, but it does not say anything about the performance of individual functions a typical customer uses. We decided it was time we started looking at other things to measure.

What is important to the customers?

The operations of access control are of utmost importance for our customers. Fluctuations in individual response times of endpoints (i.e. the communication points that external software programs must send a request to in order to communicate with our API) that are used to control access rules like assigning a tag (physical credential), adding or removing a user from an access group, blocking a user, and configuring offline access for a lock have a big impact on the day-to-day experience of a client may have while performing their daily tasks. 

Another important factor is the overall performance of operations that require a direct response from an IQ (Edge device), like activating an IQ in a mobile app, performing a remote opening, or generating a Digital Key. If it takes too long, users might consider it not working or at least bothersome. When changes have been made to access rules, we want to make sure that they are applied to the IQs involved as fast as possible, because only then they will have an actual effect.

Reporting

Last but not least, we want customers to be able to retrieve event information in a performant way. We have two different types of events: entries (basically openings and  rejections from locks, so large volume) and incidents (alerts like doors being left open and lock tampering, so low volume).

We know that other things happen that could make or break customer satisfaction, like installing or restoring IQs, attaching locks, and receiving notifications and we do measure them, but the four categories mentioned above are what we consider most important for the largest number of users.

What do we want to achieve and measure?

For these four types of interactions with our platform, we needed to come up with response times or maximum duration times that would be considered “good” and “natural” from a user perspective, and we should then compare those to what we are actually delivering.

As a general point, we decided that we should be able to achieve our “good” performance goals at least 75% of the time. This would obviously mean we could score less during some peak hours, but overall the customer experience would be good. We decided to measure against that over a period of 7 days to be able to clearly see fluctuations during the week.

We set the following SLO’s for each of the four types:

• Access Control operations: response time should be less than or equal to 0,5 seconds.
• Synchronous IQ operations: response time should be less than or equal to 2,5 seconds.
• Sync performance: the duration should be less than or equal to 30 seconds for Local Access Management sync, PIN sync, and Accessor/Key sync combined, and less than or equal to 5 seconds for Offline Access Key sync.

Reporting: response time should be less than or equal to 3 seconds for entry reporting and less than or equal to 1 second for incident reporting.

These SLO’s aren’t just there to give a nice overview, they’re used in day-to-day monitoring of system performance. The team is on-call 24/7 to ensure the right user experience. The SLO’s, metrics and goals are reviewed by the teams recurrently to guarantee we live up to all expectations. The dashboards are shown in the Clay office where SALTO KS is built and can be viewed “live” from any location, to guarantee each of the team members are well aware of the performance of the platform and show the direct impact of their work.

Managing who has access, when and to what is difficult, especially for big companies. And we’re not talking only about digital access to passwords or sensitive information - hardware infrastructures are also on the list of items to which access needs to be overseen.

While password managers, both on the individual and enterprise level, are great for keeping track of who can access which sites and documents, they won’t work in the physical sense with, let’s say, doors. And a physical door into the building can also be a door to highly sensitive digital assets.

To talk about the importance of access control systems to the security of a business or individuals, Cybernews reached out to Kristin Pater, Marketing Manager responsible for the SALTO Systems product: SALTO KS.

What did the development of SALTO Systems look like?

SALTO Systems is a technology advance access control hardware and software provider and was ignited by the passion of a small group of enthusiastic and highly experienced professionals who were eager to provide a world-class access control system that would be simple to use and extremely efficient, giving users the ability to control all their access needs. Since their ground-breaking start, SALTO Systems have made a great impact on the way people around the world operate their businesses offering best-in-class access control solutions.

Can you introduce us to your access control solutions? What are their key features?

SALTO Systems not only offers hardware but also KaaS (Keys as a Service), such as the cloud-based access control solution SALTO KS. The main features are the ability to securely grant access or to send a Digital Key to anyone with a smartphone, making giving and receiving access much more user-friendly. The solution makes it easy to grant access to individuals or groups for selected locks and timeframes, to see who goes where and when, and if necessary, block users on the go.

The ability to integrate your existing app with the SALTO KS API is a game-changer for many industries. Their own app will be enhanced with all the benefits of SALTO KS by integrating our API or, depending on the business applications needs, building their own access control solution or by connecting with other building services.

In your opinion, which industries should be especially concerned about implementing access management solutions?

I don't want to say ‘concerned’ but I do feel a lot of industries can benefit from a great access control solution in more ways than they initially assume. Think of scaling your business, monetizing your space, and offering an overall smoother and more impressive customer experience. For instance, we have a lot of customers in the coworking and coliving industry who have been able to offer a greater tenant experience and build a community by installing SALTO KS. 

How did the pandemic affect the physical security landscape? Have you noticed any new security issues arise as a result?

We have seen that during the pandemic, the demand for smart access control solutions skyrocketed. Because our solutions offer the functionality of opening doors with your phone, there is no need for physical contact. In combination with SALTO’s ‘BioCote locks’ equipped with antimicrobial coated technology, businesses can ensure a germ-free customer experience offering the greatest feature of all - peace of mind. 

Additionally, there is an audit trail available that can show who went into which room in real-time, so it becomes easier to trace where someone got infected and when. This allows a space operator or manager, for instance, to contact everyone that might have been exposed to the virus.

What are the most common ways threat actors use in an attempt to bypass various access control measures?

We are keeping strict measures regarding our servers and firewalls and avoid being attractive to threat actors. The most common ways are trying to steal credentials from one of our end-users or use automatic scanners where they don't target SALTO KS specifically, they use a ‘crawler’ and see whatever they find.

What physical security measures would you consider essential for organizations nowadays?

Have a great open-source password management service in place. 

What other aspects of our daily lives do you hope to see enhanced by technology in the near future?

It seems far-fetched but access control solutions like SALTO KS have the ability to help with important societal problems, for instance fighting off loneliness. Especially in elderly care, it can help families to get more insight on how many visits an older member of the family gets, for instance, to make sure there will be someone visiting every day. This can be an extra service that healthcare organizations could provide, tracking their employees and offering families some comfort. If a caregiver loses a smartphone or security credential, its access permission can be revoked instantly, maintaining peace of mind and saving costly lock replacements.

Our daily lives will change for the better a lot in the upcoming years, and these changes will be all related to technology. 

What are some of the security tools you believe everyone should use nowadays?

SALTO KS offers a Digital Key which enables users to ‘tap’ doors open with their phone. It’s a feature that is equally as cool as it is secure, and in my opinion, it's also something that no business can live without.

Share with us, what’s next for SALTO?

Besides being one of the largest lock manufacturers out there, SALTO aspires to be one of the largest ACaaS companies too. By offering cloud-based access control solutions such as SALTO KS they are well on their way. Keep an eye out for more cool features and products by following us on LinkedIn and Instagram.