What is the Next Generation of Smart Locks - What is it?
In a new video collaboration by SALTO and Group337 we dive deeper into what we believe "The Next Generation of Smart Locks" will be.
In a new video collaboration by SALTO and Group337 we dive deeper into what we believe "The Next Generation of Smart Locks" will be. The purpose of this collaboration is to spark a conversation—a change. We are hoping to help start a new language for the industry, and if we agree that the smart lock industry has entered into its next generation, we should agree we need to look, say, and act next generation.
In part 1, we are diving into the difference between smart, connected, motorized, and mechanical and what the next generation of smart locks will need to stay relevant.
In part 2, we will tackle the value beyond locking and unlocking. And in the finale, part 3, we reimagine door openings and our relationship with entering and exiting.
We plan to cover the different verticals such as single-family, multifamily, and commercial locks. We will speak to all of them generically and high level enough that what we discuss applies to all use cases. There are fundamental functionality and value creation that work across all verticals in the Next Generation of smart locks, and we want to cover them here.
Of course, this is just the beginning, and we can't cover it all in such a short amount of time, but we will do our best.
All right, let's get into it part one.
It is important to note a clear difference between smart, connected, motorized, and mechanical locks. Unfortunately, we sometimes mix them all and conflate their abilities.
If we are honest, most of the electronic locks on the market today are not smart. What they are, is connected. We went from mechanical to motorized, motorized to connected, and we still haven't gotten to what we all want, which is smart.
But we are getting there. One of the most significant barriers to our industry boarding a rocket ship and seeing that hockey stick growth and adoption we all expected to see by today is that we have not innovated the smart lock (enough). We have only iterated the mechanical lock. Motorized and connected were feature iterations off of mechanical. So think about it, we as an industry said, "what if the door opened itself? Well, if it's locked, that won't work, so let's automate the unlock function." So we went and took the same mechanical lock that we had before, updated it a bit, and integrated a motor into it.
Is it an advancement? Yes, no doubt. But it was not very smart.
Then the market and ecosystem said, "We'd like to take your motorized lock and have our system lock and unlock it. We want to control it." We also said, "wouldn't it be cool if we could lock and unlock via our phone or watch?" 100%.
And we were happy to do it, so we took the same motorized lock and added some radios and gave the ability for it to connect to other systems... introducing the connected lock.
Some marketing departments and analysts got excited and dubbed it "smart locks," but unfortunately, once the cool factor wore off and the inability to drive a consistent experience became a reality, what we ultimately had was a connected lock that, frankly, wasn't so smart.
But that is ok because, like many things, the market is shifting. New technology is being introduced.
As a result, new players are interested in the market, and end-user demand has increased, resulting in a renewed interest in smart locks.
So what does the next generation of smart locks look like?
- It is a reimagined platform—all of it, including the hardware.
- It is not a feature of a mechanical lock like a brass finish. It is its entity.
- Some use cases and end game functionality are unknown, which is ok because it is part of an ecosystem. It is an ingredient to a much larger solution.
- It is a software product with hardware that supports the experiences desired by end-users versus administrators and installers.
- It has safety at the core and safety as table stakes. It is a given and includes cybersecurity as well as hardened physical security.
- A team supports it focused on it day in and day out, not as a side hustle.
- It is a product line understood by leadership with the same importance and expectations as its mechanical brothers and sisters.
- Business plans are not predicated solely on yesterday's metrics.
- Distribution and hardware sales are not the only measures of success. It is time for a new spreadsheet.
- Hardware is used to grow the platform's adoption to unlock software potential exponentially, not get in the way of said growth.
The smart lock is this and many other things. But, more or less, the smart lock of today and tomorrow is a complete re-imagination. And those with curiosity and imagination will unlock it.
Contact us if you have any questions on the SALTO product range or visit our website located here for information on all things SALTO. We look forward to helping!
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SALTO Systems develops and manufactures advanced and reliable wireless electronic locking and access control smart solutions that provide a smoother, more comfortable, and secure daily life for the people using our systems. We bring added value to our clients, making it easier for decision-making and smarter management of facilities. Our goal is to not only be within the top three companies in our sector in the world, but to also be your number one smart electronic access control provider. As an organization, we intend to create an ecosystem of end users, clients, partners, collaborators, and suppliers with whom we build long-lasting, win-win relationships guided by closeness, flexibility, integrity, and trust.
The world’s largest coliving gathering: Co-Liv Summit 2021
A common denominator for all pioneers is that they don’t stop for anything until they reach their goal. This is also the case with SALTO’s partner Co-Liv.
A common denominator for all pioneers is that they don’t stop for anything until they reach their goal. This is also the case with SALTO’s partner Co-Liv. This May they held the world's largest coliving gathering and even a global pandemic couldn’t stop them from making this online event a huge success.
As residential communities that host like-minded people, coliving has become a welcome solution to the growing desire to live in communities and the lack of individual real estate possibilities. This popular housing concept is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs, developers and professionals to contribute with smart technology and new innovations.
SALTO believes in a future built by people, that enhances the way we live and work by technology. A human-centered future that benefits from smart innovations that supports a healthy lifestyle, whether that’s in an office, a shop or a shared living space.
If you have been keeping an eye on the SALTO LinkedIn and Instagram accounts, you are probably familiar with SALTO’s biggest partner in the coliving industry, Co-Liv: a global association of coliving professionals that have the same beliefs on the future of living as SALTO.
Co-Liv unites those professionals who are looking to make a difference in the coliving experience. They believe that together, they steer the coliving movement towards an independent, flourishing, and stakeholder-centered industry that creates value for residents, cities, neighborhoods, operators, investors, and real estate owners alike.
The theme of the Summit was “Laying down the foundations for the future of coliving” and to date is the largest coliving gathering ever held.
On day one Alexander Rosdorff, Global Technology Partner & Integrations Lead at SALTO Systems was a panel member together with fellow industry experts Ari Dinar, Oscar van Wel, and Dimitri Belin, for the insightful discussion 'Deep dive into the coliving tech ecosystem’. The summit was topped off by the very first edition of ‘The Coliving Awards’ live-streamed from Paris, where SALTO’s Christian Schmitz, Global Lead, Shared Living and Work Spaces, and head of tech at Co-Liv, acted as a jury member and simultaneously accepted the award for ‘Best Sponsor’ in name of SALTO Systems.
"I believe that when you are together and you share information, doubts, fears, successes, and more, very strong bonds are created and this will remove many of the current roadblocks in the coliving movement." - Christian Schmitz, Head of Tech at Co-Liv and global Shared Living lead at SALTO Systems
By bringing the whole ecosystem together during the summit, Co-Liv has empowered the movement to grow even further. Small and big players now feel more connected and part of something bigger. With this summit, the word ‘Coliving’ has for once and for all evolved from just a buzzword to a word with meaning.
"This event was a great opportunity to learn about the often overlooked aspects of technology in Coliving, and bring them to light. Integrations being a vital part of this. Choosing the right integrations is essential to create a thriving community, and I enjoyed diving into this important aspect at the summit." - Alexander Rosdorff, Global Technology Partner & Integrations Lead at SALTO Systems
It was an honor to be part of this celebration which casts a much-deserved spotlight on the coliving community.
"This event showcased the core values that we strongly share with Co-Liv which are to educate, empower and connect. These are values that are still felt strongly by the whole coliving ecosystem. Winning the award at the Coliving Awards was the perfect ending to this incredible event.” - Caterina Maiolini, Community and Partnership Manager for Shared Living and Workspaces at SALTO Systems
To conclude this article SALTO would like to congratulate all winners, finalists, and nominees, particularly our partners: Co-Liv for their Ambassador Programme, OurDomain by Greystar, on their awards, and lastly, the winner of the PropTech and ConTech award for which Christian acted as jury member: Hmlet Coliving Software.
Co-Liv has just released a comprehensive report on the key highlights, exclusive industry statistics, key insights from panel discussions, and much more! Make sure to download the report through this link if you want to read exclusive insights from the world’s largest coliving gathering.
SALTO Systems develops and manufactures advanced and reliable wireless electronic locking and access control smart solutions that provide a smoother, more comfortable, and secure daily life for the people using our systems. We bring added value to our clients, making it easier for decision-making and more innovative management of facilities. Our goal is to not only be within the top three companies in our sector in the world but also to be your number one smart electronic access control provider. As an organization, we intend to create an ecosystem of end-users, clients, partners, collaborators, and suppliers with whom we build long-lasting, win-win relationships guided by closeness, flexibility, integrity, and trust.
La Pinada Lab and SALTO partner up to make the built environment more sustainable, inclusive, and livable through technology and data.
La Pinada Lab, located in Valencia, Spain, is an open innovation center that paves the way for future living. It is the first eco-district that is co-created by its residents.
La Pinada Lab, located in Valencia, Spain, is an open innovation center that paves the way for future living. It is the first eco-district that is co-created by its residents. The center focuses on the sustainability of the urban environment by facilitating processes that tackle key contemporary challenges such as renewable energy, waste management, sustainable drinking water, smart mobility, accessibility, alternative construction methods, involvement of diverse populations, and more.
The Lab works alongside corporations, startups, administrations, and other stakeholders with the ambition of not only designing an inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful environment but to develop solutions that can be applied and scaled up in different contexts.
Acting as a backbone organization, La Pinada Lab facilitates processes to test, deliver, and implement solutions to support a more inclusive, cohesive, and conscious way of living in the community. This results in shared living experiences in urban density and efficiency for all involved audiences like customers, operators, and third-party service providers.
The lab is a 900 sqm. venue that is currently under construction and is scheduled for opening in mid-June. This space will support events and networking activities, workshops, operate as a testbed for pilot projects and other experiments, and serve as a showroom for advanced solutions and technologies.
The collaboration:
By partnering with SALTO, La Pinada Lab can connect the dots between lifestyle and technology, allowing them to build the right tech infrastructure. SALTO is happy to join this unique experience to share what we have learned and educate and inspire the entire La Pinada Lab team and visitors about the new experiences and benefits that come with opening doors.
SALTO is joining La Pinada Lab’s partnership program as Project Partner. The first step is to incorporate SALTO smart access products and technology into the infrastructure of the La Pinada space. And being installed in a lab, it is only natural to observe and experiment with the use of SALTO’s keyless experience, identifying opportunities for new solutions and the impact of digitization and automation on daily life.
Both SALTO and La Pinada Lab are firm believers in sharing, exchanging, and networking. As part of its program of activities, the Lab will host events around Smart Cities, construction, building management, and various related fields where SALTO and other partners and stakeholders will share their expertise and learn from each other.
We are excited about this new partnership and can’t wait to explore potential innovation projects to develop new products, services, and platforms together.
Connect with us to learn more about:
Follow the journey by learning more about La Pinada Lab through their social channels on LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.
For any further details on SALTO Systems and showroom activities, please contact Christian, Global Lead for Shared Living and Coworking Spaces.
Curious about partnership opportunities? Reach out to Caterina, SALTO’s Community and Partnership Manager for Shared Living and WorkSpaces.
SALTO Systems develops and manufactures advanced and reliable wireless electronic locking and access control smart solutions that provide a smoother, more comfortable, and secure daily life for the people using our systems. We bring added value to our clients, making it easier for decision-making and smarter management of facilities. Our goal is to not only be within the top three companies in our sector in the world but to also be your number one smart electronic access control provider. As an organization, we intend to create an ecosystem of end-users, clients, partners, collaborators, and suppliers with whom we build long-lasting, win-win relationships guided by closeness, flexibility, integrity, and trust.
Let your tenants manage their own space with Pod
Today we are happy to welcome yet another new feature to the KS family. This addition to the Salto KS and KS Connect API enables building managers (Site admins) to create a small independent group of members named 'Pod'.
What is Pod from Salto KS?
With the new Pod functionality building managers get the chance to outsource access control management to their tenants. This feature will help keep an overview of their buildings' operations and save them a lot of time.
On the other side, tenants have the unique experience of managing access to their own space: A Pod can be a floor within a building such as an apartment or an office that’s managed by its Pod members (tenants) that have access to the Pod at all times and can invite guests to the Pod for specific timeframes.
By implementing this new feature, we aim to offload the responsibility of managing access for tenants and (their) guests for building managers and provide tenants with the unique experience of managing access to their own space.
Only a Site admin can create a Pod, on the main navigation menu where there’s a dedicated Pod page on which the option ‘Create a new Pod’ can be selected. To create a Pod you need at least one Pod member. The Site admin is able to create a Pod member by entering the name and e-mail address and if needed add more Pod members.
Next, the Site admin can select locks to which the Pod member may have access to, such as the front gate, apartment 201 and/or the storage room.
Benefits of Salto KS's Pod?
All Pod members automatically have Digital Key and remote opening rights. This means they are able to open the Pod's doors by tapping their phone to the lock or opening the door from a distance. Yes, even if they are located on the other side of the globe!
Once the Pod is created an invitation email is sent to the Pod members. Through this email, the Pod members can download the mobile app and register. After registration, the Digital Key and remote opening functionality will automatically be activated. The Pod's details will be shown on the dedicated Pod page.
By using the mobile app for iOS or Android a Pod member can invite, block or delete guests. The individual rights per guest in the guest overview can be viewed by Site admins from the Salto KS web app. Rights such as Digital Key, full access, which locks and when access is granted.
The Pod summary consists of multiple characteristics the Site admin can search on such as Pod name, amount of Pod members, amount of locks, amount of invited and active Pod guests. By clicking on one of these Pod characteristics the Site admin will land on the Pod detail page. On this page, several details are shown and actions can be taken.
Think of:
- Block or unblock guests
- Edit locks Renaming the Pod
- Deleting the Pod
At some point, you probably need to invite a guest to your Pod. A friend, customer or regular supplier for instance. A Pod member is able to invite a guest using the mobile app for iOS or Android. Once the Pod member invites a guest the guest will be shown as ‘Sign-up pending’ in the Pod members people overview screen until the guest registers.
The guest can register by accepting the invitation to download the app in the e-mail he/she automatically receives when the Pod member sends the invite.
There are some rules though. Until further notice guests can:
- Only use Digital key
- Only be invited through email
- Have the same access as the Pod members or limited access
The Pod member who invites the guest(s) can choose which locks guests can access and when they can access them. They also have the ability to block or delete guests from the Pod.
In the next phase, we aim to perfect the Pod feature even more. With more functionalities that we are sure will make lives around the world easier on a day to day basis.
Functionalities of Pod members section
- PIN creation from the mobile app by a Pod member
- Lock group implementation
- Privacy for tenants (hiding the information of Pod member's activity on Site owner/admin view)
Do you have a Pod related question? You might find your answer in the Support section.
Opening doors from your Today View screen? Read more about the Digital Key widget.
Follow our team on LinkedIn and Instagram: That way you’ll always stay in the loop of what’s going at Salto KS.
The Pod feature is supported on IOS version 4.4.2 & Android version 5.5.1 or higher.
All the above screens are taken from the Salto KS web app.
Salto KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
Six items to put on your access control wish list
When it comes to choosing the right access control system for your Coworking or Coliving space, certain features should be placed at the top of your wish list. Investing in smart locks will enhance security and convenience both digitally and physically. This is why it is crucial to keep in mind which features are essential when integrating such technology while implementing an access control system.
Read on to find out the must-have features that make a great access control system:
Read on to find out the must-have features that make a great access control system:
With an access control system, users should be able to assign people varying levels of access on an individual, group, or role basis. While this feature is standard on most access control systems, it is most essential in granting and restricting access.
With selective access, you can regulate which people have what kind of rights through certain entry points and are able to manage the amount of these entries.
With scheduled access, it is possible to limit entries to specific times within the day or week and even according to certain locations. This results in helpful functionalities like visitor access that can be scheduled in advance, granting access during the Christmas holidays, for example.
With scheduled access, it is possible to limit entries to specific times within the day or week and even according to certain locations. This results in helpful functionalities like visitor access that can be scheduled in advance, granting access during the Christmas holidays, for example.
An access control system makes it possible to create customizable reports which can be instantly generated. These reports provide detailed information for users regarding who is coming and going from any location. This detailed access log and event reporting comprises entries, users, and dates which can be exported to CSV or automatically emailed to relevant parties.
The dashboard of an access control system can display reports in real-time and for each entry. These reports can be customized according to specific parameters in order to present information ranging from doors being opened for too long to even unused or inactive users. This data can be used to monetize your space.
The dashboard of an access control system can display reports in real-time and for each entry. These reports can be customized according to specific parameters in order to present information ranging from doors being opened for too long to even unused or inactive users. This data can be used to monetize your space.
Cloud-based access control systems store permissions in the cloud which makes it possible to remotely manage, view, and control your access. This is possible using a web- or smartphone app whereby upon authorization, the user may operate the system through an intuitive interface.
Additionally, cloud storage for reports and events ensure backups that can be scheduled. This ensures that data is never compromised and is easily accessible.
Additionally, cloud storage for reports and events ensure backups that can be scheduled. This ensures that data is never compromised and is easily accessible.
For added efficiency, an access control system should be equipped with the potential for built-in integrations and third-party apps. This can be for cloud services including Office 365 and Active Directory, as well as tools relating to human resources, membership and facility software via API.
Some of these integrations can be an alarm, intercom, and video surveillance systems so all aspects of access control are managed through a single user interface which makes management easier and user-friendly.
Some of these integrations can be an alarm, intercom, and video surveillance systems so all aspects of access control are managed through a single user interface which makes management easier and user-friendly.
The ability to remotely unlock and schedule entries is vital in selecting access management systems. For instance, with the push of a button on a smartphone, access can be granted or restricted from any place and at any time. This is particularly useful for those with multiple-door facilities or multiple locations to control.
Remote visibility is another asset as it enables visual monitoring which allows video access or information through a web browser or mobile app.
Remote visibility is another asset as it enables visual monitoring which allows video access or information through a web browser or mobile app.
An access control system can be interactive through notifications in the form of alarm, email or text alerts to inform users of when an entry point has been accessed or rejected. Notifications will appear when a door is held open, forced open, and can even be limited to a specific door.
This feature can also be customized in order to make alarm notifications with specific sounds whereby one can differentiate between regular and urgent situations. Some systems even enable photo notifications which display photos of employees or residents as they pass through entry points.
Above features should be kept an eye out when researching and selecting the access control system that suits your requirements.
Not sure which access control system is suitable for your business? Contact us, we are happy to guide you on your way to the access control solution that's tailored to your business needs.
SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
Conscious Coliving: The Manifesto
Conscious Coliving envisions a future living paradigm where people are consciously connected to self, others and nature. They consult with shared living ventures to transform their communities so that they foster environmental sustainability, personal well-being and authentic connection.
Conscious Coliving is supporting Coliving ventures throughout various development stages to ensure the thriving of these communities.
We are proud to present below guest blog written by Shared Living consultant at Conscious Coliving, Penny Clark:
Coliving: Rented accommodation with an emphasis on shared space and community, presents an exciting new housing typology that taps into the mindset of urban millennials, offering flexibility, convenience and community.
Growth in this industry has been impressive: the five top-funded Coliving spaces have secured $3.7 billion collectively (see for example investments into Medici, Mofang Gongyu and ZiRoom), and industry experts argue that market conditions signal a strong potential for this trend to continue. There is every sign that Coliving is more than just a fad and is, in fact, part of a fundamental shift in the private rental sector.
Growth in this industry has been impressive: the five top-funded Coliving spaces have secured $3.7 billion collectively (see for example investments into Medici, Mofang Gongyu and ZiRoom), and industry experts argue that market conditions signal a strong potential for this trend to continue. There is every sign that Coliving is more than just a fad and is, in fact, part of a fundamental shift in the private rental sector.
The rise of Coliving, with its potential net rent premiums of 30% above conventional apartments, should not only be seen as good news for property developers and operators but as a positive innovation for residents as well. Coliving re-conceptualises living in accordance with the values of a new generation: collaboration over competition, shared resources instead of private ownership and reclaiming time for meaningful experiences over non-stop busy work life.
Coliving has huge potential for transforming our current living paradigm and Coliving spaces are already measuring the positive impacts they have on their residents and their local communities (for examples see Venn’s and The Student Hotel’s impact reports).
However, we must also acknowledge that there is a danger for poor practice to proliferate in this industry; something which has caused resistance to the idea of Coliving (see, for example, the negative reactions to proposed plans for Coliving in Dublin). Without actively encouraging a sense of wellbeing and community, Coliving can simply become residents renting ever-smaller spaces without the benefits and joys that shared living can bring.
However, we must also acknowledge that there is a danger for poor practice to proliferate in this industry; something which has caused resistance to the idea of Coliving (see, for example, the negative reactions to proposed plans for Coliving in Dublin). Without actively encouraging a sense of wellbeing and community, Coliving can simply become residents renting ever-smaller spaces without the benefits and joys that shared living can bring.
Having spoken to and worked with many Coliving operators and developers, we soon saw the need for an industry Manifesto. Our Conscious Coliving Manifesto presents what we believe to be the true potential of Coliving and can be used as a framework through which operators and developers can conceptualise a sustainable and human-centred approach to Coliving.
At the heart of the Manifesto is the idea of connection. We believe that Coliving should enable greater connection with the self, through wellbeing practice; greater connection with others, through authentic community; and a greater connection with the wider world, through connecting with nature and through sustainable practices.
The Manifesto also acknowledges that in order for these types of connectivity to flourish, they need infrastructural support. For this, we have included four supporting pillars, labelled design of physical space, sustainable financial model, wise management and operations, and policy and regulation.
With this Manifesto, we aim to clearly and tangibly place the core aspects of wellbeing, community and environmental sustainability at the heart of what it means to have a Coliving space.
With this Manifesto, we aim to clearly and tangibly place the core aspects of wellbeing, community and environmental sustainability at the heart of what it means to have a Coliving space.
The Manifesto is our North Star: a reminder of what matters and what inspires us. However, we also see it as a practical tool. You can use the Manifesto along with the following questions in order to assess your own Coliving space, whether you are in the process of development or are already operating. This tool helps Coliving developers and operators create and design more impact-driven and human-centred Coliving spaces that allow for the flourishing of their residents and local communities.
You may want to focus on the three core aspects, and ask:
You may want to focus on the three core aspects, and ask:
Or you may want to use the four supporting pillars to ask similar questions:
Or you may want to use the four supporting pillars to ask similar questions:
Embodying these values will help ensure that Coliving is financially sustainable in the long term, welcomed rather than prohibited by policymakers, and will have a positive and long-lasting impact.
Conscious Coliving is a consultancy supporting Coliving developers and operators in creating thriving Coliving spaces. We can help you to find answers to the questions above and can aid in integrating wellbeing, authentic community and environmental sustainability into your business. We offer support at every step of the journey, from assessing the feasibility of a project, visioning Coliving spaces, planning operations all the way through to launching. For current operators, we conduct impact assessments and offer tailored strategies to optimise the community at all levels. We furthermore collaborate with partners to conduct research and gain insights into the Coliving movement. You can find out more about us at consciousColiving.com.
Conscious Coliving partners with Salto to help Coliving spaces run their operations smoothly so that they can focus on enhancing the wellbeing, sustainability and impact of their communities.
Explore the world of shared living by watching this free webinar!
SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
The first KS Service of 2019: Comelit
The year 2018 was a great one for SALTO KS. Many changes were made on the front and back-end of the applications, improving, for instance, user experience and the speed of the platform. With these steps forward, ensuring solid grounds for the future, we are expanding the KS family with external KS services such as Comelit and many more to come! The SALTO KS Cloud Business Development team is continuously in search of brands we can successfully integrate with.
The Comelit Group SpA is a company operating on a worldwide scale and specializing in the design and manufacture of video entry, video surveillance, anti-intrusion, home automation and fire protection systems. For an overview of Comelit offices worldwide click here.
Kicking off A joint project in the UK kicked off the partnership between Comelit and SALTO KS. The project was formalized at the end of 2019, and three bricks from SALTO KS travelled to Bologna (Italy), to discuss the integration. The crew consisted of our two mobile developers (for both iOS and Android) and our UX designer. This trio was put together to fully grasp the possibilities that the Comelit mobile SDK (Software Development Kit) offered.
The concept In short, the concept is as follows: The owner of a multi-tenant/residential building purchases a Comelit intercom and SALTO lock for the main entrance. The KS service allows a single app approach therefor reducing investment costs for indoor panels and/or expensive rewiring. By activating this service on mobile devices, tenants of the building are able to:
The concept In short, the concept is as follows: The owner of a multi-tenant/residential building purchases a Comelit intercom and SALTO lock for the main entrance. The KS service allows a single app approach therefor reducing investment costs for indoor panels and/or expensive rewiring. By activating this service on mobile devices, tenants of the building are able to:
All of the above can be managed from the SALTO KS mobile app.
Design & development To create a common understanding of the tool and how it eventually will work on mobile devices a ‘Customer Journey’ was created. This not only describes the integration itself but the complete flow of the product, including the communication with the building manager.
After approval of the design, the development team could begin as well. Geared up with a Comelit demo-case containing all the hardware, the first technological proof of concept was created. It didn’t take long before it was possible to activate an intercom and receive a call from the SALTO KS mobile app.
Releasing a great KS Service The following months the design and development of the integration continued, until the new mobile app version could be released. Loyal to the initial Customer Journey, SALTO KS now offers an easy integration with Comelit intercoms. This enables the owner/manager of a building to offer a new service to tenants: Be notified about someone ringing your doorbell, having a live video/audio feed, and unlocking remotely.
How does it work The building tenant creates an account to log in to the mobile app, and selects Comelit from the KS Services.
After a successful activation of the device, a walkthrough is presented which explains in four illustrated steps the benefits and functionality of the KS Service. After this walkthrough the connected intercom is presented, meaning that all is set and done to make full use of the functionality.
Now, a guest arrives at the main entrance of the building, and he enters the number of a specific apartment. The Comelit intercom will send a push message to the SALTO KS mobile app, directly notifying those who have activated their device. The notification is presented as a regular phone call, which can be either answered or ignored. Answering the call will open the two-way audio feed of the intercom, just like a regular call. From the same call screen, the visitor can be let in directly. The app will remotely grant access for a few seconds! Alternatively, if the guest is not known, a video feed can be started (depending on the type of intercom). This screen offers similar functionality to the previous: Either let them in, mute or end the call.
With this integration the path to many more successful, time and costs reducing collaborations has been paved.
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SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
5 niche Coliving spaces to look out for
As Coliving continues to push boundaries, the interest for niche spaces and values within the industry has increased. Coming up with innovative coliving concepts not only helps one gain a foothold in the market, but also provides opportunities to stimulate creativity, solve social problems, and simply bring together like-minded individuals.
This is why we have compiled a list of our 5 favourite niche coliving spaces, each with their own unique characteristics.
Haven: A community for wellness and personal growth
An unreasonably high rent to income ratio, experiencing loneliness despite spending hours on social media, and not finding the time in the day to exercise or meditate are problems experienced by many. These kinds of modern problems are precisely what the founders of Haven wanted to solve.
Providing a place to live at half of the regular rental price in Venice Beach, LA, Haven offers its residents an opportunity to spend their money on experiences, rather than rent or furniture. Communication, a healthy lifestyle, and going carbon-free is encouraged at this coliving space, where each resident is also required to spend two hours a month dedicated to community service.
Haven’s wellness-oriented quarters are designed to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to exercise their body or mind. The communal areas include a yoga studio, a gym, and an outdoor meditation area, as well as a movie theatre and a coworking space. It also offers an impressive range of activities, ranging from motivational talks and vegan community dinners, to star energy healing events and sound baths.
Its mission is to make larger cities more accessible, as well as to create a balance of the need for housing with community growth. As most of their residents work in the health or wellness industry, Haven also provides the opportunity of networking and mutual professional advancement.
Source: Haven Coliving
Nest Copenhagen: Coliving for the creators of tomorrow
At first glance, Nest Copenhagen seems like most other coliving spaces. Residents engage in communal activities such as movie nights and dinner parties, and developing close friendships while still maintaining their private bedrooms. However, what separates Nest from the others, is that they only accept entrepreneurs.
Founded in 2014, Nest is one of Denmark’s first coliving spaces. A non-profit run by the residents, it is composed of four connected apartments, each containing five or six bedrooms. Nest encourages entrepreneurial discussion and sharing innovative ideas, but emphasizes that it is neither a coworking space nor a “second workspace”. Networking is highly recommended, and they welcome visits by foreign entrepreneurs.
Only people who fit their values are accepted into Nest. The tenants must be trustworthy, creative, supportive, and warm-hearted. They must be social, as they say, that Nest is not a place where people can come and go without speaking to anyone. Each resident must actively contribute to the community, socially and as an entrepreneur. Sharing successes, failures, and advice to help each other grow is what Nest is all about, as well as creating the best home possible for people who understand one another.
Source: Nest Copenhagen on Facebook
G|Code House: Closing the gender gap in the tech industry
G|Code House is a brand new addition to the world of coliving, as it hasn’t even officially opened yet, but its purpose is important enough to be mentioned in this list! Two women, Bridgette Wallace and Carolle Nau, bought a 5,000-square foot Victorian house in Boston, with the purpose of combining affordable coliving, technology instruction, industry placement, and post-secondary education. Tired of the skyrocketing rents and increasing homelessness, they want to use this house as a means to contribute to society.
Realizing that many educational and professional triumphs are owed to people having stable homes, they will recruit young women of colour who have an interest in technology. They will welcome women who don’t have the stability in their lives required to follow their technological ambitions. Their two-year program, provided at the house, will include technical education, internships, and speciality training.
Despite not being opened yet, G|Code House has already started providing their services. They launched a 10-week “Intro to G|Code” program in February 2020 where they taught young women the fundamentals of coding. Originally hosted by the Boston Public Library, the course started providing online lessons when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Currently, they’re in the process of collecting donations and renovating the house, while also celebrating their first graduation; they have a bright future ahead of them.
Source: G|Code House
New Ground: A community built by older women, for older women
As waiting lists for retirement homes are steadily increasing because of the ageing population, and many senior citizens have had to relocate away from their loved ones to find appropriate accommodation, it is perhaps not surprising that some have started to take matters into their own hands. Enter the Older Women Co-Housing group, which founded the UK’s first senior cohousing community, New Ground, in 2016. Their mission was simple: developing a community that cares for one another and is actively managed by the women themselves.
Refusing to be confused with sheltered housing or a retirement village, these women look out for each other instead of relying on on-site care. They eat dinner together once a week, and have schedules for cleaning and tending to the communal garden. They even carpool to shops and doctor’s appointments!
Besides the financial benefits of sharing costs and utilities, cohousing also benefits the mental and physical health of its residents. Loneliness and social isolation is a common problem among retirees and is linked to health risks such as depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular disease. Coliving can help alleviate these problems by providing opportunities for social interactions and helping retirees feel valued, independent, and a part of a community.
Source: Older Women Co-Housing Group
Suderbyn: Self-sufficient, sustainable, and socially positive
Whether it is intentional or not, there is no doubt that Coliving spaces are contributing to sustainability. Due to the sharing of food, furniture, and amenities, coliving frequently leads to less consumption and food waste. It also takes up less land space and is more energy sufficient. Some Coliving communities are taking the adoption of a sustainable lifestyle even further, and are trying to become entirely self-sufficient. One of those communities is Suderbyn.
Located on a small island in the middle of the Baltic Sea, Suderbyn was built on an old farm property. Their goal is to live in a way that creates a prosperous living environment while minimizing their environmental footprint. They place an emphasis on living close to nature and each other, creating a new model of society where everyone has a part to play.
While growing most of their food on their property according to Permaculture principles, they also buy organic, local, and seasonal food in bulk from farmers or wholesalers. Only biodegradable products are allowed, to avoid chemical residues in the soil where they grow their food. They live a vegetarian lifestyle and distance themselves from mass-consumption. Entrepreneurship is encouraged, but only when it stimulates sustainability.
Ecovillages such as Suderbyn are resilient and are not as affected by the goings of the outside world as others might. While the COVID-19 pandemic has made its mark on the world, Suderbyn claims that their daily lives have “barely changed” despite many of their projects and events having been cancelled. They attribute their resilience with their proximity and relationship with nature, as well as their access to a supportive and nurturing community.
Source: Suderbyn
Looking at these 5 diverse homes, it seems that there are endless opportunities for creativity while designing Coliving facilities. Does the future of Coliving lie in niche spaces? Only time will tell, and we can’t wait to find out!
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SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
Spatial Agency: Reimagining real estate & the future of customer experience
This month’s Think Tank Partner is Spatial Experience, founded by Bart Sasim, an expert in designing the utilization of spaces to optimize the customer experience. This fundamental idea is where the agency gets its name: Super Positive Experience, of which Bart is now CEO. Their mission is to create and develop brands which connect to the hearts of their customers through experience-driven real estate. This mission is achieved through innovative and sustainable tools within new media including VR and AR which they believe can enhance the experience of the customer, especially within Coworking, Coliving, Student Housing and more.
SALTO KS is excited to present this guest blog written by the Spatial Experience, in which they take us through their inception and provide us with their take on the future of experiencing real estate.
SALTO KS is excited to present this guest blog written by the Spatial Experience, in which they take us through their inception and provide us with their take on the future of experiencing real estate.
In the early 2012s, Europe was still in the middle of a real estate crisis and it was a challenging yet exciting moment for the student housing industry to discover new possibilities.
As the demand for student housing was stimulated by an immense influx of students, student accommodations were moving from a public, standardised offer to a privatised model with an experience-driven focus. That is when, as a fresh interior architect, Bart Sasim, CEO & Founder of Spatial Experience, was introduced to the Student Housing Research Foundation, The Class of 2020, to develop their branding and corporate identity.
Having acquired work experience from various architecture- and design firms throughout, and after his studies, he had been trained to develop concepts from an architectural standpoint, adopting the ability to revitalise spaces and envision their potential beyond their basic functionalities.
Possessing a genuine interest in understanding the perspective of human interaction within constructed spaces and community, he welcomed the opportunity to bring the experience-design methodology to his next project—cooperation on building up Student Housing Brand (The Student Hotel).
After overseeing the successful launch of The Student Hotel in several locations, it soon became apparent that a great number of other parties involved in micro-living developments were in dire need of similar services and support to take their brand to the next level. It was evident that the new generation of students and young professionals expected brands to find better and more innovative ways to deliver experience.
Inspired by the new energy that he brought into the market at The Student Hotel, Bart ventured out on his own to help other housing players grow and push the bounds even more. With the mission to help brands connect to the hearts of their customers through super positive experiences, Spatial Experience was brought to life.
Inspired by the new energy that he brought into the market at The Student Hotel, Bart ventured out on his own to help other housing players grow and push the bounds even more. With the mission to help brands connect to the hearts of their customers through super positive experiences, Spatial Experience was brought to life.
We bring our expertise and knowledge of target needs to real estate developers and operators to ensure that the schemes that they develop are truly elevating the lives of inhabitants. As creative partners in business, we support our clients in the full spectrum of branding and marketing-related activities to help roll-out their brand and take the overall student experience to new heights. In addition, we offer innovative tools within new media such as 360-degree video & photo, VR & AR to help our partners adapt to the digital-driven times and take on a more 'hospitality-like' approach to attract customers, providing them with an information-rich & more memorable customer experience. We believe this is the way of the future.
We believe our goal of bridging the gap between hospitality and the real estate sector will help to enrich the lives of young people by bringing back the ‘human’ factor within constructed spaces, community & experience building to support them on all levels of their personal and professional development.
By helping to shape and build student housing, Coliving and Coworking brands from concept to development, we also strive to foster a sense of social responsibility & sustainable growth in brands to positively influence the cities & communities of tomorrow.
By helping to shape and build student housing, Coliving and Coworking brands from concept to development, we also strive to foster a sense of social responsibility & sustainable growth in brands to positively influence the cities & communities of tomorrow.
To achieve this ambition, we partner up with enthusiastic frontrunners who leave ordinary behind as they race toward extraordinary the same way we do. We are excited to work alongside SALTO KS to innovate the ways people experience the spaces and to co-create a better future.
To achieve this ambition, we partner up with enthusiastic frontrunners who leave ordinary behind as they race toward extraordinary the same way we do. We are excited to work alongside SALTO KS to innovate the ways people experience the spaces and to co-create a better future.
In Coliving & student housing industries today, what speaks to people is not just finding a place to sleep, eat, work and repeat, but it is the promise of community, convenience and fulfilling experiences that foster both their personal and professional growth. And with the power of our niche expertise along with our think tank partners, we hope to create more super positive experiences and influence the way cities & communities of the future develop.
For more on the work of Spatial Experience, take a look here. If you’d like to get in touch, contact Spatial Experience through this form.
Thank you, Spatial Experience for collaborating with us on this edition of our Think Tank Partner series and we look forward to what the future of Spatial Experience has in store!
SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
5 ways SALTO KS helps you monetize your Coliving space
Access control is more commonly being used across different types of businesses today. By using access control, an admin has full control over who enters their spaces and what certain time of day they want to grant that access. Physical keys are becoming a thing of the past and access control systems are more commonly being installed for higher security and safety. In the coliving industry, it is clear to see that many businesses are modernizing by implementing access control systems in their spaces for greater control. Throughout this blog, we’ll take you through some of the reasons that our access control system, SALTO KS, will monetize your coliving business.
Access control is more commonly being used across different types of businesses today. By using access control, an admin has full control over who enters their spaces and what certain time of day they want to grant that access. Physical keys are becoming a thing of the past and access control systems are more commonly being installed for higher security and safety. In the coliving industry, it is clear to see that many businesses are modernizing by implementing access control systems in their spaces for greater control. Throughout this blog, we’ll take you through some of the reasons that our access control system, SALTO KS, will monetize your coliving business.
SALTO KS provides you with the ability to customize what kind of access rights you want a specific user to have. As an admin, you can control this by providing open or limited access to a user. For example, say you want to provide a tenant of your coliving space access rights to your common room facility, but that you don’t want them being there overnight to avoid disturbances. With SALTO KS, you can customize that user’s access by blocking their entry from a specific time period. Not only can you customize what time period someone has access, but also which certain facilities they are permitted to enter besides their own rooms/apartments.
SALTO KS provides you with the ability to customize what kind of access rights you want a specific user to have. As an admin, you can control this by providing open or limited access to a user. For example, say you want to provide a tenant of your coliving space access rights to your common room facility, but that you don’t want them being there overnight to avoid disturbances. With SALTO KS, you can customize that user’s access by blocking their entry from a specific time period. Not only can you customize what time period someone has access, but also which certain facilities they are permitted to enter besides their own rooms/apartments.
Providing your users with higher security is a huge boost to your business. The technology used in SALTO KS offers you the advantage of having greater security measures that prevent break-ins and keep your users safe. By controlling who has access to your space, you have the ability to minimize security threats and maintain the safety of your space.
Providing your users with higher security is a huge boost to your business. The technology used in SALTO KS offers you the advantage of having greater security measures that prevent break-ins and keep your users safe. By controlling who has access to your space, you have the ability to minimize security threats and maintain the safety of your space.
Ever had to run to a store to make copies of your keys? Yeah, we’ve all been there before. The risk around that is having too many copies, losing one of them, or having your keys stolen. If that happens, it increases your vulnerability to a break-in. SALTO KS offers you an immediate solution for such or similar cases. With SALTO KS, you are able to instantly block a tag if someone has lost it. By simply removing a tag from a user’s page, you are fully protected against the risk of someone entering your space with a stolen/lost tag.
Ever had to run to a store to make copies of your keys? Yeah, we’ve all been there before. The risk around that is having too many copies, losing one of them, or having your keys stolen. If that happens, it increases your vulnerability to a break-in. SALTO KS offers you an immediate solution for such or similar cases. With SALTO KS, you are able to instantly block a tag if someone has lost it. By simply removing a tag from a user’s page, you are fully protected against the risk of someone entering your space with a stolen/lost tag.
Generally, having multiple coliving locations makes it more difficult to provide access and have control over all locations. SALTO KS offers a high-end solution to this issue. By simply adding certain users to different access groups, your users will easily have access to multiple locations. For example, say you need your receptionist to work at a different location for the day. Without providing them with a new key, just simply assign their tag to have access rights for the new location and they’re good to go.
Generally, having multiple coliving locations makes it more difficult to provide access and have control over all locations. SALTO KS offers a high-end solution to this issue. By simply adding certain users to different access groups, your users will easily have access to multiple locations. For example, say you need your receptionist to work at a different location for the day. Without providing them with a new key, just simply assign their tag to have access rights for the new location and they’re good to go.
One of the highlights of access control is the ability to integrate it with other systems and software. SALTO KS also offers you the opportunity to do this. By getting access to the SALTO KS API, you have the opportunity to advance your spaces by doing more with our smart locks. In the coliving industry, SALTO KS has already partnered with several coliving spaces to offer a customized cloud-based locking system. Some of these partners include Cohabs and Obeyo.
One of the highlights of access control is the ability to integrate it with other systems and software. SALTO KS also offers you the opportunity to do this. By getting access to the SALTO KS API, you have the opportunity to advance your spaces by doing more with our smart locks. In the coliving industry, SALTO KS has already partnered with several coliving spaces to offer a customized cloud-based locking system. Some of these partners include Cohabs and Obeyo.
SALTO KS provides a flexible access control management system that requires no software installation or the added expense of a fully-wired electronic product. Modern cloud-based, wireless access control system is easy and simple to use for businesses including Coworking Spaces, Coliving Buildings, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, Retail, Multi-Tenant Housing, Gyms and many more. Our best in class wireless access control solution and smart locks guarantee the efficiency for your business. Integrate smart locks, start easily managing wireless access control now!
