What is a keyless entry system?

Keyless building entry systems are electronic access control systems that allow authorized users to access the building’s entryways without a traditional key. They can use methods as simple as a pin code, key fob, or key card, but some use higher-end tech like a mobile app, fingerprint or voice access, or facial recognition software. Keyless entry systems are also more aesthetically pleasing than conventional lock-and-key setups. According to Construction Dive, 86% of millennial owners and renters are willing to pay more for a “smart unit” equipped with automated or remote-controlled devices like keyless entry.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of a keyless door entry system:

1. Convenience

With keyless entry systems for apartments, gone are the days of trying to find your key ring at the bottom of your packed purse or loaded backpack. Keyless smart access technologies available from MVI Systems provide convenient, safe access solutions for multifamily communities. Using a video intercom, mobile access, and visitor PINs, residents and management can manage all the activities and functions of a building from anywhere.

Check out how it works.

2. Security

In addition to their undeniable convenience, keyless building entry systems like MVI’s KeyCom® are designed to keep residents safe. They’re harder to get past than traditional key locks. In addition, they can restrict or grant access on a person-by-person basis. The KeyCom® includes state-of-the-art facial recognition and artificial intelligence software, offering enhanced security for any residential or commercial building.

3. Cost Savings

These systems can save property managers money by not having to pay for a front desk person or door guard. It also eliminates the need for extra keys, making it easier to manage access and reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys.

4. Improved Aesthetic and Perceived Value

Keyless entry systems represent a significant value-added feature to building residents. The same Construction Dive report referenced earlier indicates 61% of millennials are likely to pay more for an apartment specifically because of electronic access features. In a survey of Wakefield Research using a sample of 1,000 renters in the US, a full 45% said they feel that physical door keys will be obsolete by 2026. In addition, 63% indicated they would move out of a building due to a lack of security.

Forward-thinking developers and property managers would be wise to consider carefully researched, developed, and tested keyless entry systems. They provide convenience, security, potential cost savings, and wide appeal to one of the largest markets in the rental sector. To learn more about the world’s smartest video access system, visit MVI Systems and request a quote today!

MVI Systems is a software development company whose innovative team of designers and engineers have created a revolutionary product for the residential multifamily building market: the patented KeyCom® Smart Video Door Kiosk and Software Platform. KeyCom® relies on a touchscreen monitor and smartphone apps to enable residents to interact with guests and visitors with touchless Bluetooth entry and digital keys, creating a user-friendly occupant experience and offering a more secure means for accessing properties. Unlike other video door systems, KeyCom® entry technology recognizes residents as they approach the system based on Bluetooth proximity-— enabling them to enter the building automatically in a matter of seconds.

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Challenges of Package Delivery in Apartments

Sadly, there are challenges in ensuring that a package reaches somebody living in an apartment building. Sometimes, it’s a simple matter of it being difficult for the postal delivery person to find the correct building or knowing where they’re actually supposed to leave the package. Many of us have had things delivered to us that were addressed to our neighbors, and many of us have been the neighbor in that situation.

Even if the package is delivered to the correct address, there are still factors to contend with. Depending on the apartment building, there are rules for where to leave packages—at the door, on a table in the lobby, or in a designated mailbox. That doesn’t mean those rules will always be followed.

We also have to take into account the occasional delivery worker who simply leaves packages outside of the building altogether. Maybe they hide them behind a nearby bush or simply prop them against the door. When this happens, packages are at risk of being stolen or damaged by the elements should bad weather come knocking.

There are also difficulties to consider around scheduling. If someone needs to sign for a package but isn’t home, they could play delivery tag with the mailman for several days. Ideally, noted delivery windows should be followed, but they can be ignored.

The Solution

Thankfully, with the MVI KeyCom®, these problems are nonexistent or easily solvable. Thanks to the ability to set up secure locations for drop-off packages, residents need not worry about losing their deliveries.

Our Smart Video Door Platform has a state-of-the-art touchscreen that’s easy to use, for both residents and delivery workers.

When it comes to package delivery, our system and its key features provide residents with the ability:

• To know who’s right outside their door.
• To get an instant notification about any delivery into our Package Room Solution.
• To keep track of packages received, but not yet retrieved.
• To Communicate! Just by using the app on their phone, they can see and talk to the person dropping off their package.
• To see if a package has been delivered.
• To keep an eye on packages throughout the day.

With an MVI Video Security System in place, residents can be confident that their package will be safe!

Contact us today to learn more about our products and package room solutions!

The post How to Get Packages Delivered to Your Apartment appeared first on MVI Systems.

An effective visitor management system enhances the security of your shared building by providing a high-level overview of all types of visitors and giving them different levels of access. Our smart video entry systems use state-of-the-art technology to automate the tasks of traditional visitor management systems, delivering a contactless check-in experience that can more accurately and efficiently handle more visitors.

KeyCom® is MVI’s state-of-the-art apartment building video intercom system. Securely operated on an intuitive web platform, KeyCom® allows you to control your building’s activities and features. With leading-edge facial recognition, artificial intelligence software, and touch-free access, KeyCom® is designed to keep your residents, tenants, and visitors safe.

MVI’s innovative team of designers and engineers have integrated increasingly sophisticated technology to their smart video door systems. These improvements have enhanced the functionality of these building entry systems, further upgrading the experience for residents, visitors, delivery personnel, maintenance, and management.

Residents 

Residents of multi-family buildings use either their smartphones or MVI’s Web Portal to grant access to the building, send digital visitor keys, receive video and voice calls, send and receive text messages, retrieve video and voicemails and manage their accounts.

Visitors

Visitors use MVI’s KeyCom® touchscreen to scroll through the directory of the multi-tenant building to make a selection using the apartment or office number, tenant or family name, or any image uploaded to the multi-tenant video intercom system by the resident or tenant. Visitors are able to video-chat with residents or tenants or leave a video voicemail using the video intercom system.

Delivery

An access control system like the MVI KeyCom® directs delivery staff to an apartment or office building’s secured package room. Drivers use a touchscreen on the building entry system to access the secure package room, greatly reducing the number of lost or undelivered packages. 

Maintenance

Repair and maintenance workers can be granted access to the building via the KeyCom® touchscreen in advance, making it unnecessary for them to be in constant contact with the superintendent while on the premises. 

Management

MVI’s video intercom system for apartment buildings allows managers to update tenant records and send residents messages, notifications, and schedules of upcoming events through the system’s Web Portal. Building owners and property managers have access to detailed building access events and reports.

An increasing number of shared buildings and multi-family properties are updating their approach to visitor management with leading-edge building entry systems like MVI’s KeyCom®. Ease, convenience, and thoroughness of access control matters to tenants, residents, and visitors. Getting ahead of the curve with a state-of-the-art, user-friendly video intercom building entry system like MVI’s KeyCom® will save you money, improve efficiency, and keep your residents, visitors, and staff happy!

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When a system is managed by the reception staff of your apartment complex, there is an instant boost of security. That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price tag on. Here are the benefits of a video intercom system and why MVI is the right choice for you.

Convenience

You want to communicate clearly with whoever is on screen. Our KeyCom® line of products allows you to quickly and easily see visitors, give entrance access remotely, and instantly chat with the person at the door. That’s convenience and safety you can count on.

Access Control

For those who manage buildings, you need to monitor the comings and goings of everyone––it’s a lot to keep track of, isn’t it? In addition to monitoring entrance points, another perk of MVI’s family of products is that we can help you create a secure Package Room solution. No more notes on residents’ doors, missed deliveries, or rogue packages. Only those who should be entering have access––period.

Simple Communication

The beauty of a cloudbased video system is that even from a smartphone, you can communicate with whoever is at your door, no matter where you are. You can grant access or quickly send them on their way: a convenience we all want to rely on.

Deter Possible Problems

Video monitoring can keep possible problems from becoming emergencies. When someone who may be a threat sees your video system, the last thing they want is to be on camera. When paired with other security measures, breaking in becomes more of a hassle than it’s worth, and that just might be what saves your life.

Around the Clock Safety

It’s one thing to have unrestricted access at entry points to an apartment complex during the day, but what about at night? Video intercom systems allow residents and their guests to gain access when doors are locked. Security can easily be reached through the intercom if after-hours visitors need assistance.

MVI Systems keeps up with the latest trends in access control systems, constantly improving technologies and integrations that allow building owners and property managers to enjoy streamlined, convenient security options. Contact us today for a FREE demo, and let us walk you through the world’s smartest video access system.

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You’re Constantly Handing out Replacement Keys and Cards

Whether it’s tenant turnover or simply a matter of occupants losing their entry keys and cards, replacing these items can be costly and time-consuming. Aside from the physical replacement of lost or stolen keys, your building may need to rekey the doors entirely to ensure security.

Additionally, both new and vacating tenants create challenges to the security of an apartment building, from deleting or adding them to a database to ensuring they have returned all copies of the door keys or entry cards. Upgrading to a new video intercom system can streamline these processes for both property owners and tenants alike.

You’re Behind the Times

It doesn’t make sense to hang on to outdated technology when there are so many better options available. Today’s video intercom access systems use AI technology, apps, and smart devices for granting building entry. Upgrading your system allows tenants to control access, no matter where they are.

Additionally, limited permissions can be granted for delivery drivers or maintenance personnel to have access to the building.

You’re Looking to Save Money

Video intercom systems will decrease your reliance on front-desk security guards because they allow tenants to grant, limit, or block access to non-residents. These systems are excellent choices for gated communities, eliminating the need for 24/7 manned security booths in the building’s parking lots or access roads.

Your Area is Seeing an Increase in Crime

Crime is on the rise throughout the United States. If your building is in an area seeing this increase, you will need to upgrade your security systems for the safety and peace of mind of your tenants.

It’s been found that 86% of millennials will not only stay longer in buildings with upgraded access control technology, but they will also pay up to 20% more to live there.

Upgraded video intercom systems will feature event logs, real-time monitoring and recording of door activity, and increased control of the building by managers and owners. These reports are important to have in case of an emergency event within the building and can be given to law enforcement following criminal activity.

Your Old Video Intercom System is Failing

If you find yourself repeatedly repairing an old intercom system, it’s time to replace or upgrade it with new technology. Some signs that the old system is failing can include buzzing or distorted sound, fuzzy picture quality, or an increase in tenant issues and complaints with accessing the building or interacting with visitors.

See How MVI is Shaping Security for Apartment Buildings 

MVI, an award-winning video-access control solution for commercial and multi-family properties, streamlines video access control solutions and smart technologies to provide the highest level of security for buildings. With constant integrations designed to enhance existing video intercom systems, MVI can work with several hardware and software manufacturers to increase security, improve the tenant experience, and give control back to building owners and property managers.

Is it time to upgrade your apartment building’s video intercom system? Request a free, no-obligation demo and see why residents and managers alike love MVI technology.

The post When is it Time to Upgrade Your Apartment Building’s Video Intercom System? appeared first on MVI Systems.

Why are These Systems Outpacing Traditional Security Types?

Other than an additional layer of security for properties, why are businesses turning to this new technology?

1. Customizable Solutions

Traditional methods relied on keys…for every door. Some employees and visitors might only need access to the entry doors or offices, while others may need additional keys for various other locked areas in the building such as stock rooms or rack server rooms. Access control systems allow administrators to assign each individual a customized level of access.

2. Streamlined Management for Administrators

Updating information, such as tenant changes or new authorized vendors, is far easier with this newer technology than with traditional methods. If a tenant leaves, their security access is deactivated and the individual can no longer enter the building. This is easier, and less expensive than changing locks to ensure security after an employee or tenant separation. Logs are maintained digitally and property owners or managers can access information, permit or deny entry, and check on the building in real-time.

3. Happier Tenants

With exciting new technologies, tenants and employees can access a building with their smart device or use a keycard for entry. They can vet visitors and allow or deny access, increasing security not only for themselves but for the entire property. In fact, 86% of millennials admit they would pay 20% more in rental fees to live in a smart building. With smart solutions that allow specified vendors to access the building, even package theft can be reduced or eliminated.

4. Save Money

Installing access control systems can eliminate the need for additional security measures such as guard personnel. These systems can also be integrated as part of a larger smart building infrastructure to operate lights and HVAC systems. Businesses will benefit from 24/7 access to authorized employees who can work earlier or later without the need to open or lock the entire building.

5. Increased Compliance

Security regulations are a large part of compliance, which includes ensuring records like employee, client, financial, or patient data are secure. Door access control systems provide the highest level of security, including limiting authorization to areas where records are kept.

My Video Intercom is the Future of Access Control

My Video Intercom (MVI) keeps up with the latest trends in access control systems, constantly improving technologies and integrations that allow building owners and property managers to enjoy streamlined, convenient security options. Contact us now to request a free demo.

The post The Future of Security: Access Control Systems appeared first on MVI Systems.

1. Replacing Outdated Key Cards

For tenants, replacing key cards with video access control makes getting into the building easier. While key cards can be lost or stolen, video access technology relies on the devices that tenants always have with them.

Replacing key cards is expensive and time consuming for property managers. A lost or stolen keycard requires the property manager to recode the doors, and possibly re-issue key cards for all tenants. Video access technology stops the costly cycle of key card issuing, re-keying of locks following a lost or stolen card, and card replacement.

2. Increased Tenant Safety and Flexibility

Unauthorized access to a building is a big problem. Many property managers are finding it far more cost-effective to replace security and front-desk personnel with video access technology, putting the responsibility for visitors back into the hands of tenants.

Two-way video intercom systems allow tenants to vet and screen potential visitors, even if they aren’t at home at the time of the visit. MVI’s video access technologies are perfect for gated communities, allowing access to tenants and authorized visitors without the need for a security guard or keycard.

3. Touch-Free Technologies 

With COVID-19 raising everyone’s awareness around transmitting viruses, touch-free methods are becoming ubiquitous in our everyday lives. MVI’s touch-free technology allows tenants and visitors to enter and exit the building without having to physically use a keypad or keycard. This causes a significant reduction in the spread of germs and illness-producing viruses.

4. Package Theft Reduction

Tenants and property managers alike benefit from the added security of video access controlled vendor and package delivery services. Knowing exactly when a package is delivered and granting the delivery personnel temporary access to the designated delivery area reduces the odds that packages will be left unattended in a public space. Maintenance personnel can be granted access as well, meaning that repair services can be carried out, even if the property manager isn’t on-site.

5. Video Logs Allow Identification of All Visitors

If an unauthorized visitor gains access to the building, door monitoring and auditing will keep track of when they entered the building and how long they stayed there. This makes it far easier for law enforcement to identify a suspect following a crime.

My Video Intercom is Changing the Way Tenants Feel About Home

Recognized with the 2020 Software and Technology Award from New World Report as the Best Smart Video Door Systems Provider in the United States, MVI provides the technologies property managers and tenants rely on for safe, touch-free building access solutions. See how MVI can work for your building with a free demo today.

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1. Control What Doors Can be Accessed, and When

A video access system allows complete control over who is accessing doors, and when. You can limit access to the laundry room or the pool facilities, for instance, to decrease loitering and increase safety overnight. You can keep tenants from accessing the building’s storage and supply rooms as well, helping to deter theft of assets.

2. Improved Efficiency

Access control and door surveillance is streamlined into one seamless application for both your tenants and your staff. That’s great news for you, and for your residents who no longer need to struggle with multiple keys, it’s even better news. The video access system is controlled by a single app on your residents’ phones.

3. Increased Crime Deterrent

Did you know that over 60% of burglaries are committed after a forcible entry? Burglaries aren’t just crimes of opportunity. A building without a security system is 300 times more likely to be broken into. 

In a residential setting, if a bad guy has a choice between a home that has a security system and flood lights and a dark home without any security system, they will most likely move on to the home that doesn’t have protections in place. Likewise, a criminal would prefer to break into an apartment complex without advanced security features such as a video access system.

4. No Tailgaters Allowed

You know Mrs. Smith from 11B, but you don’t know that person that followed her through the open door. It doesn’t seem that Mrs. Smith does, either…she’s just being polite. This unauthorized person is called a “tailgater,” and a video access system will help you keep them out.

5. Increased Access Control

Stop strangers and unauthorized personnel from entering your building while increasing protection for your property and your tenants. The video system allows your tenants to authorize their own visitors’ entry to the building by allowing them to see, and identify, the visitor.

With a video access system, you can block admission to ex-tenants who no longer occupy your building instantly, no rekeying or changing locks required.

6. Increased Perception of Safety

Video access systems increase your tenants’ feelings of safety and security. Your apartment complex will be more desirable to potential renters when they feel safe. Whether your building is in a high-crime area or not, added security is an important factor for people looking to move into a new apartment.

How important are smart technologies like video access systems? MVI has found that 86% of millennials will pay up to 20% extra to live in a “smart” building.

KeyCom® Solutions from MVI: Smart and Easy Video Access Systems for Apartments

MVI has improved video access systems with KeyCom®, our patented intercom system featuring touch free entry solutions for multi-family and apartment buildings, businesses, and residential homes.

We can make set up even easier for you and your residents with our resident onboarding packages, including a set of 2 MyKeys, MyKey Activation Cards, and user registration instructions for each tenant.

Schedule a free demo to see how KeyCom® can streamline your building’s entry systems, add another layer of security, and make your property more appealing to renters.

The post 6 Reasons to Install a Video Access System in Apartment Buildings appeared first on MVI Systems.

Mobile access control is like a digital security guard on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Instead of requiring a badge or a physical key, this security guard requires verification and authentication via the cloud and a mobile device before allowing entry into a building. Technology researcher Gartner has reported that mobile access controls are no longer just on enterprise wishlists; these solutions are now mainstream.

With any newer technology, there are always misunderstandings. Here are some common misconceptions about mobile access control that MVI hears most frequently.

1. We Won’t Be Able to Get in if There’s a Power Outage or My Phone is Dead

A big concern with mobile access controls is that people will not be able to get past the door if there is a power outage or their mobile device isn’t charged. Remember that these controls are to enhance security and convenience; physical solutions such as keys, badges or access pins will still allow access into the building despite a power disruption. Also, MVI’s advanced system allows multiple different methods of entry, including physical MyKey tabs, that are similar to the tabs you use at a supermarket or gym, that don’t require a power source.

2. We Won’t Be Able to Get Out if There’s an Emergency

Mobile access control is only meant to increase security for people entering the building. Your exits will still always be available; a mobile access control will not affect or limit anyone’s ability to leave the building.

3. Keycards or Badges Are Faster Than Mobile Access Control

Do you know where your entry key is right now? How about your badge? You will never have to fumble to find your mobile device; it’s in your pocket, your purse, or your hand. Unlike many of the mobile access systems out there, MVI’s proprietary technology doesn’t even require you to have your device next to the unit. It can just be in your purse, and it will still allow you entry without taking it out, or going to the app.

4. Mobile Access Control Is More Expensive Than Traditional Solutions

You may think that keys, keycards, or badges are less expensive than mobile access controls, but mobile access control solutions are actually in line, or cheaper than most other types of access control systems, and will save more money by:

• Eliminating card, key, and badge replacement.
• Eliminating the need to physically hand the key to the individual, which is also helpful in today’s touchless world.
• Streamlining the process for removing access for individuals who no longer require it.
• Removing the need for physical on-site servers with cloud based mobile access controls
• Combining mobile access with intercom, CCTV and other security features.

5. Having Mobile Access Control Apps on My Device Will Lower its Performance

One of the most common misconceptions about mobile access controls is that the app will drain the battery and slow performance of the device. 

Mobile access control apps are designed to take only a small amount of memory and run only when requested. These apps are background apps and will not affect your phone’s performance or drain its battery any faster. MVI’s app works on BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), which enables your device to save even more energy as well.

MVI Systems Harness the Power of the Cloud and AI-Based Software

My Video Intercom uses state-of-the-art features such as facial recognition and AI-based software to enhance your building’s security. Our technology streamlines communications and tracks visitors while delivering security, convenience, and support. Contact us to request a free demo of MVI and save over $1,000 for a limited time only.

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