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INTERNATIONAL MEETING: MANAGING CYBERSECURITY RISK – ARE YOU READY TO STEP UP?

CREAplus invites all interested parties to join the international meeting on cybersecurity risk management on Tuesday 9 of May 2023 from 9 am to 3 pm at CUBO Golf Ljubljana, Medvode – Smlednik. The event is free of charge for all attendees.

The event is addressed to directors of managed security services providers, managers of security operations centres, CISOs, cybersecurity managers and experts in organisations, CIOs and system administrators.

The event “Managing Cybersecurity Risk – are you ready to step up?” aims to discuss and discover effective solutions and approaches to manage cybersecurity risks and prevent cyber threats.

Attendees will learn about the latest cybersecurity solutions and services, from protection technologies, cybersecurity management, and security intelligence to cybersecurity awareness and training. The event will provide a chance to share experiences, relax, and bond over a round of golf.

MEETING INFO:

AGENDA:

8:15 – 8:45 REGISTRATION

9:00 – 9:05 INTRODUCTION

9:05 – 10:00 PRESENTATIONS:

  • CYNET SECURITY – Comprehensive visibility across all attack vectors
  • PERCEPTION POINT – Uncovering threats in email, collaboration apps & browsers with Perception Point’s advanced threat detection capabilities
  • ADMIRAL CROATIA – customer use case

10:00 – 10: 15 COFFEE BREAK

10:15 – 11:15 PRESENTATIONS

  • STELLAR CYBER – Operating OT and IT security from one platform
  • KELA – The Balkans and Cybercrime – How CTI can help you stay ahead of the game
  • Customer use case

11:15 – 12:15 LUNCH

12:15 – 13:30 PRESENTATIONS:

  • PICUS Security – Continuous threat exposure management
  • CREAplus – Cyber Attack demonstration live
  • CREApro – Artificial Intelligence in Cyberdefence

13:30 – 14:30 GOLF, networking

At every stage of its life cycle, wireless access control can help to save money and reduce energy use

London, March 2023 — Installation, operation and expansion: electronic access control has costs attached to every stage of its lifetime. But these costs are not fixed.

 Choosing wireless over wired locking can play an important role in reducing energy use — and therefore expenditure.

Cost savings at installation: faster, simpler fitting

Savings begin at the very start. Installation stage is the largest contributor to potential cost saving when businesses choose wireless access control.

In calculations for one costings report, ASSA ABLOY experts examined projected costs for a 100-door installation. Labour savings for those who chose wireless versus wired locks were 82.5%*.

Why? Firstly, because wireless installation is much faster. It is also less intrusive. Most wireless locks require little or no drilling around the door, whereas wired access control needs cabling through and partly around a door — which means specialist electrical installers, too.

By choosing a wireless solution, organizations also upgrade building security without inconveniencing staff or disturbing everyday work routines.

Cost savings during use: less energy, better sustainability performance

In 2017 the Harvard Business Review declared energy efficiency one of the “key levers for business success”**. This opinion may be more true now than ever before.

Between 2021 and 2022, non-household energy prices increased by at least 10% in every EU country except one. In Greece, Romania and Denmark, unit prices for businesses more than doubled***. Wireless, battery-powered devices can help protect against increases and volatility.

Battery-powered locks use less energy than traditional wired locks, which normally work via magnets connected permanently to electricity. Wireless locks work differently. They only “wake up” when presented with a credential, to make an access decision.

This translates to an additional saving on energy costs: more than 70%*, or thousands of euros over a typical access control solution’s lifetime.

Other related energy and materials costs during use are also lower. In operation, wireless locks only need a change of their standard battery — which may be rechargeable — typically once every two years. No specialist maintenance is required.

Cost-savings from longer life: reuse and space flexibility

Wireless locks also add flexibility — and can reduce costs — when an organization reconfigures or expands their office space.

High-quality, innovative wireless locks like ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio® range can typically be reinstalled at another door without impacting reliability. They move to wherever is convenient.

If a business is rethinking workspace to encourage flexible or hybrid work patterns, for example, cost efficiencies could be significant****. Typical savings on office relocation or expansion are estimated at around 30%* with wireless over wired locking.

Reducing energy use while extending control: University of St Andrews

As home of the renowned St Andrews Prize for the Environment, the University of St Andrews has sustainability at the heart of its ethos. For student accommodation, university managers sought an energy-efficient access control solution which respected and reflected these principles.

A major challenge facing the university was that multiple different standalone access control technologies had been installed piecemeal at student halls over the years. To upgrade the accommodation, university managers sought a more suitable, integrated solution.

They university chose ASSA ABLOY Aperio battery powered electronic escutcheons. Approximately 1,600 doors so far are equipped with electronic access control — without cabling*****.

The Aperio devices integrate fully and work flexibly with both the university’s existing central system and their student ID card. University security managers continue to enjoy the efficiency benefits of monitoring and controlling access from a single point and in real time, including for doors in multiple buildings.

Energy efficiency and more control with Aperio

In comparison to a wired access control solution, Aperio devices offer significant energy efficiency benefits. Devices are wireless, so can be installed with little energy use and no need for wiring to mains electricity. They consume zero energy when idle and run on standard batteries, consuming little power during operation.

Through an entire product life-cycle, Aperio combines reliability and energy efficiency with cost effectiveness. In doing so, Aperio contributes to the university’s sustainability goals.

At the same time, online integration with St Andrews’ central management system has improved access for all users.

“Aperio gives us central management and control,” says Pauline Brown, Associate Chief Information Officer at University of St Andrews, “and contributes to our award-winning track record in energy efficiency.”

To find out how you could save by making the switch to wireless locks, download a free solution guide at https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/aperio-cost-savings

Access control for a new Paris media headquarters uses a suite of connected ASSA ABLOY devices

London, April 2023 – For new headquarters in a Paris suburb, media giant Canal+ specified a connected smart building to enable efficient, flexible working. Choosing the right connectable access technologies can be a time-consuming task, all too often requiring compromises in the name of compatibility.

 “Fast-growing demand for integrated building systems makes it critical for hardware suppliers to offer a range of compatible access solutions,” says Thomas Schulz, Product Marketing Director at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA.

“ASSA ABLOY’s broad competence and a vast range of connectable access control solutions enables us to match devices to many applications, at almost any opening and in all areas of a building.”

The new access control solution for the Canal+ building filters access to and through all technical areas, for 1,200 employees plus visitors and contractors. No-compromise protection is required for multiple types of door, both internal openings and external or emergency exits.

Canal+ prioritized access control devices which offer high performance in both security and sustainability criteria. Particular care was taken to green interior and exterior spaces — as well as to indoor air quality and exposure to natural light — in order to reduce the building’s energy consumption.

“As soon as we discuss access systems, all service providers tell me about ASSA ABLOY products,” says Abdeljelil Saidi, Director of Safety and Security at Vivendi/Canal+ Group.

Seamless integration with Genetec Synergis

All ASSA ABLOY devices installed at Canal+ integrate seamlessly with their Genetec platform. This integration gives employees the flexibility and convenience of carrying one multi-site credential. From an integrated Genetec control panel, administrators can issue, amend or withdraw access for individual users or rooms.

Aperio and ABLOY locks connect with the smart building system to prevent unauthorized intrusion into sensitive areas.

Choosing the Aperio H100 Wireless Electronic Handle over wired locking devices contributed to improving energy efficiency. Like every Aperio lock, an H100 is fitted without wiring, which saves power during installation. The electronic handle works without mains power, consuming much less energy than a traditional wired door lock.

Canal+ are delighted with performance of their connected Genetec and ASSA ABLOY solution: “We plan to equip new Vivendi Group sites and not just the Canal+ headquarters,” adds M. Saidi.

 The right device for every door, interior and exterior

To secure interior doors, the multi-award winning Aperio H100 Wireless Handle combines security with contemporary aesthetics. Its durable design is perfect for doors with high traffic; the H100 works with online or offline access control systems. A battery slots inside the handle, ensuring a minimal, discreet footprint.

For an even higher level of security at external-facing doors, ABLOY Electromechanical Locks are also fully integrated with the building’s Genetec system. These class-leading door devices offer high mechanical resistance at vulnerable points such as emergency exits.

“Abloy electromechanical locks are robust and efficient,” confirms M. Saidi.

To learn more about ASSA ABLOY’s connectable access solutions, download the reference PDF at: https:/assaabloy.com/emeia-blueprint/market-product-assets/das/assets/AA_Aperio_Case-Study_Canal-Plus_EN_09_web.pdf

Interactive Security Day

Representatives of the companies Cathexis, Sinpro, Secure Logiq, and Suprema invite you to the “Interactive Security Day” conference at the Valmar Diamant Hotel in Poreč which will be held on May 24 and 25, 2023.

The conference is primarily intended for system integrators who can familiarize themselves with the solutions offered by the above companies.

Participants can use the event to discover how they can achieve more with their projects by using several options

  • Advanced security solutions
  • Full project control
  • Unique propositions
  • Benefits of a completely integrated system
  • High availability
  • Forecasting and modeling
  • Low total cost of ownership

About companies

Cathexis is a global video management Software developer. For more than 25 years Cathexis has shown how monitoring solutions can maximize return on investment for security, infrastructure,

and business intelligence management, to positively impact client operations.

Since 2011 Secure Logiq has been developing the missing piece of the HD surveillance jigsaw – servers specifically designed for HD surveillance.

Secure Logiq is now the world’s leading producer of ultra-high-performance HD surveillance servers and is unique in being entirely dedicated to the development of advanced, high-throughput video

data processing and storage technology.

SINPRO is a designer and solution provider that specializes in different application areas, including physical security. As part of the operation, SINPRO provides guidance and assistance throughout the project design, implementation, and training stages.

Suprema is a leading global provider of security and biometrics.

By combining world-renowned biometric algorithms with superior engineering, Suprema has introduced a number of technology innovations to the security industry.

 

NOTE: The organizer covers the costs of hotel accommodation, dinner and lunch!

Date of event: May 23-24, 2023

Venue: Hotel Valamar Diamant, Poreč, Croatia

Applications can be sent to: KaterinaR@cathexiseu.com

 

Axis Communications announces world’s first explosion-protected camera designed for Zone/Division 2 hazardous areas

Axis Communications, a leader in network video, announces AXIS P1468-XLE Explosion-Protected Bullet Camera, the world’s first explosion-protected camera specifically designed for Zone and Division 2 hazardous locations. The camera is designed for Zone 2, 22 and Class I/II/III Division 2 according to international standards (ATEX, IECEx, NEC).

AXIS P1468-XLE uses the ‘Ex e’ protection method, an explosion-protection approach referred to as ‘increased safety’ or ‘non-incendive’. This method ensures that no arcs and sparks can appear, and that excessive temperatures cannot be reached, during normal operation of electrical equipment. As a result, electrical equipment using ‘Ex e’ protection cannot ignite gas or dust in the surrounding potentially combustible environment.

AXIS P1468-XLE is a robust, impact- and weather-resistant fixed camera which delivers excellent image quality in 4K resolution under any light conditions, through Lightfinder 2.0, Forensic WDR, and OptimizedIR. Compact and lightweight in design, the camera is as easy to install as a standard camera.

AXIS P1468-XLE has been designed in line with North American and European directives for equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. By design, the camera is unable to provide sufficient energy to ignite gas or dust in the atmosphere to cause an explosion, therefore removing the need for any traditional explosion-protected enclosure.

The multitasking camera provides many benefits within health and safety applications and operational efficiency. Early detection of smoke and fire, ensuring that personal protective equipment (PPE) is being worn and used, and monitoring restricted areas bring significant health and safety benefits to organizations. In operational efficiency, the camera can be used for visual verification of various processes and as part of an advanced data-driven sensory network.

Integrated deep learning for advanced analytics

Built on ARTPEC-8, AXIS P1468-XLE includes a deep learning processing unit (DLPU) enabling advanced features and powerful analytics that run on the edge. For instance, by connecting the camera to the process control system and continuously monitoring a process, you can fine-tune the process in real-time to maximize throughput. In addition, it is possible to extract and send metadata for further analysis, which can be used for trend monitoring and predictive maintenance. Built-in cybersecurity features help prevent unauthorized access and safeguard the system.

Specifically designed for Zone/Division 2 hazardous locations

In contrast to Zone/Division 1 hazardous locations – where the presence of an explosive atmosphere is likely and a regular occurrence – in Zone/Division 2 hazardous locations, an explosive atmosphere is far less likely, less frequent, and present for much shorter periods of time. It is still essential however, to eliminate the risk of equipment creating a spark that might create an explosion in these areas.

Explaining why the company has chosen to create a camera specifically designed for Zone/Division 2 hazardous locations, Jesper Olavi, Global Product Manager at Axis, said: “For customers who have wanted to use video surveillance in Zone/Division 2 hazardous locations, the only realistic solution so far has been to use explosion-protected cameras certified for Zone/Division 1 hazardous locations. But these heavy-duty enclosures are over-engineered and unnecessarily expensive for Zone 2/Division 2 hazardous locations. With the launch of AXIS P1468-XLE, customers will have the chance to bring high-quality video surveillance and advanced analytics into locations where they were previously rarely used due to the prohibitive cost.

“AXIS P1468-XLE highlights the benefits of Axis designing and manufacturing our own explosion-protected cameras. In designing every element of the camera, we can ensure the methods employed for explosion protection are based on an individual camera’s requirements, rather that creating a ‘generic’ enclosure designed to fit many cameras. It’s a process that leads to an optimal solution for specific environments and use cases.”

Axis Addresses Cybersecurity Risks in Software Development with a Native Security Model

Axis Communications, a Swedish company that specializes in network video surveillance and access control solutions, has implemented an internally developed methodology called the Axis Security Development Model – ASDM. The ASDM provides a baseline for cybersecurity by describing different security activities that should be considered throughout the software development phases, with a focus on communication between all stakeholders involved. This includes the setting of application requirements, design and implementation, verification, and deployment. As part of this process, developers, architects, and product owners are held accountable for making critical decisions that are hard to change once the software is fully built.

The ASDM toolbox recommends various security activities such as risk assessment, threat modeling, threat model testing, static code analysis, vulnerability scanning, and vendor assessment. Depending on the type of software to be developed, development teams can choose to either engage in certain activities or avoid them altogether. ASDM provides a risk-based approach, ensuring that security-related activities are conducted when they matter the most, rather than solely focusing on compliance with a process. The goal is to achieve cybersecurity by reducing vulnerabilities and development costs.

This methodology has been developed as Axis acknowledges the existence of security risks such as coding bugs and errors that may lead to security vulnerabilities that could be exploited in an attack. Although it is uncommon in the industry to have error-free software releases, security risks should be identified and addressed to the highest feasible degree possible, and not fixed after tests are conducted on fully developed software.

How Does ASDM Work?

Working with ASDM begins with an assessment of whether a new feature or application poses a security risk. A risk assessment is followed by threat modeling and testing during which the use cases, threats, and countermeasures are determined. The code is reviewed and analyzed, while verification is done to promote cybersecurity. By adopting the Axis Security Development Model, Axis wants to integrate security into software development to effectively reduce security risks.

Axis conducts regular penetration tests, or simulated cyberattacks, on its software with the help of third-party companies. These tests offer an unbiased review of the company’s software and aid in enhancing its overall security efforts. Next, the Axis Software Security Group uses the results of the tests to evaluate the progress made through its Security Development Model (ASDM) and determine areas for improvement.

The Axis Product Security Team also takes into consideration any newly discovered vulnerabilities reported by external security researchers to enhance their products and way of working. It’s crucial to note that the Axis Security Development Model is an ongoing process, continuously evolving and improving.

One of the more significant aspects of the Axis Security Development Model is that it is a team-centric approach. The development teams responsible for creating the software are also accountable for its security. More than 1100 developers across 50 development teams use ASDM in their daily work. The Axis Software Security Group (SSG) provides training and the security toolbox, while also following up with the various teams to improve ASDM where necessary.

Moreover, the SSG satellites help fine-tune ASDM to each team’s unique needs since there are various technology stacks and operational practices. The software team managers and directors are responsible for overseeing their team’s ASDM work and ensuring the software’s overall security.

Why Was ASDM Launched?

Axis Communications developed the Axis Security Development Model (ASDM) in 2015, and it was made mandatory for all software development teams at the company to follow in 2017. Before its implementation, each development team had its own best practices for software development that were influenced by Axis’ culture of ownership, engineering achievements, transparency, and peer review. Although the teams produced high-quality code, there was no common approach to incorporating security considerations into the development process. Furthermore, the increasing importance of cybersecurity and the development of best practices created a need for better ways of working.

To establish a common and effective approach to cybersecurity, Axis evaluated existing cybersecurity standards and frameworks, such as ISO 27001, IEC 62443, NIST, BSIMM, and CMMC, that directly or indirectly address security in development. The standards and frameworks highlight the importance of integrating security into different stages of the development process and provide guidelines for best practices, as well as a common vocabulary for communication around cybersecurity.

However, ASDM is not simply a one-size-fits-all implementation of an existing standard or framework. Instead, it incorporates useful elements from various standards and frameworks and is customized to align with Axis’ company culture and development practices. This tailored model ensures its relevance for different types of software and its ability to accommodate new best practices as cyber threats and countermeasures continue to evolve. Finally, ASDM enables Axis software development teams to integrate security into their software and achieve the most significant impact possible.

Visionect is inviting you to join the meetup and learn more about security on IoT devices.

In the first part Gašper Korinšek will present the approaches Visionect used for tackling security issues on Joan’s room booking devices from the firmware perspective and in the second part Luka Mustafa will talk about LWM2M protocol for IoT devices.

The first presentation will cover an Explanation of the system and an overview of device interfaces that pose a security risk and solutions for tackling each security challenge.

We’ll shed a light on questions such as:

  • What are the measures to prevent extraction and/or injection of firmware?
  • How do we secure firmware upgrades and communication with the server on the protocol and connectivity level?
  • What are AES, TLS, and WPA Enterprise, and how are they used in practice on an embedded system?

In the second presentation, the LWM2M protocol for IoT devices is explained more thoroughly. Lightweight M2M is an open protocol from the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) that is designed for addressing the needs of mobile low-power devices with very little computing power. We will explore the basics of the LWM2M protocol and look at integration examples between a device running Zephyr RTOS and AVSystem backend, looking into the custom objects and features in place.

Topic: Security on IoT devices and LWM2M

Time: Wednesday, April 12 · 6:00 PM CEST

Speakers:

  • Luka Gašpar, Lead Device Firmware and Hardware Engineer, Visionect
  • Luka Mustafa, Founder and CEO of IRNAS

Venue: Računalniški muzej, Celovška cesta 111, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Registration link: https://www.meetup.com/ljubljana-embed…291768969/

The new firewall from DoorBird: Effective protection for your building network

The new DoorBird A1051 Internet Firewall is now available worldwide. DoorBird is the first in the industry to launch a user-friendly solution that provides additional protection for the network of door communication systems.

The easy-to-install firewall increases security for all networks where DoorBird products are used – both inside and outside. The Berlin-based manufacturer Bird Home Automation GmbH creates another unique selling point in the field of smart IP video communication with the DoorBird A1051 Internet Firewall product. The firewall reliably stops unauthorized network traffic without the need for complicated configurations. The product is pre-configured at the factory and ready for immediate use. The installation takes place between the local Internet router and the DoorBird IP video door communication network – easily and without any prior technical knowledge. The network is protected against unauthorized access at main and side entrances, underground garage entrances, floor accesses` or other rental areas indoors. This makes the Internet firewall suitable for large office complexes, commercial buildings, apartment buildings, and single-family residences. For example, a tenant could misuse the network cable connected to an IP video indoor station to surf the Internet or gain unauthorized access to other network components in the building. Implementing firewall solutions for this purpose with well-known firewall products is expensive, complicated and most of all very time-consuming to implement on a day-to-day basis. Part of ASSA ABLOY 2 In order to meet individual network requirements, smart home systems from third-party providers (e.g. DoorBird Connect partners) can be whitelisted. The Internet Firewall can be configured comfortably remotely via app or browser.

Dallmeier opens subsidiary “Dallmeier Austria”

Kirchberg (Austria), 16 March 2023 – Dallmeier electronic, one of the leading German manufacturers of video technology and “inventor” of the Panomera® multifocal sensor technology, announces the establishment of its own national company in Austria. The newly founded “Dallmeier Austria” will immediately support interested installers and security service providers with sales, pre-sales and support services.

Dallmeier Austira Team

Well-known customers such as the PlusCity shopping centre in Linz, the “Österreichische Landesbanken”, Holzindustrie Papst or Hipp Austria have been relying on video security systems from the Regensburg-based manufacturer Dallmeier for many years. Due to the constantly increasing demand, Dallmeier has now decided to establish its own national subsidiary. In the recently opened branch in Kirchberg an der Raab, customers and partners have all the necessary resources at their disposal for smooth project handling: from pre-sales consulting to technical support, including 24×7 service for contract customers.

Low costs and attractive margins despite “high-wage country technology”
At the heart of many Dallmeier solutions for customers with large areas or long distances are the patented Panomera®
multifocal sensor cameras
  with their unique cost-benefit ratio: by combining several video sensors with different focal lengths in one optical unit, Panomera® reduces the number of cameras required many times over compared to conventional solutions.

The Domera® family of cameras, launched last year, also covers almost all “classic” video security applications in companies and organisations of all sizes. Domera® combines quality, intelligent features for fast installation and commissioning, and a modular design. The resulting solutions offer a low total cost of ownership for the end user, while providing attractive revenue opportunities for installers, channel partners and integrators involved.

Integration with systems from Milestone, Genetec or Advancis
Dallmeier offers camera systems, recording, video analysis and software solutions for a wide range of applications. The solutions can be used either as complete Dallmeier solutions or via open interfaces such as ONVIF with a variety of third party-systems. There are also integrations with numerous security and analytics systems as well as with popular VMS and PSIM systems such as Milestone, Genetec or Advancis.

Proximity to manufacturers and a comprehensive range for integrators
Dallmeier Austria serves customers in Austria through a partner programme. Based near Graz, the company offers a complete portfolio of innovative technologies and comprehensive services: For larger projects, partners can use the Dallmeier 3D planning service to precisely define all details of their future system using a “digital twin” before the project begins. During the Factory Acceptance Test, the entire system is put through its paces before being handed over, and Dallmeier Austria also offers the necessary support during operation. The geographical proximity to the parent company in Regensburg also contributes to optimal support and project management.

“With Dallmeier, partners solve a paradox: with products from a high-wage country, they can offer high-quality solutions that are more than competitive. This is due to numerous innovations that save time and money – during installation, operation, and durability,” says Michael Stix, Managing Director of Dallmeier Austria. “With the branch office we offer our partners all the necessary resources and services for optimal customer support and professional project management. We are happy to support partners who are new to us with tailor-made ‘team-up’ services. Dallmeier attaches great importance to channel neutrality. When a partner registers a project with us, they can be sure that we will guarantee them appropriate project protection.”

“With our solutions we offer the highest standard worldwide in terms of hardware quality as well as data protection and cybersecurity. Furthermore, Dallmeier products are always designed to provide the customer with a real problem solution and not just another camera product,” says Christian Linthaler, Sales Director National & International at Dallmeier electronic. “Dallmeier is an established brand for video technology in Austria with solid and dynamic growth. With the establishment of our own national company, we offer our local partners everything they need for a smooth process of pre- and post-sales, planning, consulting, and implementation.”

5 ways your building project benefits from working closely with ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions

London, April 2023 – The digitalization of building design and construction presents challenges and major opportunities. The need to manage and marshal project information is much greater than in the “analogue” world. Yet if done right, a shift to digital processes can save money and time, and end with a greener, more usable building.

 However, to fully realize these benefits, many projects are missing a key ingredient: expertise.

Not in the core disciplines of architectural design and physical build, of course. But in the coordination and digitalization of project information. Done well, this expertise can help deliver the vision faster, better and more cost-effectively.

“We have experience in simplifying many of the most painful processes in a construction project,” says Marc Ameryckx, BIM Development Manager at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “Information is at the core of any modern build. Delivering it accurately, transparently and at the right time makes a huge difference to costs and outcomes.”

“Partnership with ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions delivers quick, accurate specification, time-saving information management, greener, more cost-efficient buildings and more.”

“We have partnered with architects and developers, BIM managers, contractors and distributors. Our expertise has worked to the advantage of all these stakeholders in at least five different ways.”

#1: Specify projects accurately with an in-depth knowledge of standards

From doors and door closers to wireless electronic access control, ASSA ABLOY manufactures and supplies products for almost any building or opening.

“This range gives us uniquely broad-based knowledge about standards and certifications across a huge range of building features and functions,” explains Dikesh Pattni, Specification Manager at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA.

ASSA ABLOY’s fire and accessibility standards knowledge base covers mechanical and electronic access solutions, door closers, doors, frames, handles and more. Their expertise helps ensure every build or refit is genuinely barrier-free.

#2: Gain expertise in Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Digitalization requires the management of ever-shifting information. The right BIM partner helps direct this flow to make sure every stakeholder has what they need, when they need it.

For those with BIM experience — or digitalizing for the first time — embedding ASSA ABLOY BIM expertise from the outset will streamline project management. When everyone is working from the same up-to-date model of a project, delays are cut, correction loops minimized and completion times shortened.

Real-world project research suggests BIM has major benefits — reducing costs and improving a final building’s design and function*.

BIM also creates a final resource with ongoing value for project handover. This authoritative store can inform facilities management, future site audits, health and safety policy, maintenance schedules, refurbishment and more through the lifetime of a typical building.

“Projects are much more coordinated between the different disciplines, resulting in a more developed project arriving on site,” explains Javier Irribarren of Fenwick Iribarren Architects, who worked with ASSA ABLOY on Campus Acciona, a landmark new business and office development in Madrid.

“In a few years it is going to be the only way of developing these projects.”

#3: Meet the fast-growing demand for greener buildings

ASSA ABLOY offers in-depth support for six leading green building certifications: BREEAM, LEED, Green Star, WELL, DGNB, HQE. A downloadable contribution sheet for each details how multiple ASSA ABLOY products contribute towards credits in the scheme.

“We are an official partner in the World Green Building Council’s Europe Regional Network,” adds Dikesh. “Part of our mission is to transfer the latest sustainable construction knowledge to customers and the wider market.”

The return on investment (ROI) from greener building may be financial as well as ethical. Property experts Knight Frank “found a positive and significant effect of Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding BREEAM ratings on prime central London office rents — ranging from 3.7% to 12.3% premiums”**.

#4: Get timely, accurate support from an ASSA ABLOY team based locally

Not every architects’ studio or property development office has specification expertise. Working with an ASSA ABLOY team adds this skillset.

The specification process for door and security solutions can be time-consuming. These technologies are often complex or beyond the knowledge of other team stakeholders.

“Being able to have support for complex door environments is super valuable and time-saving,” says Jonatan Jacobsson, Engineer Architecture at TM Konsult, a Swedish architecture consultancy who has partnered with ASSA ABLOY on hotels, residential developments and public buildings.

Personalized ASSA ABLOY support teams handle specification details on the customer’s behalf, and free up time for architects and others to focus on mission-critical tasks. Specification becomes integrated and efficient, rather than bolted-on once creative work is complete. Architects render security solutions as soon as possible in their design, so building aesthetics and usability are not disrupted at the last minute.

ASSA ABLOY teams are locally based. They bring expertise on local issues, standards and certifications — and can even attend in-person project meetings.

The unique combination of local and global knowledge offered by ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions has brought cost and project management efficiencies to many building projects.

 #5: Work smarter with a choice of ASSA ABLOY software and tools

ASSA ABLOY Openings Studioä software has benefitted multiple building projects worldwide. Easy to use and to integrate with existing workflows, Openings Studio links architectural design software with databases holding specification data. It delivers detailed door solution specifications directly to popular packages such as Revit® and ARCHICADÒ.

Instead of Excel spreadsheets and PDF floorplans, Openings Studio coordinates design and specification information together, resulting in fewer errors and less time wasted. For transparency, Openings Studio logs all events and updates designs automatically with a couple of clicks from an authorized project manager.

“Openings Studio software introduced us to a whole new way of thinking and efficiency,” says David Zarhy, whose firm Zarhy Architects designed the Broadcom R&D Center at Tel Aviv University.

ASSA ABLOY also has a comprehensive BIM library formatted for seamless integration with any design. Each object in the library has detailed geometry and specifications; many also have additional documentation such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for green building programs.

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions support projects from a single door to complex new developments. To learn more, download a BIM & Specification brochure at https://assaabloy.com/emeia-blueprint/en/documents/solutions/topics/bim-specification/downloads/AA_BIM_Awareness_Brochure_Screen_03_2023_FINAL.pdf