Recently, these barriers were eliminated with the introduction of new reader technology, and security executives can now consider adopting this valuable technology. The next generation of access control readers, unveiled in late 2004, simultaneously read both smart and proximity cards from different vendors to allow for simpler transitions. They also leave room for future advances in card technology to protect investments over time.
While exciting for the security market, these new readers may not be for every business. Smart cards are designed to address certain market needs; however other access control technologies such as proximity and magnetic stripe have their place in the market. The question then presents itself: How do decision-makers within an organization determine whether or not adopting smart card technology is right for their business?