The Future of Community Security

By Nathan Varn / Published October 2024

Technology is evolving faster than ever and continually changing our lives: from the phones we use to communicate, take photos, and essentially use as computers some days, to how we shop, how we watch TV programs, and even how and what we drive. All are constantly evolving with rapidly developing technology.

     Security systems that monitor and help protect communities are also seeing rapid-fire technological advances. To get a sense of what’s to come with the systems protecting your home or community, we asked security software and technology researchers and developers to share what’s on the horizon for community security systems. These experts are dedicated to security software and system development, and as such they monitor technology advances, trends, and community members’ feedback.

What are some changes residents can expect to see in community security systems in the next year or so?

     If you haven’t already said goodbye to paper forms, get ready to do so as more communities go to self-credentialing. You can also expect more optimized gate processes and interactions, proactive maintenance activities, and advanced community-oriented reports.

What about resident access or granting access to others? Will that change, and if so, how?

     Technology is full of possibilities when it comes to access. For example, you might soon see streamlined access with QR codes or biometrics like facial recognition, fingerprints, or possibly a combination of both.

     Processes will become more and more optimized, so you will need fewer forms, steps, and words to ensure access. These processes will also block anyone not authorized to be on the property. With every advancement, we are always on the lookout for attempts to circumvent the system. As the rules to enter a community become more sophisticated and complex, security-focused companies also need to continuously evolve their technologies to stay one step ahead of those attempting to exploit the system.

     The bottom line is the industry is working to make it easier to gain access if you’re allowed and harder for those not authorized to be in a community.

Is there anything else we can expect besides advancement in access?

     Looking down the road a few years, expect community security to be even more tailored or personalized to each community’s needs. If you desire, it might be fully integrated with your phone’s calendar, your grocery app, or even your car.

     For example, using your calendar, you would be able to schedule a community amenity like a pool or clubhouse and then allow special access to guests for a family celebration. Everything will process much faster, so you won’t even notice the barrier gates anymore—unless you’re trying to go where you’re not authorized!

     Ultimately, data-driven technologies and processes will guarantee that a community’s experience is constantly improved and tailored according to its needs. Any issues will be detected and solved before community members even notice. Custom reports will help property managers keep track of what goes on at the community’s gates and amenities.

With cameras becoming more technologically sophisticated, what will that mean for community security systems and residents?

     Modern optical devices enable higher resolutions and consequently more detail, plus they also pack various types of sensors that go beyond what the human eye can see. Integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) image processing, these devices can enable more accurate detections and often faster processing according to each scenario. This means we can detect problems or incidents more quickly and respond accordingly.

Speaking of AI, what other ways might we see this being used to help communities?

     Beyond cameras, there is a whole world of possible applications where security software and technology systems can be improved, such as machine learning that is focused on pattern recognition for improved alerting or device monitoring that enables predictive maintenance and process optimization. It’s fascinating and full of possibilities!

Technology is a factor in security system advancements. Is there anything else that’s driving change in community security?

     It’s all about the customers and improving their experience. We listen to what community members say about their security systems and try to address their concerns and needs. We work to make processes easier and make communities more safe and secure. While we research and develop innovations to improve community security, we’re always doing it with an ear to the ground because, in the end, it’s about serving the members of our many communities.

Nathan Varn

Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Envera Systems

     Nathan Varn is the vice president of sales and marketing for Envera. He manages the sales, sales support, marketing, and account management teams while working closely with all of Envera’s departments to provide information, education, and best-in-class service for the communities that Envera secures. Envera is an all-inclusive security provider that focuses on the unique needs of communities through technology-based solutions. Contact Envera at 855-380-1274 or www.EnveraSystems.com.