Your Guide to Weapon Storage Planning in the Workplace

Lockers have long been the go-to solution for secure storage. They are convenient, easy to configure, and keep workspace clutter to a minimum. Smart lockers take this a step further and offer additional security features that are needed especially in the modern hybrid office environment. With employees coming and going on different days, storage needs are fluctuating. It can be harder to manage internal equipment, and personal storage requirements differ with staff each day. To understand how smart lockers can address these concerns, check out these five advantages to electronic locker storage systems and what to look for when you’re shopping for your solution:

Security 

When it comes to secure lockers, electronic lockers can’t be beat. Traditional lockers rely on an external lock that can be broken to access the locker, while electronic locks are only accessible through a secure access panel – usually protected by a master key. Most electronic lockers are also made with fully welded bodies with hidden hinge doors, making them virtually tamper-proof. These lockers are controlled by a central kiosk where users can sign in using their unique authentication to access a locker. The most common access methods include PIN entry, scanning ID cards through RFID or barcode technology, or pay-per-use systems requiring a debit/credit card. For an extra layer of security, E-Lockers can combine access methods for dual-factor authentication. Some smart lockers also feature cameras in their kiosks that can be viewed live from a remote device or save footage directly to the kiosk computer.

Traceability

Arguably the biggest advantage unique to smart lockers beyond is their potential for user traceability. If you are storing expensive or sensitive equipment in the workplace, knowing who accessed what locker and when is vital to keeping your equipment secure. If you’re shopping for smart lockers, make sure you check out what administrator settings exist for ongoing traceability. At a minimum, an admin should be able to manage active users in the system and view/save a timestamped log of user activity. Bonus points if the system allows you to search through user activity for a specific locker, date, or user.

Automatization & Customization 

Another feature unique to smart lockers is the ability to set custom settings and automation. Technology is here to make our lives easier, so any good smart device can be configured to your specific needs. If you are looking to let employees and guests store their belongings, look for a smart locker system that will allow you to set usage rules such as maximum rental durations or set permanent locker assignments as needed. Some systems with internet connection can even send email reminders to users if their locker is set to expire, or maintenance notifications to administrators.

If you work in a corporate or commercial setting, the aesthetics of your storage lockers may be important too. Consider finding a solution that allows you to integrate your own branding within the software or lockers themselves.

Space-saving

Smart lockers require a smaller footprint than traditional lockers. Since users rent lockers with their unique authentication, you no longer require one locker for every employee. This is beneficial for workplaces where employees are working in shifts, or hybrid office spaces where permanently assigned lockers would often go unused. Even better, with a customizable software, you can change your locker functionality at any time instead of purchasing separate lockers for other needs. If you’re looking for workplace storage, conserving your floorspace is a high priority that traditional lockers can’t always achieve.

Flexibility

Smart lockers are a financial investment, so you want to make sure you are buying a solution that doesn’t just work for your immediate needs but can be adaptable for the future too. It’s important to ask your supplier how your lockers are maintained, and if additional lockers can be added to the system after initial installation. It’s also always a good idea to ask for warranty and software license agreement details. Most smart lockers should require minimal maintenance and a warranty agreement that covers both the locker bodies and all electronic hardware required. Every kiosk also has a limit to how many locks it can electronically control, so even if you are looking for a relatively small storage solution, consider asking the maximum number of lockers your kiosk can handle to gauge future expansion possibilities.

TL;DR: Smart lockers are changing how we think of workplace storage. With various traceability and security features available, electronic lockers are safer than traditional lockers. Systems that track user activity are necessary for any workplace storing expensive or sensitive equipment. Investing in a good smart storage system also allows you to customize your solution, whether it’s changing your user access method (think PIN, ID card, or pay-per-use), or setting automated actions like managing maximum rental periods for company equipment. Having a hybrid storage solution also saves floor space – employees don’t each require their own locker or cubby but can simply rent an available locker on an as-needed basis. Ultimately, investing in the right smart locker system will provide you with a secure, low-maintenance solution with the flexibility to suit your current and future storage needs.