Keys are simple, but for a business with changing staff they create a steady stream of small problems: copies nobody tracks, former employees who still have a key, and a rekey every time someone leaves. Access control replaces physical keys with codes, cards, fobs or phones. Here is a quick way to decide whether it fits your business.

Signs you have outgrown keys

• You have rekeyed more than once in the past year because of turnover.
• Several people need different access to different rooms.
• You want to know who entered and when.
• Contractors, cleaners or delivery staff need temporary access.

Start with the right scope

Many businesses begin with the main entrance and one or two sensitive rooms, such as an office, storage or server closet, then expand. Standalone keypads suit a single door; networked readers make sense when you manage several doors from one place.

Plan for power and emergencies

Decide how each door should behave during a power outage, and keep exit hardware simple so people can always leave quickly. Local building and fire codes apply to exit doors.

Keep a record

Whatever system you choose, keep a current list of who has access and remove credentials the day someone leaves.

Choice City Locksmith installs access control systems in Fort Collins for offices, shops and rentals across Northern Colorado. Phone (970) 803-1100.