Ideco Biometric Security Solutions, one of South Africa's largest suppliers of such technology has launched Ideco ES², a free software package that manages time-based access from up to six Morpho fingerprint scanners installed at a single site.
Marius Coetzee of Ideco says, "We know that many retailers do not need the advanced functionalities of the big access control and time management solutions used by large organizations. So, though they are attracted to the benefits of fingerprint-based security, they cannot justify the software costs of such sophisticated systems."
With this system, users only pay for the fingerprint hardware, its associated accessories and installation. The free software enables them to enrol staff on the system and to manage and record who goes where and when.
"It's a very easy system to use, requiring nothing more than basic computer literacy," says Coetzee. He explains that it is based on a simple user interface and produces straightforward time-based reporting on access and attendance. In comparison to a full-blown workforce management solution, it is a bit like an entry-level cell phone."
"Rather than operating from a central location, many retailers operate from multiple sites and their staff complement may be widely spread geographically. This is ideal for such businesses because it can run a free standalone solution at each of their outlets. Equally, the solution is just as suited to a single-site retailer," adds Coetzee.
Because the controlling software works on Windows 7, XP and Vista, there is no need to pay for a dedicated platform to operate the system. Combined with the fact that there are no centralised networking costs, this further reduces the costs for a fingerprint-based attendance and access system.
"The requirements for secure fingerprint solutions vary from business to business. For example, a mine might need very strict control over certain areas, whereas a retailer may be more concerned with managing attendance and hours worked or controlling access to storerooms.
"Overall, fingerprint systems are fast, accurate, convenient and secure. With a well-established track record locally for cutting losses, these systems are known to be far more effective than conventional access cards or PINs," he concludes.
