Face It - Biometrics… Is For More Than Access Control

For years, most VARs and systems integrators have viewed biometric technology as an effective, albeit expensive, means to control access to a facility. Two industry members, however, argue that this perception is outdated. BSM spoke to Joseph Atick, CEO of Visionics Corporation, in Jersey City, NJ. Visionics is a 20-person designer and vendor of full-face biometrics. We also spoke with Buddy Boyett, v.p. of marketing for EyeDentify, the 15-person retinal identification designer and vendor in Baton Rouge, LA. Both contend biometric applications are expanding. Boyett believes that, in addition to its utility in both access control and time and attendance, retinal biometrics will be extensively involved in computer security. These applications will include limiting access to the Internet and e-mail, as well as to computers. Atick sees larger applications for full-face biometrics and stresses the importance of integrating access control with other capabilities, such as a surveillance network, to create a total security package.

How Should VARs React To Changes?
When asked how VARs and systems integrators should be reacting to changes in the biometric marketplace, both spokesmen urged them to rid themselves of the concept that biometrics are strictly for access control. The vendors also stressed the importance of learning about the capabilities of the systems. Only by thoroughly understanding system capabilities can VARs recommend customized solutions to customers. The vendors further suggest that large reductions in price are occurring throughout the biometrics industry and that these price reductions will make biometrics far more attractive to end users. Price has been the primary deterrent to more widespread acceptance of biometrics, according to Boyett. Interestingly, he points out that biometric technology is accepted far more abroad than here. He says his company sells more units in Asia and Europe than in all of North America, largely because price has not been such an issue abroad. Atick adds that, because biometric technology is, basically, a human-machine interface, it's important for VARs to be sensitive to the human aspects. In other words, biometric solutions should not inconvenience people any more than older systems. They should be nonintrusive, instantaneous and handicapped-accessible.

What Does The Future Hold?
Both vendors agree changes with biometrics are occurring at a rapid pace. Boyett stresses that biometric solutions are constantly becoming faster, better, and cheaper, as well as smaller, due to competition and customer demand. He cites his company's unit, which is in the process of being transformed from 26 pounds to less than two and from 15 in. by 12 in. by 10 in. to 6 in. by 9 in. by 4 in. The next generation may be the approximate size of two packs of cigarettes. Atick predicts a strong future for layering biometrics, such as face and voice, especially in high security installations. No biometric solution is 100% accurate, although most achieve accuracy rates of 99%+. By requiring individuals desiring access to pass two or more entirely different biometric technologies (layering), security is virtually 100% assured. Atick also stresses the speed with which these changes are occurring makes it necessary for VARs to seek vendors with strong research and development departments.