Door entry systems for golf simulators

Golf simulators have taken the sports world by storm in recent years, with franchises like Topgolf and X-Golf popping up around the globe. In 2023, the National Golf Foundation reported that more than 1,600 businesses had a golf simulator on site, compared to around 200 simulator businesses in 2016.

These indoor golf facilities vary drastically in terms of size and features, but one thing they all share is the need for effective access control. A door entry system can strengthen a golf simulator business in terms of both security and finances. In this article, you’ll learn what door entry systems are, what advantages they offer to golf simulators, and how they can integrate with other essential software in your business.

What is a door entry system? #

A golf simulator door entry system is an access control solution that allows you to manage who enters your business premises. You can authorize certain users to access the space, ensuring that only valid members, employees, or customers can unlock the doors during specific pre-set times.

How it works #

Door entry systems usually involve electronic locks, readers, and controllers. These components work together to determine whether an individual is authorized to enter your golf simulator.

In most cases, the employee or customer approaches the door and presents their credentials in one of these forms:

• Key fob
• Key card
• Smartphone
• Biometrics
• Passcode
• QR code

The reader detects the presence of the credentials and communicates with the controller to check the database containing information for your team and customers. If the database indicates that the person has authorization to enter, the controller will trigger the door relay so they can open the door. On the other hand, if the person doesn’t have authorization—such as if they haven’t paid their monthly membership fee—the door will remain locked.

Types of systems #

Access control comes in many configurations, and understanding the types available is essential before you install or upgrade your system.

One kind of door entry system that you’ve probably seen is a keypad, which requires the user to enter a passcode to unlock the door. In the past, keypads were a popular option because they were fast and straightforward. However, keypad systems are problematic because it’s so easy for unauthorized individuals to steal the passcode. Keypads also fell out of favor as people shifted toward using touchless systems to address health concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Proximity readers are more hygienic and generally simpler to use than keypads. Depending on the type of reader you choose, they can detect user credentials from short or long distances. They read the information on a keycard, fob, smartphone, or other device and relay it to the controller to determine whether to unlock the door.

Biometrics screeners are also becoming more common for businesses. Rather than detecting information encoded on user credentials, they scan an individual’s physical characteristics, such as their face or fingerprints. These systems are often more expensive than proximity readers, and they may be more difficult to implement if you have a large number of customers and employees. Building and maintaining a base of physical characteristics can be really challenging.

Applications for door entry systems #

For many indoor golf facilities, the primary purpose of implementing a door entry system is to restrict access to one or more primary entrances. However, that’s not the only potential way that you can put this type of access control to use.

For example, you might want to prevent customers and guests from entering employee-only areas. You can also create membership levels and limit access to certain amenities, such as cafes or lounges, to VIP customers.

Premium access control systems also enable you to reduce operational overhead, detect non-paying members, and explore new revenue streams, like extended working hours with no extra staff or completely unmanning your spaces.

Benefits of door entry systems for golf simulators #

Door entry systems offer many advantages to indoor golf facilities and their members. These are some of the biggest upsides that you might experience.

Enhanced security #

Most golf simulators have expensive simulation equipment on-site, not to mention appliances, computers, and personal belongings. A building with poor security can put all those items at risk, leaving both your organization and your customers vulnerable to theft. A door entry system makes it much more difficult for unauthorized individuals to enter and steal your assets.

Access control systems also serve as a deterrent against potential crime. When someone notices a door entry system on your building, they’re less likely to attempt to break into your premises. If they do attempt to force the door open, you can receive instant alerts from the system, allowing you to more quickly notify emergency responders.

Financial gains #

A door entry system can cut costs and increase profitability. Protecting your property against theft and vandalism means less money wasted on repairs and replacements. Installing effective access control can also sometimes help reduce your insurance rates.

This type of security also makes 24/7 monetization a reality for many companies. Even when staff isn’t on-site, you can allow members to enter and use your golf simulator. After-hours access is a major selling point for prospective customers who are looking for opportunities to play outside of their regular work hours or other obligations.

As a result of the cost-savings and increased revenue made possible by a door entry system, you can expect to see a strong return on your investment (ROI) over time.

Automation #

Automating access control is a simple way to increase your business productivity. You’ll take the tedious burden of issuing credentials and unlocking doors off the shoulders of your staff so they can focus their attention on more useful tasks, such as providing stellar customer service.

An automated door entry system is also much more convenient for employees and customers, particularly when compared to traditional locks and keys. Technologies like MotionSense, available through Kisi, allow for quick, contactless access that’s much more user-friendly than a user digging through their belongings to find and insert the right key.

Unmanning spaces #

Having a security team monitor your indoor golf center at all hours is expensive and, for many businesses, impractical. A door entry system eliminates the need for constant coverage.

With the right access control in place, you can safeguard your simulator against intruders, property theft, and vandalism. At the same time, you’ll create a better experience for customers who don’t have to pass through security or wait for someone to open the door each time they visit.

Integrating access control #

Most golf simulator businesses already have multiple software solutions in place that manage their operations. With an access control system like Kisi, you can integrate your door entry system with your golf simulator and operating software as well as hardware, like security cameras. This allows for a more seamless experience and combined data that gives you deeper insights into your business performance.

By connecting your systems, you can easily automate granting or revoking access authorization based on membership tiers, book spaces and amenities, and minimize front-desk staffing. Kisi’s wide-ranging integrations include coworking and fitness and wellness software, as well as other types of solutions.

Choosing the right solution for your indoor golf facility #

Integrations are a top concern when selecting a door entry system for a golf simulator business, but they’re not the only factor to consider. These are some other points to keep in mind as you research your options:

• Remote access management: Business owners and managers need to know what’s happening at their golf simulators no matter where they are and what they’re doing. With remote access management, you can update user authorizations and monitor door entries and exits using a smartphone, tablet, or other device from any location with internet access. You can also unlock doors remotely for visitors, such as contractors or vendors, who show up unexpectedly when no one’s on-site.
• Scalability: A good access control solution should be able to grow with your business, adapting if you expand your space, grow your membership, or create VIP areas. Look for a door entry system that makes it easy to add new users and doors without starting over from scratch and enables you to manage everything from a single dashboard.
• Versatility: Many golf simulator businesses prefer to have users gain access using a mobile app or digital wallet, while others issue membership or access cards. Door entry systems like Kisi give you the flexibility to choose the access method that works best for your business and your customers.
• Features: Advanced features, such as intrusion or door-held-open alerts, make you aware if concerning activity is occurring at your golf simulator. In addition, a solution with analytics capabilities can give you a better understanding of your space utilization and access trends.

If you’re unsure whether a door entry system will meet your needs, consider getting a demo before you commit. This gives you a firsthand look at the technology and what it has to offer.

Automate access control with Kisi #

The golf simulator industry is booming and shows no signs of slowing down. As it continues to flourish, business leaders have to consider what steps they need to take to protect their interests, employees, and customers. A reliable door entry system is a crucial component of that effort because it combines strong protection with ease of use.

Kisi is proud to offer a future-proof access control solution to golf simulator businesses. You can harness our trusted technology to achieve consistent security, improved productivity, increased revenue, and higher customer satisfaction for one, two, or multiple doors in your building. Schedule a demo to learn more about how Kisi’s door entry system can enhance your golf simulator experience for employees and customers alike.