Kastle Systems, a leader in advanced managed security systems and services, announced the launch of KastlePresence, an intuitive Internet of Things (IoT) workplace solution. Controlled by a simple smartphone app, KastlePresence offers a suite of features, including an entirely hands-free mobile access solution, designed to make spaces safer, smarter and more convenient for people who occupy and manage office buildings.

Kastle Systems engaged Vornado Realty Trust in a beta process in late 2015 and KastlePresence was subsequently rolled out to customers ranging from professional services firms to building owners across several major markets in the U.S. including New York, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, and Chicago.

KastlePresence leverages a system of smartphones, access control readers and wireless beacons to be location, or presence, aware. This new level of awareness — knowing who, when and where — offers office managers the ability to optimize space and energy consumption with true occupancy understanding in real time. For the user, this background application is low maintenance and offers a convenient experience, such as doors, including garage doors, that unlock and open as you approach them, ‘hands-free,’ and a personal security button that is accessible, when on-premises, 24 hours a day.

KastlePresence was first deployed in May 2015 and, after extensive field-testing, was rolled out for both Apple iOS and Android platforms in January 2016. Within the first few months of its general availability, KastlePresence has experienced dramatic adoption and is currently serving users nationwide. End user surveys about KastlePresence and the modernized workplace experience indicate that 92% of people prefer the hands-free mobile experience to their traditional credentials. For owners and office managers this embodies what has long been called the workplace of the future — one that is smart, responsive and tailored to the individual’s needs, enhancing both security and productivity. “This is a logical transition, the way the world is changing, it’s time we move past physical keys and cards., said Michael Darby, principal of DC-based Monument Realty.

Vornado Realty Trust in Washington D.C., an owner of premier office properties, partnered with Kastle Systems to introduce KastlePresence at its Crystal City, Va. headquarters, to build and hone the features of the platform through a beta process in late 2015. “We are very excited to be partnering with Kastle Systems to be the first deployment of KastlePresence, as they continue to lead the development of the next generationin office security,” said Patrick Tyrrell, Vornado/Charles E. Smith’s chief operating officer. “Vornado is always seeking solutions that can differentiate our properties and enhance the experiences of our tenants.”

KastlePresence redefines experiences in all types of properties, which is important during a time when avid technology-consuming millennials are becoming the largest segment of the population. The features of the KastlePresence platform include:

·       doors and garage entrances that open with a smartphone, hands-free, without unlocking the device or removing it from a pocket, purse or briefcase;

·       a single, mobile credential that can be activated across multiple sites;

·       a personal safety button that allows first responders to know your exact location within the building and garage;

·       a messaging center that allows owners and office managers to push notifications directly to each individual’s smartphone;

·       a background app that is instant, constantly connected, and low maintenance with battery-efficient performance;

·       trending and real-time occupancy data for better space and energy optimization; and

·       new mobile capabilities for owners and office managers to call elevators, open doors for a remote location and easily authorize visitors.

“Kastle Systems is committed to improving the daily experience in office settings, with the smartphone at the core of our innovations,” said Kastle Systems’ CEO & Co-Chairman Piyush Sodha. “Starting with the office, KastlePresence understands not only whether to let individuals in and out, but how to best utilize a building’s features while they’re there, and is the first of its’ kind in the marketplace.”

Visit www.kastle.com for more information.