As a result of a thorough procurement process we found Isys Intelligent Time systems to have the most functionality and flexibility suited to the needs of our business while providing user friendly software.
The competitive cost ensured the project was brought in on budget, for the main Time & Attendance system and the development for the interfaces for HR and Payroll.
Mactaggart and Mickel Group
Bankfield School banks on secure premises with Isys Access Control
Bankfield School is a large secondary school based in Cheshire, with over 1000 students. Following a recent review of its on-site security measures, the school has invested in an access control system from Isys Intelligent Systems. Since implementing the new system the school has been able to better manage visitors entering its school site, as well as recording employees and students on the premises to meet health and safety regulations.
"Over recent years we have had a number of incidents of unauthorised intruders, particularly as the school site is now often open after traditional school opening hours," explained Martin Draycott, IT Services Manager at Bankfield School
Following the receipt of funding from Halton Borough Council, the school was able to revisit the project that it had initiated the previous year. The IT team had already obtained quotes from several companies that provided access control systems, of which Isys was one.
"We looked at a number of suppliers, but found that Isys' system was the most comprehensive and easy to use. Isys explained very clearly what they could provide and how it would be implemented," said Draycott. "Isys supplied a better quality alternative that could provide all the functionality that we needed."
One of the key benefits of Isys' solution was that it was software based, making it relatively straightforward to implement. Isys supplied and installed the hardware – the card readers – and the software was implemented on the school's server, while the school provided the cabling and used the existing infrastructure.
The installation took place over three weeks during the school holidays, with some minor amendments as the system was 'bedded in'. Isys also provided training to the reception staff and provides additional support when required.
"The system is very easy to use – having a familiarity with Microsoft software, the staff have very quickly got used to it," said Draycott.
The school has programmed access control according to the lesson timetable and lunch times, such that doors can be activated by cards only at the key times. In the event of a fire, an override function ensures that all doors are released.
The team can monitor who is on site at any time and the software can also be configured to automatically produce printed or emailed reports on activation of the fire alarm system, providing details of all persons on site. The IT team has also secured certain areas – the kitchen, delivery bay and the staff room - with 'swipe card access only' for added safety and security. In addition, the gym and sports hall have been secured with card-only access by the PE and sport staff.
Overall, the school is delighted with the improved premises security. All visitors now report to the main reception to gain entry to the site and there is a record of students and staff at any time. Improved access management determined by the school timetable has also reduced the number of students out of class during lesson time. The system has been truly 'tested' by the students and this has highlighted areas where the system can be modified.
"There is no doubt that as well as helping us to reduce the number of intruders and improve our security, the system is helping us manage visitor access much more efficiently. We have also already identified several areas where we can improve the use of the system to benefit us even more," said Draycott.
