The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders.

Below are some of the key trends that Mercury concludes are reshaping physical access controller design and selection based on their findings.

1. Security-first thinking

90% of respondents say staying aligned with cyber security standards is essential. More than 71% cite advanced protection – secure boot, OSDP, cryptography – as a top decision driver.

2. Mobile and cloud integration

55% seek controller compatibility with other credentials, including mobile credentials. Over half (52%) report cloud enablement as critical for scalability, real-time monitoring and remote management.

3. Reliability is non-negotiable

63% rank reliability and uptime as the most important criteria in controller selection – far outweighing cost or feature specifications.

4. Backward and forward compatibility

86% require controllers that support long-term infrastructure planning through compatibility with past and future systems.

5. Interoperability and open architecture

76% cite interoperability with mixed-device environments as essential, underscoring the shift toward flexible, standards-based systems.

The report also explores the emerging role of AI and edge computing in controller performance, as well as the growing integration of access data with building operations.

Mercury Security was founded in 1992, and declares it position as at the forefront of innovation in access control. With over 30 years of expertise and a commitment to open architecture, Mercury has built a future-proof platform that ensures seamless interoperability between leading software and technical solutions. As a trusted controller platform supplier for open architecture-based deployments, Mercury has more than 5 million controllers installed worldwide.