Volume 36
Volume 36 | December 7, 2023
Happy Friday! Welcome to Brief #36, announcing the Position Paper:
UNDERSTANDING THE MODERN ENTERPRISE ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM, An Analysis of How We Define Legacy Versus Modern Enterprise Access Control Systems.
Introducing Position Papers
I wanted to share some exciting news with you before it goes public on Monday. I've already discussed this with our active Slack members, but I wanted to ensure you all receive this update. I am thrilled to announce the release of our first position paper, which will be the first in a series of regular releases. These papers aim to support the modern age of the access control and smart lock industry. The first position paper is titled UNDERSTANDING THE MODERN ENTERPRISE ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM, An Analysis of How We Define Legacy Versus Modern Enterprise Access Control Systems.
Why Start with the Enterprise?
We've chosen to focus on the enterprise sector for two reasons. Firstly, "enterprise" is a term used globally to describe a robust and purposeful system ready for any vertical. It represents the highest standard in our industry. Secondly, the term is often used as a defense mechanism against anything new without a precise definition. This vague definition creates a problem as it relies on legacy mindsets and specifications, lacking a proper and modern definition.
With this positioning paper, we want to redefine how we perceive an enterprise access control system. It's important to note that I intentionally left room for conversation and interpretation, as thoroughly defining "enterprise" would be impossible. Over the past 30 years, our business has primarily served the high-security market, with a well-defined and predictable definition of enterprise. However, as the market has expanded, taken on the essence of a software industry, and become more diverse, with evolving customer needs, the definition of enterprise has become more fluid. These papers aim to create a juxtaposition between the legacy and modern definitions of enterprise and establish standard features for the next 30 years.
How Can You Use It?
You should leverage this positioning paper to shape your story and define your system and services for the modern enterprise. Use it as a starting point, build upon it, and share it within your customers, channel, and networks. I also welcome your feedback and constructive criticism. Think of this positioning paper as a living document that serves your needs, and together, we can make edits and additions and engage in discussions.
Where Can You Find the Enterprise Position Paper?
You can always find the latest version on the main page of www.leeodess.com. It is also available on my LinkedIn page. You can also find it pinned in Slack. If you cannot locate it, please get in touch with me via ping, DM, text, or email, and I'll gladly send it to you.

Quick Thank You
Creating this position paper has been a labor of love, and I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who contributed their input and guidance. Your support has been invaluable. I'd also like to thank Bert Hart of We The Dreamer for the modern design and layout. We aimed to create something visually and intellectually engaging, which he delivered. Thank you, Bert!
What's Next?
Next, we'll release a position paper on "the cloud." With everyone transitioning to and marketing cloud-based solutions, it's crucial to understand the differences between native, based, and enabled options. We plan to address these distinctions and help further differentiate them in the access control and smart lock industry.
I'll be rolling out this position paper on LinkedIn starting Monday. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything.
Thank you, and I hope you have a fantastic weekend!
If, for any reason, I am not meeting your expectations, please feel free to let me know.
Thank you!

PS: I am sure some of you may forward this on but please do so sparingly and encourage others to sign up here. Thank you!
PSS: If you plan to be at Intersec in Dubai January 16 - 18 or want to be, please let me know, as I will be curating and activating the Thought Leadership Pavilion. It will be 2 full days of presentations, conversations, content creation, and a new spin on this conference. It is one of the biggest and best shows. Thank you, Rick Caruthers, CEO of Galaxy Control Systems, for being the first to sign up. Here is an image of the Thought Leadership Pavilion:

