ievo have yet again re-established their brand mantra of providing continued and unrivalled support to their customers, by launching a new marketing support feature, the ‘Platinum Pack’. Ten industry related brochures that security installers can target their customers with including; construction, health care, high security premises and retail are just some of the options ievo® installers can choose from.
ievo® have always strived to maintain industry leading support to their installers and this includes marketing assistance. Branding tailored technical datasheets, end user flyers and website advice, security installers can actively seek new business and inform existing customers of the ievo® biometric products.
After speaking to customers firsthand about the marketing support they had already received at IFSEC 2012, ievo® decided to enhance their options by introducing industry specific brochures. Written as though the information is coming from the installer themselves, including real life examples of where the ievo® fingerprint readers have already been installed in, ievo® ‘brand’ the brochures with the security company’s business logo and contact details. Electronic and print ready copies are available to the ievo® installers free of charge or ievo® can provide a professional printing service for a small fee.
Speaking about the development of the platinum pack, ievo® marketing manager Karen Mc Mahon said, “We have always provided our installers with some form of support, even if they haven’t purchased any of our fingerprint readers before. Although technical datasheets and end user flyers directly market to installers’ existing clientele, we wanted to provide them with something to initiate business with, and what better way to do that than through simplistic, descriptive brochures, so that new users can get a feel for our fingerprint scanners and how they will fit into their surroundings.”
Shaun Oakes, Managing Director of ievo® commented on the importance of customer support from a biometric manufacturer, “We pride ourselves in offering ievo® installers with unparalleled support, from technical right through to customer and marketing care. It is what sets us aside from many of our competitors and we continue to do this because so many security providers around the UK are too busy maintaining other areas in their businesses to focus on marketing. We have the resources to give them a helping hand and in turn helping UK businesses grow and create revenue.”
The ievo® Platinum Pack is available to any security provider wishing to actively promote the ievo® product range. If you are interested or would like some more information on the service, email your request to karen.mcmahon@ievoreader.com or phone the ievo® head office on 0845 643 6632. Alternatively, if you wish to view the Platinum Pack, click here
The ievo multi-spectral sensor has been reviewed in May’s edition of the independent test publication Benchmark Magazine, the only product test assessment relating to security systems on the market at the moment. The ievo Ultimate reader was previously called by Benchmark’s editor Pete Conway to be tested alongside three other globally leading biometric manufacturers for their special ‘fingerprint reader’ feature in both the March and April issues.
ievo Managing Director Shaun Oakes submitted Ultimate into the test after deliberation saying, “Not so long ago, Pete Conway expressed interest in testing a multi-spectral imaging fingerprint sensor, yet nobody came forward. We were aware of Benchmark’s rigorous testing methods, and respected them as an independent reviewer. Therefore, when we were invited to submit Ultimate for their fingerprint reader feature we decided to take the plunge.”
With the first half of the review published in the March issue, Ultimate was already ahead of its peers for the features and functions categories. The three other competitors scoring less than the UK produced Ultimate.
The review congratulated the fact that the Ultimate fingerprint reader itself doesn’t require dual entry for data as well as holds no connections or relays which has been a magnificent advantage to the product. Many competitive biometric readers out there can be easily compromised because relays can be crossed or removed which could potentially open the ‘secured’ door from the reader itself outside. ievo overcame this issue by listening to security providers, integrators and installers at the beginning of the design process. They made it clear from the outset that they were worried about unwanted intruders if the relays became compromised. ievo solved this problem by housing the relays five metres away on the inside of the door.
Part two divulged a little deeper, focusing on performance. Ultimate scored 90% in the category.
It was duly noted that the actual physical install ‘isn’t an issue’ as seamless integration is offered simultaneously with; Paxton, Nortech, ACT, BSB, CDVI, PLAN and Inner-Range. It also performed ‘fastest during busy periods due to its accuracy’. Breaking this down a little further, Ultimate recorded no false accepts and whilst pushing the product to its maximum it was ‘difficult to make the unit deliver false reject because of poor finger placement.’
Commenting further on the publication of the review, Shaun Oakes added, “Of course, as with anything, there are limitations, and being the customer and user driven business that we are, we took time out to speak with Pete to ask him how we could improve our product. Backed up by the review, Pete told us he would like to see printed manuals and perhaps spend more time clarifying technical terminology in the manual. We have listened to this critique and are presently working on the suggestions Pete made.”
The multi-spectral fingerprint technology used in ievo ultimate
Because Ultimate was able to ‘cope with much more than the test required’ Pete Conway took up the opportunity to stifle the Benchmark panels curiosity of how the multi-spectral imaging sensor fared when used in much more difficult scenarios. This additional review was featured in the May edition published late last week.
The feature began by differentiating between ievo using a multi-spectral imaging sensor and other fingerprint readers also using the technology. The algorithm combined with the scanner create a durable and robust fingerprint system that ‘stands apart from its peers’
The Benchmark team really pushed Ultimate to its limit going as far as turning the reader on its back and filling the sensor cavity with water to see if it could still scan a fingerprint, which it could! They repeated this rigorous test with dirt, oil and powder and found that the sensor was still able to register their prints.
Finally Shaun Oakes adds, “When we launched Ultimate almost two years ago we produced a test video to show all of our customers and users exactly what it could do. Ultimate being subjected to these conditions is all shown in the video. If anyone was ever sceptical that the video was invalid then all they have to do is read Benchmark’s independent and trusted review as it was even deemed ‘the best they’d seen’”
ievo will be exhibiting both of their fingerprint readers; Ultimate and Micro at this year’s IFSEC event at the NEC in Birmingham from the 14th-17th May. If you want to come along and see the featured Ultimate as well as the internal solution Micro you can register for free entry to the show at ifsec.co.uk. They will be stationed at Hall 4, Stand Number H47. To follow live updates from the show visit ievo’s Twitter account.
This week, ievo MD Shaun Oakes was interviewed by info4security ahead of the security industry exhibition IFSEC International. Read the full interview here..
Info4Security (I4S): Why do you choose to attend IFSEC International, and what are the main goals/achievements you hope to realise from doing so?
Shaun Oakes (SO): We first visited IFSEC International last year and, from reflection and return on investment analysis, the show exceeded our expectations. Not only because it’s a great way to publicise your company, but also in terms of lead generation and allowing potential customers to see the products first hand. It’s the perfect hub for industry professionals and end users.
As we are still such a new business, at IFSEC International 2011 we were able to establish relationships with integrators and distributors that we would have previously struggled to get in contact with. As a result, our products are now integrated into many leading access control manufacturers whereas this time last year we had only a handful of integration options.
This year, we hope to continue this approach and, by next year, who knows? We may have doubled our contacts, leads and integrators yet again.
I4S: When does your preparation for the show begin, what does that preparation entail and what’s the company’s commitment to the event in terms of manpower/logistics?
SO: A lot of preparation must go into the show in order for it to be a success for the company. Aside from the initial preparations like booking our stand I usually sit down with the team sometime in the third quarter of our business year in March to discuss production, technical and marketing strategies. We work together right up until the final week before the show.
I4S: In years gone by it has been themes such as IP, hybrid solutions, the emergence of networks or video analytics that have characterised the show. Is there a key theme you can see on the horizon that might well frame the 2012 event?
SO: I believe the key areas for the future are based more on access control and new technologies within. Near Field Communications (NFC) will play a clear role within this and phone manufacturers have already started to include this technology.
We have certainly witnessed a huge increase in biometrics and we will ensure that we continue to add to our cutting-edge technology.
I4S: What’s the key focus for the company at this year’s show?
SO: We recently added a product called Micro™ to our range and this year and we are focusing on people coming to see the newest ievo™ addition.
As well as the new product, we will be showcasing more integration options for our products, making it easier for potential customers to see how our solutions will fit into their projects and also more support options for installers (including marketing and sales care).
I4S: Can you briefly outline the new solutions and products that will be displayed and discussed by the company?
SO: As I mentioned, Micro™ will be demonstrated for the first time this year but we will also be showcasing the original Ultimate™ fingerprint reader alongside integration options including Paxton, Nortech, CDVI, ACT, BSB Electronics, Inner Range and PLAN. Uniquely, we provide marketing support to the security installers who actively promote or are interested in ievo™. In order to showcase this further, a representative from the marketing team will be present at the stand to inform interested parties of how we can support them with sales.
I4S: Are you targeting end users, installers/integrators or perhaps consultants this year, and what’s influencing your decision here?
SO: Broadly, we welcome all groups to our stand. Obviously, as a manufacturer we mainly market to installers and integrators, but if end users and consultants have heard recommendations and wish to see the ievo™ fingerprint readers first hand then we are more than happy to talk them through our products and, if necessary, suggest an installer or representative in their area – for the UK and globally.
I4S: Are you targeting any particular vertical sector at present? If so, why? What opportunities do you see emerging?
SO: We’re not currently focusing on any one particular sector, in fact we are now being approached by markets we never really considered for our products.
We believe that the word is spreading about our reliable technology and the fact we’ve been able to deliver where others have previously failed. We will continue to work with as many sectors as possible.
I4S: What are your immediate priorities in the post-IFSEC period?
SO: So much planning is necessary for IFSEC and this includes post-show follow-up. It’s vitally important that we follow-up sales leads, add to our database and inform our existing customers how the show went and look at any new projects on the horizon because of the show. If we didn’t do this, our efforts and planning that went into the show would be wasted.
I4S: What’s the focus for the company likely to be in the six months from June to December?
SO: For the past two years we have focused on listening to our customers’ needs and we will continue to build on that to provide them with what they want in a biometric.
Without them, we wouldn’t have become the trusted brand that we are today and we want to continue to exceeded expectations in providing quality biometric products in tandem with after-sales care.
I4S: Are there any enhancements/improvements you’d like to see introduced at IFSEC International by show organiser UBM?
SO: UBM really listens to the needs and wants of visitors and exhibitors which is great, and they continually try to make improvements each year.
If anything I’d suggest making the event more accessible to end users. At the moment it’s mostly weighted towards security industry professionals.
I4S: On the macro level, what are your views on the current business landscape and the economic conditions prevailing in the UK?
SO: When asked this question in the video interview I responded with strong feelings that it’s time we fight against the negativity that’s continually portrayed by some elements of the national press. I mentioned the fact that they are always quick to jump on the story of ‘double dip recession’ that, at the time of the filming, had not been realised! Well just 24 hours after that interview it was then heavily reported that we actually are in one!
I’m confident that I speak for many here when I say: “Let’s move on.” We all have the ability to restore confidence in the business world. If we all stick together and sing from the same hymn sheet we can make a difference and turn the tables once and for all.
I4S: In addition, can you tell us your opinions on the present state of the UK and international security markets?
SO: Again, it’s a great shame that we find ourselves in this position after such a long time. ievo™ has been able to show growth in sales month-on-month and we believe the security sector to offer continued outcomes and benefits in any market situation. That said, I’m sure we all await the upturn with relish!
I4S: Are knowledge levels among your key customer audiences showing a continual elevation in focus and breadth?
SO: We have identified that we are strongly customer-driven with both installers and, surprisingly, end users. A great deal of business is obtained through both routes having the knowledge and requirements for biometric technology.
I4S: What’s the company doing to promote the Corporate Social Responsibility/’green’ agenda?
SO: In short, everything we can! Everyone in ievo™ continually works hard to ensure we meet with our own statements and also look at ways to improve on everything we do to ensure our own carbon footprint is as low as possible and our company’s impact on the environment is continually reduced.
Link to the Video Interview
ievo™ at IFSEC International 2012
Hall 4 Stand H47
Not so long ago, Ievo submitted their Ultimate fingerprint access control reader for testing which would be featured in Benchmark magazine. Alongside three other security systems companies the review is split in two halves. The first section which was published yesterday assessed the entry systems design and functionality, in which Ievo scored 82% and 80% respectively, which is equivalent to a Benchmark recommendation so far.
The review tells of our biometric door locks abilities, including integration, vandal resistance and external use. Ievo Ultimate™ even had the pleasure of adorning the front page of the published edition.
If you haven’t already read the March edition of Benchmark magazine, here is a link to the online version.
Spider Technologies Ltd have been at the forefront of another Ievo Ultimate biometric installation – This time biometrics in schools. The project began in July 2011 at a school in North Wales, and required six readers for the site. The Ultimate units are fitted both internally and externally and also secure the sites main entry points. Almost 1,500 pupils are registered as well as teaching and domestic staff.
The school previously used cards as their security system, but found they were too expensive to replace, because the pupils had a habit of losing them. Therefore, the Ievo Ultimate biometric readers were perfect for the job, because fingerprints cannot be lost or stolen, plus can be used both inside and outside. A major advantage of the Ievo fingerprint recognition system was the interface with Paxton Net2 which allowed the school to set access levels between the pupils and staff.
Steve Jones, Managing Director of Spider Technologies Ltd commented that, “The robust fingerprint biometric system looks great and the installation went smoothly. The Ievo Ultimate system has been installed for 6 months and is still working perfectly since the day we installed it. My Ievo account manager came to visit a couple of times on site, to ensure that the installation was going as well as it should be. Having that extra support from the manufacturer is great!”
To see the full range of Ievo fingerprint biometric readers visit our products page and technical area
This morning we released our biometrics Christmas email campaign to thank everyone for their continuous support throughout 2011. It has been an eventful year from the success of Ultimate to IFSEC to our exciting launch in the New Year. Therefore, before we break up for the Christmas holidays Ievo would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and New Year. We look forward to hearing from you in the New Year with our release on the 5th January.
For your information. We will be closed from 22nd December, reopening for technical and sales enquires on the 3rd of January.
Our Christmas Email Campaign..Did you get yours?
Our recently re-developed biometric test video for our Ultimate™ reader is available in a range of different languages. This week we have completed videos in Dutch, Spanish and French. This is to coincide with the popularity of our fingerprint readers outside of the UK.
Instead of simply leaving you at the sales point, we provide excellent after care to all our customers. This includes branded test videos of our access control system, datasheets of our reader complete with your company logo and finally end user flyers so that when you pitch to a client they will be able to understand the information surrounding our fingerprint software, instead of showing them technical information which they might not understand.
To those who install our reader our marketing team will contact you regarding a potential press release or case study which we have had published on Security News Desk, Planet Biometrics and Build.co.uk to name but a few.
You also, don’t need to have purchased one of our biometric fingerprint readers in order to receive this support. If you are pitching the Ievo reader for the first time, we can supply you with this support free of charge in order to equip you during your presentation. If you would like to receive more information regarding Ievo Marketing Support please contact us on 0845 643 6632 or email info@ievoreader.com and tell us exactly what you want.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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ievo™ are celebrating their second year trading with some very special product announcements. Firstly ievo™ have renamed their original biometric reader and secondly having listened to customer feedback and providing them with continuous technical, marketing and customer support ievo™ will be building on this reputation to offer greater unrivalled technology, supreme products and after sales care.
Two years ago, the ievo™ team, formulated by biometric security professionals with over twenty five years combined experience in the market, researched biometric access control systems and how they function within the security industry. Having quizzed the likes of architects, installers, facility managers and engineers, the idea of a fully functioning internal and external fingerprint reader for harsh environments came to the fore. This combined with its ergonomic design means it is not only easy to use but also to install. This seemed to be the preferred option within the focus group and thus produced the ievo™ biometric fingerprint reader which literally caters for any market or industry.
Since then, ievo™ has been installed in an abundance of different markets, including National Arenas, Embassies, Corporate Builds, Hospitals, Banks, Schools and Childcare Facilities to name but a few. From this, ievo™ has a 97% customer return rate as well as a back log of customer feedback.
Tom Fleming from Arrest Security contacted ievo™ recently saying “we have used ievo™ access control system on a couple of projects where the biometric readers were being vandalised on a regular basis, and to date the ievo™ units are performing well and we are very pleased with them.”
End user Peter Handley from Bilsdale Properties commented that “I was shown once and knew exactly how to use it. It looks great with the aesthetics and the software is top of the line. There’s nothing else like in terms if access control”
When Barry Spicer at Heron Grange contacted the ievo™ technical support line he said afterwards “I would like to express my thanks for resolving the problem quickly and with minimum amount of fuss”
From the successful customer testimonials ievo™ find it only fitting to rename the ievo™ reader – the ievo ultimate™ reader. This is because it offers installers with an access control solution that is unmatched against other competitive biometric products.
Installers, industry professionals and end users should keep up to date with ievo™ for the next big announcement in the very near future. The news will be released on all major security and biometric platforms plus ievo™ social networking profiles including Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.
Vandal resistant
The software which registers new users under the ievo™ door access system is getting re-written in Czech. This is to accommodate new clients who wish to redistribute our software for fingerprint system. This coincides nicely with how we endeavour to meet our clients needs through and through. Hopefully, as we widen our market within the biometric security industry more people will request a translation to their native language. This is because we want you to fully understand our fingerprint access control reader as much as we do and reap the benefits that everyone experiences in the UK.
If you want to request any of our software or manuals to be translated into a language easier for you to understand, please email our info account: info@ievoreader.com
ievo™ have released a 3D image of their biometric reader which features a customised, branded stamp on the case. All users of the revolutionary multi-spectral biometric reader will now be able to see the ievo™ design. Remember, the ievo™ reader can be manufactured in any custom colour. Simply supply us with a colour RAL number and we will be able to match your chosen colour exactly. Perfect for brightening up an office, attracting new clients or fitting in with a colour scheme that you already have in place.
