Why Cloud is the Future of Access Control: Inside Volo’s Reporting Suite

As the security industry accelerates its shift to cloud-native technologies, VOLO has emerged as a leading innovator with its cloud-based access control platform. Unlike traditional systems that rely on heavy infrastructure and server installations, VOLO was designed from the ground up for the cloud. This difference allows it to deliver unrivalled flexibility, scalability, and real-time reporting tools that extend far beyond traditional access control.

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At its core, VOLO is not simply about opening doors; it is about turning access events into actionable intelligence. The system empowers organisations to make better decisions about both security operations and building management.

“The biggest thing for me is the flexibility. None of us know what the future will bring, but cloud gives you the best option for complex solutions because you allow yourself scalability, openness and scope.”

Why Cloud is Redefining Access Control

VOLO’s advantage lies in its cloud-native design. While many competitors attempt to adapt legacy platforms to meet modern demands, VOLO was created exclusively as a cloud solution. This means no costly servers, no time-consuming updates, and no compromises. Its architecture is inherently flexible, capable of evolving alongside the businesses it protects.

The result is a system that adapts to changing needs with ease. Whether managing a single building or a multi-site operation, VOLO can expand or contract without disruption. Its always-on connectivity ensures constant monitoring and rapid access to live information, creating a platform that is not only secure but also prepared for future demands.

“It’s a cloud-based access control solution. We came to the market as cloud-based, and that sets us apart. We invented ourselves that way because we knew there was a gap in the market.”

From Data Collection to Intelligent Decisions

Every action within VOLO—every swipe, attempt, or event—is captured and logged. But the true strength of the platform lies in how this information is presented through its reporting suite. Rather than overwhelming users with endless logs, the system transforms raw data into meaningful insights that guide both security and operational decisions.

For instance, door usage reports highlight which entrances are most heavily relied upon, while token analysis reveals how many users remain active and which credentials are obsolete. This prevents databases from becoming cluttered, ensuring that the information available to security managers is clean, relevant, and up to date.

One striking example came from a retail client who planned to close a staff entrance. By reviewing Volo’s access data, they discovered the door was in fact one of the most used by employees. The decision was reversed, preventing disruption and highlighting how real-time insights can have a direct impact on daily operations.

“It’s about understanding which doors are used most often and whether we’re managing that data in the most effective way. The reporting suite makes the system more relevant and more powerful.”

Security and Building Efficiency Combined

Volo’s reach extends far beyond traditional access control. By providing accurate information about how spaces are used, the platform offers valuable intelligence for facilities teams, concierge staff, and health and safety managers. For a head of security, this means not having to wade through hundreds of outdated records to find the fifty people who are actively using the building. For facilities managers, it means being able to see patterns of movement, reduce congestion, and optimise the flow of people through a site.

The platform provides not just information, but clarity. This makes it easier for everyone responsible for a building—whether they are safeguarding staff, managing operations, or ensuring compliance—to base decisions on the most accurate and relevant data.

“All of a sudden, a head of security hasn’t got to look through 100 users, because only 50 use the building. It’s about giving them the cleanest, most important data.”

Real-Time Alerts for Proactive Management

Traditional systems often leave managers reacting to problems after they occur. Volo’s cloud infrastructure changes this by enabling instant alerts and automated reporting. If an unauthorised person attempts to access a restricted area, the system immediately notifies the right people. If a power supply fails or connectivity is lost, alerts are sent to both security staff and installers, ensuring issues are addressed before they escalate.

This real-time responsiveness prevents downtime and improves user experience. Security teams are no longer blindsided by frustrated employees reporting access failures; instead, they are empowered to act at the moment an anomaly occurs. Installers and maintenance providers also benefit, as they can monitor system health remotely and intervene proactively rather than waiting for a service call.

“It’s live data. That’s really useful because it means you can make an impact decision there and then—not after somebody’s complained that the system isn’t doing what it should.”

Designed for Every Stakeholder

What makes Volo particularly effective is the way it serves multiple groups simultaneously. Security managers benefit from faster responses and greater oversight. Facilities managers gain clarity on how buildings are being used. Installers and maintenance providers are able to track system performance and receive immediate alerts when technical issues arise. Even end users experience smoother access, thanks to reduced downtime and cleaner data management.

The system was deliberately designed with this dual focus. As the interview explains, there are two key groups: those maintaining the system, who need to know about failures or connectivity issues, and those managing the building, who need to know about access irregularities. By splitting responsibilities in this way, Volo ensures that every stakeholder receives the information that matters most to them.

“We designed the system with two clear groups in mind: the installer, who needs to know about failures, and the facilities/security teams, who need to know about abnormal usage. Both benefit in real time.”

Summary: The Function and Benefits of Volo

The function of the Volo cloud-based access control platform is to manage permissions, monitor activity, and safeguard premises using a fully cloud-hosted system. Unlike traditional on-site installations, Volo operates continuously online, capturing every event and presenting it through an advanced reporting suite.

The benefits are wide-ranging. Volo provides flexibility by removing the limitations of hardware-based systems, scalability to adapt to businesses of all sizes, and future readiness for an evolving market. Its live reporting and alerts enable organisations to act instantly rather than retrospectively, while its data insights help optimise not only security but also the efficiency of entire buildings. Ultimately, Volo turns access control into both a security solution and a business intelligence tool.

Key Benefits of the VOLO Reporting Suite

• Cloud-first architecture – no servers, no downtime, always connected.
• Clear, actionable insights – transform complex event logs into easy-to-read reports.
• Smarter facilities management – track occupancy trends and optimise building flow.
• Effortless credential control – quickly identify inactive tokens and maintain a clean database.
• Real-time alerts – instantly notify the right people to prevent issues escalating.
• Scalable & future-proof – easily adapt reporting to changing business needs.

Conclusion

The future of access control is not just about securing doors—it is about harnessing data to improve both safety and efficiency. Volo demonstrates how a cloud-based access control platform can transform the way organisations think about their buildings. By combining flexibility, scalability, and intelligence, Volo enables companies to move from reactive management to proactive, insight-led decision-making.

“For me, the key thing is understanding the data. That’s what makes the simplicity of a power system more effective. That’s why our reporting suite has grown so massively.”

With its cloud-first approach and commitment to actionable intelligence, Volo is helping businesses not only secure their premises but also unlock smarter ways of working.

Find out more...

• Visit the New VOLO website

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• Where to buy VOLO cloud access control in the UK

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• VOLO Frequently Asked Questions

• How to design an Access Control System

Available to order now from CIE

VOLO Cloud Access Control is available through Value-Added Distributor CIE-Group. CIE provides expert advice and support for security professionals looking to implement VOLO’s cutting-edge access control solutions.

For full details or to arrange a product demonstration, please contact the CIE sales team on T. 0115 9770075 or email [email protected]

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