Access Systems: Full package from single source

At trade fairs, ticketing, access control, exhibitor management, parking and F&B have to interact like clockwork. Axess offers a comprehensive solution integrating hardware and software.

An integrated system can make complex processes much easier. Vincent Hofer, Head of Business Unit Fairs & Convention Centres, explains why in our interview.

Mr Hofer, what are the key advantages of an integrated solution?
Maximum system stability, seamless integration, standardised maintenance and perfectly aligned further developments. At the same time, we consciously focus on openness. Our hardware can also be controlled by external software via standardised interfaces. So we can offer customers and partners a “full system” approach enabling them to add to existing system landscapes. Leipziger Messe and Messe Düsseldorf - as well as Koelnmesse with its partner Dimedis or Milan Fair with Viva Ticket are just a few examples. In addition, there’s always the option of integrating ticketing providers such as Eventim, Ticketmaster, Secutix or Reservix in your sales channels. Most customers in the event sector opt for the full solution from Axess - especially for the central sales and access modules.

What are the benefits of booking hardware and software from Axess as a package?
Above all, it makes things much less complex. Instead of having to coordinate several providers and interfaces, organisers receive an end-to-end solution from a single source. All configurations are centralised in a single user interface. This simplifies operations considerably and saves valuable resources. Another key advantage lies in the depth of integration. As our software interlocks seamlessly and is precisely tailored to our own hardware, there are no media disruptions or friction losses. Where systems are combined externally, this is often hardly achievable or requires a considerable effort.

Can you give me some examples?
Let's take exhibitor advertising. It is configured separately via the Exhibitor Platform, automatically displayed in the Visitor Ticketshop and printed on the tickets at the access points. The same applies to the fully integrated lead tracking solution: The exhibitor has centralised access, a fixed contact and sees all services comprehensively in one invoice. And when it comes to troubleshooting, there is no uncertainty about the responsibilities of the different providers.

Can the solutions be customised or expanded to meet individual event requirements?
Yes, Axess designs and realises modular solutions. This means that not only is our hardware modular, but all software modules can also be flexibly combined. Processes can be adapted to each individual event or visitor group – be it for consumer shows, trade visitor events with a legitimisation process, complex buyer and visitor surveys or press accreditation. This gives organisers a system that can be seamlessly expanded. The system is also open and flexible when it comes to communication: External newsletter tools can be added via standard interfaces. Axess also enables e-mail, push and SMS notifications.

What about services such as parking or F&B?
For parking, Axess can also provide suitable software that is seamlessly integrated into all online and on-site sales channels. At the same time, specialised external providers can be connected via a live interface – such as complex truck logistics solutions for trade fairs. Food & Beverage is a particularly exciting growth area. We offer separate modules for this: from self-check-in through mobile cash register solutions to order overviews in the kitchen and order handling. This creates added value for event organisers.

Do you offer support when a new customer wants to migrate an existing application into an Axess software solution?
Absolutely. In fact, such migration processes are the rule rather than the exception for new customers. The structured migration of existing systems into our solution is therefore a well-established routine process (www.teamaxess.com).