People counting systems now play a strategic role in many sectors, far beyond their primary function of measuring affluence.
Their true value lies in their ability to integrate with other technologies to improve operational processes, optimise the user experience and facilitate decision-making.
In this article, we explore the main technologies with which these systems can interact, and the importance of data interoperability in these integrations.
What technologies are associated with counting systems?
Building management software (BMS)
Building management software is a centralised solution for supervising, controlling and optimising a building's various technical installations. It is therefore a key tool for ensuring efficient, sustainable operation of infrastructures.
BMS integrates a number of systems, including
Energy management: control of heating, air conditioning and lighting to reduce consumption.
Security: access monitoring, fire alarms and video surveillance cameras.
User comfort: temperature and air quality control.
Preventive maintenance: detection of anomalies or wear and tear to anticipate breakdowns.
In public spaces such as offices, museums, libraries or shopping centres, counting systems combined with a BMS can, for example, optimise energy consumption according to how the space is occupied.
By integrating real-time data from counting systems and the various sensors installed throughout the building, you can automate decisions such as dimming lighting in unoccupied areas or alerting managers to take targeted action.
Online ticketing and time-stamping systems
The culture and tourism sector is making increasing use of time-stamping and online ticketing systems to track visitor numbers, but is missing out on some data that is vital for a comfortable visit, such as space occupancy and waiting times.
By correlating ticketing and counting data in real time, sites can improve visitor flow management and increase visitor satisfaction by :
regulating admissions in real time to avoid overcrowding.
varying the number of time-stamped tickets according to periods and events to achieve optimum ticket sales.
proposing alternative slots or special offers for off-peak times.
By having access to the maximum security capacity in real time, venues also give visitors the freedom to come without booking if there is still room when they arrive.
Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS)
In libraries, counting systems enhance the library information systems by automatically adjusting the services on offer (number of active computer workstations, reorganisation of areas, etc.) according to the actual number of users. This complementary approach boosts the efficiency of institutions while improving the way they welcome users.
CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
In shopping centres, tourist attractions and events, the integration of counting systems with customer relationship management solutions opens up new opportunities for personalising interactions and maximising sales performance.
Transport plan management systems
At stations or underground stations, counting systems integrated with transport management platforms can be used to optimise timetables or plan additional means of transport during peak periods.
Data interoperability: a key to maximising value
To reap the full benefits of counting systems, it is crucial that they can communicate effectively with other tools through standardised interfaces or open APIs. This interoperability guarantees :
A centralised view of data: Managers can combine and cross-reference data from different sources (counting, ticketing, energy management, etc.) for a global analysis.
Scalability of systems: An interoperable architecture makes it easy to add new technologies or solutions without having to completely overhaul the system, and avoids duplication of effort.
Integrating counting systems with other technologies opens the way to ever more effective solutions tailored to users' needs. Whether it's improving energy efficiency through BMS, enhancing the user experience in museums or centralising data via interoperable tools, these synergies offer immense potential.
By exploring these possibilities, institution managers can not only optimise their operations but also anticipate the expectations of an increasingly connected public.