Thank you, Micah, for your thoughts. We likely won't be redesigning our front entry. We have a vestibule which could act like a waiting area but it's small and not an inviting space for visitors. However, it could be an area to create some space for delivery drop-offs.
Original Message:
Sent: 03-13-2026 12:16
From: Micah Arnold
Subject: Building Access Management
One approach that has worked well in many facilities is to keep the exterior/front door unlocked during business hours, but have it lead into a small, controlled lobby rather than directly into the administrative office space.
The lobby essentially acts as a security buffer zone. Visitors enter the lobby freely, but they cannot access the administrative office until they pass through a second secure door that is controlled by staff.
When designing the lobby, it can be helpful to size it so it supports several functions:
Visitor waiting area with 2–4 seats
A small workstation for administrative or facilities staff
Space for deliveries and couriers so packages can be received without granting access to the secured office area
Visitor check-in using visitor management software if applicable
This approach maintains a welcoming environment while still providing a controlled access point for the office.
A few additional considerations that can improve the experience and security:
Doorbell camera or video intercom at the secure door so staff can communicate with visitors before granting access.
Background music in the lobby, which can help create a more comfortable and professional environment for visitors.
Flexible staffing: if a facilities or administrative staff member is not always stationed at the lobby workstation, the doorbell camera/video system allows someone elsewhere in the building to assist visitors when needed.
Overall, this configuration balances security, customer experience, and operational flexibility without creating the perception that the organization is "closed off" during business hours.
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Micah Arnold
Facilities Manager
Bay Federal Credit Union
Original Message:
Sent: 03-12-2026 19:26
From: Christi McGonigal
Subject: Building Access Management
Our building is exploring the possibility of moving to a locked-entry model for security and operational efficiency, and I'm hoping to learn how others manage this.
If your organization has locked exterior doors, I'd like to hear how you handle the following:
• Staff entry (badge access, key fobs, etc.)
• Employees who forget their badges
• Vendor access for scheduled services
• Daily courier deliveries (Amazon, FedEx, UPS, Staples, etc.)
• Visitor check-in or guest access
• Overall security monitoring (reception desk, video intercom, facilities team, etc.)
We're particularly interested in understanding what systems or processes work well and any lessons learned along the way.
Thank you.
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Christi McGonigal
Facilities and Construction Manager
Rogue Credit Union
Medford OR
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