Billfold POS is launching its new Access Control feature. Expanding its RFID-based POS, the event management system will now allow event organizers to set up access gates and VIP areas, instantly accessible with a tap of a wristband.
This is more than a fancy, wristband-enabled lock, however. Billfold Access Control’s screens turn what was once a meaningless moment into a new platform for engaging event patrons. When not showing an event-goer her access status, these screens do double duty as advertising and event information spaces, sharing messages from sponsors, special offers, or updates to the festival schedule. Access Control will soon offer a feature for patrons to upgrade their ticket to VIP on the display screens at the point of entry, charging the card linked to the customer’s RFID wristband.
“Most access control solutions currently on the market don’t have displays or instant upgrades,” explains Billfold co-founder Stas Chijik. “They are simple green light/red light setups. We’ve added a display that opens up a new realm of possibilities for event organizers and operators and that lets patrons get VIP experiences with a tap of their wristband.”
Billfold Access will also provide a rich trove of data regarding movement through the event, starting with exit and entry information and eventually ending with long-range tracking of event patrons as they enjoy a venue or festival.
Venue and festival owners will be able to gain deeper insight into where people go when, a helpful basis for future security, programming, and amenities planning. It is important for any event organizer or sponsor to have a full understanding of the customer journey which Billfold makes possible.
This data will also power new approaches to signage and advertising at events, personalization akin to what consumers already expect online. “It’s not a big leap to imagine out-of-home ads at events becoming far more dynamic and personal,” Stas says.
“If a customer is approaching a digital billboard, for example, the screen would only offer ads relevant to that attendee, based on previous purchases. Stage signage could respond to who’s actually in the crowd and shift to display more relevant information, letting sponsors reach the right audience. Our system can take online marketing into the real world and apply the same customization you find online in an offline setting.”
In addition to these leading-edge capabilities, Access Control’s design is informed by the highly practical perspectives of seasoned food and beverage operators.
Billfold will reduce bottlenecks at VIP gates in the same way it cuts lines at the bar, by dramatically increasing efficiency. Designed to be shock and water-proof, Billfold’s access point screens and scanners can be set up in a matter of hours and are built with festival conditions in mind.
