Infographic/Comparison Chart: BluSKY vs. Legacy Systems – Why Modernize Now?

All-in-one platform: access control, video, alarms, visitor management, etc., in one interface. Easy, single sign-on for all functions. Eliminates silos and incompatibilities.

Multiple disparate systems (separate door control, separate CCTV, etc.) that don’t talk to each other. Requires juggling different software and screens (“frankenware”) with inconsistent UIs.

Anywhere, anytime access via cloud. Manage security from any device (PC, tablet, phone) with a web browser. True mobile control – even off-campus admins can respond in real time.

Only accessible on-site or through complex VPNs. Often tied to a dedicated PC in a security office. Little to no mobile support – you must be on campus to react, causing delays.

Automatic updates and upgrades with zero downtime. Always running the latest, most secure version. Minimal IT maintenance (no servers to patch on site).

Infrequent manual updates. Upgrades often require costly on-site work or are skipped, leaving software outdated. Higher maintenance burden (servers, software, and security patches all on school IT to manage).

Open hardware, non-proprietary. Works with standard door controllers (Mercury) and various readers/cameras. Can reuse existing hardware, saving cost. Easy to expand system with new tech (e.g., add a biometric reader) thanks to open API and integrations.

Proprietary hardware that can create vendor lock-in. Often requires buying specific readers/cameras from the same vendor at premium prices. Harder to integrate new devices or reuse hardware from another vendor – leading to rip-and-replace for upgrades.

Built-in AI and analytics for proactive monitoring. For example: automatic alerts for unusual events (door held open, after-hours motion), system health self-checks, and even voice-activated commands via BluBØX AI assistant. The system not only records events, but helps prevent incidents and guides operators.

Little to no intelligence. Mostly reactive – someone has to notice an alarm or watch cameras constantly. No automated diagnostics; issues might go undetected until failure. Lacks modern capabilities like facial recognition, voice control, or predictive alerts unless expensive add-ons are purchased (if available at all).

Integrated visitor & vendor management with watchlist screening. Digital check-in, badge printing, and the ability to issue temporary mobile credentials (BluPASS). Visitor logs tie into access control (e.g., visitor badges only open certain doors, only during their appointment). All data is centrally stored and reportable.

Often a paper log book or a standalone visitor system not linked to doors. No automatic watchlist checks – relying on staff to manually vet visitors. Temporary access often handled by handing out physical keys or generic cards (security risk). Hard to share visitor info across district or generate instant reports (like “who is in the building now?”).

Comprehensive emergency comms – one-click lockdown across all doors, instant mass notification via text/email, and voice announcements via BluB0X integration. BluSKY can automatically contact first responders and grant them system access remotely. Staff can trigger or manage emergencies from their devices, with pre-programmed sequences ensuring a fast, orderly response.

Relies on separate PA systems, manual calling trees, or third-party mass notification tools. Lockdowns involve physically running to doors or using separate alarm panels (time-consuming). No unified way to instantly share camera feeds or alarm status with law enforcement. Essentially, response is slower and coordination is manual, which can hamper outcomes in a crisis.

Lower total cost of ownership. Subscription model means predictable yearly costs; no big servers to buy. Reusing hardware and using standard gear saves money. Cloud architecture scales with your needs – pay for what you use. Also, reduced on-site maintenance and fewer disparate contracts (one BluSKY covers what multiple legacy systems did). Over time, districts see significant savings, especially when considering prevented incidents.

High upfront costs for servers, proprietary hardware, and licenses. Each subsystem might have its own maintenance contract. Expansion is expensive (each new building = new server, etc.). Over time, hidden costs (like long outages, security breaches due to outdated software, or expensive emergency upgrades) add up. ROI is lower, as you’re investing in technology that doesn’t improve with age (and often requires complete replacement in a few years).