easySmart - Interview with Product Manager Eric Nicolas
easySmart, Secure Access Management from a Distance
Never have to send the key to your rented holiday home again or leave it with neighbours. Nowadays, access times can be defined conveniently to the minute and, for example, communicated to arriving guests or service providers such as tradesmen and cleaners via an app. This is made possible by easySmart, the new cloud-based access solution from WILKA. Users only need one app to open a door. This will be sent to them conveniently by e-mail as a download link.
The Interview
Since when has the new app solution been available on the market?
The easySmart solution has been available since May 2024. This is the online version of our easyApp solution, which has been established on the market for four years. It is possible to use both apps at the same time.
How long did it take to develop the cloud-based app solution?
easySmart utilises an established smart home platform that has already been successfully represented on the market for several years. In collaboration with our smart home partner, Rockethome from Cologne, we developed and customised the easyApp within 6 months to meet the specific requirements of the market and our customers.
How does the WILKA solution differ from those of the competition?
easySmart does not require an expensive gateway to make the cylinder accessible online, for example. WILKA has stated that the number of users authorised to use the system should not be linked to the costs, so that no additional costs will be incurred. The number of doors and users is practically unlimited. It is also very important to us that customers can access the free easyApp solution at any time or even use it together with easySmart.
What new options do users have?
Access authorisations can be assigned by the owner or manager via app from anywhere. Access can be granted for a predefined period of time. For example, for every working day from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, or from Saturday, 6 July from 3:00 pm to Saturday, 21 July 11:00 am.
The keys are also handed over virtually. This means that the property manager sends the key to the guest's smartphone by e-mail. The familiar chip transponders, such as the "key card" or key fob chip, can of course still be used.
The easySmart solution is based on a simple and flexible licence model. Depending on requirements, the customer can either purchase a permanent licence or a monthly licence for properties that run seasonally. The licences are sold via specialist retailers.
Which user target groups will benefit from the new easySmart solution?
The easySmart solution offers benefits for everyone, but is particularly useful for owners, holiday apartment managers and hotel operators. For holiday home owners, this means that they can stay relaxed, as their guests can arrive at any time without the owner having to be present in person. He can welcome his guests on arrival and does not have to worry about having the key returned at the end of their stay, as the authorisation expires automatically.
Hotel owners who do not have a continuously staffed reception also benefit from easySmart. Guests can arrive late, and the virtual key can simply be sent by e-mail together with the booking confirmation. The check-in processes can therefore run seamlessly. This solution is also ideal for co-working offices.
When will it be possible to map other applications, such as heating and lighting control or video surveillance, via the app?
All smart home functions and the control of charging stations for electric vehicles are already included in the app. However, it is important for us to remain focused on our specialist expertise. The integration of additional smart control tasks is handled directly by our smart home partner, Rockethome, as required.