About

Enhancing branch security and flexibility across 14 locations

Sunmark Credit Union is a full-service financial institution serving members in 14 counties of New York State. Sunmark recently transitioned to a universal banker model, with employees covering multiple branches rather than being assigned to one. This required a flexible, secure safe access system for employees moving between locations.

Sunmark implemented the dormakaba Axessor Apexx IP electronic safe lock solution, which offered a seamless way to enhance security while simplifying daily operations. The Axessor Apexx multi-lock IP platform allows Sunmark to remotely and securely manage an entire fleet of locks.

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Sunmark Credit Union Success Story

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Challenges

How can we modernize safe security while improving operational flexibility?

Sunmark’s previous lock system was outdated and inefficient. It relied on A/B-style combinations, requiring two people onsite to open a safe. This setup led to several operational challenges.

Limited flexibility for staff:Employees were restricted by rigid shift schedules, making simple tasks like opening the branch or covering a lunch break unnecessarily complex.
Manual access control:Lock combinations had to be physically managed on premise, which was time consuming, especially with Sunmark’s growth.
Lack of auditing:The old locks did not provide audit trails, making it difficult to monitor who accessed a safe and when.
Security risks with turnover:When an employee left, Sunmark incurred costs and delays.

“The Axessor™ Apexx IP Locks have been a huge improvement for our team. Employees at branches that don’t have it yet are asking when they’ll get it.”

Ryan Phillips

Fraud & Physical Security Program Coordinator

Details

Seamless transition to secure, remote safe access across the Sunmark network

Sunmark is committed to innovation, having been one of the first financial institutions to integrate core banking with its teller machines. dormakaba’s centrally managed locks were the next step in elevating its access control solutions.

Industry leading security:Each employee has an individual access code rather than shared combinations, increasing accountability. The system provides real-time audit reports on access history to strengthen security oversight. The locks are powered by Power over Ethernet (POE), with a battery backup for a redundant power option.

Unmatched convenience:With scalability and simplified administration, Axessor Apexx IP is ideal for financial institutions like Sunmark who need the efficiency and convenience of a networked and unified safe lock solution, while maintaining the highest security standards.

Substantial cost savings:The ability to administer the system through the software platform reduces the expense of using third-party vendors.

“The response from our staff has been fantastic,” said Ty Haller, Assistant Manager of IT Infrastructure at Sunmark. “Tellers and managers love the new system because it makes their jobs easier and keeps our locations more secure. All they saw was changing a lock, but it objectively created so much satisfaction among our staff. The cost is absolutely worth it in the long run.”