Internet search engines, such as Google, basically record words listed on business websites and compare those words with a known list of words used by other businesses in the same field. In our field, words such as “lockout,” “locks,” “keys” and “emergency service” probably are on the main Google locksmith-topic word list.
Google reportedly employs a word count to position each business on the web. Higher amounts of Google topic words that are found on each locksmith business website typically helps to place that business website higher up on a search.
In a similar manner, the editors and publisher at Locksmith Ledger begin each new year by developing a group of monthly topics that we believe are most important to our readers. Planning sessions begin in the early fall. Fortunately, our group of experts represents decades of experience in the security field. But we don't know everything.
For 2020, we divided our industry into five basic categories. Each category outlines where we believe the security industry is headed.
* Cellphones: Billions of people worldwide carry a cellphone. New mobile apps appear daily, some of which certainly will affect the security industry.
* Hybrid: Mechanical lock systems will remain in use during the 21st century, but hybrid mechanical/electronic versions will add optional features, such as audit trail, to the mix.
* Video: Locks are designed to prevent break-ins, but video cameras become either an added deterrent or a visual record when mechanical locks are breached.
* Wireless: Wireless security systems once had a reputation for undependability. Advances in wireless systems, longer battery life and ease of installation have solved earlier problems.
* Technology: Mechanical pin tumbler locks were invented in 1865. Newer electronic locks for vehicles, residences and commercial buildings now require new training, while knowledge in use last century is less in demand.
According to our thinking, these five trends show the general direction of locksmithing during 2020. What do you think? Are we correct, or do you have some further ideas? It isn’t too late to make changes. Please send your thoughts to: [email protected].
