Many clients have only a vague sense of what they need to protect and do not have a knowledge of security strategy and technology. The client may need a security specialist to discern and describe security requirements and related costs. The architect can help the client locate the right security consultant for his or her building or particular security need. The overall design of the building, even without specific security devices, is part of any security plan. All this is in addition to actual hardware, such as special locks for doors and bars on windows.
Access control is another important aspect of the original design of a building.
Access control includes access to the parking lot and grounds as well as the building itself. Access can be limited in ways other than establishing the number of access points. Zoning, for example, simply establishes the level of access for different categories of personnel. Using this plan, a building is divided into unrestricted, controlled, and restricted areas. Security officer stations, which should be built into the original design, also restrict access.