Getting started with biometric device integration

Keka helps thousands of companies manage their employees' leave, attendance, and payroll. As Keka expands globally, we want to make sure our system can easily connect with biometric devices, like fingerprint or face scanners, that track attendance and access to secure areas. This integration is essential for many organizations.

In this article, we will explain the different ways this integration can work so you can make the appropriate choice of biometric device and integration method.  We currently support four types of integrations:

1. SQL-Based Integration:

This reliable method involves direct connection between the biometric devices and their software, which then pushes the attendance data into SQL databases using the parallelDB export method. With this integration, the biometric devices act as friendly messengers collecting attendance data, while the SQL database serves as a central library where the information is stored. Keka can effortlessly access and utilize the data whenever needed.

Pros:

- Customizable: You can set up the communication process to fit your specific needs.

- Reliable: The data goes directly into the database, which is a stable and secure storage location.

- Universally Compatible: Works with almost all biometric devices that support SQL.

Cons:

- Technical Knowledge Required: Setting up the integration may require some technical expertise related to SQL databases.

- Limited Device Support: Some biometric devices might not support direct integration with SQL.

-  As of now, Keka supports only MS-SQL based integration.

2. SDK-Based Integration:

Utilizing a special software kit from the biometric device manufacturers, this method enables customization and real-time updates between Keka and the device. In this analogy, the biometric device becomes a smart translator for attendance data, and Keka acts as a brilliant researcher who receives the data in a language it perfectly understands. 

Pros:

- Deeper Customization: Provides more control over the biometric device and data flow.

- Real-Time Updates: Ensures swift and real-time data communication between the device and Keka.

Cons:

- Device-Specific SDK: Requires a specific software kit from the device manufacturer, which may limit the range of supported devices.

- Implementation Complexity: Integrating the SDK might be more complex than other methods.

3. Push-Based Integration:

With this method, the biometric device automatically "pushes" attendance data directly to Keka, keeping everything up-to-date with minimal effort. In the analogy, the biometric device serves as a proactive assistant who consistently updates Keka, acting as a personal assistant that knows your schedule and attendance without the need for manual requests.

Pros:

- Automatic Updates: Attendance data is automatically sent to Keka without manual intervention, ensuring up-to-date records.

- Effortless Setup: Once configured, the data flows automatically, reducing manual effort.

Cons:

- Limited Device Support: Some older biometric devices might not have push data capabilities.

- Network Dependency: Requires a stable network connection for seamless data transfer.

4. API-Based Integration:

API-Based Integration involves specific interfaces that facilitate smooth communication between the biometric device and Keka.

Picture your biometric device as a friendly middleman who connects two friends who speak different languages. Think of Keka and the biometric device as these two friends. Now, imagine there's a secret code that helps them understand each other's language perfectly. With API-Based Integration, the friendly middleman uses this secret code to translate between Keka and the biometric device. It's like having a clever translator who allows Keka and the biometric device to communicate effortlessly, even though they have different ways of speaking.

Pros:

- Versatility: APIs enable communication with a wide range of biometric devices.

- Direct Communication: Keka and the biometric device can talk directly, leading to quick and smooth data updates.

Cons:

- Technical Complexity: Implementing APIs might require technical understanding or assistance.

- Device Compatibility: Some older devices might not have API support, limiting integration possibilities.

In essence, these integration methods are like different communication channels, each with its unique advantages. Keka provides various integration methods, each with distinct pros and cons. SQL-Based Integration offers reliability and adaptability, SDK-Based Integration allows customization and real-time updates, Push-Based Integration is effortless and automatic, while API-Based Integration is versatile and direct. Choose the method that suits your organization's needs and device capabilities, streamlining HR processes with ease!

And by the way, don't worry, we are not going to bore you with the techinal setup, so we will take care of that part. All you have to do is:

1. Decide which biometric device and integration method you are going to use. 
2. Have the pre-requisites ready for the chosed method. To know what are the prerequisites for each method, click here.