Smart visitor management system for safety and security in high-rise commercial buildings in Sri Lanka: an analysis of implementation barriers

Purpose Smart visitor management systems (SVMS) are digital tools that control and monitor visitor access to enhance safety and security in complex, high-occupancy buildings. Despite increasing security demands in high-rise developments, SVMS remain underdeveloped in Sri Lanka. This study aims to investigate the key barriers to implementing SVMS in high-rise commercial buildings in Sri Lanka. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was used using a multiple case study strategy. Six high-rise commercial buildings in Sri Lanka were purposively selected for in-depth investigation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 experts, including in-house stakeholders and SVMS vendors. Data were analysed using the template analysis method to ensure reliability and credibility. Findings A total of 31 barriers were identified and categorised into five themes: technological, economical, organisational, regulatory and informational. Key barriers specific to Sri Lanka include legacy infrastructure, economic instability, limited skilled workforce, lack of regulatory environment and low awareness. These challenges reflect both global patterns and unique contextual limitations faced by the local industry. Practical implications The results assist stakeholders, building owners, property managers and policymakers in optimising visitor management, improving safety and efficiency and fostering smarter high-rise environments. Originality/value Unlike existing global studies that generalise about SVMS barriers, this research provides a contextualised analysis of the Sri Lankan high-rise sector, articulating a clear knowledge gap in the adoption of SVMS in developing countries. It bridges the gap between global smart building practices and local adoption challenges relating to SVMS, offering context-specific insights that have not been previously explored.