In: Operations Management
5.Contrast the level of security in a hotel that uses a hard-key system with that in a hotel that uses an electronic key or smart card system.
A hard key system is a old time security feature in a hotel.However, it has a number of security flaws which include ease of duplicating the key by an employee, no record of entry, hassles faced if the key is lost or misplaced by the guest and no possibility of denial of access. On the other hand a smart card or electronic key based system has a benefit of password based access, centralised control, easy deactivation and access control from anywhere, record of every entry and exit and quick and easy replacement if a card / key is lost. As a result, even the staff does not have access to the rooms when they are not authorised to do so. Electronic key / card can be used only when intended, and this feature makes a room much more secure than the hard key, which can be misused, misplaced and can be used by anyone who is in possession of it. In contrast to the electronic key /card, there is no record of hard key operation, hence it can not be used to trace an incident or be helpful in an investigation in case of a theft or other crime. Managing a number of same ( duplicate ) keys for a room is also a hassle for the management, while a card can be configured within minutes, making it more convenient.