Dallas � June 9, 2005 � With today's security landscape rapidly changing, now is the time for hoteliers to upgrade electronic door locks. VingCard electronic-locking systems offer increased security and advanced technology. �Security will always be in the forefront of hospitality, critical to not only guests but to owners and operators as well,� said Ken Brown, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales for VingCard Elsafe North America. �Therefore, security products must constantly be updated and upgraded as a computer would be to ensure that the needs of all parties are being met.� As a system ages the hardware and/or software may simply begin to fail, Brown said. Depending on the age of the locks, the necessary parts may be discontinued or very expensive to purchase. It will cost more to maintain an outdated system than to purchase a new one. And, with the functionality of today�s systems, even more can be gained in time and cost savings by upgrading. Greg Plank, President of Worldwide Travel Marketing Inc. (a hotel technology and management consultancy) and former president of Suburban Lodges of America said, �Locking systems installed in the early to mid nineties may still function well, but there are a multitude of programs available with new systems that make security more effective and make the day to day use of the entire system (front office functions included) much easier.� Omni Severin streamlines functionality Phil Ray, General Manager of the Omni Severin, a beautifully restored luxury property in downtown Indianapolis, agreed, �Technology advancements and improvements in day-to-day functionality were key considerations in why we upgraded from our previous electronic-locking system provider to VingCard.� Ray said he primarily had issues with the keycard number-sequencing system the property used for the past 10 years, �It was causing too many inconveniences to our guests and staff,� Ray said. �Since completing installation of the VingCard system in January, we have had no keycard malfunctions.� Upgrade any existing locks system to VingCard
VingCard Elsafe�s Brown said that technology adaptation also is an issue being faced by hoteliers with older e-locking systems. �The technology platforms required 10 years ago do not adequately support growing business needs today,� he said. �And, if upgrading the property-management system and its peripheral application technologies, chances are the existing security package may not be compatible with the newer technology platform.� The Omni Severin is pleased with the functionality of its new locking system. �We now have the huge advantage of increased security in an attractive easy-to-use package,� Ray said. �Previously we didn�t have the ability to get an extended electronic audit of a lock�only the last entry was recorded. Therefore we had to go to each lock and manually download the enter/exit information. Now, with VingCard, we have enhanced audit capabilities. We are extremely satisfied with the reliability and service that they provide.� As properties are renovated on a regular basis, door hardware should not be left out of the equation. VingCard offers a wide choice of style, finish and handle combinations to meet changing needs. The Classic lock series can be configured to truly match the design of any property. Providing the highest level of security for guests at an affordable cost for hoteliers without disrupting operations is top priority at VingCard Elsafe. The upgrade process is made effortless by VingCard�s experienced installation teams. �We understand the negative impact that �down� or �unavailable� guestrooms have on a hotel�s bottom line,� Brown said. �Seamless installation is accomplished while ensuring that the hotel remains fully operational. VingCard also offers powerful PMS software interfaces and training programs that make the front desk transition a painless experience.� Enhanced Features and Technology Options �Improved lock mechanics and upgraded software save staff time and provide for systems that last longer and are more user-friendly,� Plank said. �This can mean less maintenance time in caring for the locks and much less security staff time in reprogramming locks in a hotel. In addition, features like automatic deadbolts and enhanced audit trail capabilities are becoming a standard for added guest security.� VingCard�s Classic locks are available in both magnetic stripe and dual magnetic stripe/smartcard versions. They also are available with an optional combo magnetic stripe/smartcard reader, allowing hotels to mix the use of magnetic stripe and smartcards. The Omni Severin is using this multi-technology platform for its e-locking system. Smartcard keycards are being used by the staff while magnetic-stripe keycards are being used by guests. This creates a range of additional options that enhance security while helping control costs. �By providing our customers with the best upgrade solutions possible, they gain a multitude of operational benefits while ensuring the security of their guests,� states Brown. Customer Service Driven VingCard Elsafe recently implemented a �We Listen� program which involves contacting its more than 33,000 customers worldwide to solicit their valuable input on customer service initiatives. �Our ultimate goal through this program is to transform our current performance from good service to great service,� Brown said. �At VingCard Elsafe, we will not only stand accountable for the service and support standards we offer, but we will stand accountable for all products on the market, making sure that our hotels are providing the safest environment possible,� he said. �When security counts . . . you can count on VingCard Elsafe.� About VingCard Elsafe The world leader in hotel security technology, ASSA ABLOY Hospitality has products installed in more than 33,000 properties worldwide, securing in excess of 5.5 million hotel rooms. The ASSA ABLOY Group, a publicly listed company, is a world leader in security and hospitality systems. VingCard provides numerous electronic locking system solutions, including traditional magnetic-stripe and smartcard systems, fully integrated PMS interface software solutions and worldwide service and support. Elsafe provides the only UL-listed (1037) hotel safe series on the market today in keypad and card-based models. Safes that include an internal power outlet to support recharging of laptops and camcorders also are available with a UL listing. Elsafe customers also enjoy the same worldwide service and support. The ASSA ABLOY Hospitality Group is dedicated to the hospitality industry. For more information on VingCard Elsafe, visit www.vingcard.com or www.elsafe.com. |
