The importance of integration in hotel & casino operations

Despite innate complexities and ever-expanding physical footprints, the most successful modern hotels and casinos – and their relevant access control protocols – are often tied to a simple concept: communication. Solutions that are synced with a central control system and can communicate with various aspects of operations represent the advanced future that many managers are seeking. It’s equally important to understand how those solutions solve specific needs which not only impact operations but safeguard the most critical assets used on a daily basis.

Additionally, access control technology needs to boast a clear and significant return on investment, while also helping hotels and casinos stay within compliance of industry regulations. This is the lens that operators need to view solutions through and that starts with the most foundational of assets.

“Lockers not only provide safe storage and charging capabilities but also allow managers to see holistic usage across departments.”

Physical security

Physical keys remain a critical asset to operations, both as a primary asset and as a redundant measure in the rare event that a keyless solution malfunctions. As such, integrated solutions like intelligent key cabinets that communicate with an access control platform are a valuable resource to operators who are seeking a more comprehensive view of key usage. Managers designate who has access to which key, which reduces the possibility of an employee removing a key they’re not supposed to. Cabinets notify managers when keys haven’t been returned by a certain time, which helps quickly identify if one is missing and expedites the process of finding it.

Perhaps most importantly, cabinets provide real-time auditing and reporting for operators, who must remain in compliance with regulatory agencies regarding certain security systems or else face potential fines. A practical example of this is slot machines. Many of them still require physical keys to open and if any of those keys end up in the wrong person’s hands, the result could be significant.