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Morse Watchmans KeyWatcher has been upgraded

2012-02-07T21:58:55Z

The latest major upgrade of KeyWatcher, Morse Watchmans’ signature product, is now available in Australia through Australian Security Technology Pty Ltd (ASTPL), exclusive Australian distributors. Dubbed KeyWatcher Touch because of the new bright 7” touchscreen, the system now boasts even greater capability.

One of the new features is KeyAnywhere which allows the user to return the key to any KeyWatcher in an organisation’s site. As well, the user can locate which KeyWatcher a specific key is held, or determine who has this out, with the new KeyFind feature.

Other enhancements include an easier to use interface and improved integration capabilities for third party software. The touchscreen has easy-to-read, large buttons for convenient navigation. The status bar guides the user on what to do and this shows what is happening.

The “My Keys Out” feature allows user to see which keys they have out, if any of the keys are overdue and when their keys will be overdue.

Key removal has been made easier through the provision of a keys list that a user may have access to.

KeyWatcher Touch allows more capacity and control, with up to 14,400 keys and 10,000 users per site. A new “Site” concept allows the use of a common database. For even greater security, longer user IDs are now available up to any six digits, plus a four digit PIN.

The KeyWatcher software has been expanded to provide new access control-style interface. An auto-sync feature automatically updates KeyWatcher systems as changes are made.

A new “Profiles” feature makes for quicker, easier programming of users. This feature also provides a quick way to assign users key and group permissions, access level, and many other settings.

The software also provides new, easier to read reports which utilise colour and includes more information.

Controlling Keys And Restricted Assets Using A Hybrid KeyWatcher System

2011-08-21T22:43:08Z

Key control and asset management can take many forms. When the assets to be traced and controlled includes government restricted radios, handcuffs and firearms, a NSW department specialising in court transport went for Morse Watchmans KeyWatcher, after successfully testing the system.

Approached by a security consultant employed by the court transport authority, Australian Security Technology Pty Ltd (ASTPL) designed and installed a number of hybrid KeyWatcher systems, especially made for this application.

KeyWatcher’s modular design allowed AST engineers to put together a system consisting of a master cabinet and slave cabinet/s. The slave cabinet is similar to the master unit, without the keypad.

ASTPL used the latest KeyWatcher cabinets, with the new design and improved access controls. Built into a rugged steel cabinet, with highly illuminated key slots, users of these units will find keys easier to locate and find that this blends in well with modern office layouts, without taking over wall space.

This is how the system works: Transport officers are assigned a task for the day. They log on to the KeyWatcher system and simultaneously remove vehicle keys, handcuffs and radios for that task.

Access to the different lockers is made by punching in an assigned nine digit PIN. This allows the user to pull out the designated key for the PIN and locker.

At the end of the day, the officers return the above and this is done by logging in and returning items to their defined locations. At all times, the system knows which item is where and is assigned to whom.

A full audit trail, who has used which items and when, is maintained throughout. If an item is not returned, emails and alarms are sent out to the relevant personnel. Control of the system is done from a head office location, by a security manager.

The system allows security manager to provide one of five different levels of access to the transport officer, offering more flexibility on how to control keys and other assets.

Controlling keys as part of an access control system

2011-07-27T02:15:48Z

In physical security, the term “access control” can have many interpretations or examples depending on the application. Access control can refer to a security officer standing guard in a lobby or a card swipe system that allows authorised personnel to enter an area. Other forms of access control include a man-trap door or a turnstile. What they all share, whether mechanical, manual or electronic in design, is the ability to limit entry to a particular area.

Many facilities continue to depend on physical keys, making a physical key management system essential for the safe keeping and storage of keys which are used to unlock doors, cabinets or other secure devices. Computerised key control and management systems are designed to securely and safely store keys and only release them to authorised users.

Each key is locked into place inside the key cabinet using a locking device which has an integrated chip, so a user can only remove a key to which he or she has permission to use. The other keys will remain locked into place when the user enters his or her access code or scans their card or fingerprint. In this way, the system automatically controls who is able to use which keys. The key control system assists the user further by lighting up the location of the key or keys he or she can remove once the code is entered and the key cabinet is opened.

For added protection, key control systems also react when something is wrong. An overdue key, an open door or even the misuse of the keypad will trigger an alarm and record the event in the log file. Integrated management software additionally enables management to further control the system and maximise its reporting and programmable access capabilities.

Australian Security Technology also offer key control using barcode technology, called AssetTracker. While the AssetTracker is used to track assets like tools, documents, safety equipment and the like, the system is also used to track keys in applications like real estate agencies, car yards and others.

This Australian-designed system uses scanners to book keys in and out of control points. An upgraded alert notification allows the user to enter alert times when keys are due back at a location. A popup alarm alerts the system when a key or set of keys is not returned.

Key control and management systems are a fundamental access control solution and a cost effective way to help ensure the security of any facility or area.

A look at key control in banking

2011-04-29T00:46:00Z

Because they are considered prime targets for criminal activity, banks and other retail financial operations are generally better prepared than other industries to tackle security threats.

A bank's security solution can range from video surveillance systems to sophisticated alarm and intrusion detection systems to improved lighting. These systems can help to foil even the most determined criminal. Operational procedures also play a significant role in maintaining a safe and secure environment and one of the most important of those is a key control and management policy.

Key control in a banking environment serves two purposes. The first and most obvious is the storing and safekeeping of keys that are used throughout the bank. These may include keys to filing cabinets, cash drawers, safe rooms (i.e. a room to isolate employees from attack and another room for receiving, opening, and distributing items from a delivery service), offices, communication rooms and so on.

The key cabinets can only be opened by users with the proper authorization code (either finger identification or numerical code), and cannot be manipulated or easily tampered with. Security management can establish permission levels for every user and when the system is connected to the network, management can immediately make any necessary changes.

For larger facilities and banks with more employees and customer traffic, an additional layer of security may be required. Using a remote box system, the key control cabinet can be placed in a secure room. In order for an authorized employee to access keys, a second individual must input their PIN for verification.

The second purpose for a key control and management system is the forensic trail that provides invaluable evidence in the event of an incident. Knowing who had possession of a particular key and when is critical information when investigating allegations of misconduct. Management software is available to optimize the installing, programming, customizing, maintaining and reporting capabilities of the key bank system.

Furthermore, the collected information can be integrated with the bank’s access control system for added safety procedures. For follow up and reporting purposes, the combined data trail can assist in providing valuable information as to when and who with regard to any incidents.

Key Control & Management Systems At Airports

2011-02-25T02:15:00Z

Management of airport security operations often includes representation from multiple government agencies and involves oversight of all areas of security ranging from issuance of uniforms to perimeter fencing to employee background security checks. Security solutions vary depending on the size and type of airport facility (i.e. regional, international, flight school, etc.) but one of the most common and effective strategies is the use of key control and management systems.

Automated key control and management systems can be used to hold keys needed for access to sensitive or sterile areas of an airport, including ramps, operational spaces and other SIDA (Security Identification Display Area) areas that are restricted from the general public. Authorized users who have permission to enter these restricted areas unescorted can access keys by entering their PIN code and/or biometric identification. If the criteria entered matches the information stored in the system data base, the key cabinet will unlock and the necessary key can be removed or returned.

In large international airports, the key control systems may incorporate additional security features to help maintain the integrity of the system and provide enhanced security. For example, when an authorized user accesses a key, a numeric code can appear on the display and that code must be entered at secure doors when using the key.

With the use of key management software , the key control system automatically records all transactions, including user, date and time of checkout and return. At any time, airport security operations can view who currently has which keys out and for what area, or who has had keys out, for what areas and when. If any key is not returned to the key control cabinet as scheduled, e-mail alerts can be sent to airport security to enable quick action.

The use of key control and management systems in airport facilities is an important measure in ensuring the safety and protection of travelers, airport personnel and property.

Fleet Management requires good key control systems

2011-02-01T13:31:00Z

Fleet management has is own special requirements when it comes to the control of keys. Such advanced systems covers a range of high tech solutions, which include as mechanical diagnostics, vehicle tracking systems and intelligent software programs . Along with these tools, a key control and management system can help maintain the security of the vehicles while also providing data that can be used to improve operational efficiencies.

Compared to traditional key boxes which are often only a locked metal or wooden box, our electronic key cabinets are constructed of high gauge steel with polycarbonate windows and are almost impervious to vandalism. Also contrasting from manual key boxes, automated key control systems are designed to sound an alarm if there is an illegal entry or removal of a key, if the door is left open or if an attempt is made to return invalid keys.

An alarm will also sound if power is lost although the cabinets are equipped with battery back-up to ensure operation during AC power loss or disruptions as well as retention of the programmed memory.
Outdated manual key boxes used in fleet management operations can expose the people concerned to the threat of liability issues stemming from unauthorised key access or lost or misplaced keys. High tech electronic key control systems can only be accessed by authorized users with a pre-programmed PIN code.

These key cabinets use tamper-proof smart key rings that automatically record all transaction activity and can be queried as needed for keys in use or overdue keys. Reports can be programmed to include who accessed keys, when and for what period of time, the audit trail of each key or inconsistent key usage.

Automated key management systems can also be enhanced with a number of features that can make the management of high volume key control easier and more convenient. For example, software is available to optimize the installation, programming, customization, maintenance and reporting capabilities of the system. Key rings can also be color coded by vehicle type, user, location etc.

In every respect, a professionally designed electronic key control and management system is an ideal solution for high-volume key storage applications.

Key Control Systems Address Varying Needs In Gaming Venues

2010-11-25T03:45:00Z

Over the years, we have been involved with gaming facilities in Australia and in Asia. These gaming facilities often encompass a variety of related businesses, including lodging, entertainment, retail, conference space, parking and food and beverage. Certain types of physical security technology these individual areas is specific to the particular application, such as the installation of man traps outside a cash counting room in the casino.

In other cases, the technology can span all venues within the complex – for example with the implementation of a key control and management system .

Each of the areas in a mega-gaming complex; casino, hotel, restaurants, bars, shops and so on, has areas or doors that can only be accessed with a mechanical or card key. A well defined and implemented key control plan can help maintain the integrity of these secured locations, and the key management solution can conveniently be applied to all areas within the complex for improved administrative control.

Key control solutions offer accountability by providing electronic storage and tracking of keys. Authorized users have access to keys only as approved by the system administrator. For example, cleaning staff for the casino who are assigned to the day shift are not able to access keys outside of their regularly scheduled working hours. Nor will they be allowed access to keys for which they are not authorized such the administrative office in an adjoining hotel. Personnel also cannot exchange keys during or at the end of a shift because the key bank system will note that a key was not returned or that it was returned by another user.

Knowing who took which key and when is fundamental to a key control strategy. This audit trail provides critical data of every user who accesses the system, and at any time security management can view who has keys out or who has had keys out and when. Systems can even be programmed to send e-mail alerts when keys are not returned on schedule. The additional use of software can provide more complete activity reports or sort the data based on defined criteria for more comprehensive analysis and control.

Automated key control and management systems are an ideal solution for the high security environment of a gaming and hospitality facility.

You can secure and control larger objects using our SmartKey locker system

2010-08-16T01:19:00Z

Controlling and tracking larger objects need not be hit or miss. Now available from Australian Security Technology Pty Ltd (AST), SmartKey Locker systems is ideal for securing, controlling and tracking larger objects like laptop computers, cash trays, handheld radios, weapons and so on.

SmartKey Locker systems are customisable and scalable for use as storage space for one or multiple users. What makes these systems unique is the ability to connect with and operate interactively with a user’s existing business systems. Different size lockers are available, including ones with perforated doors to allow heat diffusion of electronic equipment like PC laptops.

Integration with some access control systems, for instance allows for easier user management. Further, this capability allows the system to deny a user who has taken an object from a SmartKey locker egress from the facility, until the object is returned. The system provides an automatic email alert to user specified personnel, if an item has not been returned.

SmartKey Locker systems have a built-in communications port for direct connectivity to the network or connectivity across the internet.

System scalability allows the expansion of a SmartKey Locker system, as user needs grow. From a single cabinet, the system can take on multiple cabinets, with each additional unit controlled by a single console and monitored by KeyPro software. The SmartKey Locker can also be added to an existing KeyWatcher.

KeyPro allows the user to place permission levels for each user code and to monitor data from any desktop connected to the system. KeyPro software generates practical management reports, which trace key movements by time, date and user code. An audit trail report indicates the time and date of every key accessed by a user for a given time parameter.

Real time transaction polling means all SmartKey data is automatically downloaded to specified computers in real time.

For more information on this product and other asset management products, please visit our website, by clicking here .

KeyWatcher® and KeyRings® Stand Out in this year's ASIAL

2009-08-26T22:44:00Z

Overall, I think that this year's ASIAL exhibition was pretty good. At AST, we had quite a number of visitors and got some good leads. The show was well attended and it was good to catch up with a number of people in the industry.

Stand out in our stand was KeyWatcher® from Morse Watchmans. A number of visitors who already had high end security and buildng management systems were quite impressed with the ability of KeyWatcher to be integrated into an existing system, without having to invest in new equipment.

With KW Exchange, our Australian-developed software, the addition of KeyWatcher to an existing system is seamless. And, what's even more important is that any even involving KeyWatcher cabinet becomes just another event highlighted in a user's existing system.

There's no need to install a separate monitoring system. And, of course, the need to re-familiarise and retrain on a new system is not required.

Keeping track of keys, one should not forget the need for these to be tagged. KeyRings® from Morse Watchmans is a great key ring.

Featuring a tamper-proof locking mechanism and a unique identification system, KeyRings are easy to setup. And, it makes key replacement easy. Normally, to do this, one would have to destroy the key ring. This is the most expensive part of the key ring and with frequent key replacement, costs can add up.

KeyRings allows the user to re-use the key ring, after each replacement. All that is required is to replace the much cheaper hub. Each hub is colour-coded and stamped with a unique serial number, to help detect and prevent tampering.

As well, KeyRings do away with older-type welded and crimped rings, saving the user the cost of a new ring everytime a key needs to be replaced.

These features impressed a lot of our visitors. Since key replacement can occur often, the costs involved can be staggering.

Until my next post.

Australian Developed Software Saves Owners Of High End Security Systems Time And Money

2009-07-23T04:50:00Z

High end security and building management systems have had good market acceptance. For the user wanting to add other functionality has meant the addition of a new system on top of whatever was already installed. This makes monitoring cumbersome and also adds to the cost of upgrading existing systems.

KeyWatcher® key control systems can now be added to existing high end security and building management networks, without the need of setting up a separate system. Our Australian-developed KW Exchange software allows the seamless retrofit of KeyWatcher systems to high end card access systems from Cardax and biometric-based systems from Biometric Innovations.

Our new software allows KeyWatcher to be integrated to most high end systems. Local field trials and early market acceptance of KW Exchange have allowed us to market the system overseas through our principals, Morse Watchmans.

Integration of KeyWatcher to an existing security network means that all events highlighted by KeyWatcher appear on monitors already run by installed systems. This saves the user the cost of installing an additional monitoring system.

Security personnel now only have to look out for KeyWatcher events in the existing security management system—there’s no need to refamiliarise and re-train on a separate system.

Another feature we like to stress is the ease of retrofit installations. This provides users with existing KeyWatcher systems another good reason to upgrade to the new KW Exchange software and with minimum cost get the real benefits of the product.

One should not forget that the loss of keys results in a lot hassle and the possibility of loss or vandalism with the compromise of building security. When one considers the need to change locks, make and re-issue new duplicate keys and so on, the addition of KeyWatcher makes a lot of sense.

KeyWatcher systems can hold keys of almost any size and as many as 2000 in one system, whilst allowing up to five levels of access for each staff member.

KeyWatcher products are available in Australia through Australian Security Technology.

Our barcode technology based AssetTracker™ has recently been upgraded

2009-06-29T22:23:00Z

It was only last year that we released AssetTracker™ and we have upgraded this product to improve functionality in several ways. The first allows faster registration of users, with card readers used to enter data. Another improvement to the system is an improved alert notification, with pop-ups that inform the user that assets which are due for return are still owing.

AssetTracker uses barcoding technology to allow a user to scan an asset’s unique barcode for real-time entry into an asset database. The system provides an accurate and reliable means of registering and tracing asset movements from an office or other such locations to offsite locations in the field and elsewhere.

Assets are quickly scanned in or out, placed against a current custodian and assigned to a contact or location. AssetTracker’s specially-designed software allows the user to produce reports that show who currently has which asset and which assets are at particular locations.

Scanning barcoded assets, ranging from documents, keys, safety and medical equipment, even motor vehicles, is easily done using a

Datalogic scanner which is available corded and uncorded models. The Memor scanner carries information on the unit and is portable for use offsite.

To assist with the entering of user name, address and other details, AssetTracker now has a card reader facility. This allows the user to enter details straight off identification documents like driving licences and business cards. This makes the upgraded version ideal for worksites, where there may be many contractors that need to take and return equipment, car yards, where cars are released to a number of people and so on.

The upgraded alert notification allows the user to enter alert times when an asset is due back at a location. When that period transpires, the alert system sends a pop-up notification to alert the user that the asset has not been returned. This compares to earlier software that only allowed the user to look up reports to find out if assets are missing or have not yet been returned.

AssetTracker software also indicates if an asset is in the wrong location and produces reports to show what should have been in a location, but was not found.

The system is available in various packages, to suit just about any customer requirement. It's really worth looking at considering the control you get over your assets, as the system can be used on anything one can put a barcode to.

Until my next post.

We're exhibiting at Government Security Expo in Canberra on 9 July

2009-06-25T23:47:00Z

Just got back after a few weeks in Macao. Yes, was at the new Casino, Crown Altira. Did not do any betting, but did help our team on the ground set up asset tracking systems, using our own AssetTracker.

Also, set up some KeyWatcher systems. These are now available with Cardax interface. Watch this space for more details. We will also be updating our website, with more information on the interface with these high end access control systems.

I specially wanted to let you know about the Government Security Expo in Canberra, which will be held at the Boat House by the Lake, Menindee Drive, Barton on 9 July, 2009.

There has been a lot of interest in the talk to be given by Mark Broomby, Assistant Director of Intragovernment Communications Network (ICON). That function is already fully booked. However, interested parties can still come in during the day to check out the expo.

Australian Security Technology will be exhibiting, in conjunction with a number of co-exhibitors. These are: Electronic Keying Australia, Smartlock Digital, Planex, Dorma, Fire & Security Hardware, AMS Australia and i-Trak Global.

It's going to be big and there will be a lot of products to see. Booths will be manned by representatives from the above companies.

For more information, please get in touch with Debbi Conforto on 03 5428 7354. You can email her at debbieconforto@locks.com.au.

Until my next post.

KeyWatcher now available with BioMatch 2009 option

2008-11-21T02:24:00Z

Did you ever consider just how easy it is to lose an access card? Or, just how easy it is to pass this on to someone else? So, much for security!

There is one way around this of course and we have this capability with our KeyWatcher systems. I refer to the incorporation of biometrics.

The use of biometrics allows you greater security, better accountability and does away with the problem of human error.

Remember that biometrics has been proven to be more economical as there is less administration involved. And, fingerprints cannot be lost, stolen, or shared with other staff, unlike say access cards.

These are certainly good reasons to look into this option which is now available with our keywatcher product.

With the addition of the BioMatch™ 2009 software option, you're now able to achieve full management of contractors at worksites. That's not just construction sites, but any building or facility, and of course, remote sites, like mines, depots and so on.

This new capability also allows you to issue ID labels or passes to the site from the system.

Other capabilities include ability to check on the currency of the contractor’s licence, ability to tie-in to payroll, i.e., time and attendance and so on. Again, more reasons to consider this system's extended capability.

Keys are released to contractors at a site after checking into the system using biometric recognition. Contractor enrolment is easily done on- or offsite, using a PC.

And, KeyWatcher's many benefits and capabilities are there at your disposal.

If you need for information, or want to discuss your needs, please get in touch with me. Only too happy to help.

New brochure and video on KeyWatcher Illuminated systems

2008-09-11T22:58:00Z

This post is addressed to our distributors and our customers or other people interested to know and learn more about one of our range of products. We now have available new KeyWatcher Promotional Materials from Morse Watchmans.

The new materials includes both a Flash video presentation and a multi-page brochure. These are great information tools which you can use to show or to learn more about how KeyWatcher Illuminated systems work, how these can be configured, including fingerprint readers, card readers, cabinet sizes and module types.

The brochure also highlights KeyPro III software and Tamper proof key rings. The low resolution version is available by clicking here. A high resolution version is available by contacting us.

KeyWatcher system features are demonstrated, with comprehensive narration, in the video, which is available in two versions: a desktop version for holding on your computer and a flash version.

To download the desktop installable version, click here. For the Flash version, click here.

And, remember that you can always get in touch with us, for more information.

What's in a name: AST really stands for Asset Tracking

2008-09-04T22:16:00Z

It again came to my attention recently that our name may sometimes confuse our prospective customers. A legacy of a previous management, Australia Security Technology Pty Ltd is our company name. While the name may not encompass what it is that we do exactly, it's something we've used ever since we took over in 2002.

Our three product groups have one thing in common: they all help users keep track of their assets. Protecting one's assets, especially equipment that can be moved, is a constant effort that any responsible business person cannot ignore. We provide the means to do this, using varying means and different technologies.

I've written a number of posts extolling AssetTracker, which uses barcode technology to help keep track of assets. I've also recently made mention of our two other systems: KeyWatcher and Omniscout.

Key management using KeyWatcher systems are various. They work mainly along the use of key storage lockers or cabinets. Access to the keys is restricted physically by the cabinet, with keypad entry being one means of getting to the keys. The cabinets are tamper-proof and wired to alarm against tampering.

Other products and systems in this group include lockers for mobile phones, credit cards and so on. All protect the assets that are kept in the lockers, or by the keys that give access to the assets.

Omniscout uses GPS technology to track the movement of assets live vehicles. Because of the use of GPS technology, the units can also be used for personal protection.

So, we cover a wide gamut of technology to help you protect your assets (even your person).

So, what's in the name Australian Security Technology? A lot really. But, it pays to remember the acronym AST. And, merely relating this to asset tracking and protection and that's what we are all about.

Mining Companies Are Starting To Take An Interest In AssetTracker

2008-09-01T06:31:00Z

After some good results with the real estate industry, we've suddenly started getting enquiries for our AssetTracker barcode tracking system from mining companies. I suppose mines are an obvious enough candidate for this type of product.

After all, they have millions of dollars in movable assets such as workshop tools and equipment, portable pumps and engines, electrical equipment, office equipment, and so on. And they also have lots of keys to worry about, some of which control access to very important areas like explosives stores and control rooms.

In one instance, the enquirer was interested in using an AssetTracker in conjunction with a KeyWatcher. KeyWatcher is actually our flagship product. It is a state-of-the-art computer-controlled key cabinet with software that enables you to restrict physical access to your keys to authorised people only and to hold those people accountable for what they do with the keys.

If there should be any attempt whatsoever to tamper with a KeyWatcher or to remove keys without authority then the KeyWatcher would go into alarm. What’s more, KeyWatcher's have memories for storing transaction history which can be used to produce audit reports.

Getting back to the enquiry, this particular mine required the KeyWatcher to control access to the keys of its various explosives stores, and the AssetTracker to control the issue of the containers in which the explosives and their charges are stored. Though it was not discussed, I can see how our OmniScout product, which is a species of GPS tracking device, could also be used in the same application. The OmniScout could be attached in some way to the explosives containers to enable the relevant managers to track the movements of the containers (or the vehicles carrying them) until such time as the blasting job has been completed.

Trade Shows where you can see AssetTracker at work

2008-08-26T00:40:00Z

For anyone who might be interested in seeing the AssetTracker i in action we are exhibiting at two trade shows this week.

The first is the Australasian Gaming Exp at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour, which runs from Sunday 24 to Tuesday 26 August. The Australian Security Technology stand number is 207.

The second is the ASIAL Security show, which runs, also at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, from Tuesday 26 to Thursday 28 August. Our stand number is F12.

I look forward to seeing you there.

And, what about tracking keys at a car dealership

2008-08-24T04:50:00Z

Since we launched AssetTracker into the market, we have had a number of enquiries. Many have been in the area of real estate management and sales. But, we have had some enquiries from other fields, like car dealerships.

One respondent comes to mind. She told me that they have a similar problem with keys in their dealership. I looked at this at some length and found that this is true in car dealerships generally. It seems that both property and car sales people have the same difficulty in remembering to return keys to their proper place after they have used them.

All of the car dealership principals I spoke with said the same thing: that their employees spend hours and hours every week looking for misplaced keys. Worse till, they end up having to replace the keys and the door and ignition locks of the cars to which they belong. This can be staggeringly costly, especially if the cars are European, in which case a single key can cost as much as $700. Wow.

Just as it does for real estate agents, AssetTracker can eliminate most, if not all, of these key control problems in car dealerships. By directing management directly to the sales person who took the key in the first place it eliminates all of the time wasted in trying to find out who is sitting on the key. At the same time, it eliminates the cost of replacing lost keys. More importantly, however, AssetTracker acts as a deterrent. That is to say, people are much less likely to misplace keys if they know that there is a system in place to trace the missing key to them.

And, let's not forget that entering the information on key movement is as easy as scanning the barcode—just like they do at the checkout counter. Couldn't be easier. If you encounter similar problems, don't hesistate to discuss your needs with us.

That's what we're here for.

Tracking keys in a Real Estate Office

2008-08-16T06:26:00Z

As if real estate agencies don't have enough to worry about with the state of today's market, keys, rather the tracking of their location is one responsibility that's always been there. And, that responsibility includes the consequential liability of anything happening to the property, should keys at a real estate agency fall into criminal hands.

I visited a real estate agency recently which had over 800 keys—and this was a small agency. The keys are issued to and received by sales people, tenants, plumbers and other trades people and so on.

Instead of wasting time manually booking keys in and out of the office (through a manual register), this real estate office opted to install our new AssetTracker system.

The system works like this: on receipt of the system, all codes and descriptions of all keys are entered. This information includes the location of the key at the time of installation. This means the name of the persons that the keys have been issued to, the people authorised to hold the keys and so on.

What makes the system ideal for use by real estate offices its simplicity. Everytime a key is issued, this is scanned by the key issuer, with the name and other identification of the party receiving the keys entered into the system. AssetTracker also has the ability to quicklyl scan in driver's licences or business cards. This again saves time manually entering the data manually.

The office manager can easily find out at any time where each key is located by printing out a report when required. And, being modestly priced, AssetTracker easily pays for itself in a very short time.

That payback does not include the peace of mind of the licensee, who is responsible for the keys and the consequence of losing any of these, which could be quite costly. And, that doesn't just mean, key replacement and installation of new locks, but the possiblity of theft, vandalism, etc.

Welcome

2008-08-12T05:49:10Z

Welcome to my blog. Please check back soon for new entries.