Expanding the Use of Automated Key Control Systems

Read More
All Posts

Expanding the Use of Automated Key Control Systems

The market for automated key control systems has increasingly expanded as end users across a broad plane discover the benefits of controlling access to valuable keys. New markets for automated key control and management systems now go beyond traditional applications in the corrections, healthcare, education, gaming or multi-family markets as well as specific applications such as automotive dealerships.

One such example is the local municipal government where key control is assigned to special services or a specific municipal department. Keys used for local public buildings and assets such as municipal vehicles, alarm boxes and so on and also for critical infrastructure facilities are increasingly being secured and managed using automated key control systems. By maintaining control of who can access keys and having an automated audit trail of all key access activity, municipalities can be better prepared for emergency situations. Managed key control also helps reduce the number of lost keys, which helps keep costs of lock/key replacement to a minimum.

Many municipalities have turned to automated key control systems because they provide a higher level of access control that offers secure storage for keys and allows management to program user restrictions or parameters for optimum key control and management. Users can only remove a key which they are authorized to use by entering a pre-programmed PIN code or scanning their access card 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. The other keys will remain locked into place.

Online monitoring, updating and reporting capabilities enhance the functionality of a key control system. At any time, operations can determine in which cabinet a key is stored; which keys are available for access; view who currently has which keys out and for what area and when they are scheduled to be returned; or who has had keys out, for what areas and when. And when keys are not returned when scheduled, e-mail alerts can be sent to management to allow quicker action.

What's next? Now you’ve learned about some of the many uses of key control systems. Learn more about key tracking systems by filling out a quick contact form or using our key cabinet configurator tool.
Tim Purpura
Tim Purpura
VP Global Sales & Marketing

Related Posts

Key Control: The Overlooked Source of Business Intelligence

Every business leader knows the value of data. Sales reports, staffing metrics, and financial dashboards drive smarter decisions every day. But one overlooked source of intelligence is the everyday key. Who uses them, when, and for what purpose creates a digital trail of activity that - when administered through a key management system - provides powerful insights into security, efficiency, and risk reduction. Comprehensive electronic key management systems like Morse Watchmans’ KeyWatcher® Touch do more than secure keys. They transform everyday key transactions into business intelligence, helping leaders protect assets, streamline operations, and plan for the future.

Key Control Enhances Hospitality Security and Business Intelligence

Guest satisfaction and repeat business depends on seamless hospitality operations – and seamless operations are driven by secure, accountable access control. Key management may not seem glamorous, but it plays a pivotal role in guest safety, hospitality asset protection, staff coordination, and even long-term business strategy. Modern hotel key management and control solutions do more than track keys. They generate valuable operational insights and reinforce a Zero Trust approach to security, essential for properties navigating labor shortages, compliance requirements, and rising expectations from guests.

How Smarter Key Control Transforms Dealership Productivity & Security

In high-volume dealerships, efficiency isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity. Every minute counts, every customer interaction matters, and every vehicle represents revenue. But there’s one common weak point that still plagues many dealerships and quietly chips away at profitability: key control. Poor key management doesn’t just cause mild frustration. It delays test drives, derails service schedules, and damages the customer experience. Over time, those small moments of chaos add up to missed sales, reduced productivity, and costly CSI score penalties. For dealerships looking to improve performance without adding headcount or expanding facilities, upgrading to a smarter key control solution can deliver transformative results. The right car key tracking system helps improve auto dealership efficiency by adding visibility, speed, and accountability across every touchpoint.