Benefits of New RFID Technology at the WDW Resorts
Some of our readers recently asked us why all the Disney Hotels in the Walt Disney World Resort are receiving new RFID locks, and what the benefits of these additions are. Well, Disney gives us more information about this very interesting technology:
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What are the new room locks?
The new door locks make opening resort room doors much easier - for entry, simply hold the Guest’s Key to the World card up to the Mickey symbol above the handle to unlock the door. The Key to the World card now contains a chip that unlocks the door.
Why are the locks being changed to RFID door locks?
The locks are being upgraded to a system that is easy to use, more reliable and better for both Guests. Benefits include:
- Easier to use – nothing to insert, just touch the card to the door.
- Seamless remote room change – no need for Guests to come back to the desk for new Key to the World Card during room changes.
- Ability to access battery level reports remotely to ensure locks are in working order, creating a seamless Guest experience.
How does RFID work?
Radio Frequency systems are used in commonly used in credit cards, highway toll systems (E-Pass, EZ-Pass), inventory systems and even libraries. When your Key to the World card gets close to or touches the small black reader on the door, it sends a signal that unlocks the door only for that specific card.
Will the card also be used for park admission as it is today?
The Key to the World card will have the same functionality as it does today: It serves as Guests’ resort room keys, and depending on Guests’ selections, it can also serve as their park ticket, resort charge card and Disney Dining plan card.
Where else do you use RFID in your parks?
Disney Cruise Line has RFID door locks on its newest ships, the Fantasy and the Dream. RFID has been in use in Disney Parks for many years: laundry and costuming inventory, parade float systems and Cast ID cards.
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What do you personally think? Will this new technology actually improve the Guest's experience, or do you think the $1 billion spent on this project could have been used more wisely? Share your thoughts with us!
The billion dollars could have been used elsewhere, but I still like the idea! (Disney has enough money to spend another billion in the actual parks I guess) ;)
ReplyDeleteHmm, next Gen stuff that may or may not enhance experiences based upon perception. Or, build 5 or 6 e-ticket or close type of rides. A couple at Epcot in FutureWorld, one in Tomorrowland, two in Hollywood Studios, and one in Animal Kingdom. I remain unconvinced that the money was spent wisely. Unless there is a whole part of the initiative that we're not seeing, I am underwhelmed. If I were a stockholder, I'd be very upset that such money was spent with little ROI.
ReplyDeleteI think this is more of a "wow." factor for people.
ReplyDeleteDisney wants to be at the forefront of technology. Using resort card reader technology that has been used since the 80s doesn't "wow." anyone.
Then again, most people use RFID at work, but hey. Who knows.
The suggestion that the funds would have been used for E-tickets or whatever I don't think is realistic. How about judging something on a basis other than "I didn't get the E-ticket I want! Wahhhhhh!"
ReplyDelete