Lock ‘N Key

——

Lock ‘N Key is an all-in-one management application that simplifies property management for the owner while providing convenient access for their guests.

About

Challenge

Platforms such as AirBnB, Sonder, Vrbo, etc. has continued to see strong growth as the travel industry has started to pick up. Property Owners have begun to capitalize on this growing trend by placing their homes for rent on these platforms. The challenge that was laid out was in what ways can the process of managing the properties be a bit smoother and more secure for both the property owners and the guests.

Problem

One of the biggest concerns from rental vacation stays were the issues with the keys. Eliminating the traditional key locks and transitioning to digital keys could solve a multitude of problems.

Why not implement the convenience of a digital key feature major hotels are already using and bring that concept for property homeowners?
How can I provide a simplified, yet secure experience with this technology for both the host and guests staying at the property?
How do the hosts and guests benefit from using this eKey?

User Research

7 interviews have been conducted with both the guests and hosts, both of whom have had prior experience and or are continuing the renting process via platforms like AirBnB, Sonder, Vrbo, etc or in general.

Based on my research, I learned one major pain point both hosts and guests had experienced: key handovers. Reviewing the feedback from both sides, I was able to empathize with the frustration and brainstorm solutions to address the issues.

Competitive Analysis

This chart represents major hotel companies like, Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt which have already implemented a digital key feature on their own hotel apps.

Through the comparative analysis of each application, I was able to understand the strengths and weakness both hosts and guests have experienced using these apps. By gathering and evaluating what the apps were missing, I was able to have a better insight.

User Persona

Trevor Huffman, 40

Trevor is an entrepreneur who has multiple ventures, with one of them being in real estate. Starting a few years ago, he has turned a few of his own homes into vacation rentals for short term stays. Trevor is currently using Google Listings, AirBnB, Vrbo, etc. to list his properties for bookings. The booking platforms that Trevor uses do not provide the services Trevor needs to manage all his properties simultaneously.

Frustrations

Having to use multiple apps (AirBnB, Vrbo, etc.) to manage each booking and to communicate with respective guests.
Time-consuming complications with keys and checking in/out.
Having to worry that guests could go and make copies of the keys of his property. He invests money to change out the locks every 6 months.