Notes from the meeting at DIA on August 24, 2001.
The meeting was structured more like a conference or round table discussion. Following is a brief overview of each vendor’s presentation and discussion.
Harding Steel – Phil Harding discussed several products and how they can be utilized in current parking operations. One product allowed a vehicle to be raised on top of another vehicle. Thus, 2 vehicles could park in the same footprint. A new use of this solution is the ability to park vehicles underground and raise them up. This has appeal to high-end residential homes. Instead of an unattractive 4+ garage, this system could be used to park vehicles out of sight. Harding also offers a portable parking structure. Thus, if one of your parking lots is going to be eliminated or temporarily closed, this parking structure can be assembled on a surface lot to increase parking spaces.
Medeco High Security Locks – Jack Tokarczyk explained how the change in technology has migrated into locking devices. Their company can modify existing meters to new security locks. Medico has the only tools and dies to cut keys, so duplication is near impossible. Plus, they offer electronic locks that work in conjunction with a portable device. This device tracks when locks are opened and by whom. Thus, better inventory and management control.
Space Saver – Jackie Smith provided examples of several solutions that utilize their space saving parking structures. These parking structures take up very little footprint and are automated. The solutions can be very complex, but the end result is extremely functional. The solutions have numerous benefits and good ROI if space is limited. In addition, every parking space is designated as ‘handicap’ because of the access.
Dorado - Steve Yacht’s company specializes in Access Control. An example of this technology was proven by two doors in the meeting room. Both doors were controlled by Proximity Cards and Readers. Each door has an electronic lock with a plate that can read the access card. The system tracks a door’s usage with location, time, and ID. This is important for any company or institution where security is a priority. In addition, it was discussed how the Badge Maker software from Clancy can be used with this technology for tracking individuals and performance in the rental car industry.
Swisslog - TransLogic - Jeff Barber provided an illustration on how pneumatic tubes can be utilized to increase security, provide better cash management, and increase productivity. DIA installed this solution and the description of how they use this product is impressive. Upon exiting a parking structure, the individual kiosks use the tubes to forward money to a lock box area. Thus, money never leaves the building and is only handled by two people. Further, an airline uses an oversized tube system to send parts from their warehouse to terminals. If an airplane needs a replacement part, the warehouse can ship it via tube to the correct terminal. This increases repair time and can clear the gate faster.
GAI-Tronics. - Brian Gatzke There are many uses for call boxes and security phones. The biggest part of this discussion is how the community perceives security phones. Ten years ago, only some college campuses provided security phones around campus. The concern among the institution was that it looks like a high crime area if these bright yellow phones are every 50 yards. Now, the communities have changed their perception and are now requiring phones to promote a safe environment. In addition, these phones are using PBX and other new technology. The system automatically checks the functionality of each phone rather than manually.
Clancy Systems International, Inc. – Permit Sales – Harris Tessler provided two examples of how technology can be used to sell parking via the Internet. The first was the university marketplace. A constituent will go online and fill out an order form including personal and vehicle information. Clancy will process the order, charge the credit card, and mail the permit to the end user. All of this information can be reviewed by the account and customer via the Internet. Additionally, this information can be uploaded into existing local software solutions. The other example was monthly parkers. The parker can go online where they will enter their personal information and a credit card number. The credit card will be charged monthly to allow parking in the lot. In the event they cancel or do not pay, a list will be forwarded to the account electronically. These solutions eliminate the overhead in regards to inventory, cash collection, accounts receivable, invoice generation, software, and postage.
Clancy Systems International, Inc. – Badge Maker – Dan Ross took a picture of all attendees and created employee badges. The software uses a digital image that is imported into the program. The system then prompts for personal information – name, location, department, ID #, and any other information you desire. The badge is then printed via any color printer on regular business card stock. The badge is then folded and laminated. One customer at the meeting is using the software and stated that they did all 400 employees within 1 day. Another customer stated that he was going to purchase a badge making system this week for $7,000.00. This solution was better, more efficient, easier to use, and would cost him less than 600.00 for the software and camera. In addition, it only costs pennies in material for each badge.
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