PROBLEM:


This is a picture of a card swiper at Vanderbilt.  These terminals are used primarily as a security measure for access into Vanderbilt buildings.  The problem with these terminals is most evident when the user's hands are full and he still has to reach into is wallet, take out his card, and swipe it through the terminal.  The inconvenience greatly reduces efficiency and user satisfaction with the process.  The process of swiping the card over and over also wears out the magnetic strip on the card.


SOLUTION:


Magnetic cards not a new technology.  The current Vandy cards should be switched for magnetic cards that   gain access based on proximity to the terminal.  Cards such as these are not expensive, and can even keep the magnetic strip currently used to make meal transactions and such.  These proximity cards would allow the user to simply have it close to the terminal, especially convenient if his hands are full.  The fact that they don't need to be swiped also increases the lifespan of the card and reduces the likelihood the user would misplace the card due to having to take it out of his pocket.  Overall satisfaction and efficiency would be greatly increased.