Mobile Key Deployment Update and Server Requirements
Franchise Management Companies | Due to a recent review of the Mobile Key Server and Network Configuration, additional modifications to the overall Mobile Key technical configurations are necessary. Mobile Key deployment will progress and properties should continue to follow their Land-It tasklists. However, Mobile Key Go-Live dates for franchised properties have been pushed to allow for the design and implementation of the identified FLI (franchise local area network (LAN) integration) security configuration changes. In the coming weeks, properties will receive communication with required next steps for the IT Leader on property to complete. We appreciate your support in ensuring your properties comply with the request as well as providing IT support to properties who do not have an IT Leader onsite.
Additionally, we want to provide more clarity on the CapEx instructions as the team has identified the need for a technology configuration on the server, which may require investment by franchised hotels. As part of the Mobile Key deployment (and the Mobile Key Lock Standard), properties with a Marriott network segment (both Managed by Marriott and franchised hotels) are required to install Marriott-imaged lock servers.
- A Marriott-imaged networked server helps ensure the Mobile Key solution works every time by providing the correct framework to enable the solution. The servers will reside on the Marriott network, which provides the best solution for remote access, solution updates, and overall information security to protect hotels, Marriott, and guests.
- A Marriott-imaged networked server costs ~$2000 – $4500, depending on the size of the property. It must be procured through Marriott channels and not through the lock system vendor. Additional information is available on the IT Property Profile page and the Property IT Deployment Checklist.
- For properties without an existing Marriott network segment (predominately Autograph and international franchised hotels), an exception is being granted for the lock server to be installed on the franchise network.
- Some properties have inquired about using their existing server for Mobile Key. Although the existing Guestware server may meet the server specifications for Mobile Key, Guestware will remain in place through mid-2018 for historical data purposes, and that timeframe overlaps with Mobile Key deployment. Mobile Key also requires a dedicated server (unless a VM instance is available) and cannot reside concurrently with any other applications. Since Guestware will not be fully retired before Mobile Key is activated, a new server purchase is required.
For additional information, reference the Mobile Key MGS page. Questions? Please contact MobileServices@marriott.com.
