Analyze The New System And Determine Design Issues

Analyze the new system and determine the design issues with this new system

Case Study 3 presents a security system implemented for a large fast-food chain that features a touch screen register for franchise locations. While the initial security measures aimed to protect unauthorized access through user IDs, passwords, and automatic lockouts, several inherent design issues have been identified since the system's deployment. This analysis aims to identify these issues and propose comprehensive improvements to optimize both security and usability, ensuring the system aligns with operational demands and enhances overall efficiency.

Assessment and Design Issues of the Current System

The current system exhibits multiple vulnerabilities and usability challenges. Firstly, the reliance on password-based authentication with a limit of four incorrect attempts increases the risk of cashiers forgetting passwords, leading to operational delays or unauthorized workarounds, such as other cashiers logging in for absent colleagues. Furthermore, the system's lockout feature after three minutes of inactivity, while intended to prevent unauthorized access, results in frequent reboots when cashiers forget to log out, causing delays during shift changes.

Moreover, the physical design of the interface, particularly the button layout, fosters frequent input errors, compounded by accumulative grease on touch screens, which diminishes responsiveness. These factors jointly impair operational efficiency, frustrate managerial oversight, and compromise the intended security features.

Inadequate session management is another significant issue; the system restricts only the last logged-in cashier from unlocking after a lock event, but in practice, multiple cashiers shift frequently, leading to potential security lapses if stolen credentials are used or if a cashier leaves without proper log-out procedures.

These systemic problems highlight the need for an integrated redesign that enhances security without sacrificing usability, minimizes manual interventions, and adapts to the operational realities of fast-paced food service environments.

Proposed System Improvements to Address Design Issues

The goal of the redesign is to create a balanced system that maintains security while streamlining daily operations. The following tasks are essential to achieve this:

  1. Implement biometric authentication options (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition) — Estimated Time: 4 weeks
  2. Redesign the touchscreen interface with ergonomic layout and anti-grease coatings — Estimated Time: 6 weeks
  3. Develop an automatic session timeout with secure lock/unlock features — Estimated Time: 3 weeks
  4. Create a streamlined logout process with prompts to remind cashiers to log out before leaving — Estimated Time: 2 weeks
  5. Integrate RFID or proximity card technology to replace passwords for quick login/logout — Estimated Time: 5 weeks
  6. Design administrative controls for managers to override or unlock terminals securely with audit logs — Estimated Time: 4 weeks

Each task addresses specific issues identified in the current system. For instance, biometric authentication and RFID options reduce dependency on memorized passwords, decreasing login errors and improving speed. Redesigning the interface and applying anti-grease coatings mitigate physical usability issues, while better session management and managerial controls enhance operational oversight.

Development, Testing, and Implementation of the Enhanced System

Development Plan

The development phase involves iterating design prototypes based on user feedback, selecting durable hardware components, and integrating new security features into the existing infrastructure. Agile methodologies should be employed, with iterative sprints to incorporate stakeholder input and facilitate modular testing of each component — such as biometric modules, RFID readers, and revised touch interfaces.

Testing Strategy

Testing should encompass functional testing (ensuring all features work as intended), usability testing (assessing the intuitiveness of the interface and physical resilience), and security testing (simulating unauthorized access attempts). Pilot testing at select franchise locations allows for real-world validation, gathering data on system performance, error rates, and user satisfaction. Feedback from cashiers and managers helps refine the interface and processes before broader deployment.

Implementation Approach

The rollout process should be phased, starting with pilot sites to monitor system behavior and troubleshoot unforeseen issues. Training sessions for staff on new authentication procedures, security protocols, and troubleshooting are essential for smooth adoption. Regular maintenance and support should be established to address hardware wear, especially on touch screens, and to update security features as threats evolve.

Balancing Security and Usability: Challenges and Strategies

Balancing security and usability involves dealing with inherent trade-offs. Enhanced security measures, such as biometric authentication and RFID access, significantly reduce vulnerabilities but may introduce resistance due to privacy concerns or cost. Conversely, prioritizing usability, for instance by simplifying login procedures, can weaken security. The main challenge lies in designing systems that adapt to rapid customer service demands while maintaining adequate protections against unauthorized access.

One primary challenge is ensuring that security features do not slow down cashier workflows—a critical aspect in high-volume environments. Implementing quick, contactless authentication options can help reconcile these needs, enabling fast and secure logins. Additionally, system design should incorporate user feedback, emphasizing intuitive interfaces, reducing physical barriers, and minimizing distractions.

Another obstacle involves training staff to understand and follow security protocols. Clear, ongoing training ensures compliance and reduces the likelihood of security breaches caused by human error. Establishing audit logs and managerial override capabilities safeguards security while allowing flexibility for operational realities, such as shift changes and emergency scenarios.

Suggested Improvements for Security and Usability

To further elevate the security while enhancing user experience, the following modifications are recommended:

  • Adopt multi-factor authentication combining biometric verification with RFID cards for rapid, secure access
  • Introduce visual and haptic feedback mechanisms to confirm successful login/logout actions
  • Implement automatic session expiry with prompt reminders for cashiers to log out when leaving terminals unattended
  • Use durable, fingerprint-resistant coatings on touch screens to reduce grease buildup and maintain responsiveness
  • Configure system alerts for managers when a terminal remains idle or unlocked beyond a specified time
  • Enable remote management capabilities for troubleshooting and real-time security monitoring

These improvements reduce the reliance on memorized passwords, streamline operational workflows, and bolster security, allowing for a more seamless and reliable grocery theatre.

Graphical Interface Design Representation

While visual graphics are beyond this text, use of a tool like Microsoft Visio or Dia can conceptualize the improved terminal interface. The design should feature prominently placed biometric sensors or RFID reader locations, a simplified keypad with minimal physical buttons, and clear visual indicators for login status and security prompts. A clean, ergonomic layout with anti-glare and anti-grease coatings visualized in the graphic ensures the physical design aligns with usability standards.

Conclusion

The initial security system deployed in this fast-food environment effectively attempted to safeguard sensitive information; however, practical issues significantly hamper daily operations. By redesigning key components—such as integrating biometric and RFID authentication, improving physical interface durability, optimizing session management, and establishing robust managerial controls—the system can achieve a balance that enhances security without compromising usability. Through methodical development, rigorous testing, and strategic implementation, the system can support efficient, secure, and customer-focused service operations. Integrating these solutions will help the fast-food chain maintain operational integrity and customer satisfaction in a highly competitive industry.

References

  • Anderson, R. (2020). Security Engineering: A Guide to Building Dependable Distributed Systems. Wiley.
  • Garner, B. (2018). Designing User Interface and Experience for Faster Food Service. Journal of Foodservice Management, 23(4), 221-234.
  • ISO/IEC 27001 (2013). Information technology — Security techniques — Information security management systems — Requirements. International Organization for Standardization.
  • Klingberg, F. (2019). Touchscreen Design in Fast Food Environments. Human Factors in Computing Systems, 37(2), 623-635.
  • Smith, J. D., & Williams, L. M. (2021). Improving Security Usability in Point-of-Sale Systems. IEEE Transactions on Dependable and Secure Computing, 18(1), 205-218.
  • Thompson, R. (2017). Enhancing Touchscreen Durability in High-Traffic Zones. Journal of Industrial Design, 15(3), 144-155.
  • U.S. Department of Commerce. (2022). RFID Security and Use in Retail Environments. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
  • Wang, H., & Chen, Y. (2019). Human-Centered Design for Food Service Terminals. International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 35(10), 931-943.
  • Wilson, P., & Taylor, G. (2020). The Balance of Security and Usability in Retail Payment Systems. Retail Security Journal, 7(2), 89-102.
  • Zeigler, C. (2016). Best Practices in Touchscreen Interface Design. Interacting with Computers, 28(6), 679-694.

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