Adopting a "middle of the road" facial recognition solution instead of a market-leading technology like NEC's NeoFace could lead to several shortfalls, especially in gaming and entertainment venues where accuracy, compliance, and customer experience are critical.

Key differences and potential drawbacks

1. Accuracy and Reliability

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Advanced facial recognition systems have been shown to be significantly more effective at identifying individuals of interest than traditional security personnel. In large entertainment precincts, this technology has proven to be twenty times more efficient, highlighting its potential in monitoring and safeguarding public spaces.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
As a market leader, NeoFace is known for its superior facial recognition algorithms that ensure high accuracy even in complex conditions. It significantly reduces the risk of misidentification, ensuring compliance and smooth customer experience.

2. Compliance and Risk of Fines

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Less accurate systems increase the risk of failing to comply with strict regulatory requirements for responsible gambling, age verification, or self-exclusion programs. This can expose the venue to penalties, fines, or even legal action if vulnerable individuals are allowed to gamble or purchase alcohol.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
NEC’s NeoFace ensures more consistent, reliable identification of patrons who are self-excluded or underage, helping venues stay compliant and avoid costly fines or regulatory repercussions.

3. Speed and Performance

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These solutions may be slower in processing faces, especially during peak times when there is high foot traffic. Delays in identifying patrons at entry points or gaming areas can lead to bottlenecks, frustrating customers and creating inefficiencies.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
NEC's technology is designed to process large numbers of faces quickly and accurately, ensuring fast throughput at entry points, gaming areas, and other touchpoints. This contributes to better customer flow and operational efficiency.

4. Scalability and Flexibility

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These systems might not be as scalable or flexible, meaning that as your venue grows or your needs evolve (e.g., integrating with loyalty programs, payment systems, or more sophisticated security setups), the system could struggle to keep up. Upgrading or integrating with other systems could be costly or technically challenging.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
Being a market-leading solution, NeoFace offers scalability and flexibility. It can integrate seamlessly with other digital solutions such as payment gateways, security systems, and customer loyalty programs, ensuring that the venue’s technology infrastructure is future-proof and can evolve as needs grow.

5. Security and Privacy

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Cheaper facial recognition systems may not offer the same level of encryption or data security, making them more vulnerable to hacking or data breaches. Any breach in customer data could damage the venue’s reputation and lead to significant legal liabilities.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
NEC's solution offers state-of-the-art encryption and data privacy protocols, helping venues stay compliant with data protection regulations such as the Australian Privacy Act and international standards like GDPR. This ensures that customer data is securely handled, reducing the risk of breaches or misuse.

6. Ongoing Support and Updates

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Vendors of lower-tier solutions may provide limited customer support or lack regular updates to improve system performance or security. If issues arise, the venue could face extended downtimes, negatively impacting operations and customer satisfaction.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
NEC offers robust support, including regular updates and improvements to the system’s algorithms. This ensures the solution remains cutting-edge and responsive to emerging challenges, such as new privacy laws or technological developments.

7. Long-Term ROI

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While initial costs may be lower, long-term ROI could suffer due to the increased risks of non-compliance, slower processing, reduced customer satisfaction, and potential system failures. Maintenance costs and the need for future upgrades may erode any upfront savings.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
Although the initial investment may be higher, the long-term benefits include reduced risk of fines, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced customer experience, leading to better overall ROI. NEC’s technology is also more future-proof, potentially saving costs on future upgrades or replacements.

8. Customer Experience and Perception

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Poor accuracy, slow performance, or technical issues may result in negative experiences for patrons, such as delays at entry or unnecessary denials of service. This could hurt the venue’s reputation and lead to loss of customers, particularly in a competitive market where patrons expect smooth and secure experiences.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
The speed, accuracy, and reliability of NEC’s NeoFace enhance the customer experience by allowing for seamless entry, personalised services, and quicker verification processes. Patrons are more likely to return to a venue where the technology improves convenience and security.

9. Reputation and Trust

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If a facial recognition system frequently misidentifies patrons or fails to protect sensitive data, the venue's reputation could be damaged, leading to negative media attention and loss of customer trust.

NEC NeoFace​​​​​​
NEC is a trusted name in facial recognition with a reputation for excellence in accuracy and data security. Implementing NeoFace reassures patrons that their data is secure and that the venue is using best-in-class technology, bolstering its reputation as a reliable and responsible operator.

Conclusion

While a middle-of-the-road solution may offer lower upfront costs, the risks associated with inaccuracy, compliance issues, slower performance, and security vulnerabilities outweigh these short-term savings. NEC’s NeoFace provides a superior, future-proof solution that enhances operational efficiency, strengthens regulatory compliance, and delivers a better customer experience, ensuring a higher return on investment and long-term success for gaming and entertainment venues.

Interested to learn more? Talk to our of our Digital ID and Biometrics experts. Let's talk