If you’ve got an inconvenient to use design, but the cost to fix the actual product is too high, consider simply adding a sign to direct people how to use the bad design.
Then, all you have to do is pay for the cost of the sign and hope that when frustrated by an inability to find the room key access slot, hotel guests will think to read the sign. Bonus for you if the guests are willing to let the light-hearted sign make up for the frustrating experience!
