MGT Only: Funny Skill Roll Needed

[Easterner9504]

Needed Capt to input security clearance into comp.
Settled on Comp + Soc as Capt is Baroness, Commander IN.

 

[Redcap]

Whilst nobility IS important in the 3i, I'd have said rank was more important in the granting of a military security clearance; therefore, I'd suggest that it be Comp + (positive rank modifier of O number divided by three, thus for an O3, +1, for an O7, +2 (rounded down)).

How does that sound?

 

[Easterner9504]

Interesting. I picked SS as was closest to rules. You found a solution outside the rules!

 

[Redcap]

The task system's funny like that Remember, however, you are the ref, and it's YTU (YOUR Traveller Universe)

 

[CosmicGamer]

Needed Capt to input security clearance into comp.
Settled on Comp + Soc as Capt is Baroness, Commander IN.

I'm confused (easily accomplished). Why is there a roll needed? What is it for?

I'd think either the character has the clearance or they don't.

Captain presses hand to ID pad and display indicates "Access Denied"
"Computer, I am a Baroness. Give me access."
Computer: "Place your hand on the ID pad." Display indicates "Access Denied"
With a scorned perturbed manner, the captain says "I hold the rank of Commander in the Imperial Navy. Give me access to your secured files."
Computer: "Place your hand on the ID pad." Display indicates "Access Denied"

Is the role just to provide a random chance that this character has the clearance? Seams weird that if two characters roll, because of random dice, the outcome can be that one with lower "clearance" can gain access when the other can not - unless this somehow fits the scenario and thus a roll is not needed because access is predetermined, no? Is it some kind of AI that the character has to convince to give access?

Are they trying to hack the computer? How does SOC or rank help with that? Would people of high soc and rank have any need and experience circumventing a security clearance?