Systems and methods of electronic lock control and audit

Various embodiments herein each include at least one of systems methods, software, and data structures for electronic lock control and audit. The various embodiments, although widely applicable, are well suited for retail use where higher-value and access-controlled merchandise is stored in locked cages, closets, rooms, and cabinets to prevent theft. One method embodiment includes receiving, via a network from a mobile device app, an unlock request including an employee identifier and a lock identifier to unlock a secured resource of the lock identifier. The method proceeds in processing the request by validating the employee identifier is authorized to unlock the lock of the lock identifier at a current date and time and retrieving a key-code that will unlock the lock of the lock identifier. The method then proceeds with transmitting the key-code to the mobile device app to enable unlocking of the lock.