Starting Problem?

[JMP]

I have a 99 Boxster. On several occasions lately, I have put the key in the ignition switch and when I attempted to start it, the key turned to the start position but nothing happened. I have made sure it is in park (Triptronic) and the gear position indicator on the dgauge confirms it is in park. A few times iot appeared to be related to the alarm system because I have turned the alrm of and on a few times and then the car started. Other times when I tried this nothing happened so I tried to put the shift lever in neutral and it has worked. It always ends up starting but if I let my wife drive the car and it does this to her, she probably couldn't figure out what to do. Any and all suggestions appreciated. Thank you!