What is the purpose of the ID cards? The first step to starting an ID card program is to decide what the purpose you have for the cards. These cards can range from basic photo IDs to sophisticated, multifunctional cards that integrate with access control and time and attendance systems. Decoding on the purpose helps pinpoint what printer features you will need later. How and why will the cards be used? It is important to think through how the cards will be used by cardholders in everyday situations. Do they normally pay for parking, lunch in the cafeteria, and visit a vending machine? Then you may want to consider a multipurpose payment card to simplify the current system. What are the procedures for lost and stolen cards? It is unavoidable that at some point a card will be lost. Having a process in place for replacement cards will make it easier for both cardholders and those printing the cards. If the cards hold personal data, also consider procedures for preventing identity theft. Are you issuing multipurpose cards? Multipurpose cards can simplify a work day where cardholders are required to use their cards in several locations, but only if they know how and why the cards work. When assigning cards explain how and where to use the cards, and who to ask for help if needed. Need help designing your ID cards? ID cards are the blank canvas for an ID card system, but with the wide variety of ID cards available it can be hard knowing where to start. Our sample ID card designs show common card features and layouts for photo ID cards, dual-sided cards, cards with barcodes and magnetic stripes, and cards with secure holograms. How will future cardholders obtain cards? While there are upgrades you can add to several printers to handle larger batch printing, planning for the amount of cards you will print is an important factor in picking an ID card printer. If you only print a handful of cards per year for new employees or members, a hand feed printer may be fine, while an organization that prints hundreds of cards per year will need to handle large batch printing in the future. Are there different classes of cards? Many organizations use different types of cards, allowing for different classes or levels of access. If you will be printing different classes, make sure the people who print cards know the differences and security personnel can identify them. What are the cardholder responsibilities? When implementing an ID card program, explaining the purpose of the cards to cardholders will help the adjustment to the new policies. Will they be responsible for paying for a new card? Do they need special cases or holders for the cards? Should cards be visible displayed when walking around the building? How will ID cards be displayed? There are many ID accessories available for displaying ID cards. Deciding how the cards will be used will also help you decide how to display the cards. If cards will be used frequently to gain access to buildings a lanyard will keep cards handy, while a reel will keep them out of the way until needed for lesser used applications.