Card Design Considerations
- Are you printing on both sides of the card? What if the badge is lost? Is there a return address imprinted on the back? Bear in mind that printing on the reverse of the card increases costs of both equipment and consumables.
- Will a company name be visible on your photo ID? Some companies want this clearly visible, while other opt for a more obscure ID, utilizing on the employee photo, job title and ID#.
- Will your ID badge expire? Most companies badge every couple of years to maintain up-to-date information and keep the photo database current.
- Are you printing proximity cards? Will you print directly to the card, or opt to print to an adhesive-backed PVC Card?
- Will your card design include a holographic overlay? Or a clear overlay? Be sure that you have chosen the right cardstock if utilizing a lamination station.
- Keep it simple! Don't design an ID card that is too busy. Stick to the basics and create a clear, concise visual display.
- Do you have a guard gate? A security staff? Perhaps your badges need to be visible from a distance. Keep this in mind when desining your card layout and incorporate a colored background that is easily identifiable from a distance.
- How will you be displaying your badges? Will you use a badge holder? How about a lanyard or badge reel. Deciding how the badge will be worn will be key in your designing decisions.
- Will your badge be used for photo ID only? Or will you be incorporating your badge with an access control system? Or perhaps a timeclock? Your photo ID can be used in numerous ways to accomplish a number of tasks.
