In past summers here at ID Wholesaler, I have helped a wide variety of K-12 schools, colleges, and universities across the country – both large and small – get ready for the upcoming academic school year.
One thing I've noticed through the years is that a number of schools have made significant changes to the way their ID cards are used, especially when it comes to security. Instead of using an ID card for a single action, schools are combining card functions so that they are able to accomplish multiple things, like display a photo ID and access secure buildings and pay for lunch and check out a library book and more.
Here are some of the most common uses for ID cards:
- PVC: Optimal for both student and staff ID cards, PVC cards offer plenty of room for photos, text, and barcodes. The barcodes can be used for the cafeteria and library.
- Magnetic stripe: These versatile cards can be used for access control, time and attendance tracking, transportation, and more.
- Access control: Smart cards and proximity cards are ideal for limiting access to teacher and faculty lounges, supply closets, printers, computers, or other equipment.
- MIFARE: 13.56MHz or 125kHz MIFARE cards offer high-speed transactional processing and are widely used in colleges for building or gate access, laundry, and payments.
If you need assistance determining how your ID cards can be used in multiple ways for added efficiency and security, call an ID Professional at (800) 321-4405. We can help find the solution that makes the most sense for your school.