In an effort to maintain ID card security and give cards a fresh, new appearance, some organizations update the design and/or layout of their photo ID cards each year. And with the new year upon us, it's the perfect time to consider a new look, especially if your company's needs have changed over the past year.
Here are some key card design elements to think about if you decide it's time to think about a new ID card look and feel for your organization:
- Are employee numbers displayed on your photo ID cards? This could be helpful in tracking your employees.
- Do the ID cards have expiration dates? Allowing your cards expire is an easy way to keep current photos and information on your ID cards.
- Do you need to add information or directions for returning lost ID cards (e.g., “If found, please return to XYZ Company.”)?
- Was there too much information on the front of the photo ID cards in the past? Consider adding duplex printing to print information on the reverse side of the ID card.
- How well did the photo ID cards hold up to wear and tear? If you found yourself re-printing ID cards too often, adding lamination to your cards or using badge holders are smart, affordable ways to protect and prolong the life of your ID cards.
- Was security breached during the past year? If it was, increasing the security level of your photo ID cards by adding a holographic laminate or other visual security can be a wise and cost-saving measure.
- Has your company information changed at all (e.g., logo, company name, address, contact information, visual branding, etc.)?
- Think about the rest of your company or organization. Are there other scenarios you could be using the photo ID cards for, like visitor identification and tracking, temporary badges, membership cards, etc.?
Don’t need to change the information or layout of your ID cards? Even the most subtle changes can have a significant impact. Think about changing the background or main color of the card for easy identification of expired ID cards:
If your cards require a slot punch to be worn or displayed, you need to incorporate the area of the slot punch into the design layout of the ID cards to help prevent the design might be interrupted. We offer a variety of slot punches for your organization’s needs.
Lastly, throughout your process of re-printing the ID cards with your new design, be sure to keep sufficient ID card printer supplies on hand for your ID card printer.
For more information about ID card designs, you can download our free "Six ID Badge Design Tips" Guide. If you have specific questions about ID card designs, software options, or anything in between, be sure to contact an ID Professional at (800) 321-4405. We're here to help!