ID Card – What is an ID Card? Definition, Types, Uses
Identity cards are the ultimate choice for easy recognition and uplifted business security standards. Whether you’re a small-scale operation or a large-scale corporation, elevating your workplace safety and streamlining the access systems in your environment is key. Below, discover everything you need to know about identity cards, their uses and the different types available today.
What is an ID Card?
Are you wondering what an ID card stands for? ID is a compression of the term identity. You may find ID cards referred to as identity cards, identification cards and IDs.
An identity card is a plastic carrying card that details the identity of the owner. The card can showcase a range of different information depending on the specific use and the business’s needs, however, identity cards will typically feature the carrier’s name, contact or physical address and a profile photo as well as other basic data and information as needed. These cards are an important communication tool in a range of different environments. As well as identification information, they can be used for accessing files, membership systems and repeat-use rewards.
Types of ID Cards
There are many different types of ID cards that you will see used widely in day-to-day life. These include:
Workplace ID Cards
An employee ID card is a marker that an individual works at your company. ID cards at work are often displayed with lanyards, clips and lapels or badge reels. These plastic cards may showcase an individual’s name, position, contact information and more. Many workplaces choose to use their identification cards as access cards, adding an additional layer of security to their daily operations. Access identity cards use technology to enable access to prohibited areas, doors, floors or other gated rooms inside a workplace.
School ID Cards
Educational institutions often use identity cards to mark student, teacher and visitor identities. These effortlessly display who is an attendee at the school and help to visually organise the hustle and bustle of the busy educational environment. Access systems may also be implemented, especially at a university or college with dormitories and additional amenities such as campus gyms or libraries.
Visitor ID Cards
Many different environments will host visitors, and a visitor ID card helps to signal that the carrier has permission to be present and can access prohibited areas in the location as needed. Visitor ID cards may be used in conjunction with printed lanyards for even more visibility and convenient carrying.
Membership ID Cards
Membership systems have become increasingly popular in modern businesses. With membership programs, individuals can earn additional rewards, points or benefits by engaging with a company and their services. Individuals can carry their membership cards and use them as access cards simultaneously for a simple-to-use system that benefits both consumers and corporations.
Components of an ID Card
Although ID cards are compact and simple, they do contain a few different components as well as a varied range of details that make them such a powerful tool for modern businesses. These components include:
Plastic ID Cards
Before ID cards are printed, they begin as a simple blank plastic card that is about the size of a credit card or other plastic cards that fit into a wallet.
ID Card Technology
Many ID cards are created with advanced technologies that allow for smart card functionality. These include embedded microchips, magnetic strips and barcodes. From MiFare cards to access cards, smart cards and more, there is a whole world of choice when it comes to upgrading the simple plastic card and introducing a sophisticated security system into your current identification routine.
ID Profile Photo
Most ID cards will display a profile photo that identifies the carrier.
Personal Information
Alongside an ID photo, personal information such as names, contact details, addresses, email addresses, positions, ages and more can be added to an identity card.
Organisation Logo, Branding and Colours
Marketing and branding components can be added to your ID card design for a professional finish that enhances the impact of your identity cards. Additional branding also bolsters community level marketing for an extra boost.
Importance of ID Cards
ID cards are vital tools for amplifying the overall security of your system and for increasing operational efficiency in a range of different environments. They are indispensable in the modern landscape, contributing to a safe and organised atmosphere that all individuals can enjoy. They have the power to enhance workplace safety through regulated and controlled area access, simplify the management of resources, streamline the entry and exit system in all locations and promote a professional, cohesive finish in the workplace. With so many benefits accompanying the crucial uplift in area security, it is easy to see why so many businesses, entities and locations choose to implement identity cards into their operational system.
Cards can be used as a simple display of identity, or they can be enhanced with access control technologies, membership benefits and more. If you are looking to add an additional layer of security, professional branding and organisation to your workplace, contact the professional team at Identity People and get started today.
