Designing an ID Badging Solution

In order to determine the best desktop ID Card Solution for your needs, consider more than cost.  In a ‘perfect world’, the design of your ID Badging Solution would account for every eventuality or future change, we know that world seldom exists.

The basic fundamentals of an ID Badging Solution primarily consist of three general components – printer, software and digital camera.  This provides the ability to identify users, privileges and automate processes within your organization.

To ensure your ID Badging Solution will grow with your organizational needs, it is important to ask the following questions during the design process.

1. How do you want the card to look – single or dual-sided, oversized or credit card size, monochrome or full color?
   PVC card printers are available in a variety of configurations and with advancements in technology.  Many manufactures are looking at your future needs by offering field-upgradeable modules.

2. How long to you want the card to last – 1-3 years or 3 or more years?
   Standard PVC cards are made of 100% PVC and have an average lifespan of 12-18 months.  A composite PVC card, composed of 60%PVC/40% Polyester, will increase the average lifespan to 24 months.

3. How long to you want the printer to last?
   Keep in mind that the average lifespan of a printer is generally five years.  Producing a large volume of cards on an entry level printer will decrease the unit’s lifespan.

4. Will you need to assign different levels of security clearance?
   This is an important way of maintaining pertinent data on employees who may have ill intent.  ID badging software applications come in many different flavors.  Entry-level applications have a single sign-on level, whereas enterprise applications allow specific user settings.  This allows access to only pertinent data specific to their task.  A user with administrative rights can also generate a variety of reports to create internal audits.

5. How many card types do you use/issue – photo ID, payroll/attendance, parking, access, membership, loyalty/gift cards, info cards, meal/cafeteria, vending, others?
   Instead of issuing two (or more) cards, combine the cards you use every day into one multi-technology card, reducing overall operational costs.

6. What type of technology/technologies do you need – Barcode, magnetic stripe, proximity, smart card, RFID, etc.?
   Take into account all systems utilized on a daily basis such as access control, payroll, cafeteria, etc. and plan to reduce multiple steps.  By being proactive and taking into account all the needs of your organization, you reap cost and time saving benefits by reducing data entry or redundancies simply by integrating your multiple systems.

 

7. Will you need to badge multiple locations?
   Depending on your specific requirements you may need a networkable version of ID badging software, or software that will allow you to do more than simply badge, such as track and ID visitors.  It is recommended that you speak to a reputable solution provider to discuss your application in-depth for the best recommendation and/or direction.

8. Will you require a mobile system to track and verify identity?
   Due to the nature of the workplace, it is increasingly common to need access to software or activity outside your four walls.  If this is something your organization would benefit from, it is highly recommended that you speak to an ID Consultant to discuss your needs more in depth.

The “skinny” on Commercial Identity Verification (CIV) Credential. Are they for you?

The “Skinny”

The Commercial Identity Verification (CIV) credential, takes a chapter from the Federal Information Processing Standard 201 (FIPS 201), initiated by the Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-12) mandate.  The mandate required Federal agencies to deploy and support an identity credential that can be used across all Federal agencies for both physical and logical access.

 

The CIV credential takes advantage of the PIV infrastructure that has been developed, tested, and refined over the past ten years.  By adopting the CIV credential, corporations or medical environments no longer have to create multiple identities for each employee to work in the various standalone systems.  Identity creation and enrollment is completed at one central location.  Once an employee receives their CIV credential, this one credential can be used at locations enterprise-wide.

 

Each employee’s CIV card can be a tool for authenticating identity and authorizing access to doors and resources such as inventory control, accounting, process control systems, and HR databases.  In addition, a single identity allows a provisioning system to confirm that an employee is actually on the premises before enabling that person to log on to a desktop computer and enterprise network.  At the same time, it blocks access from an external device, such as a remote computer, after physical presence is established within an office.

 

To make the CIV credential work in your organization, your infrastructure will need to change from multiple standalone solutions to one that is enterprise-wide.  Due to the Federal mandate, multiple vendors offer interoperable solutions using off-the-shelf products because of competition, prices will become more and more affordable.

 

In a typical implementation, each CIV credential holds one unique user identification number that is tied to the person’s network account.  This allows access to authorized applications, plus the physical access control system in the proper buildings.

 

Are they for you?

 

A CIV credentialing program provides corporations with the ability to improve efficiency and reduce resources while maintaining overall security.  However, to determine if this is the solution for you, ask yourself the following questions:

 

1. Are only authorized employees accessing the corporate property and networks?
2. Is any portion of the network, access control system, etc., vulnerable, posing a security risk?
3. How many resources are allocated to resetting employee passwords and logins?
4. Overall, what is the current level of security? Poor, Fair, Satisfactory, Excellent?

 

These are just a few of the questions that can be addressed.  Every organization is unique and therefore it is best to speak to an ID Consultant during the fact-finding and qualification process.

 

 

Reference:

 

Smart Card Alliance.  October 2011.  The Commercial Identity Verification (CIV) Credential – Leveraging FIPS 201 and the PIV Specifications: Is the CIV Credential Right for You?  Retrieved from http://www.smartcardalliance.org/resources/pdf/CIV_WP_101611.pdf

IDentiphoto Launches E-Commerce Website

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Consumers Can Now Purchase ID Related Products Directly from IDentiphoto.biz.

Willoughby, OH, IDentiphoto Company, LTD., the provider of choice for all things ID related, today announced the launch of its newly operational e-commerce website, www.IDentiphoto.biz.

The new site boasts easy navigation with search capability that allows consumers to easily find ID card printers, ID system bundles, ID and tracking software and visitor badge systems.  Plus IDentiphoto.biz is a complete source for supplies for all major ID card printers, blank PVC and PROX cards, and the largest array of ID holders and accessories.  Consumers can explore and shop IDentiphoto’s complete line of products.

“We are excited to announce the launch of our e-commerce site, as we believe it will provide our customers with just another avenue of access to IDentiphoto Company and the products and services we have to offer,” said Pam Johnson-Acey, Chief Operating Officer.  “Expanding our web offering to include e-commerce gives our customers the flexibility to view and order products whenever and wherever it is most convenient for them.  We pride ourselves on our great customer service and extensive product knowledge and look forward to bringing our innovative expertise into the e-commerce marketplace.”

In operation for 40 years, IDentiphoto is a Certified Female Business Enterprise, an authorized Fargo® repair facility that supports/repairs all Fargo® units and a proud member of Identification Systems Dealers Association (ISDA).  For more information visit www.IDentiphoto.biz.

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About IDentiphoto Company
IDentiphoto is the provider of choice for standalone to enterprise-wide identity management systems, mobile tracking and verification solutions.  Our team of ID system experts can build custom software for your mobile applications/requirements as well as advise your team on the best ID card printer, ID system bundles, software, ID supplies, ID cards and badge holders for your needs.

Contact:

Pamela Johnson-Acey, COO
IDentiphoto Company, Ltd.
440-306-9000
pam@identiphoto.com

Set yourself FREE – go mobile!

Organizations are always trying to discover ways to decrease redundant tasks and improve workflow, while maintaining their customer service standards.  Today, accurate and timely information is king.  A delay in data entry, by even a day or two, may no longer be acceptable.

Why go mobile?

Increase productivity – collect accurate data in the field.  No longer does somebody have to interpret illegible handwriting, greatly reducing data errors.

Quick reports – information at your fingertips allowing you to make informed decisions fast and accurately.

Reduce data errors – simply scan the technology of your choice for fast and accurate data collection or retrieval.

Improve customer experience – fast and easy task processing.

Going mobile instantly extends organizational knowledge into the field.  You can now take charge of your environment with mobile devices for your identification, verification, and tracking needs.  Accomplish what is needed from anywhere, anytime.

Handheld devices such as the Motorola ES400 or the Unitech PA690 have never been more affordable.  So what is holding you back?

Remaining four points of things you need to know before buying an Identification Solution

In conclusion to our last post, here are the remaining four things you need to know before buying an identification solution.

Keep in mind that not all solutions are equal. Cost is often the largest motivator as to which system you purchase but should not be your only consideration. For instance, by purchasing a low-cost single-sided printer to produce a dual-sided card, not only are you wasting valuable employee time but risking serious damage to your unit. Card stock, once run through your printer degrades and is no longer graphics quality due to dust, debris or fingerprint smudges which can cause broken pixels in your printhead. This can affect your card quality output and even necessitate complete replacement.

Proper planning is essential to a successful ID card program.

5. How many card types do you use/issue?
   • Photo ID
   • Payroll/Attendance
   • Parking
   • Access
   • Membership
   • Loyalty/Gift Cards
   • Info Cards
   • Meal/Cafeteria
   • Other
     
     Why is it important?
     Instead of issuing two (or more) cards, IDentiphoto can help you to combine the cards you use every day into one multi-technology card. By combining all cards into one, your overall operational costs are greatly reduced.

6. What type of technology/technologies do you need?
   • Barcode
   • Magnetic Stripe
   • Proximity
   • Smart Card

     
     Why is it important?
     
     Take into account all systems utilized on a daily basis such as access control, payroll, cafeteria, etc. and plan to reduce multiple steps. Many companies are surprised to learn that each individual system, crucial to everyday operations, utilizes a different card technology. By being proactive and taking into account all the needs of your company, you reap cost and time saving benefits by reducing data entry or redundancies simply by integrating your multiple systems. Provide one card that does it all!

     Learn about the different card technologies here.

7. Will you need to badge multiple locations?

   
   Why is it important?
   There are a lot of different software applications available. Depending on your specific requirements you may need a networkable version of ID badging software. However, since requirements and internal infrastructure are different from one organization to the next, it is important to talk to a reputable solution provider to discuss your application in-depth for the best recommendation. One of our knowledgeable ID Consultants can be reached at 800-860-9111 for guidance.

8. Will you require a mobile system to track or verify identity?

   Why is it important?
   
   Today it is increasingly common to need access to software or report on activity outside your four walls in order to accomplish your day-to-day tasks, whether verifying employee information on a job site, tracking attendance remotely or for training applications. Depending on your organization’s specific requirements we can help you take your badging, tracking or verification solution on the road with you, improving productivity, streamlining workflow and minimizing data errors.

What solution is right for you? Contact an IDentiphoto ID Consultant today at 800-860-9111 to discuss your specific needs more in-depth.

Eight things you need to know before buying an Identification Solution.

Value Over Price

Not all solutions are equal. Cost is often the largest motivator as to which system you purchase but it does not necessarily mean it will serve you well in the future. Proper planning is essential to a successful ID card program.

Take into consideration your future use, employee turnover, etc. Look at the big picture and ask yourselves the following questions before submitting a purchase order.

1. How do you want the card to look?
   – Single or dual-sided
   – Oversized or credit card size
   – Monochrome or full color

   Why is it important?
   PVC card printers are available in a variety of configurations and with advancements in technology. Many manufacturers are looking at your future needs by offering field-upgradeable modules. Instead of purchasing a single-sided printer now and later having to replace the entire unit for a dual-sided unit, you can purchase a PVC card printer that will give you the ability to upgrade later to a dual-sided unit at a more reasonable cost.

2. How long do you want the cards to last?
   – 1-3 years
   – 3 + years

   Why is it important?
   Standard PVC cards are made of 100% PVC and have an average lifespan of 12-18 months while a composite PVC card, composed of 70% PVC/30% Polyester, will increase the average lifespan to 24 months. By purchasing a PVC card printer that applies a .6 or 1 mil overlaminate/polyguard, you can now increase the lifespan of your card to 60 months or 5 years. Purchasing a printer that will best meet your requirements may cost more initially, but the money you can save in costly reprints and consumables down the line greatly make up for it.

3. How many cards will be issued in a year?

   Why is it important?
   The average lifespan of a printer is generally five years and producing a large volume of cards on an entry-level printer will decrease the unit’s lifespan. Therefore, it is important to purchase a unit that will handle your current volume of ID card production today as well as your anticipated card volume production in three years and five years. In addition, large volume printing requirements may require using multiple units to meet time constraints. It is important to properly maintain your PVC card printer with regular cleanings to ensure continuous quality prints. As a certified repair facility, we offer a printer cleaning service for your convenience. Simply contact us to schedule one.

4. Will you need to assign different levels of security clearance?

   Why is it important?
   Security clearance levels are an important way of maintaining pertinent data from employees who may have ill intent. ID Badging software applications come in many different flavors. There are entry-level applications where you only have a single sign-on level, to enterprise applications where specific user settings can be applied, allowing access to only pertinent data specific to their task. A user with administrative rights can also generate a variety of reports so that internal audits can be performed.

   Different levels of security clearance can also be incorporated into the finished employee ID badge as well by incorporating color bars based on your specific criteria. Based on color coding, any employee can visually tell if an individual belongs or not, from a distance. Learn more about card security features here.

Check back next week for the remaining four additional things you need to know before you buy, or get them now by contacting an IDentiphoto ID Consultant today at 800-860-9111 or via email!

Stretch Your Budget Further

Budget issues impacting your ID system upgrades?  Security is more important now than ever, and tracking movement in and out of your premises is vital.

You no longer have to postpone or forego crucial purchases or upgrades!  Due to the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 (H.R. 4853) that was signed into law on December 17, 2010, business can immediately write-off 100% of the cost of depreciable property acquired in calendar year 2011.

Another alternative to assist you in acquiring your much-needed items on a tight budget is with a lease.  Some benefits of leasing are:

1. 100 Percent Financing – no down payment
2. Service Additions – can included installation, maintenance and ongoing support
3. Tax Treatment – deduct 100% of payment as business expense
4. Upgradeability – provides you the ability to upgrade equipment as technology and needs change.

 As experts in identification, we can also assist you in reducing your overall ID badging expenses in other ways such as switching consumables to extend card life, or by taking the burden from you by producing your badges for you.  To find out more, speak to one of our ID Consultants today at 1-800-860-9111.

IDentiphoto has gone social!

 As an innovative provider of badging, tracking, and verification solutions with proven results, we are proud to announce the launch of our new twitter page and blog.

We plan to bring you frequent, relevant content that we hope you find useful in your day-to-day duties.  Be sure to bookmark them and check back frequently.

On our blog, be on the look-out for posts about:

What You Need to Know – Helpful information that will assist you in making informed decisions about anything ID related.

Tips and tricks – Resources to ensure your badging, tracking, and/or verification systems run smoothly.

Ask IDentiphoto? – Resolutions compiled from our ID experts on the most common ID related issues.

Must Have Products – Information specific to what is new, from accessory to hardware and software.

Education – Specific information regarding securing your campus facility, streamlining attendance and enforcing behavior policies. Also, tools to track event attendees, contractors, visitors and temporary employees etc.

Government – Area with specific resources geared specifically for local and federal government entities regarding employee badging, employee verification solutions, tracking event attendees, contractors, visitors and temporary employees.  Plus the latest in FIPS-201 approved products.

Corporate – Designated section for helpful content specific to corporate entities from securing your facility, badging and tracking event attendees, contractors, visitors and temporary employees, etc.

Healthcare – Your source for healthcare cards and the latest trends in badging, tracking and verification systems. Plus the latest in ID badge holders and attachments geared specifically for the healthcare industry.

We look forward to engaging with you socially and welcome your feedback and suggestions.