The ID card software program you choose is almost as important as the ID card printer you select. Not only does the software decide how your ID cards look when printed, but it also determines the level of security features you can add. So, if the printer is the workhorse behind producing your employee ID cards, the software is your program's brain. It controls what goes on your ID cards, so it's important to weigh the software program you choose as well.
Here are seven questions to answer to help you decide what's the best ID card software for your security needs.
1. Do I need a special design?
How important is the design to your security? For example, a basic software program has templates you can use to create ID cards. Basic programs also offer the ability to combine regular text with other fields you might need to enter like serial numbers, etc. If you need something more unique and secure though, premium versions of ID card software offer support for adding biometrics and other elements impossible to counterfeit.
2. Do I need special encoding?
Do you need barcodes, magnetic stripes, or smart card encoding? If you're using proximity cards or other smart cards, you need the appropriate ID card software program to encode your cards. Not all encoding needs top-of-the-line software, however. It's best to talk to an ID expert to discover your options.
3. Do I need to store and manage records?
If your ID card solution is simply a visual identification, you might not need to manage employee records. But perhaps you need to store and manage records of cardholders for time and attendance purposes or access privileges. Basic software programs don't have databases to help you manage cardholder data. You need a mid-level to premium software program if you need to access those records more than just printing them out.
4. Do I need to communicate with outside databases?
Premium ID card software gives you access to outside databases such as registered offender lists and other tracking data. Especially for schools, government facilities, and some corporate entities, it's important to know who should not be allowed on-site. A software program that talks to external databases makes that process easier and much more secure.
5. Do I need enhanced security features?
Some upper level software programs let you set up password protection and group accounts, as well as additional security features that prevent unauthorized access to your facilities. For example, you could use a digital key that only an allowed user would have to control access. Premium software allows you to add a host of enhanced security features if you need strong security.
6. What do I need to track?
Depending on the ID card software program you choose, you can track time and attendance or even track who checks out library books or audio/visual equipment. If you think you might need your software to track something, look for a premiere program with tracking capability. It makes it easy to manage the data from a centralized location.
7. Do I need to issue visitor IDs?
Visit management ID card software is also available and makes tracking, managing, and reporting on visitors easy and seamless. Not only can you create unique visitor IDs, but premium software lets you verify credentials, track where visitors are in your facilities, and control their access to various spaces. Consider if you need to know who is on site at all times, including visitors. If so, you may need visitor management software as well.
Final thoughts
From designing to encoding, from tracking to screening and more, the ID card software program you choose can significantly enhance or restrict your ID card solution's security. To make sure you get the right program, gather the answers to the above seven questions and visit an ID expert.
Idesco is the only ID expert in NYC with an on-site showroom. You can experiment with the various software options in our showroom to help you choose the right one for your business and security needs. We advise you try out software before making a purchase, because the software is the brains of your employee ID card program. Call one of our ID Experts at 212-889-2530, or stop by our showroom any day of the week.