How to Select ID Card Software

When selecting an ID card printer, often it is time to select new ID card software as well. Following are some questions you can ask when looking for a card designer software for the first time or for a replacement software.

Will you print single sided cards or dual sided cards?

If you print information on the back of the surface of your identification card as well as the front side, you will need to look for software that supports two sided card printing. Most advanced software provides a dual sided option, but there is some entry level software that may only allow a single sided card design.

Will you be printing barcodes?

All software packages allow a traditional bar code in various configurations.  If you need to print a 2-D barcode, double check to make sure your software selection supports this option.

Will you need to make changes to many cards at one time?

If you need to adjust the card design or card information on a number of different cards at some time in the future, you will want to select a software that has a batch update capability. To avoid updating the card manually, you will want to make the change and have the effect be a global change to a number of cards that can be reprinted.

Do you need to keep your card information in a database?

This question is one of the most important questions to answer prior to looking at current software packages. If you wish to retain data and images that you print on your cards, you will need to make sure that your selected software has an internal database and that is provides the volume of data that is needed for your card printing requirements. By maintaining an internal database, you can quickly reprint damaged or lost cards.  You can easily make adjustments to the card design and reprint cards as needed without locating the person for a new photo or looking up custom information that is needed for the card.  Most entry level software does not include a database, so check your requirements and the software features carefully.

Will you be connecting to an outside database?

If you need to obtain your card information from an outside database or you need to export your card holder information to a different database, you need to insure your selected software has open database connectivity (ODBC). If the outside database is Access, SQL, Excel, MS SQL Server or another, make sure that your software selection allows importing and/or exporting from the selected database.

Will you operate the software on a network?

If your organization shares information over a LAN or WAN, you need to ensure that the software is network compatible.  You can purchase a master software package with additional licenses to support network connectivity needs.

Will you need to encode smart cards?

Technology cards of today have chips embedded in the card that contain unique information about the card holder.  Some software versions allow the contact or contactless smart card to be encoded with this information.  It is important to verify your needs and verify the software can accommodate the requirements you have.

Do you need card security features?

Some software packages offer security features that are worth reviewing if security is in your current or future card printing needs.  If you have a specific feature that you wish to have on your card, check with your software vendor or ID card integrator for confirmation of that feature.  Integrators can also suggest security features that may be needed in your particular situation.

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