By 
Introducing an ID card printer to your workplace is truly transformative! Whether you’re shifting the way you go about using identity cards, or you’ve never had them before, a printer is going to really increase the cost-effectiveness and functionality of your security system. Once you start hunting, you’ll find a considerable amount of options available to you, and it can get confusing pretty early on. Read on for six tips that are going to ensure that you find the very best card printer for your workplace’s needs…
Determine your budget
As you would with any investment, you’ll need to determine your budget before you do anything else. Now, identity card printers are not cheap (and if you find any that are significantly lower in cost, chances are, they’re not great). Your printer will likely last you for many years to come, so you need to be comfortable with investing quite a bit here. Additional ongoing expenses can include printer ribbons or ink (depending on the model that you choose), factor this in during your budgeting process to avoid any unfavourable surprises down the line. Once you’ve got the numbers sorted, you can start exploring printer options.
Take a look at the size of your company
To make the very best decision for your business, you should absolutely be looking at the size and scope of your operation. A workforce of about ten people who don’t see much staff turnover at all won’t benefit from an identity card printer. You need to make sure that you’re making a pragmatic decision. A huge corporation won’t be catered to by a small-scale printer, they’ll need an industrial size model. Choosing in accordance with both the nature and the size of your company will be so much better for you and your team in the long run.
Consider your pre-existing system and surrounding environment
Do you already use identity cards in your building? If so, you’ll definitely need to take a look at the system you have going on right now. Your reader (if you have one) has to be compatible with the type of card you’re printing – for example, Mifare cards require Mifare readers in order to work. So, take this into account on your search. You also need to consider your surrounding environment, if you’re in a high-risk area you should look for Performance printers or a model that can offer additional safety functions. Perhaps your location is very secure? A simple, entry-level model will suit you better!
Do you have required security standards?
As noted above, sometimes environments require some additional security measures to ensure the safety of all personnel and equipment. Some accommodating printer provider can offer enhanced safety functions such as embossed individualised numbers, double-sided printing for more info, magnetic strips or holographic detailing. Look for these specifications in descriptions or consult a provider to make sure your feature expectations are going to be met by your printer.
Don’t forget about your space and resources
Remember that a plastic card printer needs its own space, it’s not something that can be chucked in a drawer when you’re not using it. Be sure that you have a dedicated area for your printer, ID photo-taking station and design desk. Speaking of design, you’re going to need to have staff resources to take these ID photos and design the cards themselves – especially if you’re a large company with lots of new recruits.
Find an accommodating provider
Lastly, make sure you find an accommodating printer provider that will help you to reach the very best product for your needs, this can make all the difference.
