Get Priorities in Order Before Ordering Badges
Too many managers start planning for badges to be used in their data collection system only as their project nears completion. At that point there's a lot of last minute scrambling — scrambling for an item that is paramount to your entire data collection system.
Your data badges can make or break your data collection system. Plan early for them. Take the time to consider the following priorities as you look for a data badge vendor.
Never assume anything when ordering data badges. There are three ways to do this: TEST, TEST, TEST with every new installation. Make sure your supplier provides enough test cards to check ALL the details pertaining to your specific project. There are many details and variables. So it is imperative that all companies involved share all information relating to card specifications.
Test the company that will be working for you, too. How long have they been in business? References? Where will your badges be manufactured? Your company will be more secure ultimately if you work with a supplier that will manufacture your badges at one facility.
Also, inquire as to what other functions your data badge might be able to do. Perhaps it can also operate your access control, data collection, and payroll systems as well as operate parking lot entrances and be used as a photo ID. The one-card concept saves your company the large expense of purchasing other cards and makes life a little easier for your employees.
Will the badges last?
Really do your homework with this one and ask a lot of questions. How are these badges constructed? How are they designed to last through the hard usage your employees will give them?
Make sure your badge company takes into account the conditions and the environment where your badges will be used. Grease, chemicals, humidity, extreme temperature changes and excessive use are just a few of the factors that determine your badges' read-ability and last-ability. Ask your vendor for references of where they produced cards for organizations with conditions similar to your own.
Make sure the data badge you choose is specifically designed to be a data badge. Not doing so is asking for trouble. Cards that are not made specifically for data collection have dirt and moisture penetrate the laminated layers faster. The cards don't read accurately and after a short time, fall apart. Again, your data collection system may be rendered useless.
There are companies who manufacture badges specially made to withstand hard reader usage. Again: ask questions as you shop around.
Make sure, also, that your vendor has a lot of experience in manufacturing different data badge designs. Things like too much ink coverage or too many labels are basic red flags to the more experienced suppliers. However, they still occur and take away laminating strength and dollars. Take the time before you have problems to explore your options and see which badge will pass the durability test at your organization.
What about service?
Be certain your supplier gives you the attention and professional courtesy you deserve. Find someone you have confidence in.
How much will the badges cost?
Many factors influence the cost of data badges. The type of badge, the number of printed colors, quantity and media are just a few. And price is also an important determination when deciding from whom to order.
However, it really is the last priority you should consider. Because if you do decide to make it number one and you buy from the lowest bidder, there is a big possibility that your data badges will not work, not last, or not be on schedule. And THAT'S expensive.
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