Complete Buyer's Guide to PVC ID Cards for HR Managers

Imagine a single simple tool that can provide your company endless benefits:- identification, security, professionalism and branding- all at the same time. It may sound dramatic but it is completely possible with PVC ID Cards. 

ID cards, being a non-negotiable requirement in offices for decades, have evolved from simple rectangular cards to smart equipment. Now, its work doesn't end with displaying name or post, it ensures access of authorized persons, displays brand identity of the company and creates a sense of belongingness in employees. 

So, the question for HR Managers is not whether to invest in ID cards or not, but to figure out where to get them, what to include and which type to order. 

This burdensome task of HRs will be solved after reading the guide, as it will tell you everything- from card thickness and Smart Card technology to design practices, pricing etc. So, you can build a PVC ID card program with total confidence. 

What are PVC Cards?

PVC cards are plastic cards which are made of Polyvinyl Chloride, which is a thermoplastic resin used for multiple purposes in which ID cards creation is important. A standard PVC Card measures 85.6mm × 54mm at 0.76mm Thickness which is generally called CR80 size. 

PVC cards has become a favorite choices of companies instead of paper of laminated cards because they have endless benefits like:- 

• Waterproof and crack-resistant— Making them perfect for daily handling. 
  
  
• Easily Customizable as per company's need. 
  
  
• Technology Ready— Can carry barcodes, RFID chips or magnetic stripes. 
  
  
• Long-Lasting and Attractive, a well-made card generally lasts 3 to 5 years perfect for companies.

Why every HR Manager Should Care About ID Cards

An ID Card may be seen as a small identity tool, but it has utmost value. When  any HR is going to order ID Cards for employees, they must ensure that following functions must be done:- 

1.Security must be First Priority 

In today's fast-paced security-conscious world security is a basic need and HR must invest in cards that ensure security. As ID cards will work as the simplest security measure you can implement. Staff, reception teams, and security guards can instantly verify who belongs and who doesn't. 

2. Access Control Made Easy

The past access control problem is solved perfectly by PVC ID Cards integrated with RFID technology. Now only the authorized people can enter the restricted area with one tap of ID Card only. So, it is necessary for HRs to give chance to RFID technology that will ensure convenience. 

3. ID Cards is Walking Brand Ambassador 

HRs must confirm that the ID card carries the company name, logo, colors with accurate employee details that will work as walking brand identity of company along with the sense of belongingness in employees. This builds instant trust and credibility in customers. 

The 6 Key Decisions Every HR Manager Must Make

1. Card Thickness: Standard vs. Thick Thickness

Card Thickness is one of the most important decisions that HR has to make. Generally the companies rely on standard size I.e. 0.76 mm known as CR80 size is the same as credit or debit card. This card size is a sweet spot of many industries. It is compatible with virtually all card printers and feels substantial.

While there are other sizes also like 0.50mm(Thin) which is more good in budget sensitive applications. Also 1.00 mm size is Thick which is best for VIP cards giving a premium look and long life-span. 

2. Printing Technology

Generally there are two main approaches to print ID cards that includes:- 

Pre-Printed

Pre-Printed cards refers to the cards in which HR first provides design details, employees photos and data and get finished ready-to-use cards. IVYPrints is one of trustworthy finished PVC ID card manufacturers. It is more suitable for stable workforces. 

Blank + In-House Printing

In this type of printing, buyers purchase the blank PVC sheets and print on their own using desktop printers. This type of printing requires setup investment but provides relief to organizations with frequent starters, leavers or design changes. 

3. Smart Card Technology: Do You Need It?

Another important work of HRs is to find out if they need security features in ID Cards? If yes, then invest in RFID Card Technology, Barcodes, Magnetic stripes Integrated on PVC Cards. As it will ensure security, looks everything at the same time. Generally, the most popular choice for corporate HR programs is RFID Proximity — as it's affordable, reliable, and compatible with the vast majority of access control systems on the market.

So, always choose security features in ID Cards if your organization demands it. 

4. Overlaminates and Finishes

One of the overlooked but most important feature is giving significant attention to lamination of cards as it affects both durability and appearance:- 

Gloss finish — This Finish is standard for most ID cards as it gives vibrant colors, crisp photo reproduction etc. Giving professional appearance to cards. 

Matte finish —This finish is popular for executive or senior-level cards because of its reduced glare but attractive looks. 

Holographic overlaminates — This lamination adds a security layer that's difficult to replicate. It is recommended for cards in regulated industries or high-security environments.

UV overlaminate — This lamination extends card life significantly, protecting against fading. For externally visible staff (retail, healthcare, hospitality), UV overlaminate is a smart investment. 

5. Card Design: Getting It Right

One of the crucial features is the Card Design, as well-designed cards communicate to customers. Effective Card design must include:-

Essential elements (front of Card):

• Employee photo (passport-style, recent)
• Full name and job title
• Company logo and brand colors
• Employee ID number (for HR records)

Optional elements:

• Department of employee
• Blood type (healthcare/emergency services)
• QR code linking to internal directory
• Expiry date (for contractors or temporary staff)

Back of card:

• Barcode or magnetic stripe
• Emergency contact 

Perfectly designed cards will increase the brand identity of a company and will build trust in visitors and customers. 

6. Quantities and Reordering Strategy

Another important thing that HRs must take care of is the order quantity. It is very important for HRs to count the institution's need and order in some stock to avoid worst moments like no ID Cards on mid-onboarding week, before an audit, or when the office printer breaks. Also lost, damaged cards must be replaced instantly making it important to order blank cards in advance. Always build a sensible stock strategy. 

IVYPrints- A Reliable PVC ID Card Provider

When it comes to PVC ID Cards, not all vendors are equal. As company HR needs a partner who understands deadlines, quality standards, and the real operational pressure. That's exactly what IVYPrints was built to be. 

Founded and based in Jaipur, IVYPrints has spent years providing the best ID cards for every sector. IVYPrints has left no stone unturned in ensuring that every card meets the highest standard of quality, durability and finish. 

IVYPrints offers a wide range of products including eco-friendly PVC ID Cards, RFID cards, Lanyards, ID Card Holders, PP Pouches, Hooks, Notch and Inlay sheets- everything under one roof with premium quality and captivating looks. 

Here are the reasons that makes IVYPrints the right choice for your organization:-

• Easy Online ID Card Ordering 
• Affordable Pricing 
• On-time doorstep Delivery 
• Technology-Integrated

Common Mistakes HRs must avoid While ordering ID Cards 

Generally, a small mistake in ID card ordering can create a huge problem, that's why it is very important HR must avoid these common mistakes:- 

• Relying on any provider without checking their credibility and trustworthiness. It is very important for HRs that they must choose a Right ID card vendor. 
  
  
• Not asking for a sample kit before for quality checking of products. 
  
  
• Providing Wrong Employee Information. 
  
  
• Not Integrating Security features.
  
  
• Overlooking Customization needs. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, small care towards ID card selection can bring a huge change in a company's credibility and reliability. ID cards– a multifunctional tool gain significant attention of visitors making it necessary for HRs to give appropriate attention towards it. From card type, thickness to technology integration and customization everything matters. 

IVYPrints is one of the best PVC ID Cards manufacturers who gained utmost reputation because of its dedicated services and best product quality.