Start with the check the card must support.
Visible information is often the fastest layer of recognition. Names, photographs, roles, organisations, categories, numbers and expiry dates should be included only when authorised staff or a defined process will use them.
A machine-readable identifier can support record lookup, check-in or access, but it is useful only when the reader, software and operating process recognise the supplied data.
- Identify the person, membership, visitor type or issued-card group.
- Define what staff need to see or compare when the card is presented.
- Confirm what an existing scanner, reader, lock or platform accepts.
Card features support a wider process; they do not replace it.
PlasticCard.nz supplies the physical printed cards and any supported personalisation or encoding included in the quote.
The organisation and its system provider remain responsible for identity checks, enrolment, permissions, readers, locks, software, databases, authentication rules, testing and ongoing operation. No printed or encoded feature guarantees security by itself.
Options to scope
Useful ways to configure the project.
Visible identification
Use a name, photograph, role, organisation, category or expiry date where people need to check the card.
Unique numbering and data
Give staff or the connected process a controlled reference tied to authorised records.
Barcode or magnetic stripe
Use the exact code, stripe, data, encoding and testing requirement accepted by the existing system.
RFID or NFC
Use only the chip, frequency and encoding specification confirmed for the existing reader and software.
Good fit
Where security features for plastic cards are most useful.
Helpful answers
Frequently asked questions
Does adding more features automatically make a card more secure?
No. Features should support a defined check or system process. Security also depends on identity procedures, permissions, readers, software, records and staff practice.
Can a barcode, magnetic stripe, RFID or NFC feature be added without system information?
It should not be assumed. The receiving provider must confirm the accepted code, stripe, chip, frequency, data, encoding and testing requirements.
Does PlasticCard.nz install or manage security systems?
No. PlasticCard.nz supplies physical cards and supported production work included in the quote. Readers, locks, software, permissions, databases and ongoing support remain with the organisation and its provider.
