ID & Tracking Technology Blog

Cloud-Based ID Issuance vs. Traditional Card Issuance: Pros and Cons

by Jocelyn Bravo Quevedo | Oct 30, 2024

The way we manage and issue ID cards has evolved significantly in recent years. Traditional card issuance has long been the standard, but cloud-based ID issuance is emerging as a powerful alternative. Each method has its own advantages and drawbacks, and understanding them can help organizations decide which approach best suits their needs. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both cloud-based and traditional ID issuance, and how they compare when it comes to flexibility, security, and cost.

Traditional Card Issuance

Traditional card issuance involves the on-site production of ID cards using desktop card printers. This method has been around for decades and is widely used in businesses, schools, government agencies, and other institutions. The process involves using physical printers, software installed on local computers, and physical media such as cards and ribbons.

Pros of Traditional Card Issuance:

  1. Full Control: With traditional systems, you have complete control over the entire card issuance process. Since everything is done in-house, you can manage your own timeline, card design, and production volume.

  2. Instant Printing: Having a desktop printer allows you to print ID cards immediately, making it ideal for issuing employee badges, visitor passes, or student IDs on the spot.

  3. No Internet Reliance: Traditional card issuance does not require an internet connection, which can be beneficial for organizations with limited or unreliable network access.

  4. On-Site Customization: You can customize card layouts, security features (like holograms or watermarks), and other design elements in real-time based on your needs.

Cons of Traditional Card Issuance:

  1. Initial Costs: Traditional systems often require a significant up-front investment in card printers, supplies, and software. Maintenance costs for equipment and replacement of consumables can also add up over time.

  2. Limited Scalability: If your organization grows or opens multiple locations, managing multiple printers and coordinating card issuance across sites can become challenging.

  3. Software Management: Traditional systems often require local installation of ID card design software, which must be updated regularly, potentially leading to compatibility issues or technical support requirements.

  4. Physical Storage: You must manage physical storage for card stock, ribbons, and other supplies, as well as maintain printer hardware, which can take up valuable office space.

Cloud-Based ID Issuance

Cloud-based ID issuance moves the entire card management process online. With cloud-based solutions, card design, issuance, and management happen through web-based software, allowing greater flexibility and eliminating the need for physical on-site printers or local software.

Pros of Cloud-Based ID Issuance:

  1. Remote Access & Flexibility: Cloud-based solutions allow authorized personnel to access the ID issuance system from anywhere with an internet connection. This is especially useful for organizations with multiple locations or remote workers.

  2. Scalability: Cloud-based platforms are ideal for organizations of any size. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, cloud solutions can easily scale to meet your needs without the need for additional hardware or infrastructure.

  3. Automatic Updates & Maintenance: With cloud-based systems, software updates, security patches, and feature improvements are handled automatically by the provider. This means you’ll always have access to the latest features without needing to install or update anything manually.

  4. Enhanced Collaboration: Cloud systems allow for easier collaboration between departments or teams spread across different locations. Users can design cards, approve requests, and track issuance in real-time, regardless of their physical location.

Cons of Cloud-Based ID Issuance:

  1. Internet Dependence: Cloud-based solutions require a stable internet connection. If the internet goes down or there are bandwidth issues, access to the ID system may be temporarily unavailable.

  2. Data Security Concerns: Although many cloud providers offer robust security, storing sensitive data in the cloud may raise concerns for organizations that prefer to keep everything on-premises. Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations is crucial.

  3. No Immediate Printing: Unlike traditional methods, cloud-based issuance may not provide immediate card printing on-site. However, many cloud services integrate with remote printers or allow for cards to be sent digitally or printed offsite and mailed.

  4. Subscription Costs: Subscription fees can add up over time. It’s important to evaluate the long-term cost benefits of each type based on your organization’s specific needs.

Which One Is Right for You?

Both traditional and cloud-based ID issuance have their merits, and the right choice depends on your organization’s specific requirements. If you need immediate card printing on-site and prefer managing everything internally, traditional card issuance may be the best fit. However, if flexibility, scalability, and remote access are priorities, a cloud-based solution can provide greater long-term benefits.

Contact us today

Whether you prefer the control of traditional card issuance or the flexibility of cloud-based systems, IdentiSys offers both options to meet your needs. If you’re unsure which solution is right for your organization or want to learn more about the advantages of each, our team is here to help. Contact us today for more information or to get started with the solution that works best for you!