There are plenty of decisions that factor into ID cards production in offices and organizations every year, including the plastic stock, ID card printers, the technology used, etc. One such factor is whether you pick the option of slotting the card. Slots are meant as a carrying aid, where you have a strategically placed slit on each card, which is essentially a bit of the card material punched out and taken off. You can attach a lanyard through this, or even a strap clip or badge reel.
Benefits of a Slotted ID Card
These are highly useful in that they make it easier for you to carry and show your ID. The slot is placed inside the badge reel, lanyard, or strap clip. It is possible to simply slide these accessories through the created slots and as a result you have a highly secure solution to match your security needs. Unslotted ID cards are nowhere near as convenient, and when you do use a card clamp, which needs no slot to pass through, you may find that its not as secure as the options mentioned above. That also means an unslotted card works best when set in a slotted holder.
Where to Put the Slot
It all boils down to figuring out the best option for your cards. If their intended use involves wearing them in such a way as to display details, the slotted option is the best one to go with. Along that route, accessories are easier to find. If you are going to keep your ID card in your pocket or wallet though, then a slot may be redundant.
Internal Technology
If your card carries internal technology, then you need to go by the guidelines when making a slot in it. Guidelines are basically dots telling you which spots are safe to cut so that you do not end up puncturing the internal chip or wire. If your card has no electronics inside it, like the ones printed out of the Fargo HDP500 for example, then slotting can be done without worries of messing something up.
Material
Your card may be constructed out of PVC which means you’re be able to easily slot it. This needs to be done carefully; the closer you get to the edge, the easier it is to cause a crack or splinter. Synthetic paper cards are much easier to handle in this respect. Slots can be put anywhere without fear of damaging the rest of the card.
