Cloud-based ID Card Printing vs. Digital ID Issuance: A Comprehensive Comparison

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cloud-based ID card printing and digital ID card issuance are two of the most popular organizations methods organizations use when it comes to managing and distributing ID badges. Both methods offer unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand their differences in order to choose the right solution.

Cloud ID card printing is a modern technology that allows card administrators to print from any internet-connected device to an ID card printer connected to the cloud, regardless of their physical location. Given the name, with cloud printing, there is no need to install any card issuance software or printer drivers on local computers. Administrators can simply log into the cloud printing software such as Entrust Instant ID as a Service or HID Frago Connect from any web browser in order to remotely print ID badges and manage their fleet of ID card printers from anywhere in the world.

Cloud printing offers a range of benefits, particularly for businesses and individuals seeking flexibility and efficiency in their printing processes. One of the key advantages is the ability to print remotely from any location with an internet connection, using a variety of devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This eliminates the need to be near the printer and enhances productivity, especially for remote workers. Additionally, cloud printing reduces infrastructure and upfront costs by eliminating the need for local print servers and allowing multiple users to share printers across different locations. The scalability of cloud printing makes it easy to expand as a business grows, while enhanced security features such as encrypted data transmission and secure print release protect sensitive information. Centralized management of printers and print jobs simplifies administration, and automatic updates ensure that software and drivers are always current.

Digital ID card issuance operates similarly to cloud printing, utilizing cloud technology to enable remote card management and issuance. However, a key distinction lies in the fact that digital ID card issuance eliminates any need for shipping or physically handling cards.

Administrators are empowered to issue digital ID cards swiftly and conveniently via email. This process allows cardholders to receive their digital IDs directly on their mobile devices through a dedicated digital ID application. Once installed, these digital cards offer a seamless user experience and can be easily accessed whenever needed. Furthermore, the management of these digital IDs can be conducted remotely by designated card administrators. This includes updating cardholder information, deactivating lost or stolen cards, and renewing existing digital IDs—all accomplished with just a few clicks. This process not only streamlines distribution but also significantly mitigates the risk of card loss or misuse, bolstering security and enhancing efficiency in ID card management.

With ID123’s Digital ID Card Solution, organizations don’t need to choose between digital card issuance or cloud printing, they can reap the benefits of both. Through ID123’s ID Management System (IDMS), digital ID cards can be sent to cardholders’ mobile devices via ID123’s Digital ID Card App. Alternatively, plastic ID badge designs can be created and printed directly from the IDMS through a web browser to a local ID badge printer. The IDMS also supports integration with third-party cloud printing solutions, allowing for enhanced badge designs, security capabilities, and cloud printing. This dual functionality gives organizations the flexibility to adapt to the changing landscape of ID credentialing without sacrificing the benefits of cloud printing or digital ID issuance.

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