Most would agree that the above picture is an accurate representation of most ID badges in use by businesses and organizations. ID badges typically serve three basic functions.
- Visually identify wearer by picture and name
- Allow access to certain areas using an embedded chip or color code
- Visually, or through an embedded chip, personnel information
The primary failure of almost every ID badge I have ever seen is that the picture is too small to see at conversational distance. The reason for this is that all types of information and bar codes that have absolutely nothing to do with quick identification take up the front of the ID badge.
An effective ID badge used for fast identification should have little but the picture on the front, except for the name of the individual underneath. The name only needs to be able to be read at contact distance, where the picture should be easy recognizable at 7-10 yards. A colored border around the outside of the picture is a fast and easy way to identify access level or the department that the employee works for. Humans will pay attention to pictures and colors much more than what is written on the badge. All other information should be on the back.
Employees should be encouraged to challenge anyone they do not recognize or find in an area that they have no business in. This attitude must come from the top down.
Another best practice is that badges be worn around the neck on a breakaway lanyard or clipped high on the chest. This ensures that badges are no obstructed by clothing which often occurs when hung on the waste.
Creating ID badges with a purpose and mandating how and when they be worn is a simple, actionable step into controlling access to your place of business.
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