Happy Anniversary. You've come a long way Barcode!

Google features a Code 128 bar code as its logo today, in honor of the bar code patent's 57th "anniversary." The creators were originally granted a patent on a bar code that consisted of concentric circular lines, instead of the parallel lines we are so familiar with today. Bar codes are printed or tagged on virtually every product we use each day.

Bar codes in the ID industry have been largely used as tracking or accounting keys for measuring payroll time & attendance or access control to a building.

Without the bar code, time tracking would still rely on analog time clocks that stamped the date and time, as well as clerks who tallied each card every week, and then adjusted employees' time sheets.

Leading workforce and talent management companies like Kronos and ADP have migrated some users away from bar codes in recent years, favoring more expensive contactless technology.

We say, even though many time-card users have switched to contactless smart or proximity cards, there is really no more durable, inexpensive choice than a laminated bar code badge. Read more about bar code time badges here

Gossip Girl is not the new photo ID industry spokesperson

It is completely unbelievable that the characters on Gossip Girl are real NYU freshman, because anyone who has matriculated at NYU, nay, anyone who has even walked through Washington Square Park in early September knows that NYU Freshmen can be clearly identified due to the I.D. badges they proudly wear around their necks on a purple lanyard for the first week or so. (more here)

We say: Uhh...how square am I? Has anyone over 18 years old ever really watched Gossip Girl?

Medical Facility Tests RFID-enabled Hand Sanitizers

The system tracks who washed their hands, and when. If a doctor or nurse visits a patient's bed without first washing his or her hands, an audible alarm offers a reminder. (more here)

We say: It is interesting that another large hospital systems says a simple custom badge holder works just as well according to one of our dealers. Personal accountibility and trust still count for something.

New CredentialExpress Web Site

Our all new CredentialExpress web site is up. We know you will enjoy the functionality with easy access to price lists and our PDF catalogs as well as the eye candy. Several more useful features are coming soon, so check back now and again.

PS: Don't forget that Dye Sublimation Lanyards at Silk Screen Prices are available through September 30, 2009!

Event Credential Security

A simple way to make event credentials more secure is to combine the badge, badge holder, and lanyard as an integrated unit in which all three components must be presented together be considered a valid credential. This is functional, secure, and cost effective. And it looks hot!

PS: Our team of experts are happy to discuss security features and related costs if you require additonal security elements for your event credentials.

Dye-Sub Lanyards at Screen-Printed Prices!

Now through September 30th, 2009

Promotional Products Distributors can take advantage of special pricing on CredentialExpress Dye Sublimated lanyards. Save up to 50% in some cases.

See the full Promotion Here

"How does it feel?"

Hey, even Bob gets asked for a photo ID every now and again. Looks like some of the kids need to dig a little deeper into the D section of their iTunes libraries. Read the AP story here.

Our favorite quotes from the story:

Police: "...what are you doing here?"
Dylan: "I'm on tour."

Thankfully everyone was apparently cooperative and the whole thing ended up a nonevent. Can you feel the love? We can. Mr Dylan will no doubt get a song or two out of it.
For the rest of us less socially-recognizeable citizens, keep on carrying that ID. It helps the good guys do their jobs more easily.