The program is designed to allow the user to create, maintain and print employee identification badges. The database contains an unlimited number of badge records, with each record being capable of storing up to 10 (or optionally unlimited) badge-specific fields of information.
The badge record also contains references to digitally stored visual images of the employee which may be displayed on the badge, if the user wishes. The images of the employee are captured using a video camera attached to the computer. The user may capture an unlimited number of images per badge and store them on disk for inclusion on the identification badge.
Graphic images may also be imported or created (using PC Paintbrush, scanners etc.) and then displayed on the identification badge. This allows company logos or other specialized symbology to be included on the badge. Graphics can also be captured directly from the video camera.
An unlimited number of text fields may be displayed on the badge. The text can be displayed in any font or size supported by Windows™. The color of the text and its background and orientation can be set as desired, or the background can be omitted. The text can come from the record on the employee (employee number, date of birth, for example) or from the user text (company name, etc.) or from any fixed text entered by the user.
Data may also be displayed in bar code form. An unlimited number of bar codes may be displayed on the badge, with a wide variety of bar code types to choose from. Different bar code types can be used on the badge in different locations. The data can come from the same sources as the text fields. Text which can be displayed as a bar code is only limited by the ability of the specific bar code type to display the text, and the availability of space on the badge. Density of bar-codes is chosen by the user as low, medium or high. Unique bar code characteristics are included. Some bar codes allow for error checking, for example.
Badge backgrounds can be captured via the video camera, imported from graphic files, or made a variety of colors and shades.
Each database may contain an unlimited number of badge designs. Each design can be a different shape, have different data displayed from the database and include different bitmaps. This feature allows badge designs to be selected on a badge-by-badge basis, allowing for example, a different badge appearance based upon some criteria like the employee’s department.
Standard databases define single-sided badges. There is an optional feature available which enables double-sided badge definition. There is no restriction to the information which can be placed on the back of a badge. Support is provided for printers capable of double-sided printing.
Optionally, the badge may contain a signature captured from a special pressure sensitive pad and stored electronically. Another option allows for the encoding of magnetic stripe information from data contained in the database.
An optional “Dossier” feature allows the individual’s data to be displayed and printed on a dossier-style layout. The dossier can contain information and images which do not necessarily appear on the associated badge.
Badges may be printed singly or a range of badges can be selected from the database and printed as a group. The printed badges can be in color or black and white depending upon the capabilities of the printer. The layout of the badges on the printed page may be user-configured to accommodate preprinted badge blanks. Any printer supported by Windows™ having a resolution of 300DPI or better may be suitable.
The badge database(s) can be stored in a number of commercially available database formats. It is not necessary to own these database products in order to use this identification badge software. It does mean, however, that data may be imported into the program created by these third party software products.
The badge database management system allows creation, deletion and revision of badge data, as well as a powerful badge selection system. This selection system allows criteria to be entered that determines which badges are to be processed for editing or printing.
The program includes a complete, context-sensitive HELP system which provides quick access to relevant information on the current operation. The HELP information is also fully indexed to allow rapid access to assistance on a particular issue.