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Plastic Card
Introduction
Plastic cards are everywhere. From the credit and debit cards in our wallets to the retail gift cards that we use in stores all of them are made from plastic. Plastic cards have become a part of our daily lives, making life easier for consumers and business operations more efficient. In this article, we will be taking a look at what plastic cards are, their features, benefits, pros and cons, real-world case studies, FAQs, mistakes people make, and best practices. So, let's get started!
What are Plastic Cards?
Plastic cards are pieces of cardstock made out of plastic, typically polyvinyl chloride (PVC). They are used in a variety of applications, such as credit and debit cards, gift cards, loyalty cards, access cards, and membership cards. Plastic cards are usually stored in wallets, but can also be held on key fobs or stored virtually on smartphones. The cards can have a variety of designs, sizes, and shapes and can be printed on both sides usually with a unique card number and a signature panel on the back.
Features and Benefits
Plastic cards offer a range of features and benefits that makes them an excellent choice for a variety of applications.
Durability
One of the key features of plastic cards is their durability. Plastic cards are much more durable than paper or cardboard cards, which makes them ideal for applications such as gift cards and loyalty cards where the card may need to be carried and used for an extended period. They can also be used in wet or damp environments, which makes them ideal for cards used for access control.
Security
Plastic cards are also more secure than paper or cardboard cards. Plastic cards are difficult to duplicate, tamper with, or counterfeit which makes them ideal for applications such as credit and debit cards. Additionally, plastic cards can be printed with a variety of security features, such as holograms and barcodes, which makes them even more secure.
Affordability
Finally, plastic cards are also more affordable than paper or cardboard cards. The upfront costs of printing and manufacturing plastic cards are not as high as paper or cardboard cards, making them the preferred choice for many applications. Additionally, the longer lifespan of plastic cards means that they are more cost-effective in the long run.
Pros Cons of Plastic Cards
While plastic cards offer many features and benefits, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered before deciding to use them.
Pros
- Durable
- Secure
- Affordable
Cons
- Some plastic cards require special equipment to print
- Can be challenging to carry large numbers of plastic cards
- Can be prone to wear and tear over time, depending on usage
Real-World Case Studies
Plastic cards are used in a variety of applications in the real world. Here are two examples of companies using plastic cards to improve their operations:
Point of Sale Terminal Company
A point of sale terminal company wanted to reduce the number of paper receipts they issued to customers. They decided to issue loyalty cards, printed on plastic, to customers that could be scanned at the point of sale terminal to track purchases and reward customers for their loyalty. This allowed the company to save money on paper receipts and improve customer loyalty.
Retail Store Chain
A retail store chain wanted to reduce the cost of shipping gift cards to customers. They decided to print plastic cards with a unique barcode that could be scanned in store to redeem the gift card. This allowed the store chain to eliminate shipping costs and improve customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are plastic cards more secure than paper or cardboard cards?
Yes, plastic cards are more secure than paper or cardboard cards. Plastic cards are difficult to counterfeit and can be printed with security features such as holograms and barcodes, which makes them ideal for credit and debit cards.
Can plastic cards be used in wet or damp environments?
Yes, plastic cards are made from PVC, which is waterproof, making them ideal for applications such as access cards.
Mistakes People Make
When it comes to using plastic cards, there are some common mistakes that people make. Here are some of the most common:
- Not testing the plastic cards for durability.
- Ignoring security features such as holograms or barcodes.
- Not researching different printing techniques/materials.
- Not accounting for the long-term cost of plastic cards.
Best Practices
To make sure you get the most out of your plastic cards, it is important to follow some best practices. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Test your plastic cards for durability.
- Take advantage of security features such as holograms and barcodes.
- Research multiple printing techniques and materials to find the best fit your needs.
- Always consider the long-term cost of plastic cards.
Conclusion
Plastic cards are a great way to improve the efficiency of operations and increase customer satisfaction. They provide a range of features and benefits, such as durability and security, as well as being more affordable in the long run. However, there are some drawbacks, such as needing special equipment to print, and there are some mistakes that people make when using plastic cards. By understanding the features and benefits of plastic cards, as well as following best practices, you can make sure you get the most out of your plastic cards.
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