MINNETONKA, Minn., (BUSINESS WIRE), Jan. 14, 2003–New ID Works 4.0 software greatly enhances ID card programs Datacard Group today introduced their most enhanced version of their flagship identity software platform that includes more than 30 new or improved features, dramatically improving ID card program security and operator productivity. Many of the enhancements found in the new Datacard® ID Works® 4.0 Identification Software were designed in direct response to heightened security requirements in organizations ranging from multinational corporations and government agencies to schools and hospitals. “Our customers are demanding greater security, especially involving seamless biometric integration, without adding unnecessary complexity. We designed ID Works 4.0 to simplify capturing identity information, designing cards and managing identity databases,” said Martin Kearsley, senior vice president and general manager of Datacard’s software and solutions division. “The most exciting improvements, however, involve card program security.”

ID Works 4.0 users can incorporate fingerprints and other biometrics and greatly increase the security and functionality of employee badges, government IDs, student IDs, membership cards and other identification cards. The software also allows users to manipulate backgrounds, photos and graphics in ways that makes cards much more difficult to forge or alter.

In addition, the new version offers greater interoperability with a wider range of databases, integrated Datacard capture devices and Datacard card printers. A host of database management features also allow authorized users to update identity databases faster than ever.

The ID Works software platform consists of a suite of products that includes turnkey packages, modular packages and development tools. ID Works software may be a complete photo ID solution, the center of an integrated application that includes photo ID, or an ancillary piece of another identification solution.

“These enhancements strengthen ID Works’ position as the world’s premier identification software,” Kearsley said. “Our relentless commitment to improving this product allows us to anticipate market requirements and provide solutions that meet our customers’ precise security needs.”

About Datacard Group

Datacard Group provides software, systems and professional services needed to build profitable card programs. The company’s portfolio includes a complete line of smart card solutions, secure digital identity systems and card personalization systems. Datacard Group, which is privately held and based in Minnetonka, Minn., serves customers in more than 120 countries. (http://www.datacard.com).

CONTACT: Datacard Group, Minnetonka Kevin Gillick, 952/988-2846 kevin_gillick@datacard.com