Discussion: Addressing More Persistent Scanability and Regional Scanning Trends
Following up on our earlier discussions about scannability, I wanted to address how scanning "trends" vary by region. We know that most vendors use AAMVA standards, but are there certain areas in the US, UK, or Canada where the scanning requirements are becoming more rigorous? I wanted to start a discussion about regional scannability trends and staying "pro-ready" in your area. How do we ensure our IDs scan everywhere?
First off, some jurisdictions are much faster at adopting the latest scanning technology than others. For example, some large cities now use systems that check the "checksums" and data sequencing much more thoroughly than the basic apps we use at home. Let’s talk about staying ahead of the curve. How do we find the most reliable IDs for our region?
Regional Scannability Trends to Watch
- Large Urban Centers: In cities like London, Toronto, or New York, the verification systems are often the most advanced. You need a top-tier vendor for these areas.
- Venue-Specific Scanners: High-end clubs and events often use proprietary hardware that is much more "picky" than standard mobile apps.
- New Design Adoption: When a jurisdiction updates its ID, they also update their scanning software. Make sure your vendor is using the *latest* encoding algorithms for the new designs.
I’ve always found that doing your own "rigorous" testing at home is the best defense. Use the most advanced apps you can find and look at the raw data strings. What have you noticed in your region? Are there any specific venues or areas where scanning has become more difficult lately? Let’s share our "regional scanning" findings and help everyone stay informed.
