JagCard usage increases, more features added
In October 2005, Augusta State introduced the JagCard, an identification card for students, faculty, and staff that incorporates access to campus services and resources. The card takes advantages of the new technology allowing it to also be used for purchases and services on campus. The JagCard is used as a form of identification to gain free or reduced admission to university programs, to check out books at Reese Library, to check out equipment at the Media Center and ITS, and to obtain other services on campus. It provides secure access for students in University Village since the gate has a reader installed that scans the card upon entry. This secured access is also being used at several campus buildings after normal hours of operation. The card is also similar to a bank debit card in that it may be used for purchases of services and products, once the user deposits funds into a JagCard account. “It provides a certain amount of protection for users since they don’t have to carry cash,” says Pam Lightsey, JagCard manager. The card may be used to pay fines at the library and Public Safety, as well as for printing services at the Copy Center and Media Services. Readers installed in the washers and dryers at University Village allow students to use their card there, as well as in some vending machines on campus. “We’ve seen the use of the card increase substantially,” she says. “In fact, there have been more than 95,000 swipes since July 2006, in the vending machines, food courts, and bookstore for purchases made with the JagCard. Over 2000 faculty, staff, and students had money on their card at the end of spring semester. Seventy-six faculty and staff members have money payroll deductions to add to their JagCard every pay period.” A new addition to the JagCard will be online access to check the card’s balance and to report when it has been lost or stolen. “This feature is currently being tested by a group of 25-35 people to make sure it works,” Ms. Lightsey says. “If all goes well, the online feature will be offered this fall.” Other News:
June 2007 |
