Digital Campus

Redesigning the university ID card experience, creating an eco-friendly, digital solution that enhances campus accessibility and sustainability.

Time
2023 - 2024

Platform
Mobile

Area
User Research, Interaction Design

The Opportunities

A more digital, sustainable campus

Whether you're a student, academic, or professional staff, the university ID card is vital for campus life. It grants access to facilities, library services, printing, photocopying, travel, and special discounts. In 2023, an ambitious initiative began aiming to provide an eco-friendly ID card solution and a revolutionary experience. Our goal is to introduce a digital and innovative campus life across the extensive uni community, promoting accessibility and sustainability.

Find more on the university's Digital cards page.

Design challenges we met

  • Different departments within the University issued separate ID cards to maintain security, comply with regulations, etc.

  • Limited opportunity for customisation of the product (off-the-shelf system from the vendor)

  • The legacy technical issues from Identity Management created integration challenges.

  • The transition process can be disruptive and require careful planning to avoid access & process disruptions.

Highlights

Onboarding

New students or staff will receive card application invitations via email. Furthermore, students can access these invitations within the Sydney Uni mobile app. Once the application is approved, users can promptly activate the digital version on their mobile devices. This enables them to utilise campus facilities such as the library and buildings, even before receiving their physical cards.

Multiple touch points during onboarding to start ID card application.

Apply for a new card

The card application process is streamlined to take only five minutes. We have optimised user experience by pre-filling basic information through integration with our Identity Management system. Users simply follow instructions to upload required documents, such as their Proof of Identity and personal photos. A privacy statement is displayed for user confirmation, reinforcing our commitment to data security.

A responsive application form is designed for different screen sizes.

Install digital cards

To maintain brand consistency, we designed the digital cards to closely resemble our current physical card design, establishing a robust and lasting brand identity. The digital card can be added to various mobile devices.

Digital card mockup

Digital card on various mobile devices

Student card (physical)

Staff card (physical)

Benefits

Swift & Simpler card application

We moved the entire card application process online, sparing students and staff from the hassle of downloading, filling out, and sending forms. This also eliminates the need to return for selecting the delivery method.

Enhanced Accuracy

With fewer complex steps along the process, assisting with advanced technology, the likelihood of errors in the application process decreases, ensuring accurate information.

User-centred onboarding journey

This straightforward solution offers users the convenience of applying from anywhere, and reduces confusion for card applicants, contributing to a positive onboarding experience.

Efficiency & resource allocation

It saved time and effort for both the Card Application Team and the Student Centre Team. Professional staff can focus on more valuable activities, contributing to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

Digital ID, sustainable campus

A digital card provides swift access to campus facilities and resources, and reduces the stress of replacements. It enhances overall engagement and aligns with sustainability goals.

Improved reputation

By making the process easier and introducing digital IDs, we demonstrate ourselves as a contemporary, effective, environmentally aware, and user-centred institution that highly regards innovation and security.

Future goals 🏃🏻‍♂️

  • Improve students’ daily experience with access to campus facilities.

  • Enable more usage via student cards, e.g., payment, gym and lockers.

  • Collaborate with buildings requiring special access controls, e.g., Labs and clinics.

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