Project Overview
UW-Madison last updated the Wiscard in 2008. The current Wiscard ID uses technologies (proximity, magnetic stripe, and barcode) that are no longer secure and can easily be cloned.
This project will replace the current Wiscard with a more secure ID that uses near-field communication (NFC – the same tap-to-pay technology used in smartphones) and provide an improved and modernized experience for students and staff.
Key Objectives
- Increase Security: Implement NFC technology to reduce misuse, fraud, and security risks.
- Support Innovation: Leverage current technologies to enhance everyday functions across campus.
- Promote Sustainability: Reduce the environmental impact of plastic ID cards.
- Enhance Campus Experience: Streamline access to buildings, events, and other campus services.
Why the New Wiscard Matters to You:
- Students: A more convenient and secure way to manage access to campus resources and services.
- Faculty & Staff: Easier access to campus facilities and streamlined processes for buildings, events, and other campus services.
- Campus Operations: Reduced administrative burden in the production, replacement, and maintenance of Wiscard IDs.
- Security: Improved security with advanced encryption and centralized control over access and data management.
Where are we now:
The formal project began in December 2024. However, some work was completed prior in order to prepare for this transition. As of June 2024, the UWPD team has successfully updated all door access points to support the new Wiscard ID technology. The project team is currently focused on preparing the new Wiscard ID for testing with other campus service areas. A comprehensive outreach effort continues to identify and document key campus services in order to support this transition.
Project Milestones:
- Prepare Wiscard ID (Mobile and Physical) – In progress
- Campus Service Readiness (Use Cases) – In progress
- Marketing/Communications Campaign Readiness – In progress
- Wiscard ID Pilot (Beta) – Not Started
- Readiness Checklist – In progress
- Remaining cardholders – phased approach over an 18-to-24-month period. – Upcoming
Stakeholder Roles & Responsibilities
- Student Affairs/Faculty Support: Provide feedback on usability and student/faculty needs to ensure the system is user-friendly.
- IT & Security: Oversee the technical development, data feed, service readiness, and ensure the security and scalability of the new Wiscard ID platform.
- Campus Facilities/Operations: Collaborate on integrating the new Wiscard ID with existing campus services and building access points.
- Communications & Outreach: Help spread awareness about the project and ensure all stakeholders are informed of updates.
What’s Next?
- Campus service areas will be contacted individually once the test IDs and new readers are prepared. The project team will work with your area to provide support when updating your services to accommodate the new Wiscard IDs. If you are not sure if you are one of those campus service areas, please email wiscard@union.wisc.edu.
FAQ’s
- What is the implementation date of the new Wiscard (Mobile and Physical)?
The current target for the initial rollout of the new Wiscard is still being determined, but it is mainly dependent on the completion of technical updates and campus service readiness.
- When will faculty, staff, and the remaining students be issued the new Wiscard ID?
It is expected that it will take 18-24 months to completely replace all existing campus IDs.