Creating a personalized membership card can be a hassle for business owners, and the membership process, from design to distribution, can be time-consuming and confusing.
The transition from paper to digital cards adds another layer of complexity, as you have to ensure the cards are compatible with various digital platforms and easy for your members to use.
PassKit offers a seamless solution to these challenges. With PassKit, you can create digital membership cards that are visually appealing and work with Apple and Google Wallet.
In the following sections, you’ll find step-by-step instructions on designing, distributing, and managing digital membership cards with significant cost savings.
These guidelines will help streamline your membership management and improve member engagement more effectively.
What is a digital membership card?
A digital membership card is an electronic version of a traditional physical card. Customers can store these cards on their smartphones. Unlike plastic cards, they are contactless and can integrate with digital wallets.
This makes them easy to access and hard to lose. Digital cards also allow for quick updates without needing to issue new physical cards.
QR code membership cards are popular in many industries, including gyms, coffee shops, and clubs. For businesses, they improve customer engagement and loyalty.
PassKit replaces the need for cumbersome physical cards, offering a modern, flexible, and efficient solution for memberships and loyalty programs.
Start a 45-day free trial to see how it works.
How to create digital membership cards with PassKit
PassKit is the leading mobile wallet service provider offering an advanced membership card system to create, manage and distribute scannable membership cards via diverse online and offline channels.
Your customers can store these club membership cards in their mobile wallets and use them whenever at your business.
Think of it as your one-stop shop for bringing your membership program into the digital age. Let’s show you how to make membership cards in minutes without coding or design skills.
Sign up and start a 45-day free trial
First, sign up for a 45-day free trial. It lets you explore the features and tools for creating digital membership cards without immediate cost and learn more about the platform.
After the trial period, you can switch to our pay-as-you-go pricing without contracts and qualify for discounts as your business grows. Pricing starts at $39.50 monthly for 250 membership cards.
Choose a membership card template from the Pass Designer
After logging in to our digital membership card app, go to the Pass Designer, where you can choose one of the pre-made card templates that meet Apple and Google guidelines.
The drag-and-drop visual editor and customizable templates allow you to create your own membership card in minutes, eliminating the need to hire developers or designers.
All changes are visible in real time. Our digital membership card software is beginner-friendly and cost-effective.
Customize the design and branding
Next, add your personal touch. Customize colors and logo to match your brand and make the card visually appealing and instantly recognizable to your membership database.
The goal is to make your card look uniquely yours while keeping it functional.
Add QR code and membership details
Drag and drop advanced fields on the card and input member details such as their first name, gender, contact details, program name and membership level.
You can also add the expiration date and a QR code or barcode to the card to facilitate quick scanning and verification, improving the overall user experience for members and staff.
Distribute your digital membership cards
Use the multichannel distribution system to share mobile membership cards through email, website, SMS, or social media. You can also print the QR code on marketing materials for easy scanning. It ensures your members receive their cards quickly and can use them immediately.
Boost customer engagement
PassKit offers powerful engagement tools through its push notification and location-based alert features, allowing you to communicate with your members at the right moment.
- You can send targeted messages to specific member segments
- Update pass information remotely
- Remind members of expiring offers or upcoming events
- Encourage engagement with time-sensitive promotions
- Display relevant passes on the iPhone lock screen based on the user’s location
- Trigger notifications when members are near your physical locations
- Offer location-specific deals or information
- Improve the in-store experience by providing timely, relevant information
Remember: although these features are powerful, it’s important to use them cautiously to avoid overwhelming your members. Focus on providing value and relevance with each notification or alert.
Monitor and update card information
Update your digital membership cards at any time. Include new offers, update points balances, or change membership status without issuing new cards. It keeps your members engaged and informed.
Analyze membership program performance
Use PassKit to track the success of your membership program. Monitor enrollments, redemption rate and member activity. Discover the best customer acquisition channels and most popular mobile wallets. Calculate your ROI automatically.
Evaluate results daily, weekly and monthly or set custom dates. This data helps you make informed decisions to improve your program.
Start a 45-day free trial to experience the platform firsthand.
Who can use digital membership cards?
Digital membership cards aren’t just for one type of organization – they’re incredibly versatile! Let’s look at who’s jumping on this digital bandwagon and why.
Gyms and fitness studios
Gyms use digital membership cards to track attendance and offer promotions easily. These cards can store information about membership programs and allow gyms to provide personalized offers.
Retail stores
Retailers implement these cards to improve customer loyalty. Customers can receive rewards and track purchases through their digital membership card, which helps boost customer retention rates.
Community organizations
Nonprofits like community centers use digital membership cards to keep members engaged and informed about events. These cards simplify membership management and make information distribution easier.
Entertainment venues
Places like theaters or concert halls can issue these cards for season ticket holders, making it easier for them to update and share their benefits. Members can also receive event reminders and exclusive offers.
Health services
Some health service providers offer digital membership cards to patients, allowing them to easily access services, appointment reminders, and health tips.
Educational institutions
Schools and universities use digital membership cards for students and faculty, facilitating access to facilities, meal plans, and events. These cards simplify administrative tasks and improve campus life.
Clubs and associations
From book clubs to professional associations, digital membership cards help keep track of new members and activities. They provide easy access to membership benefits and event notifications.
8 Key benefits of digital membership cards
Let’s explore the top benefits that are making these virtual cards increasingly popular.
Always available on smartphones
Your members will love the convenience of having their membership cards always available on their smartphones. No more worrying about forgetting or losing physical cards.
Easy access to membership benefits
Digital membership cards make it simple for members to access their membership benefits. Discounts, exclusive offers, and event tickets are just a tap away.
Reduced printing and replacement costs
Switching to digital cards means you can save on printing and distribution costs. Plus, you’ll no longer need to replace lost or worn-out cards.
Digital card customization options for members
Allowing members to personalize their cards can improve their experience. They can add personal touches like photos or select from different designs.
Instant updates on benefits and promotions
You can send instant updates on new benefits or promotions with digital cards. It keeps your members engaged and informed in real-time.
Reduction of plastic waste
Reducing the need for physical cards helps cut down on plastic waste. Adopting digital cards shows you care about the environment. It is a small step towards more sustainable business practices.
High levels of security compared to physical cards
Using digital membership cards offer higher levels of security. Features like encryption and two-factor authentication keep your members’ information safe. Scannable cards streamline access and improve security even further.
Digital membership cards: The new normal
Digital membership cards are quickly becoming the standard in many industries. As businesses adopt new technology, traditional plastic cards are replaced by digital versions stored on mobile devices.
These cards offer the same benefits as physical ones but are more convenient and eco-friendly. You no longer need to carry separate cards for each subscription or membership; everything is on your smartphone.
With digital membership cards, communication improves. You can easily update customers about changes in membership status, points balances, or available offers.
Passive field communication is another advantage. QR codes and NFC (Near Field Communication) technology allow for seamless access and interaction. This makes things like checking into a facility or getting discounts faster and more efficient.
Businesses can swiftly adopt digital membership cards using PassKit. This platform simplifies the process, providing features for easy renewal, personalized offers, and loyalty program integration.
PassKit’s digital cards streamline operations and improve user experience. Members appreciate the ease of having everything in one place and the quick access to their benefits without hassle.
These cards also have a positive environmental impact, reducing the waste generated by plastic cards. It aligns with the growing commitment to sustainability in the business world.
Start a 45-day free trial now.
FAQs about the digital membership card
Let’s answer the most common questions about digital membership cards.
How to create a virtual membership card?
To create a virtual membership card with PassKit, log into the PassKit Portal, click on “Create New” from the My Projects page, follow the on-screen instructions to design your card, include necessary details, customize the appearance, and then distribute it via email, SMS, or other methods.
How do digital membership cards work?
Your smartphone stores digital membership cards, which you can access through a mobile wallet or a dedicated app. When you open your membership card, you can display a QR code or a barcode that can be scanned. These cards also allow businesses to track member activity and offer personalized rewards.
Does Costco have digital member cards?
Currently, Costco does not offer digital membership cards. Members are required to carry their physical membership cards when shopping at Costco warehouses. You can check their official website for any updates or new features related to digital membership options.
Is there an app for storing membership cards?
Yes, several apps allow you to store membership cards digitally. Popular options include Apple Wallet for iOS users and Google Wallet for Android users. These apps let you store various cards, including membership, loyalty, and event tickets, making them easily accessible on your smartphone.
