Technology Center

The FSUCard Center, an extension of the Card Application Technology Center (CATC), began in 1985 when it initiated the development of the FSUCard at The Florida State University (FSU). Since 1985, FSU has been enhancing its identification card, which is now equipped with a fully functional integrated circuit chip. Through the efforts of CATC, the FSUCard is regarded as a national leader in campus card-related systems -- and FSU was the first university to implement a photo ID card with a multi-application integrated circuit chip. CATC was the first to develop and demonstrate many of the innovations that characterize the future of university campus "one-cards" utilizing administrative, academic, financial, and informational services. CATC has helped implement advanced card systems for numerous of other educational institutions throughout the country and agencies of the State of Florida.

Today, the staff at the CATC provides tours of the university's campus highlighting the applications and facilities where the FSUCard is used. Educating other higher education institutions on the benefits of a fully functional smart card ID program is our top priority. The vision for the CATC is to be recognized throughout higher education as the leader in multi-functional smart card platform technologies and services. We will fulfill this mission by focusing on the following objectives: 1) to continually develop and enhance a one-card system that promotes the use of university services and facilities; 2) to issue the FSUCard to all authorized FSU affiliates in a secure, efficient and professional manner; 3) to establish the FSUCard platform and services as the preferred method for students, faculty and staff to conduct business both at FSU and in the community; and 4) to share our research, knowledge and experience with our colleagues in higher education.

With guidance from the CATC, FSU with its reputation for being a leader in technology and for having innovative thinking administrators, serves as the ideal pilot site for testing smart card applications. By building relationships with fore-thinking business partners, we have positioned the FSUCard at the forefront of electronic commerce by offering consumers an efficient, convenient and secure means of performing a wide variety of services. The FSUCard's future is bright and exciting, yet will require continued support and vision from all involved to succeed as the most sought-after card technology in the university environment.