Checking IDs isn’t the most exciting or sexiest part of owning a nightclub or bar, but it is a requirement and can also be a huge asset to your venue. Rather than thinking about it as a way of crossing your T’s and dotting your I’s, think of it as an additional way to reduce liability, enhance security, and better provide personalization to your guests. All three of these are possible when you use the right system.
Reduce Liability
It’s required by law that IDs are checked for every person seeking to enter a bar or nightclub who reasonably appears to be less than 21 years of age, with many states highly recommending to ID anyone under the age of 35. Many police departments also recommend ID scanning technology be used since it reduces human error and shows a higher level of compliance. After all, with continuous updates to government-issued IDs and advancements in the creation of fraudulent IDs, it’s neither smart nor fair to leave the burden of identifying outdated or fraudulent identification with your doormen. Once a minor is approved and served, litigation may be right around the corner.
While legal repercussions vary by state and circumstances, the license holder found in violation of alcohol furnishing laws can receive anything from a fine to a suspension to a revocation of their liquor license. This liability begins with the first drink. It doesn’t matter whether or not a minor exhibits signs of intoxication, if there’s alcohol in the blood system, then your nightclub is liable. And should your license get revoked, you’ll have to wait at least six months before you can apply for another, which will likely be more difficult and costly due to the revocation on your record.
Maintain a Secure Environment
Not only can a digital ID scanning system deter minors from entering your venue, they can also mitigate risks associated with unlawful incidents while recording who is entering the establishment. And with an advanced ID scanning system like Vēmos, this allows you to keep track of anyone who has caused a disturbance at your venue, to always have your 86 list digitally available regardless of who’s working the door, and have access to a city-wide ban list to keep your venue safe.
This tool acts as your guide to better decision making for a process that’s mandatory. Maintaining a secure environment minimizes costs associated with insurance, repairs, fines, and enforcement. What’s more, it provides an enjoyable atmosphere for your patrons, which translates to a more profitable establishment.
Improve Customer Relationships
The least obvious reason for considering a digital ID scanning system is perhaps the most beneficial for your long-term relationship with your guests. Better data means better business, and better business starts with great customer service. The more you know about your customers, the better you can communicate with them and develop lasting relationships.
When you use a digital ID scanning system, you’re able to collect information in the blink of an eye, such as customer demographics, frequency of visits, male-to-female ratio, and customer contact information. And when this is tied to your CRM system, this information leads to better communication, management and, ultimately, profit, as you’re able to provide personalized experiences to every guest who walks through your door.