Business Cards

Introduction

Cards which provide information about a company or an individual are called business cards. This card is often used during sales calls and intial business meetings. The modern business card was developed as a fusion of traditional trade card and visiting cards. Business cards started gaining in popularity from the 17th century, starting in London. It was supposed to be a business and status symbol among the upper middle class, in particular among traders and merchants.
Identifying features

Some of the identifying features of a business card are: the name and title of the person represented, the company name and company logo, which proves the holders affiliation to that company and contact information like street address(es), telephone number(s), e-mail address(es) and website address(es).
Business Card Appearance

Conventionally, business cards were designed by simple black text on white background. Today business cards have evolved to include a range of cards, including glossy UV-coats or textured matt finishes, full colour, and non-standard cuts and shapes. Business cards can even double as mini-CDs with data about the holder's company.

A Brief History of the Business Card

A business card can be thought of as the mixture of a visiting card and a trade card. Visiting cards first emerged in China in the 15th century and then spread throughout Europe in the 17th century. The visiting card was used as symbol of status and sophistication among the elite. Ultimately, it became an essential commodity to the upper-middle class gentlemen. Then came trade cards in the beginning of 17th century in London, used merchants as an advertising tool. With the passage of time this trade card gradually became a business card through design modifications, and ultimately fused with visiting cards to become the ubiquitous modern business card..
Usage

Business cards are mainly used by business people, officials, entrepreneurs and small Office / Home Office (SOHO) professionals, although some people use this card for their personal contact information - the modern equivalent of a visiting card.
Card Size

The international standard size specified by ISO 7810 ID-1 is 85.60 × 53.98 mm (3.370 × 2.125 in) The size sometimes differs by country. Modern business cards come in a variety of types, shapes and standards, particularly in creative and marketing industries where differentiation is more important than standardisation..

A business card creation process must clarify the holders name, title, company logo, and contact information for all members of that organisation. The card type, size, color scheme and layout should be standardized across all offices and countries.

Business Card Holders get additional benefits from the use of the card. Sometimes a business card can sit in a contacts Rolodex for years. Then it might jog the memory of the business associate, and one phone call could lead to a large deal being struck.

How to go about creating the right business card for you or your organisation.