Face Technologies, a subsidiary of IT solutions provider arivia.kom, and SyGade, a developer of electronic payment and mobile commerce products, have signed an agreement which will see SyGade manufacturing a mobile drivers` licence verification device.
Arivia.kom`s Niche Markets division commissioned Johannesburg-based SyGade to develop the product, which will be marketed across the continent and globally.
George Stander, managing executive of the Niche Market division, explains that the compact device with a built-in scanner allows law enforcement officers to scan the driver`s licence card at the roadside.
The bar code is decrypted and displayed on screen, allowing officers to verify the driver`s information. Key information can then be sent to the central database and the mobile reader can also retrieve information from the database.
Stander says various other applications are possible with further development, including the issuing of infringement notices and the payment of fines on the spot. The device will also be able to communicate with the National Traffic Information System.
"The Department of Transport required mobile licence card readers for law enforcement officers. After embarking on an unsuccessful fact-finding mission across the world in search of a suitable solution, it became apparent that if the world could not help us, we needed to see if SA could create its own solution," says Stander.
Gerhard Mynhardt, MD of SyGade, explains the concept: "Challenge motivates us. When others can`t do something, we like to climb in and develop a solution. What is also so exciting is that the device can pay for itself by generating revenue through the electronic payment of fines on the spot.
"Additional benefits include enhancing safety on the roads via the availability of instant law enforcement intelligence and information. The inherent functionality will also assist in reducing fraud and corruption."
The partnership also envisages supplying the device to companies such as car rental agencies which need to perform drivers` licence checks on a regular basis.
Local traffic authorities will be in possession of the crime-busting device by December.
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