The year when names were rubbing off the name plates in the field led to one of the most stressful periods I can remember in business. We had to find a solution.
We went back to the research and development team to try many different tactics. The first round led us to the world of metal coatings; there are millions of different chemical combinations that coat and protect metal. Keeping in mind that our users loved simplicity, adding a step that involved brushing on a chemical coating seemed just wrong, so we continued our search.
At the time, around 1996, “green” and “sustainable” were words that were taking on greater significance in the marketplace. Underneath both headers, reusability was quickly becoming a positive attribute and feature of all internal supplies. In a moment of absolute clarity we realized that whatever came next, the attribute and feature of reusability had to be retained and become a cornerstone of future name badge systems.
Working on many options at once, we finally came up with the idea of a crystal clear cover that would snap on and off the badge easily, enabled the name badge to be reused again and again. Once the prototype was completed, and the concept proved to be not only a workable solution, but a product that added value, we moved forward and have never looked back.
Today the lens cover is one of our signature products! Our lenscover projects the image on the badge and protects it, but best of all our name badges are completely reusable and a great option for companies that want a durable, elegant AND green option.
In summary, our first name badge system, The Imprinter +, experienced a challenging yet exciting start leading to an innovative final solution. The team earned sleepless nights, grey hairs and a clarifying strategic direction for the future!
Tags: lens covers, name badges