Trade Show TalesBlog

Posts Tagged ‘Exhibit Design Search’

Word on the Street — September 20 thru September 24

September 26th, 2010 COMMENTS
Why we participate in the TS2 Show

Word on the Street by Kevin Carty

Survey Results and Responses — Part 1 of 2

Our thanks to everyone who participated in the recent Classic Exhibits survey. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. I know surveys can be a nuisance, but the data and the comments you shared will not fall on deaf ears. Much to the contrary. Like surveys of the past, we use this information to keep evolving as a company. So again, thanks!

I’ll share many of your questions and comments over the next two weeks where I’ll answer and/or describe how we plan to address them.

In no particular order . . .

Can I work with one particular Project Manager who gets to know me and how I work as opposed to going through “Projects” and getting  a different person each time?

Answer – Most certainly! It’s always your choice. If you would rather work with one dedicated Project Manager, please let us know, and we will make sure that person handles all your quotes and orders. Really the only potential pitfall is if that PM is overloaded, it may take him or her a bit longer to get back to you. But if that is the case, you can always use someone else for that particular project.

With so much aluminum extrusion out there these days, I would like to see designs that get away from “highlighting” the extrusion so much. I don’t want it to go away, but I would like to minimize how much is actually seen.

Answer – We have heard this from several distributors and have started to readdress many existing designs and transform them into SEGUE kits. SEGUE kits use MODUL TSP profiles that utilize Silicon Edge Graphics (SEG). This offers the best of both worlds — Hybrid Design with less exposed metal. Please do a search in the Visionary Designs gallery for SEGUE kits to see the full assortment.

Training Boot Camp at Classic! I would like to see this happen at the Classic facility. Two days of intensive training.

Answer – Great idea! We do this “one-on-one” or in small groups currently which is effective, but I agree that a larger group provides a different and much needed group learning dynamic. It also ensures you face-to-face time with the Classic team. We will schedule this in 2011.

Personally, I would rather know that you are very busy with quotes and designs and know that it will take longer than normal to get something from Design or Project Management. If it is going to take 5 days, then I would rather know that. Whether I like it or not. But sometimes I am told that I can have something in “standard” time only to have it show up a day or two late.

Answer – To be frank, most of the blame falls directly on Senior Management. We set a very high level of expectation when we meet with Distributors. And at the end of the day, especially in the busy season, I think we set our PM’s up for failure. For example, currently we are slammed with business — Quotes, Designs, Orders, etc. and on some days it is just not possible for a PM or a designer to hold the line when it comes to turnaround times.

Both PM’s and Designers have echoed your comment, especially during the busy season. We will try to better set the proper expectation both internally and externally. After all, we would much rather that you are pleasantly surprised by an early delivery than disappointed by a delay.

Classic needs a better process for allowing Distributors and Designers the ability to access DXF’s and other design files. While you do have an FTP site, the bulk of what is in Exhibit Design Search is not available there.

Answer – While I can’t promise a “quick” fix, I will say that there were several comments regarding this topic. Many of you even said that you didn’t wanted to burden our Design Dept. with routine requests, and with proper access to the files, your in-house design team could do much of the designing especially for kits.

This will be a longer process to bring up to date and fix, but we will meet about how to best address this challenge.

I wish I could opt-out of certain galleries on my Exhibit Design Search site.

Answer – Actually you can (within reason). Please contact Mel when you have time and he can explain the procedure.

Next week, I’ll respond to more questions and comments and review many of the statistical results from the survey.

Be well and have a wonderful week.

–Kevin Carty

http://twitter.com/kevin_carty
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/kevin-carty/3/800/32a

FAQ — Exhibit Design Search

September 15th, 2010 COMMENTS

So you think you know Exhibit Design Search? I’m sure you do, but just in case you need a refresher, here are several Frequently Asked Questions about EDS, the world’s largest database of exhibit designs.

Exhibit Design Search from Classic Exhibits

Exhibit Design Search from Classic Exhibits

1. What is Exhibit Design Search?

Exhibit Design Search (EDS) is a comprehensive display database and search tool. There’s nothing even remotely close anywhere in the world. With EDS, you can select from over 1500 designs, ranging from banner stands to 50’ x 50’ Islands, to find the perfect display for your budget and your marketing objectives.

But EDS is much more than just a database of exhibit designs. You’ll find over 40 articles about trade show marketing, tips on installation, cord management, freight, over 2000 exhibit photos, exhibit specials, and Frequently Asked Questions about products and services.

2. With over 1500 displays in Exhibit Design Search, where do I start?

Here’s what customers tell us:

Products:  Some customers know what they want. They are searching for a specific product, such as a banner stand, pop up, or hanging sign.  In those cases, they search the appropriate product gallery.  Within the product gallery, they refine their search by Booth Size or Price Range.

Prices: Other customers have a budget and a booth size but don’t know what they want. They are looking for ideas. Depending on your budget, there could be hundreds of choices. Once you find several ideas that appeal to you, click on the appropriate Category within the Design Details page. You’ll see similar ideas.

To narrow you search from the start, click on Show Product Galleries on the EDS Home Page. Then deselect those product categories which do not apply. This will refine your search to just those galleries which apply.

Sizes: Searching by size can be overwhelming, particularly for common booth sizes such as 10’ x 10’ and 10’ x 20’ exhibits. When searching by size, you will want to quickly refine your search by prices or products.

Text: Alphanumeric searches can be very powerful, especially in combination with sizes, prices, and products. On its most basic level, you can search for “conference rooms” or “lightboxes” for example. Or, you can search for specific kits, such as “VK-1032” (be sure to include the hyphen). We’re often asked about a kit by company name shown on graphic. Unfortunately, the company name is rarely identified in the design details so it is best to search by product features or the kit number.

3. Where can I see photos of the designs?

Exhibit Design Search contains an extensive photo database of over 2000 display photos. For many designs, there are multiple photos, and new photos are added every day. On most designs, you’ll see “See Photo(s)” in the additional images gallery. See Photo(s) links to photos of that kit or product line.

You can also search for photos by clicking on the “Photo” menu button. This will take you to Past Five Days, a daily showcase of images. In Past Five Days, you can search by week or by size. Or if you have a little time to waste, you can click on the “Randomizer” button. This button will randomly show you photos from the past four years. It’s actually very entertaining.

Use the “Email Image” or “Send Me More Information” if you want to share a photo or request additional information.

Sacagawea VK-1231 Hybrid Display

Sacagawea VK-1231 Display

4. What are the benefits of the My Gallery feature?

With My Gallery, you can build a library of your favorite designs (Think of it as a shopping cart but without the e-commerce functionality).

There’s no limit to the number of designs your can add to My Gallery. Need more information about multiple designs? Add them to My Gallery and click on the Send Me More Information or Request a Design tabs, You can even email them to one or multiple addresses. And, whenever you email a design, you will be cc’d so you have a record of the email.

The designs will remain available until you clear the gallery or clear the cookies on your computer.

5. What other features are available in Exhibit Design Search?

  • Top 12: A convenient slide show showing some of the most popular displays.
  • Quick Ship:  Displays available to ship in 8 Days or Less. Don’t see exactly what you want? Give a call and we’ll do everything possible to accommodate your needs. 
  • Exhibit Specials:  Deals on displays. This changes frequently so be sure to check back at least once a month.
  • Trade Show Tips:  Over 40 helpful articles written as a primer for the trade show novice or as a reminder for the trade show warrior.  
  • Frequently Asked Questions:  You know what this is all about my friend. If you don’t see an answer to your question, send us an email or give us a call.

6. I have a question about a display. What is the next step?

Send us an email using “Send Me More Information” located on every Product Detail page. We’ll respond within 24 business hours (or less). Or give us a call.

7. I’m new to trade shows and have lots of questions about exhibit marketing. Where should I start?

Frankly, the biggest danger for most trade show novices is too much information. There’s a lot of information about trade show marketing on the Internet, much of it with conflicting messages. You need to find the path that works for your goals and your budget. Here are three excellent resources.

1. Trade Show Tips:  This article database was designed primarily for the novice. The trade show marketing articles walk you through topics such as exhibit design, exhibit services, lead management, designer selection, and display tips. In addition, the articles will familiarize you with trade show terms like drayage and booth selection. There are over 40 articles, all easily digestible in a short time.

2. Industry Sites:  Trade show industry websites, which include publications, research websites, and associations, contain vast libraries of articles, white papers, and case histories. If you’re a person who likes to dive into the deep end of the pool, this is where you want to go.

3. Your Local Exhibit Consultant: There’s no better source for practical advice about trade show marketing than your local exhibit professional. They’ve handled hundreds of customers and thousands of shows over the years. They know what works and what doesn’t work. By working with a local exhibit consultant, you’ll sidestep the mistakes that many new exhibits make and maximize your Return on Investment for each show. After all, you aren’t participating in a trade show for the free pens and notepads. You’re there to boost sales and make contacts. Rely on a local exhibit consultant to guide you to trade show success from the very start.

Next. Rental Displays and Options

FAQ — Banner Stands

September 9th, 2010 COMMENTS

Pronto Banner Stand

Pronto Banner Stand

Banner stands are everywhere:  retail stores, trade shows, conventions, churches, lobbies, and sporting events. I’m starting to think some folks even have them in their homes (“Bathroom — Third Door on the Left” or “Please Remove Your Shoes in the Family Room”).  Still a little confused about your banner stand options? Me too! Here’s a quick FAQ about banner stands from Exhibit Design Search.

1. I searched “banner stands” on the Internet and found some really inexpensive ones and some really expensive ones. I also noticed many different features and options. How do I choose?

The old adages are true – “You get what you pay for” and “If it’s too good to be true, well, then it probably is.”

If you plan to use a stand once and throw it away, then consider a “hot deal.” But if you need something more permanent, then your decision should be based on graphic quality, style, activity, travel considerations, environmental impact, graphic changes, and durability. If you are looking for a high-quality product with a lifetime warranty and graphic quality, then select the banner stands in our gallery.

The stand you choose will represent your brand. It should look good with straight and vibrant graphics and an attractive, stable, and undamaged base.

2. Why are fabric graphics, instead of vinyl graphics, suggested for most mid-grade and premium banner stands?

Why spend good money on a banner stand and then put a low-end graphic on it? Vinyl graphics are fine for some uses, especially long-term outdoor situations (such as an outdoor pole-mounted application), but they are usually not the highest quality. Even if the printing is top-notch, a vinyl banner has a tendency to curl. In contrast, a fabric banner will hold its shape even under tension.

Fabric banners also look better with warm colors, textures, and no glare. Several choices, including recycled fabric, make it the most versatile option anddepending on the banner stand, photo graphic using the Lambda process may be the best option. Lambda offers photographic continuous tones.

3. Can I ship a Little Giant case?

Yes and no. No, the case cannot be shipped strictly speaking; however, if you retain the original cardboard carton, it can be used to ship the case. The Little Giant is a great rolling portable case that can be checked for air travel but it is not a standard shipping case.

4. Which one of the banner stands can I use on a table?

Depending on height limits, any banner stand could be placed on a table. For most trade shows and recruiting events full height banners are inappropriate.

The Pronto retractable banner stand includes a three-segmented bungee attached mast. When the banner is attached to the mast at one-segment or two-segment height, this stand makes a perfect companion to your table throw. Combine two or three units for full backwall. The available graphic templates help your designer layout the graphic to the proper heights.

5. What kind of light can I use on a banner stand?

All our banner stands accept a light. These can be found in the product accessories section or give us a call.

6. My last banner stand graphic had a lot of glare. Is this normal?

(See the question #2 regarding fabric banners)

Not if you use fabric banners. Fabric banners are much better at eliminating glare, showing warm colors, and revealing textures especially in well lit environments.

7. What is the warranty on banner stands?

All banner stands have a lifetime warranty on all hardware products. The policy applies to original purchaser. No product registration is required. We will replace or repair all hardware supplied to our customers purchased after 7/7/09. However, we reserve the right to inspect hardware and exclude warranty claims that have resulted from vandalism, theft, negligence, fire, natural disasters, modifications, or losses in shipment that may be covered by your insurance and/or freight carrier. The lifetime hardware warranty does not apply to graphics or to electrical components.

All shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.

Next FAQ posting, Eco-Smart Displays.

Exhibit Design Search — Super Cool New Features!

August 20th, 2010 COMMENTS

Announcing Two New Features in Exhibit Design Search (EDS)

Frequently Asked Questions in EDS

1. Frequently Asked Questions

We created FAQ’s for all the galleries in Exhibit Design Search. These questions are intended for end-users, but there’s beneficial information for distributors as well.

Here’s an example (from the Counters and Pedestals FAQ):

Question:  Holy Moly! I just glanced through the Counters and Pedestals. There are almost 200 styles. How do I narrow it down?

Answer:  Your first step is to identify what features you need. Do you need internal storage? How about graphics? Do you want laminate, aluminum, or fabric surfaces?

Next, narrow it down by price, if for no other reason than to see the differences between a $1200 pedestal and a $3500 counter. Don’t see exactly what you want? No problem. As you can tell, we love to design new ones.

The FAQ’s are organized in the same order as the EDS galleries to make searching easier. We also included a Frequently Asked Questions link on the Design Detail of every kit. These links connect to appropriate FAQ gallery.

Last but not least, we added an “Ask a Question” option so customers can contact you directly from your EDS website, or you can contact us from the Classic Exhibits EDS.

2. Thumbnail Magnifier

Hover over any thumbnail in EDS, except the thumbnails on the Home Page, and a larger, magnified image will now appear. The magnified image makes it easier to see details without having to click on the display thumbnail. It’s pretty darn cool, and it’s one more reason your customers will linger a little longer on your EDS website.

We encourage you to explore both of these new features in Exhibit Design Search. Let us know if there are questions you would like us to include in the FAQ, and we eagerly await your comments on the new thumbnail magnifier.

–Mel White

http://www.linkedin.com/in/melmwhite
mel@classicexhibits.com
Classic Exhibits Network (LinkedIn)

Classic Exhibits Partners with NVP Exhibits in Australia

August 13th, 2010 COMMENTS

Portland, Oregon – Classic Exhibits Inc., a designer of portable, modular, and hybrid displays, has granted NVP Exhibits (Nouveau Productions) the exclusive distribution rights to Australia. Based in Sydney, NVP has representation in Canberra, Melbourne, Cairns, and Perth. As part of the distribution agreement, NVP added Exhibit Design Search to their website. Exhibit Design Search is Classic’s comprehensive exhibit design search engine with over 1500 designs, 2000 photos, and 43 trade show tips.

According to Gill Keinan, owner of NVP Exhibits, “We are delighted to represent Classic’s upscale designs. Classic’s hybrid products are the most innovative designs we’ve seen anywhere in the world. Recently, a client purchased a modified Sacagawea Hybrid, and after receiving it, was so excited they decided to use it for all their events and have ordered additional graphics.”

“NVP Exhibits is a tremendous addition to our expanding international distributor network,” said Mel White, VP of Marketing and Business Development at Classic. “Gill and his team share our design and customer service values, and our employees have genuinely enjoyed working with them. After all, it’s not often a distributor calls us ‘mate’. We are excited to have a dedicated distributor in Australia who can handle graphics and I&D for our distributors when their clients head ‘Down Under’.”

As part of the partnership, Classic Exhibits modified Exhibit Design Search to reflect prices in Australian Dollars and booth sizes in metric.

************

Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs a full-line of portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions. These solutions include the Perfect 10 Portable Hybrid Displays, Euro LT Custom Modular Exhibits, Quadro Pop-ups, Visionary Designs, and Sacagawea Hybrid Displays.

For more information, go to www.classicexhibits.com or contact Mel White at mel@classicexhibits.com or 503.652.2100.

Based in Sydney, NSW, Australia, NVP Exhibits offers a complete line of exhibit and graphics solutions. These solutions include a full range of portable and modular exhibits, project management, install/dismantle services, and large format printing as well promotional brochures. For more information, go to www.nvp.com.au or contact Gill Keinan at gill@nvp.com.au.