Embedded Files
A simple but powerful way of marketing – introducing the Contact & Product Slate concept
In today's cluttered and throbbing communication landscape, dominated by WhatsApp and Messenger (WhatsApp gets 74% consumer usage in the UK) businesses can sometimes struggle to be heard. Cutting through the digital noise requires a fresh marketing approach – something that simultaneously bolsters sales, marketing efforts, and customer care. Enter David Lilley, a UK-based entrepreneur, with a clever invention: the Contact Slate and the Product Slate. These aren't your typical business cards or brochures. Lilley's brainchild leverages a familiar format – the PDF – and reimagines it for the mobile age.
The Clickable Advantage: Everything in one place
Lilley's new angle lies in transforming the static PDF into an interactive marketing tool. These portrait-sized images, (1080 x 1920) are optimised for smartphone screens, seeing the screen filled from top to bottom when received via popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, or SMS.
But what truly sets this pioneering invention apart?
The magic lies within – clickable links embedded directly into the PDF. PDF means Portable Document Format.
Imagine this scenario - a potential customer receives a Contact Slate showcasing your business. They see your phone number. Instead of the tedious task of manually entering the digits, a simple tap on the number within the PDF instantly opens their phone's dialler, ready for a direct connection.
The same intuitive functionality applies to email addresses and website links – a single click launches the email app or opens the website in the user's smartphone browser.
This seamless user experience eliminates friction and fosters effortless engagement.
Beyond Contact Information: A Multi-Functional Marketing Tool
Lilley's vision extends far beyond replacing traditional business cards. Contact Slates can transform into mini-websites that reside conveniently in a potential customer's pocket. You can easily incorporate captivating video links showcasing your product or service directly within the Slate. Free reports or informative articles can be linked, enticing users to delve deeper into your offerings. Landing pages on your website can be strategically placed, encouraging swift conversions. The possibilities are vast, allowing you to tailor the content to perfectly align with your specific marketing goals.
A Gift to Marketers: Democratising Effective Marketing Tools
When it comes to commercialisation, Lilley takes a refreshingly humble and open approach.
"There's no need to reinvent the wheel," he says. "PDFs are a ubiquitous technology. I'm not looking to monetise this invention. I’m simply offering some thought leadership on how marketers can leverage this exciting tool. I believe Contact & Product Slates have the potential to become widely adopted, replacing outdated marketing materials like business cards. In today's digital world, exchanging contact information and sharing your Contact or Product Slate with a quick message is easier than ever. Small businesses will be able to send Product Slates via WhatsApp with a description and link to buy. This concept is perfect for so many industry sectors"
By embracing Contact Slates, businesses can forge a more interactive and engaging relationship with their target audience. This innovative approach cuts through the noise, leaving a lasting impression in the age of messaging app dominance.
See how it works
The short video shows a Contact Slate in action
Some thoughts from early adopters
Jane Gordon, Physiotherapist from Lincoln:
“The versatility of a Contact Slate knows no bounds. I now have every aspect of my business in my pocket wherever I go and can quickly get the specific information I need to a customer or prospect accordingly, who will then have it on their phone, unable to be lost. A game changer indeed”
Jo Outhwaite, Lawyer from Worcestershire
“The concept of the Contact Slate cannot be underestimated! At a recent business event, I connected with a new contact and with the simple exchange of a telephone number she had immediate access to all the information I wanted her to have – including telephone number, email, website and downloadable information. The possibilities are endless and the benefits immeasurable!”
Rachel Haith, Life Coach from Lincolnshire
“I believe this brilliant innovation of Contact Slates will be a game changer in the mobile-centric age we’re in. Whether at networking events or business events of any type, this is such a simple way to share your key information with others in a visually attractive way, making it so easy for them to respond to any call to action with a simple click. Almost everyone has a mobile these days, so let’s use them even more efficiently, saving paper whilst we’re at it. Contact Slates will now be a regular feature in my business!”
Katie Wright, Physiotherapist
“I was truly impressed with the concept and process of making a Contact Slate. I trialled this myself at a recent business event and discovered how efficient and simple it made sharing specific information with your potential customer or new contact. It so simple and with the current smartphone usage so high, it just makes sense. Links can be tailored for specific aims of each contact slate, making it adaptable for a variety of business settings. It is easy to personalise, and keep on brand with own business colours and design. I absolutely enjoyed testing out my first Contact Slate, and loved the response from my new contacts”
Clare Copping, Hypnotherapist
"Really excited about using my new Contact Slates that I've had fun making. There are numerous situations I can use them for and it's so easy and simple to share them too. They look great and professional and are relatively easy to make too (especially for technophobes like me!) - plus it saves me having to carry literature/business cards everywhere I go, as I can quickly and easily share them using my phone instead. Thank you David for your wonderful innovation"
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