Apple introduced their latest product the iPad with much fanfare yesterday. As a person who buys new technology the first week that it is available – this was pretty exciting.
apple ipad for trade showsApple products are consistently on the cutting edge of technology. The iPhone and iPod touch have sent millions of people to the iTunes store and given them access to over 100,000 free or low cost applications.
Now those applications will be able to work on a much more versatile platform. Unfamiliar with this new device, check out Apple’s demo on youtube.
How will trade shows benefit from new iPad technology?
Trade Show Attendees Armed with iPads
At tech-oriented shows, you can expect to see many trade show attendees carrying iPads on the show floor. This presents an opportunity for video demonstrations of products, literature and other sales related info in a digital format – loaded onto the attendee’s iPad right in the trade show booth.
Video and Photos
Here is an opportunity to include multiple photos and video clip e-versions of pre-tradeshow emails that attendees would bring to the show floor. once you have set up the connection with attendees, you can easily send updated information or invitations to presentations, hospitality suites or social events.
Lead Retrieval and Demos
With the iPad, trade show exhibitors have the ability to create electronic lead cards on the same device that’s playing a demo. The entire interaction between booth staff and prospect could be scripted with lead card questions inserted into the presentation. Information gathered can be immediately sent to the marketing or sales department for fulfillment.
Attendee schedules
Most tradeshow websites provide an attendee schedule function. The iPad will provide a way to enhance this feature and allow promotional messages to be included when attendees add an exhibit to their schedule.
In the Exhibit
Install an iPad in information kiosks or product information stations to allow prospects to read detailed information or watch promotional videos. Here again, touch screen capability would allow for attendee interaction.
Promotions
Technical and medical exhibitors can provide electronic journals or white papers as booth giveaways providing additional promotional opportunities.
