Beyond Swag Part 2: Voice Interaction

October 18, 2017 by Eric Granata in Beyond Swag, Technology

Voice Activated virtual assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Home have existed since the 90s. But it wasn't until 2011, when Steve Jobs and Apple introduced the world to Siri, that voice interaction with hit the mainstream. Amazon's Alexa and Google soon followed but Siri remains on top by far in terms of usage and net reach. At ROBYN we've dipped our toe in this new platform by building and releasing two Alexa Skills (apps) for Amazon's line of connected speaker…

Beyond Swag Part 1: Variable-Data X

October 13, 2017 by Eric Granata in Company Stores, Technology, Beyond Swag

On October 5th, 2017, I had the privilege of sharing my thoughts on how new technology can help us build better branded experiences with the fine folks at PSDA's P2P Technology Summit. Over the coming days I will be posting a series of three posts that sums up my presentation. This is the first.

Creating Appreciation with Swag

February 28, 2017 by Eric Granata in Swag Theory

Promotional products that play a role in the everyday life of the recipient are appreciated and kept by consumers. Create warm vibes by taking utility and functionality into account when merchandising for your brand.

Creating Novelty with Swag

February 21, 2017 by Eric Granata in Swag Theory

When slinging swag, it's easy to let the product carry the campaign. But don't miss the opportunity to use the power of novelty to create a story-worthy experience that will be shared long after the product is gone.

Create Super Sweet Product Virtuals with CoverAction Pro

January 22, 2017 by Eric Granata in Technology, Company Stores, Automation, Graphic Design

You guys. I need to tell you about a Photoshop tool that I have used for about 10 years to create incredible virtuals and product mockups for my clients. CoverAction Pro (CAP from here on out) is a tool that you use with Photoshop. With it you can create sharp, client impressing, 3D mockups of books, magazines, DVD discs and packaging and bunches more. Before I show you how it works, I want to tell you how I, personally, have used this tool over the past 10 years.

Alexa! What good is a skill for the promotional products space?

January 08, 2017 by Eric Granata in Technology

A while back, I received an Amazon Echo from some friends of mine. I had heard of the device. Seen rumblings on the web and passively wondered what a "connected speaker" could be good for.