name tags - Influencing Identity

Low Error Rate Produces Happy Customers

Customers are our top priority and we show this by keeping our error rate low.

Here at Coller Industries Incorporated, we pride ourselves in our customer service expertise. Not only do we have a great team of Customer Service Representatives, but our team members from Production and Shipping are also here to provide quality and accuracy with all of our products. Part of what makes us so great is our ability to keep our error rate so low.

Here’s a quick review of our current year-to-date statistics:

Our overall error rate is 0.265%. This means that 1 in about every 400 orders may contain an error; great news for our customers!

Since January 1, 2016 we have had a total of 20 errors coming from 7551 orders total. And, to top that, 8 out of those 12 weeks have had 1 or fewer errors; more great news for our customers!

If we have 3 or fewer errors as a company during a one week period the company provides a “Free Lunch Friday.” If we have less than 8 errors in any 4 week period Coller Industries treats the entire company to lunch out at a local restaurant.

Not only are these benefits for the employees here at Coller Industries, but with these incentives to keep us going, our customers get to enjoy the satisfaction of doing business with an outstanding company. Having a low error rate increases sales and increased sales translate into happy customers. And with happy customers, Coller Industries remains in business to continue to serve everyone and their personal identification needs!

“Throughout each step of any and every project there is a double checking process that takes place. Everything hinges on getting the order checked completely and thoroughly before it gets out of customer service and into production,” says Aimee, our Customer Service Manager.

She goes on to explain the process that our customer service representatives take with each order.

COLLER INDUSTRIES’ ORDER REVIEW PROCESS:

Orders are received by a Customer Service Representative and our Design Team makes a proof of the product.

The order is sent to Quality Control for confirmation (meaning that the proof matches the invoice).

The order is received into Production and is confirmed using an internal check sheet form.

The order is then sent from Production to Assembly and is again compared using the same check list.

The order is sent to Shipping and once more checked for accuracy before being sealed and shipped.

Once an order is received and goes into our internal system, it is checked on a consistent basis so that it remains correct and matches the original order placed. This means checking the invoice against the production page and finally against the actual, finished product. This process is followed for all orders received here at Coller Industries.

If anything changes, or an error occurs, during this checking process, the whole order is re-evaluated. We are also in continual contact with each of our customers throughout the entire order process to make sure that we are meeting exactly what they ordered and what they are expecting.

“I’ve tried to instill the mantra that each order is wrong until you prove it right,” explains Pat, our Production and Shipping Manager. “We are constantly, consistently and objectively checking each order,” he states. No assumptions are made that the order is correct, and as each order has 10 to 15 variables to it, meticulous checking is a must. “The people working here are a big part of the reason why this system works so well,” Pat says proudly.

keeping our error rate low to ensure happy and satisfied customers

From our customer service representatives and our design team to our production and shipping team, the review process of each order is extensive and takes extreme concentration. We, as company, put all available resources we have into each and every order. And we always keep our customers involved in all processes and steps of every order so as to maintain our low error rate.

In the event that something does go wrong (we admit that we’re human and not perfect), there is always something that can be done to fix the problem, and most of these are typically corrected by the next business day.

“No matter the error, we always work with each customer in getting out a replacement as quickly as possible,” explains Slim, our Quality Control Supervisor. “We will always accommodate each order in whatever way we can,” Slim says.

Our Reorder Program

A key point to maintaining such a low error rate is our reorder program.

Once an initial order is received from a customer, our customer management system (we call it MOM for short) holds onto the design information to reduce the risk of errors. All layout information is saved so that we can recreate an original order exactly. Once in the reorder program, a customer can actually see a visual proof of any original design from the orders they have previously placed with Coller Industries so that they know exactly what they are getting when they place their reorder. This program eliminates any guess work on the customer’s end, and on our end, as to what the customer really wants.

Rod, one of our programmers, explains, “The customer does not have to guess which layout they want as they can see a picture and know for sure which item they are selecting. We have made entering or uploading a list about as easy as it gets; the count of items for the order is taken from the list thus making the quote we provide fairly accurate. All of this adds up to a reorder that can be entered in a manner of minutes with little to no hassle.”

“Before the new system, there was a lot of back and forth with customers to be sure the correct layout was used. Now (with the new program) the customer sees a picture of the product they are ordering from the start,” states Traci, Quality Control and Customer Service Representative.

With the automation of this reorder system, errors are kept at an all time low. “This has greatly reduced the order and list issues we have seen in the past,” says Traci.

Gary Coller, President of Coller Industries, states, “Efforts have been made to prevent many, if not all, errors from occurring. We also take the time to figure out why an error has actually happened when they do occur.” Gary credits the low error rate to our 5 Stage Checking and to the employee incentive program.

“Most importantly, we always take responsibility for our mistakes and no matter
what happens, we will make it right,” says Gary.

All in all, Coller Industries strives in every way possible to get each order not only out the door quickly and efficiently, but correctly! And our low error rate only proves this, not only to us but to our current and potential customers.

Donations: Cornerstone Assembly

Giving donations is part of who we are.

Coller Industries enjoys giving back to our surrounding communities, and part of this process is providing donations to companies and organizations that need personal identification products for their business or other needs. The most recent of these donations was given to Cornerstone Assembly of God in Flowery Branch, Georgia.

“Here at Cornerstone we feel God has called us to help people become fully committed followers of Jesus Christ. It doesn’t matter what your background is, what you struggle with or what hand life has dealt you; God has a plan for your life,” said Pastor Steve, Lead Pastor at Cornerstone Assembly.

“We encourage our congregation to not confine their God experience to the church building, but rather to experience God in the real world,” Shaun Hughes, Creative Arts Pastor at Cornerstone Assembly of God stated.

Cornerstone Assembly’s mission statement is “Empowering people to experience God in the real world.” Their aim is to impact their community with the gospel and love of Christ through their words and their actions. Their core values are joy, transparency and generosity and they accomplish this by being “real, relevant and rational.”

Cornerstone Assembly received donations of full color name tags with a dome finish and magnetic fasteners. Full color name tags are available as a digitally printed plastic tag. The thermal transfer printing process captures logos and images in crisp, bright full colors. The printing can also extend off the edge (bleed) and all text can be printed in any color.

“I can’t describe how much one simple little thing like name badges has really impacted our people. The volunteers LOVE them; the look, the feel, the ease of use. It has been a physical symbol of the unity they feel working together as a team greeting our guests and congregation members each and every week,” said Hughes.

“Our pastor commented that it was the most professional looking item we’ve ever ordered!” Hughes exclaimed. “These (name) tags will help identify our greeters and hospitality team to our first time guests. They will lend a polished, professional look to our hospitality team. The domed plastic ensures that the name tags will endure long term and still look fantastic.”

Name Tags: The Simple Truth

Remember to keep your name tag simple! They are for personal identification and not meant to be used as a resume.

Amazingly enough, some name tags read like a business card, or as otherwise suggested, a resume. However, personal identification should be kept as simple as possible. Name tags and name badges should only include minimal information that identifies the person wearing it. Here is a short, concise and simple list of what should be included in designing a name tag.

Logo Name Tags

If a logo is being provided for a company, remember to keep it to a size that will fit and look good on a name tag. Depending on the type of name tag, such as a plastic laser engraved name tag, logos may only be done in a specific color or format. Full color name tags do offer a bit more versatility, but keep in mind that the logo shouldn’t be the only thing on the name tag. Full color tags offer the user the option of brighter colors and the option of bleeds. This is useful for logos that are large or need to have specific colors used.

Reusable Name Badges

Another thing to keep in mind when looking at name tags is possibly using name badges. Name badges are ordered with only a logo either printed or engraved and names and/or titles are added at a later point. These badges are a great idea when you need to be able to reuse them, such as for a seasonal or temporary position at a company or organization.

Names and titles can both be extremely effective on a badge.

But keep in mind that size is extremely important here. Keep it simple and to the point! Many times a person’s name is the only thing that is needed for identification. A first name is typically sufficient for name tags, however last names can be used in some cases. First names are great on name badges at conferences. They are also perfect to use in a commercial or retail setting as most customers don’t need to know the person’s last name. However, in the case of having multiple people with the same first name, adding a last name will help with the identification.

Of course, titles may be added to these name tags. However, make sure to order the name tag in an appropriate size so as to accommodate the text properly. One of the most important things about a name tag is visibility. Text size is extremely important! The text should always be readable from a distance, typically about 10 feet. Don’t add too much text to one line as it could become too small to read even from close up.

Fastener Options

keeping name tags simple and using appropriate fasteners — Fastener Options

The final thing to cover is the fastener choice. Most name tags come with multiple options, but be careful with these. Don’t order a lanyard to go with an adhesive name badge! It just wouldn’t work. Be smart about the choice. While magnetic fasteners are popular, pins or clips might be more appropriate for your situation. Always think of how and where the name tag will be worn before making the final selection on a fastener.

And, as always… remember: K.I.S.S. (keep it short and simple)! >>Shop Name Tags<<

Things To Consider: Name Tags

Does anyone ever really consider what it takes to produce that name tag they are wearing?

When considering a name tag the first thing that usually comes to mind is typically the name that appears on it. However, there is so much more to consider when looking at name tags.

An excerpt from a Coller Industries employee:

Name Tag, Inc. opened my eyes to what really goes into producing a name tag. When wearing a name tag one never really thinks about all the work, the people involved or machines used to make it. When first looking at a name tag the color, the person’s name and title, and the logo are what really stand out. Not much else is really considered.

As part of customer service, my view has definitely changed on what goes into making a name tag and the process behind the scenes. A lot goes into setting up orders, sending out proofs and working with design worksheets. There are so many colors and materials and different ways to put a name tag together. This may sound weird, but I feel like I help make name tag dreams come true.

Orders start with an internet order or a phone call. Once the specifics are laid out by the customer, the design team goes to work. Sometimes a customer has an image from the online design tool which provides a more visual picture of the “dream,” and sometimes only simple instructions like size, color and logo placement are included as instructions. Whatever the case, all customers end up with a PDF proof showing them what the name tags will look like.

consider using classy name tag frames - small, medium and large

consider adding an epoxy dome to name tags both plastic and metal

Once a proof is seen, all the extras and smaller details begin to take shape. Many customers have questions at this point, such as the tag size, the option of an epoxy dome, or adding a name tag frame. All these options come highly recommended, and while they do add a minor cost to the name tag purchase, the end results are worth it.

Once the proof has been approved by the customer, the order is sent to a quality checker to make sure that all the order information is correct and consistent. Then, when the order passes this check, the production team takes over. There are various machines that make different name tags. Laser engravers are used on both plastic and metal materials to cut and engrave names, titles and logos. There is also a full color print machine that prints in vibrant colors. Each name tag is carefully completed according to the specifications that were check and rechecked in customer service.

Part of production is assembly of the product. Fasteners, such as magnets, are affixed to the name tag. Before any name tag is shipped, two more quality control people review the order again. Once this is complete, the package is sealed and given to a trusty UPS driver who then gets them delivered directly to the customer.

Now that’s a lot to think about and consider when looking at a name tag! So, the next time you see a name tag, I hope that you can take a moment to reflect about all the hands and time (and care) that went into its production.

Personal Branding vs. Corporate Branding

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a brand as “a class of goods identified by name as the product of a single firm or manufacturer.” It is the overall perception and experience that customers associate with a particular company, product or service. They also define branding as “promoting a product or service by identifying it with a particular brand.”

what is corporate branding and what is personal branding using name tags lanyards signs name badges

Process

Personal branding is the process of an individual marketing or advertising themselves or their career as a unique image or idea. It is the ongoing practice of building up an image or uniqueness about themselves to others around them. A personal brand often involves using someone’s name on various marketing products.

Corporate branding is the process of promoting a company’s logo and name for marketing and advertising purposes. A corporate brand’s range is typically extensive and is often used to express the company’s ideals and goals.

Examples of personal branding:
Rachel Ray, Michael Jordan, Oprah, Scott Ginsberg, Tony Robbins

Personal Branding perzonalized identification name tags rachael ray michael jordan oprah scott ginsberg tony robbins

Examples of corporate branding:
Apple; Hershey’s; NIKE;
Warner Bros.; M&M’s

Corporate Branding personalized identification logos hershey apple warner bros nike m&m mars

Benefits

Branding helps a business or person show how their products or services differ from competitors. A strong brand with a clear name, logo and visuals helps consumers know and remember what that brand sells or provides. It also makes people trust them more. When someone decides what their brand stands for and why it is unique, they can make themselves stand out and affect what customers pick. A strong brand shows that this particular product or service is trustworthy, high in quality and dependable.

Name Tags and Branding

By wearing personal identification products, (e.g., name tags, name badges, etc.), anyone can make themselves more visible to others. This also opens the door to better experiences at large events. They can promote their personal brand by wearing a name tag with their name (first and last). By wearing a name tag, they identify themselves as an individual and stand out in a crowd. Most often, people see this type of marketing at large corporate meetings or conventions where it is important to distinguish individuals from each other.

Corporate branding utilizes the same items as personal branding, such as lanyards and name tags, but they often use them differently. Many companies choose to add their logo, an essential part of their brand, to the name tags. This is so that their employees are easily identifiable to their consumers. These items are then turned into a way of advertising their company rather than the individual. People often see this type of branding at conferences where many companies that manufacture or sell the same ideas or items might mingle. Businesses will use lanyards, name tags and signs to distinguish everyone attending the conference.

Whether personal or corporate, a brand is essential to anyone seeking to be differentiated from those around them.

ORDER LOGO NAME TAGS

Learn more about using your logo on The Learning Center:

Contrast Matters: Your Logo and Identification