‘Editor’s Notebook’ with Diana Mosher: Tabletop Technology Designed to Boost Occupancy

In our increasingly mobile world, would you be willing to invest in tabletop technology that tethers its users to one spot?

What if the tabletop happened to be an enormous and very powerful multi-user touch table? There’s no doubt apartment residents and prospects will be impressed every time they walk by this innovation which resembles a giant iPad. They would welcome its functional aspects and also admire the forward-thinking management team who decided this was a “must have” addition to their apartment lobby.

World class museums and labs throughout the U.S. and Canada were early adopters of this tabletop technology and now it’s available to the multifamily market through Denver-based Pynwheel, Inc., the marketing technology company founded in April 2012 by Jennifer Cyphers (formerly with Engrain and ApartmentGuide.com). Pynwheel recently announced its exclusive partnership with manufacturer Ideum, Inc. Wall presenters are also available. Both models come in two sizes, 55 inches and 86inches. They are only two inches thick and relatively lightweight resulting in a sleek design and easy installation. The tables and panels are made of aircraft grade material and offered in custom colors. They are durable enough to be safely housed in high traffic areas. The microetched, low friction, ultra clear surface works in just about any lighting environment. Watch the video.

As we reported in the January issue of MHN Magazine (“Selling Spaces”), the traditional leasing office is being replaced by multifunctional spaces that allow the leasing agent and prospect to begin the conversation in a lounge-like setting. While you can’t take this tabletop tablet—or the wall hung version either—with you on the actual property tour, it’s sure to add a powerful new dimension to the opening conversation.

In addition to serving as an ice-breaker, the table’s surface is equipped with 40 simultaneous touch points that allow multiple users to interact with it simultaneously. The tables and wall panels can facilitate sales with an integrated sales process involving interactive community maps, floor plan, images, photography and amenities on a brilliant HD surface.

Residents can use the technology to find out what’s going on in their neighborhood, make restaurant reservations and more. Do you think a touch table or wall presenter would enhance your marketing/branding efforts in a meaningful way?