Early in my career, I worked for a station that did a large number of community events. I remember working an event and seeing an appliance store with a cold-air inflatable shaped like a refrigerator, and thought what a great way to draw attention to our set-up, which had been the typical booth or tent with the station logo on a banner.
So I tried to persuade my GM to let me purchase one shaped like a TV, that would serve as a great marketing tool and boost our presence at these events. Because we did so many events, (something I think is still imperative for any local station to do) I wanted a unique draw for the station at these events. Plus we could have a contest to name it with local school kids, or maybe have it sponsored by a client to cover the costs. Unfortunately, my GM nixed the idea every time I brought it up because it was rather expensive at the time to get one produced.
So fast-forward to a couple of days ago when I came across Aerotain, a company in Sweden that has created SKYE, a drone shaped like a big balloon. I have to say my first reaction was WOW, what a great way for a station to market themselves at an event, AND have the ability to capture awesome aerial video.
I'm sure many of us have been restricted with how we can use drone technology, up to being told it is forbidden until further research and testing can be done.
Which is why I believe SKYE is a no-brainer...this drone is safe, brings attention to itself in a good way, which lends itself to serving as a terrific marketing tool, and oh by the way, you also walk away with awesome aerial footage of the event to use for proof promos, sales support or for future use when you produce next year's promo...(and I bet any good sales team can get a sponsor for it, add their logo to the back to cover the costs.)
I don't know about you, but my wish list for next year's budget just grew by one Big SKYE.