Folder Focus: LOCKMASTERS

Solid and Imposing looking presentation folder of LockMasters

SOLID: that is the word and concept that comes to mind as one looks at the folders of LockMasters, a project we recently completed. The design is as minimal as it gets, the company’s logo in white, with a call to action in yellow text set against a solid red background.

It immediately projects toughness, a successful encapsulation of the company as a maker and seller of products, tools, equipment, and training for security professions.

We reached out to Ricki Keaton, marketing manager of Lockmasters, to learn more about their company, industry, and use of folders, so that we, leading national manufacturer custom presentation folders may share that information with others who may want to project the same image and effect through their marketing or collateral materials.

FOLDERPRINTERS WRITERS: Please describe your company and its services or specialty.

RICKI KEATON: We are a distributer, manufacturer and training provider for the security industry including government, military and private sector.

FPW: What makes you stand out or differentiates you from your competition?

RK: We distribute over 100 manufacturers, offer 18 training programs as well as manufacture a variety of products including the number one selling high security pedestrian door lock for the government.

FPW: Are folders in any way a part of it?

RK: We use this specific folder in our SCIF STC/RF door in box program.

FPW: Who are your main customers?

RK: Depends on what products we are discussing. For this folder project the customer would be SCIF construction company and/or government agency.

FPW: What purpose do your folders generally serve? Is it for marketing or selling? If so, What problems or challenges in marketing, selling do the folders solve for you?

RK: This folder is used as part of the installation process for a custom high security door. It holds the installation instructions as well as the other hardware instructions.

FPW: Has there been a particular instance (or instances) wherein folders helped in any of your goals? If so please share any anecdotes.

RK: YES, it is imperative that installers find this folder materials FIRST to ensure the door is installed correctly to maintain STC and/or RF standards.

FPW: Is it just for administrative purposes?

RK: No.

FPW: When do you hand them out?

RK: They are included in every Door-in-a-box.

FPW: What items do you put inside the pockets?

RK: Installation instructions and hardware instructions.

FPW: Have the folders proven to be effective? Do they work?

RK: Yes, very.

FPW: In this digital, internet age, why use analog presentation folders?

RK: This folder allows us to include other documents in a high security environment that doesn't allow computers, phones etc.

FPW: Who designs your folders?

RK: We have inhouse graphic artists.

FPW: What was your aesthetic philosophy or aim in coming up with the final design.

RK: Attention getting with customer service details.

FPW: Do you know if your competition also employ the same type of folders?

RK: Not aware, but most aspects of this product has been replicated so I wouldn't be surprised.

FPW: Are these your first professionally printed folders? What made you decide to go with Folderprinters?

RK: No, we've used folders for product and marketing for years. Cost was better from a folder company versus a local printer.

FPW: Did you look at other folder sellers’ websites? What made you choose us?

RK: I'm sure we looked at a number of websites. It could have been quality of the stock and pricing.

FPW: Did you easily find the product you were looking for?

RK: Yes, if I'm remembering correctly.

FPW: Did the final product meet your expectations?

RK: Yes, we are very pleased with the color and stock.

Aerial view of LockMasters' facilities

Our Takeaway

Solid is the exact opposite — and absence— of fluff. For an organization to which this (as well as strength and protection) is the essential to its being, it is crucial to apply these principles in all aspects, including their design philosophy. LockMasters is a perfect example of staying true and consistent to your core as a company.

They have shown that minimalism can speak volumes, and simplicity does not imply insufficiency.