FAQ
General
Electronic Communication Station
Print Communication Station
General
What kind of topics do you cover in the program material?
The monthly content contains a range of topics that fall into two categories: uplifting and informative human interest pieces that attract and engage workers; and a variety of posters concerning the industry-focused issue of the month, for example:
Safety
Teamwork
Morale
Quality
Productivity
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Is there an extra charge for creating custom material?
No. The PCS subscription includes one full-size and one smaller custom posters per month featuring your text and photos. Additional custom posters can be ordered for a fee. ECS subscribers can create unlimited custom content using the program’s content management software.
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How much time will it take to manage the program?
For either the electronic or print format, it typically takes customers about an hour or less per month.
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How do I know that the program will be effective?
We routinely survey our subscribers. They tell us that the Marlin program gets their workers to think about important issues and creates a forum for discussion. They also tell us that the change in attitude and behavior directly affects their bottom line.
Learn what our subscribers say about the Marlin program.
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Does the program come in any other language than English?
Yes. Industrial and Hospitality PCS subscribers can choose a Spanish edition. Other PCS subscribers can use their monthly custom posters for other language communications. ECS subscribers can create unlimited custom content in other languages by using the content management software.
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What are the main differences between the print and the electronic communication stations?
The print format is:
•Tangible
•Colorful
•Easily accessible
•Long-lived when materials and posters are given to employees
•Great for cataloging material to be used for other purposes
The electronic format is:
•Internet-based
•Immediate
•Dynamic
•Easily updatable
•A way to post your in-house announcements and messages in real-time
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Electronic Communication Station
What does the turnkey package include?
The turnkey package includes the ECS Digital Engine, display monitor, mounting hardware, wireless keyboard, software, shipping, installation and warranty.
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What size screens are available?
37” LCD, 42” plasma, 50” plasma and 60” plasma screens are available.
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What do we have to do to get up and running?
With the turnkey package, all you will need is an Ethernet connection and an electrical outlet at the site where the screen(s) will be located.
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Can I supply my own equipment?
Yes, you can supply your own computers or monitors, as long as they comply with Marlin specifications for running the ECS program.
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How do I manage and create content?
Once your account is set up, you will have access to the Administrator Control Panel from any Internet connection. From there you will be able to manage and create content. The user-friendly interface, and web-based video training makes the process very easy.
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Is there a limit to how much of our own in-house content we can post?
No. You can post an unlimited amout of in-house content incorporating photos, text, PowerPoint, Excel, web and video formats.
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How much content is included in my subscription?
ECS subscriptions are sold in industry-specific editions consisting of 44 animated Marlin images delivered monthly. In addition, you will receive scrolling news, sports and local weather, continually updated.
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How do you handle multiple units and locations?
When installing multiple units in a facility, you can choose to manage each one individually, or utilize the enterprise capability which allows you to create groups and control the content from either a central or local site, or a combination of both.
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Do you provide guidelines as to the best areas to install the units?
Typically the units are installed in high-traffic common areas where employees congregate, such as break rooms or near an elevator or time clock. Your Marlin regional manager can advise you as to what might work best for your facility.
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How will I be trained on the product?
Your ECS subscription includes full access to web-based training videos that cover all aspects of creating and managing content for ECS. Designed as modules, they can be viewed all at once, or by topic as needed. Once you log in to the system, the videos can be accessed from the Administrator Control Panel.
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How does the content get delivered to the display screen?
The customer’s ECS computer pulls content from the Marlin server, via the Internet.
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Does my IT Department need to be involved to install the equipment?
No. The Marlin turnkey program includes all aspects of the installation process. However, prior to installation, an Ethernet connection and electrical outlet must be made available.
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Who installs the display screen equipment?
Marlin’s turnkey program includes installation of the product. In the event that a customer supplies their own monitor, they would perform their own installation.
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Print Communication Station
How much content is included in my subscription?
Each month you will receive a package of fresh content with more than enough to display something new each week. (Marlin content is never repeated.) In addition to industry-specific and universal issues, Marlin provides news features and motivational content. And each subscription offers you the ability to order custom posters.
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How often do we receive new content?
You will receive a new package of content each month.
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How much time should we expect to commit to management of this tool each week.
It typically takes customers about an hour or less per month to administer the program.
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How do I order custom posters?
You will have access to the subscriber website for ordering custom posters. It offers hundreds of ideas for creating posters using your photos and text. Our dedicated team of graphic designers will produce the posters and get them to you within 3-5 business days.
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Do the Communication Stations come in different sizes or colors?
Yes. We offer a 3-panel, 2-panel and 1-panel station. A popular choice is a 3- and 2-panel combination, referred to as a Full House. The fixtures come in Charcoal, Blue and Red.
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What do I need to do to install it?
The fixture will be shipped to you with simple mounting instructions. It will need to be located close to an electrical outlet so that the customized nameplate can be properly illuminated.
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Is there any training offered?
Yes, you will receive personalized, hands-on training from your Marlin Regional Manager once the fixture has been installed.
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How do we personalize the Communication Station?
The illuminated nameplate can be personalized with your logo and text. All we need is a high-resolution file of the logo and the desired text. This will be finalized when the contract is written.
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What resources are available for assistance with my subscription?
Marlin Customer Service is available to assist you with any general questions such as billing, contract information or shipping status. The Custom Features Department processes all requests from the website. As such, they are available to field any questions concerning your order.
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