Ballard Designs has launched an initiative the company hopes will help transform its traditional catalog business to the digital age. It’s a mobile application called Ballard+ and it uses image recognition technology to help customers browse and shop.

“The Ballard+ app enhances the experience of flipping through the catalog each month by simply integrating a mobile or tablet device,” said Ryan McKelvey, President of Ballard Designs.

Tap-to-buy shopping, multiple image viewer, and social media sharing are a few of the Ballard+ features. Shoppers activate the app and instantly connect by holding their iPhone or iPad above the page of the catalog and tap the item in the box for desired information.

"We know our customers love our catalog," said Jean Jones, VP of Marketing. "They are able to thumb through it at their own pace and really enjoy the photography, products, tips, and ideas that we present to them. The Ballard+ app is yet another opportunity for us to transform the printed page into a digital experience."

Ballard has a digital edition of the catalog, but wanted to take the digital experience to the next level. "Our online digital catalog has been a huge success, but the Ballard+ app allows us to leverage the key features and benefits that apps on the iPhone and iPad offer," said Jones.

Ballard+ will be available for select iOS devices and is compatible with iPhone 4/4S and 5, as well as iPad2, iPad with Retina display and iPad mini. The app was developed in conjunction with Ballard's partner, Marxent Labs, and it’s built using the Visual Commerce solution. The free app will work with the Ballard Designs December 2012 Early Winter issue, and more to come.