Robot "Sophie" writes handwritten Christmas wishes

A handwritten letter has a much better chance of being opened and noticed than an e-mail or an impersonal mass letter, says Joelle Rohrer, Head of Marketing at the Robert Hürlimann print shop in Zurich.

In 2015, the company therefore hired "Sophie," an unusual employee. This is a writing robot that the print shop helped to develop. The company is thus a pioneer in this field.

For example, "Sophie" replaces a secretary who writes handwritten addresses on an envelope. "Sophie" can handle a fountain pen just as well as a ballpoint pen. The writing robot can handle twelve standard human fonts. However, it can also be programmed for other individual fonts as required.

Can be used around the clock

"Sophie" writes as fast as a human hand. It can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And the robot writes without errors. Sophie" is particularly in demand before the holidays. Then the robot can count on the help of a second writing robot that the company owns.

However, "Sophie" is and remains a machine. So a human hand has to make sure that the ink cartridge is filled up. But the robot has proved its worth from the print shop's point of view.

Higher attention

Texts with beautiful writing arouse interest and surprise the recipient, says calligrapher Susanne Bischoff, a specialist in handwritten communication. Emotions can be aroused and they promise individuality.

Bank managers, SMEs, public administration, associations and charitable organizations would always look for ways to address original wishes to their clientele or acquaintances, says copywriter Béatrice Claret.

This type of writing makes it possible to stand out from others and thus strengthen relationships with customers. But there is always an advertising message behind it, he says. Companies won't do this without having an idea in mind, Claret says. (SDA)

Photos: Robert Hürlimann / Handwritten.ch