International Conference Badge Becomes More Important Than the Person Wearing It

At a fictional summit, an elaborate badge has gained access to rooms its wearer cannot explain. Security trusts the hologram, the lanyard and the correct shade of blue more than any spoken account of purpose.

Li Wei tested the system by accompanying a delegate who had forgotten which panel he belonged to. The badge guided him through three checkpoints and into a discussion on access reform.

Heinrich offered to lend his badge to a coat rack. Organizers declined the experiment, then invited the rack's apparent delegation to a reception. The resulting photograph shows excellent representation from the furniture sector, whose contribution was limited but whose credentials were impeccably displayed.