I work in industrial automation so I was just going to use some clear-topped, industrial, push-buttons and slide the name of the task/project under the clear top.

1) I had considered a touch screen but I want something I don't have to be gentle with. Once upon a time I was a construction worker and sometimes old habits sneak up on me.

2) I had considered using keys with LCD screens in them like the optimus maximus keyboard but the cheapest ones I could find were $50 and I'd like 20 or so buttons.

3) Someone at the Hackaday conference suggested that I use small avatars with RFID tags embedded in them and but I don't think I'd be able to create and remember suitable avatars for industrial automation projects because what would a bulk weigh avatar look like compared to a fertilizer mixer avatar?