How many docks would one need to charge a family full of iDevices? Pad would be easier.
How big a pad are we talking about? (I honestly don't know. If the pad is large enough for only a single device - you're talking about multiple pads, in which case it's no easier than docks. Is it 8.5" x 11"? Larger?) And would every member of said family want to charge their individual iDevice in the same location of the house? (I suspect not.)