Usually I would argue that service is no more than a price of entry to do business. If companies cannot provide good service, they have no business to be in business. Ironically, service is at the airline industry’s very core, and despite them completely ignoring this fact, many of them are still in business!

 

The international edition of Variety.com recently reported that Coca-Cola has halted the scheduled release of an Italian spiritually-themed film for unauthorized use of the brand.

The one angle that interests me the most, however, is the way that technology has impacted the way we learn about, respond to and deal with a crisis.

 

The event that took place at Virginia Tech is quite disturbing, and as a current college student, it really hits home. Too much pressure isn’t good for anyone, and I believe many of today’s college kids are experiencing stress and pressure at really high levels. Without proper outlets and forums to voice day to day problems and issues, I think we are creating a escalating problem. However, there is one outlet available, and widely accepted among students. It’s called Facebook, and trust me, it’s used daily by many of us!

“In a world where creativity hides in dark alleys behind commercial franchises, the masses are lining up for what critics call ‘…grippingly compelling…,’ ‘…compellingly gripping…,’ and ‘…an experience that is sure to compel the grip right out of your pants…’

 

While it’s not the newest tagline on the street, it is one of the most poignant and relevant with regards to the shifting consumer control of brands. As is evidenced by some of the world’s largest brands (e.g., Apple, Nike, Target) marketing has evolved from product-focused and transactional to consumer-focused and relational. For example, not only does Nike tell YOU to “Just Do It” both bluntly through its tagline and subtly through its logo, but the company also empowers consumers to now customize their own shoes. Successful companies are handing over control at the risk of misuse; knowing that consumers will own and shape their brands to their liking, regardless of the company’s permission. These companies understand that it’s do or die.

 

Now, don't get me wrong, Entourage is one of my favorite shows. However, when did HBO start running so many commercials during its programming? I thought when I bought a DVR I was done with the product blather and never-ending pitches to "buy this" or "try that." I realize that viewer numbers are down, but it appears that the powers that be at HBO had a fire sale on product placement prior to this season.