Saturn's "We are still here" Campaign

Saturn has been out of the media spotlight when it comes to the recession. In the midst of failure after failure of American car manufacturing, Saturn has chose to enter the media spotlight and announce their presence. I think that the emergence of this company in this time claiming their solvency and their continuation to manufacture appealing low budget American cars is a very smart move. It is a slap in the face to Ford and GM and comes at the right time. We need American business we can depend on. I hope that their continued success is a model for others to follow. Meanwhile the campaign gives us hope and a homegrown product we feel confident in buying. 

Microsoft Needs To Market Themselves Differently

Microsoft Corporation is a multi billion dollar corporation. Yet they have terrible PR. Their monopolous ways, antitrust lawsuits, and error driven products are causing this giant to waver. Here are my suggestions. First off Separate from Vista. This product is flawed, difficult, and unpopular. After years of struggle quit trying to resuscitate a brand which never had life. Distance yourself from it, and pray Windows 7 is a smash hit. Secondly, dump the Zune. You cannot go against the Ipod; so stop the bleeding and go back to the arena in which you are more familiar. Third, Google is an unstoppable force. Yahoo is dwarfed by Google and buying up a dying brand is not going to defeat Google. Google will continually evolve; releasing gadget after gadget to enhance their already staggering assortment of features. I would try to fight back with a new Microsoft Office, Killer Windows, and Software. 

Product Innovating

I thought it was interesting how Apple continues to constantly innovate their product lines. They have taken their star product from a brick with little memory just a few years ago to a new sleek, slim,  memory hoarding marvel. It is Apple's continues improvement and innovation to their product line which has kept the Ipod at the forefront of demanded products. My friend recently bought an Ipod Touch and I was blown away by all the applications. Now a music device can help you locate your car, sort contacts, game playing, and much more. Maybe if the Microsoft Zune or other products in the same market did similar leg work they would be counting the millions as well. 

The Return of Tiger

Tiger Woods long awaited return to golf after his knee surgery was not a wasted marketing moment. The game of golf has in its hand the most recognizable athlete in the world. His return marks the return of large audiences, media coverage, and skyrocketed attendance. Nike and their relationship with Tiger have pounced on this moment. Their hilarious advertisements have propelled their brand and the PGA tour into the spotlight. The media buzz surrounding this return have gotten my attention and single handedly returned my attention back to the Television to watch the tour and his Prowess. Good Move Nike!

B2B Marketing The Way I see It

Business to Business Marketing is a very powerful tool. As we have learned in class this can be a great way to pick up significant business with bulk purchases while still dealing with just a single client. My dad works in San Francisco and is in the midst of a multi million dollar remodel to his business. He is adding a Spa, Pool, and Work out & Class facilities to his business among other things to attract a younger demographic. He recently was contacted by Lucy who sells sportswear. He was able to build a relationship and then purchase yoga mats, athletic apparel for his employees among other things. What an easy way for them to pick up $10,000. I thought it was a good representation of B2B marketing and its role.