Playgroup | Helping brands build genuine brand equity

MySpace have been the first to launch a data sharing initiative ‘ Data Availability’, allowing MySpace users to share their profile data with other websites of their choice.  With information security the immediate concern, MySpace are working hard to reassure people their data is safe.

While a good idea in that its is a quick and easy way to keep your information up to date on multiple sites - at the same time it is gives corporates free access to your information.

Facebook have been quick to announce their version of the tool with Facebook Connect, while Google have launched Friend Connect.

You can read more here:

Brand Strategy

Techcrunch

• Comment on this post

I was reading how the functional foods market is in decline for the first time. Previously a huge growth area, with a new products appearing on the supermarket shelves left right and centre - they gave consumers a quick fix, a short cut to the health benefits they wanted without too much effort involved.

We could have predicted this decline was coming; it doesn’t take long for consumers to become cynical.  As consumers, we don’t want claims to be plastered all over packaging and advertising – we are savvy and can make our own minds up about a brand.

The growing trend looks to remain with the natural option e.g. the super foods, organic products and fair trade options. A best example I can think of is the well quoted story of the Innocent brand. Its honest approach is reflected through its product development and marketing strategy – being genuine is key to their success.   

• Comment on this post

I am usually trying to do myriad of things at any one time.  I hate leaving things for tomorrow that can be done today and generally try and cram as much into 24 hours as possible – the main reason is because I can and want to get the most out of every minute of the day.  24 hour convenience stores, my mobile strapped to my ear every time I am on the move, night buses, last minute flights to European cities for the weekend, social networking allowing me to stay in contact, talks I can listen to on my ipod on the go because I can’t find time to sit and read an article……these are all things that allow this lifestyle to exist.

Also, I recently I took up the challenge to travel to 30 countries by the time I am 30.  Why does that motivate me? It’s ridiculous, I mean, I love to travel (think I am up to about 20 countries), but it’s about meeting new people, experiencing different cultures and learning about the history of a place - not checking places off a list!

Developments in digital media and 24/7 services do allow us ‘achieve’ more.  But while life is in fast forward, you have to make a conscious effort to take the time to observe, enjoy and experience the little things in life that can easily get missed in a blur.

• Comment on this post