Widget Wonderland

Check out Target's new Widget Wonderland. Not only does this widget count down the days ‘till Christmas, it’s also customizable and helps you search for gifts on target.com. While we hear widgets are “so hot right now”, it appears brands have had a tough time finding ways to pull it off.

Who knows – maybe Target’s combination of personal + useful will = success...

Branding With Powerlines

Spending a week in the land of Disney (Orlando, FL) has its ups and downs. The brand is EVERYWHERE. However, this simple yet creative form of Disney branding did catch my eye while cruising down the interstate.

P.S. I can't take credit for snapping this photo. My new camera phone just isn't that good. Thankfully Google images had the perfect shot that I could share.

I Almost Signed up.

Recently the New York Times wrote an article on a pretty cool outdoors retailer called Moosejaw (think REI meets American Eagle) and their approach to mobile. Anyways, I'm usually not a huge fan of mobile marketing - I feel like my phone is the last place where advertisers can't interrupt me and I've been sort of militant about keeping it that way. Not to mention, many of those experimenting are annoying about it. However, Moosejaw seems to have figured out a way to make it a lot less painful. Instead of pushing ads at users, they can opt to receive funny questions that invite them to respond (or vote). In return Moosejaw gives them rewards points to be used on their site. I almost signed up. Almost.


Here are some other clever mobile executions for those interested (or those of you who are like me and still need some more convincing).

Bugaboo Daytrips

Bugaboo, the creators of the ultimate (in price and performance) stroller, is already known for breaking the mold by positioning itself as an exciting brand in a rather boring category – so why wouldn’t their online experience be any different?

Recently they have tapped local artists to help create 'Bugaboo Daytrips' in select cities around the world. Discovering that today's parents desire a lifestyle that is filled with curiosity, adventure and activity, the site gives Moms and Dads ideas for kid-friendly yet hip happenings in their area.

Check out this beautiful yet very functional site – http://www.bugaboodaytrips.com/?lang=us

I'll take my fruit with a story on the side

Dole has found an interesting way to add some personality to your produce purchases. Through their new organic program you can use a three digit code on the label to learn all about its origin.

We continue to see more and more brands offering unique experiences with their products and services - something consumers appreciate and will soon come to expect.

p.s.
I'm starting to think Pineapple is totally underrated as a fruit. It's good stuff. It's the berries who get all of the attention. Lame.

Long Live the Queen

In a trend-tracking tangent I found myself flipping through Time's list of 100 People Who Shape Our World. It turns out Queen Elizabeth II has never given an interview and has "resisted the temptation to seek acceptance through reinvention."

Communication today has evolved and people have come to expect opportunities for dialogue with brands. What happens to those who still hang on to the previous model of one way communication? After all, opening up the conversation could lead to loss of control and potential criticism.

Where is the fine line between evolving with the people you serve and protecting your brand integrity?