The pace of change for businesses is accelerating, and as a result they’re demanding more and more out of their marketing and design agencies. For better or worse, marketing departments and agencies are now forced to justify nearly all activities in quantifiable and measurable ways - usually as direct ROI figures. It’s no longer enough to simply create good creative. You now have to also measure its reach, effectiveness, and track its direct effect on sales. »

Working in the marketing and advertising industry, it’s almost impossible to ignore just how great Disney is at marketing. Admittedly, I didn’t really think about their marketing while we were there – I was too caught up in the Disney “Magic.” And that’s exactly the way they want it. »

In a previous post “How frequently should you update your website design?” I discussed typical time-frames for site relevance, and when redesigns are necessary. But it seems some folks still don’t recognize when it’s necessary to pull the plug on their current website. So here are seven signs it’s time to let your current site pass away.  »

Brand perception ranges from the concrete aspects (name, logo, packaging) to the “emotional” aspects (relaxing, strong, etc.). And everything – every color used, every box shipped, and every song played in connection with your company and/or product – will have a hand in shaping your brand.  »

One of the quickest ways to assess marketability of a new product is to exhibit at a trade show. Exposure to thousands of potential buyers will yield valuable feedback and provide an instant measure of overall interest. In fact, we often advise clients to exhibit at a trade show even if they’re still in prototype stage - since the input gained from buyers and/or shoppers can alter the ultimate development of the product. »

When starting a new company or launching a new product, there are many things that can consume your attention. One of your tasks will be to choose a name. It may seem silly to even bring it up. But, much like naming a child, the name can be one of the most difficult things you’ll have to settle on. »

That’s a seemingly simple question we’re asked all the time when working with clients who’ve developed a new product. But it’s not always easily answered. Though most of the time, the eventual answer is yes, you’ll probably need a box. »

If you’ve read anything about marketing trends for 2014, you’ve probably read that social media – which has been a valuable marketing tool for the past several years – will likely lose its status as the leading avenue for content marketing. What this means is that business-owners need to find new ways of successfully engaging their customers. Enter Branded Content.  »

Recognizing at what stage of the purchase decision your prospect is and what type of marketing materials matches their interest level is easier than expected. You can break down the process into five stages starting from a curious prospect through purchase to ongoing customer management. »

There are a lot of difficulties in marketing, but generally nothing insurmountable. But one of the most prevalent struggles is deciding on what to say and how to deliver your message. That is, determining your messaging and choosing your media. »