Howard Schultz of Starbucks knows that customers don’t always know best. So how do you listen to customers without taking orders? You incorporate true innovative leadership.
Is Apple losing its hold on innovation? Ted Mininni and Brandweek offer some interesting takes on Apple’s competition. I think they’re just fine.
The next best thing rarely becomes the next best thing. Why products that position themselves as an updated version of another product never make it.
It amazes me, when I step back for a second, that something like a personalized mug with my favorite team on it could affect my consumption so much. But it does.
There have to be ways you can tailor a product specifically for a customer, or at least a group. Look at what some people do just for the camo version of anything.
The concept of doodling is one that can’t be overlooked, regardless of what it is we’re doodling on. As marketers and small business owners, we too must keep up our chops. Prevent rustiness. Remain agile and nimble.
Ever wonder why the best ideas start on a napkin? I think I know part of the reason, and it’s over at Drew McLellan’s Marketing Minute.
Brett’s note: The Vault is a look back at some of the more profound posts on MarketingInProgress.com. This one was originally posted on Sept. 5, 2007. Progress vs. Inertia Does a day go by at your office that you’re not reminded of the system, or process, or procedure, or protocol? Yes, they’re all important, but [...]
The closer you get to something, the harder it is to clearly see it. Likewise, the further you get from something, the harder it is to clearly see it. Try it with your computer screen to make this simple point come to life. Put your face about an inch from the screen. Is it as [...]
Does a day go by at your office that you’re not reminded of the system, or process, or procedure, or protocol? Yes, they’re all important, but they also have one thing in common: Their very nature is to create ruts and habits. Say what you will, but ruts and habits don’t often produce new ideas. [...]
