Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Russia Embraces Social Media
We are in the middle of a very interesting report that highlights the growth of social media in Russia. Stay tuned.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
IBM Intends To Own The Cloud and Wear The Crown
That being said, IBM NYSE: (IBM) intends to dominate cloud computing with its "silver bullet" that is capable of streaming the entire contents of a PC - software and all - over the Web. Known as the "Secure Enterprise Desktop," a USB key provides instructions for assessing an entire system from the cloud with a direct connection to a remove server as it bypasses the PC, or Linus computer into which it's been inserted. Oh, and forget the local software...not needed. Pretty neat!
The concept is derived from the Swiss banking software called the Zone Trusted Information Channel (ZTIC) used to secure sensitive electronic transaction information.
A virtual machine, known as a hypervisor, then comes into play as a host similar to a dumb terminal accepting changes from a mainframe. The changes, which are synchronized on the cloud, appear to be occurring on the desktop.
This is a major game changer!! Get ready for the new King...Big Blue.
Monday, January 23, 2012
The New Look of Retail
As more and more people shop online, the retail environment is changing to attract more brick and mortar customers.
As we reported last week, a number of companies exhibited at the National Retail Federation's (NRF) convention in New York City. It was evident at the convention that retailers are making positive changes.
Ignoring technology can be a very expensive mistake, and retailers are addressing this by introducing interactive technology into the store environment combined with a more personal shopping experience.
Expect to see the introduction of digital checkout, health/wellness centers and cozy environments...think Starbucks.
There's also a clear sign that Big Box is on its way out.
As we reported last week, a number of companies exhibited at the National Retail Federation's (NRF) convention in New York City. It was evident at the convention that retailers are making positive changes.
Ignoring technology can be a very expensive mistake, and retailers are addressing this by introducing interactive technology into the store environment combined with a more personal shopping experience.
Expect to see the introduction of digital checkout, health/wellness centers and cozy environments...think Starbucks.
There's also a clear sign that Big Box is on its way out.
Monday, January 16, 2012
What's Up With Microsoft At Retail?
The latest on retail is happening in New York this week at the National Retail Federation Annual Conference and EXPO (NRF) where Microsoft will discuss details of its retail strategy. The strategy centers on the transformation of one-off applications, devices and databases into an end-to-end retail solution.
The retail market is clearly changing and the objective of this strategy is to help retailers respond to market changes with greater efficiency as they provide customers with a seamless and personalized shopping experiences. The integration of Microsoft's intelligent systems will provide retailers with a way to maximize the data so that it can be translated into strategic insight and business decisions.
For more information, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2012/jan12/01-16NRFEmbedded.mspx
The retail market is clearly changing and the objective of this strategy is to help retailers respond to market changes with greater efficiency as they provide customers with a seamless and personalized shopping experiences. The integration of Microsoft's intelligent systems will provide retailers with a way to maximize the data so that it can be translated into strategic insight and business decisions.
For more information, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2012/jan12/01-16NRFEmbedded.mspx
Thursday, January 5, 2012
India's New Supermarkets Break With Tradition
Humans, regardless of culture, feel very comfortable with the their traditions. It's what we call the comfort zone of familiarity. This reaction holds true with the new western supermarkets that are becoming a part of the Indian retail landscape in 2012. These are retail chains that will have a dramatic effect on the $300 billion-a-year retail trade.
For India's 700 million villagers, the supply chain will change and new ties will be forged between cities and villages. Farmers will be encouraged to grow quality crops at higher yields and the new supply chains will help them retain higher profits. With increased profits, farmers will finally be able to invest in new technology.
Change is difficult and stressful because it can force people and industries to change. For India, the decision to move forward rather than leave things as they is positive. Without these changes, the farmers and retailers would continue to cope with India's 40 percent produce perishable rate, low margins, and low yields.
This difficult road has the potential to bring tremendous positive changes to an industry that is still operating the way many farmers have operated 500 years ago.
We wish them well.
For India's 700 million villagers, the supply chain will change and new ties will be forged between cities and villages. Farmers will be encouraged to grow quality crops at higher yields and the new supply chains will help them retain higher profits. With increased profits, farmers will finally be able to invest in new technology.
Change is difficult and stressful because it can force people and industries to change. For India, the decision to move forward rather than leave things as they is positive. Without these changes, the farmers and retailers would continue to cope with India's 40 percent produce perishable rate, low margins, and low yields.
This difficult road has the potential to bring tremendous positive changes to an industry that is still operating the way many farmers have operated 500 years ago.
We wish them well.
Monday, December 26, 2011
What Are Your Business New Year's Resolutions?
Things seem to be picking up ever so slowly. So what, if anything, are you doing to push that ball forward for your brand?
A few suggestions: Maximize Your Website Potential
Your corporate site may be a thing of beauty, but if you, or your web designer, take the approach that the site is only meant to inform people about a product or service, then your company site is doomed to fail.
Does your site motivate the greatest number of visitors to contact you with their questions and reach information? Bottom line is that potential prospects have to be very motivated to respond, and if they don't respond, the visit won't convert into a sale.
An example of this response trigger is an article that I wrote a number of years ago entitled "Public Relations Doesn't Just HAPPEN." Frankly, the article was written out of frustration in an attempt to educate business owners.
I received a phone call one morning from a woman who wanted to schedule an appointment. She said, "I read your article and it makes more sense that anything I've ever read. It's wonderful, and I need to see you today. I'm downstairs by your office. May I come up?"
I thanked her and told her I could not see her until the next day...still not knowing which of my many articles she had read. Her panic started to build over the phone until I told her I could see her at 10:00 AM the next morning.
The woman arrived early the next day, and spent exactly 25 minutes in my office. You could see that she was ready to sign. Her parting comment was "Send me a contract immediately for a website redesign. Then, we'll deal with PR."
The article spoke to her needs, goals and frustrations. With websites, one of the questions is what motivates them to buy, or at least bookmark the site. Most people look at dozens of options. Unless your site is a household name such as eBay.com, or google.com, your prospects won't remember your site's URL ten seconds after they leave for another site. For more info on sites, loading time, type contrast, etc., please visit Creston's Website Tips.
To cite Warren Buffett as an example of positive action, while others go into the panic mode in bad times, Warren Buffett goes into the shopping mode.
Marketing Never Stops. If you stop your marketing, you are wasting the brand equity you have built so far.
His views on marketing use this same kind of thinking. While others are into a cut and run mode, the smart money looks for marketing opportunities. Right now consumers are spending more time than ever before evaluating their daily product purchases and their long term brand loyalties.
Now is not the time to cut and run on your marketing budget. Wishing doesn't make it happen. Now is the time to seek out opportunities.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
All Aboard! The Marvelous Maker Faire© By Stevanne Auerbach/Dr. Toy™
The Marvelous Maker Faire is a family fun festival for the public of all ages. One was held on May 21 and 22 at the San Mateo County Event Center. (May 20 was launch day and a special school day—lucky kids!) Six other events are scheduled to be held during the rest of the year.
The event takes place both inside spacious halls and all around the outdoor grounds. Visitors on skates, Segway, bikes, wheel chairs, golf carts, and in the multi- car train could cover more territory more easily and faster than we could; each area was well worth your time to visit, and move as you wish, and at your own pace. This is an event dedicated to make, create, learn, invent, craft, recycle, build, think, play, and be inspired. It is a two-day event to celebrate arts, crafts, engineering, food, music, science and technology. It features rockets, robots, electronics, circuit boards, Tesla coils, 3-D printing, alternative energy vehicles, and much more.
This is an extraordinary event by any stretch of the imagination and, like no other, it combines the best of many worlds—Makers of all kinds from all over (as far away as Australia, France, Canada and New Jersey) present their handiwork, creativity, and skills. Ranging from handmade things like crafts, jewelry, and clothing to imaginative cars/solar vehicles, to constructions and robots, to food makers, art, science and technology displays, just to name a few of the myriad of great offerings that cover the entire landscape from one end of the site to the other and extending into the parking lots.
Maker Faire is a feast of creativity at its best that is hard to contain in the space available, or to even begin to cover in one or two days. We did our utmost to cover as much as possible in one day. We learned so much that my brain is rapidly attempting to meet the challenge of sorting it all out to provide you with a better understanding of this event, and to indicate why it’s well worth the effort for the whole family to attend. This is an event that all creative people, including--GEEKS, Geek Kids, wannabe geeks, ordinary kids, adults, teens, and makers of all kinds will love and fully enjoy.
The Maker Faire is a unique and huge showcase of creativity and technology that stimulates, inspires, and provides fun and amazement for all ages. It is an event not to be missed by anyone who has ever asked “Why?” This event combines talks, exhibits, demonstrations, performances, and surprises that are everywhere at the same time so there is a total immersion of amazement.
The Marvelous Maker Faire is the greatest combination of The County Fair, without animals; Burning Man without sand or camping; Tech Museum spread out beyond walls, time, and space; Children’s Museum without limitations; Street Fairs that offer food, crafts and entertainment. This event is a veritable laboratory of creativity at its best in all forms, shapes and sizes—from simple to complex—the best that can be brought to one location for display and direct experience for two days. Included are people in costumes, plus plenty of surprises like giant bubbles, old cars, and lots of different music. There are light shows and LED creations that were combinations of fireworks, lightening, creative expressions, and moving objects like a colorful glowing shark on wheels opening and closing its jaws.
In the Maker Shed, among an extensive array of displays, there are areas where you can learn to solder, use other tools, and obtain kits of all kinds. You can learn the latest about robotics, vehicles, and digital fabrication. Many speakers and presentations are strategically located throughout the entire event. In the Tech Shop, companies like Autodesk provide demonstrations of their latest software; and 3D Systems shows printing; and there are many other innovative new products and projects like the plans for a new museum dedicated to the creation of videogames. The projects and products are on display with time to meet the inventors. There were also included a Health area, Arts and Fire Arts Expo, and an area called Making the Middle Ages but we could not get to it all. The entire event holds an abundance of surprises, learning and fun for everyone.
We were mightily impressed by the hands on activities offered by the Exploratorium—one of the greatest world-class museums of all times—and their dedication of the staff to bring the best of science, tinkering, and experience to this event. The well trained staff happily shared their enthusiasm and skills with thousands of kids (and adults) of all ages. The Tinkering Studio staff provided an amazing abundance of “hands-on” activities and learning, experimenting, and experiences that alone were well worth the price of admission. These folks are masters of experiments with art, science, technology, and ideas. See HYPERLINK "http://www.exploratorium.edu" www.exploratorium.edu
We were thrilled to see the make and play areas presented by users and providers of several toy genres and their creative leadership. Those reaching out to new fans included amazing displays of creativity presented by the Bay Area LEGO User Group ( HYPERLINK "http://www.baylug.org" \t "_blank" www.baylug.org) with colorful, large and small constructions; The display of CitiBlocs ( HYPERLINK "http://www.citiblocs.com" www.citiblocs.com) with thousands of wooden blocks being constructed by busy hands of all ages under the guidance of 12 year old Maker and Master Builder Colin Freed.; Klutz Toys, which set up hands-on creativity activities; and Blue Orange Games ( HYPERLINK "http://www.blueorangegames.com" www.blueorangegames.com) who playfully demonstrated its latest games, including Sumoku, a new crossword style game with numbers. Blue Orange Games also won this years Editor’s Choice and Education Award at the Maker Faire. The company was recognized for their lively and fun booth as well as their constant steady interaction with families and children while promoting fun and educational games. See more on the sites HYPERLINK "http://www.facebook.com/BlueOrangeGamesUSA" \l "!/media/set/?set=a.203751879660460.44952.187194544649527" \o "http://www.facebook.com/BlueOrangeGamesUSA#!/media/set/?set=a.203751879660460.44952.187194544649527" http://www.facebook.com/BlueOrangeGamesUSA#!/media/set/?set=a.203751879660460.44952.187194544649527; Everyone had so much fun playing games, building and discovering.
We stopped to learn about the useful information available from NASA and picked up a “NASA Space Glider Shuttle Glider Kir” for our grandson who will enjoy making a replica.
Also learned that Clif Kid is offering a Backyard Game of the Year Award HYPERLINK "http://www.clifkidbackyardgame.com" www.clifkidbackyardgame.com with some impressive prizes.
We were extremely impressed by two and creative toothpick artists, both smitten when they were young children and who ever since have been perfecting building techniques. Both can be found on Youtube. Scott Weaver* HYPERLINK "http://www.rollingthroughthebay.com" http://www.rollingthroughthebay.com, can be seen at The Exploratorium (until June 26) with the entire landscape of San Francisco complete with hills, cable cars, and outstanding buildings, all built using Elmer’s Glue, and toothpicks by Diamond and others.
We also examined the toothpick creativity as presented by the amazing Steven J. Backman** at HYPERLINK "http://www.toothpickart.com" www.toothpickart.com and HYPERLINK "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFM-cG43zJM" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFM-cG43zJM, who has artistically created astounding art museum quality toothpick art.
We enjoyed meeting Bruce Gee who created templates made from computer generated art that were transformed with the help of smart teen helpers into individualized transfer art. The results delighted children and adults who learned that they, too, could make transfer art using the right software and helpful guidance.
Likewise, for all the “wannabe spies” they can learn a new twist by creating a spy tool based on the bug-in-a-book kits from David Simpson at HYPERLINK "http://www.bug-in-a-book.net" www.bug-in-a-book.net, which works with best sellers as well as any classic books you might like to use to embed the handy device to listen to others more closely.
The highlight of the afternoon was a presentation on the Tesla Stage by Nolan Bushnell (Who launched the game industry with Pong (Atari) and later created Petster and AG Bear (Axlon), Chuckie Cheese Restaurants, and other contributions.) who was filled with good advice to support and encourage thinking outside of the box, suggesting actively and regularly trying new projects, learning to stimulate and strengthen the brain, taking risks to enhance creativity, and expand life experiences to the fullest. He had exciting news about anti-aging games (see HYPERLINK "http://www.anti-aging.com" www.anti-aging.com) and is currently in development with a new and innovative high school he is creating in LA that will have world-wide applications (site xxx).
Creativity was well represented by many amazing displays of art and kinetic sculptures of many kinds–some extruding fire; and a gigantic swing that was 40,000-pounds of stone and steel overhead that moved with the tug of a rope by dozens of children pulling in unison. ‘Colossus’ was originally built by Zachary Coffin for Burning Man in 2005. Just the sheer determination to set up some of these installations was awe inspiring.
Crafts, good food, new projects, and demonstrations were everywhere. We will update as we obtain more information and will post and share more in the future (see www.drtoy.com).
Kudos to Sherry Huss and the entire crew of enthusiastic staff, and the many helpful volunteers of Maker Faire who worked very hard to produce six years of events; two days of fun and learning that is first class all the way. Lucky are the kids from schools around the bay area who attended the kick off day on Friday. This is what school and learning should be first and foremost—discovery, hands on, experimental, tangible, provocative, and learning with a wow and wonder factor. There is so much more to share. For more information go on line and explore HYPERLINK "http://www.makerfaire.com" www.makerfaire.com. Consider subscribing to the publication Make: Technology On Your Time Magazine, for projects and information at HYPERLINK "http://www.makezine.com" www.makezine.com; learn more at HYPERLINK "http://www.makershed.com" www.makershed.com.
Watch for and do your best to attend a Maker Faire event at the following venues taking place through the rest of the year (see list).
Be sure to visit 7th Annual Bay Area Maker Faire 2012 at the same location--You ’won't want to miss it. We can’t wait to attend again next year. This time we will plan for two days so we can see all the great things we missed.
What an amazing world! We can enjoy a potpourri of self-expression, abundant imagination, diversity and unlimited potential. Maker Faire makes us feel optimistic about our future. Let’s play!
Forthcoming Maker Faire Events
HYPERLINK "http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2010/03/ann-arbor-mini-maker-faire-request.html" Mini Maker Faire Ann Arbor
June 4, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://makerfairenc.com/" Mini Maker Faire North Carolina
June 24-25, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://www.makerfairekc.com/" Mini Maker Faire Kansas City
June 25-26, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://www.makerfaire.ca/" Mini Maker Faire Vancouver
June 25-26, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://makerfaire.com/detroit/2011" Maker Faire Detroit
July 30-31, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://makerfaire.com/newyork/2011" Maker Faire New York
September 17-18, 2011
Notes on the Two Toothpicks Artists:
*Scott Weaver’s family has lived in San Francisco for three generations. Scott started building toothpick sculptures in 1968, when he was 8 years old. Early structures were abstract and between two and four feet tall. Then he built one sculpture that had a ping-pong ball roll through it. In 1974, Scott started a new sculpture and added the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street, which also had a ping-pong ball, roll through it. This is what started what is now rolling through the Bay.
** Steven J. Backman, a San Francisco native, makes unique and ingenious tiny sculptures using only one toothpick, a straight edged razor blade, and glue. It began in elementary school when he made a Science project of DNA molecules from ordinary toothpicks and beans. He decided to design a San Francisco cable car for an art project using toothpicks and glue. Shortly after, Steven established his toothpick art business named “Landmarks of San Francisco.”
The event takes place both inside spacious halls and all around the outdoor grounds. Visitors on skates, Segway, bikes, wheel chairs, golf carts, and in the multi- car train could cover more territory more easily and faster than we could; each area was well worth your time to visit, and move as you wish, and at your own pace. This is an event dedicated to make, create, learn, invent, craft, recycle, build, think, play, and be inspired. It is a two-day event to celebrate arts, crafts, engineering, food, music, science and technology. It features rockets, robots, electronics, circuit boards, Tesla coils, 3-D printing, alternative energy vehicles, and much more.
This is an extraordinary event by any stretch of the imagination and, like no other, it combines the best of many worlds—Makers of all kinds from all over (as far away as Australia, France, Canada and New Jersey) present their handiwork, creativity, and skills. Ranging from handmade things like crafts, jewelry, and clothing to imaginative cars/solar vehicles, to constructions and robots, to food makers, art, science and technology displays, just to name a few of the myriad of great offerings that cover the entire landscape from one end of the site to the other and extending into the parking lots.
Maker Faire is a feast of creativity at its best that is hard to contain in the space available, or to even begin to cover in one or two days. We did our utmost to cover as much as possible in one day. We learned so much that my brain is rapidly attempting to meet the challenge of sorting it all out to provide you with a better understanding of this event, and to indicate why it’s well worth the effort for the whole family to attend. This is an event that all creative people, including--GEEKS, Geek Kids, wannabe geeks, ordinary kids, adults, teens, and makers of all kinds will love and fully enjoy.
The Maker Faire is a unique and huge showcase of creativity and technology that stimulates, inspires, and provides fun and amazement for all ages. It is an event not to be missed by anyone who has ever asked “Why?” This event combines talks, exhibits, demonstrations, performances, and surprises that are everywhere at the same time so there is a total immersion of amazement.
The Marvelous Maker Faire is the greatest combination of The County Fair, without animals; Burning Man without sand or camping; Tech Museum spread out beyond walls, time, and space; Children’s Museum without limitations; Street Fairs that offer food, crafts and entertainment. This event is a veritable laboratory of creativity at its best in all forms, shapes and sizes—from simple to complex—the best that can be brought to one location for display and direct experience for two days. Included are people in costumes, plus plenty of surprises like giant bubbles, old cars, and lots of different music. There are light shows and LED creations that were combinations of fireworks, lightening, creative expressions, and moving objects like a colorful glowing shark on wheels opening and closing its jaws.
In the Maker Shed, among an extensive array of displays, there are areas where you can learn to solder, use other tools, and obtain kits of all kinds. You can learn the latest about robotics, vehicles, and digital fabrication. Many speakers and presentations are strategically located throughout the entire event. In the Tech Shop, companies like Autodesk provide demonstrations of their latest software; and 3D Systems shows printing; and there are many other innovative new products and projects like the plans for a new museum dedicated to the creation of videogames. The projects and products are on display with time to meet the inventors. There were also included a Health area, Arts and Fire Arts Expo, and an area called Making the Middle Ages but we could not get to it all. The entire event holds an abundance of surprises, learning and fun for everyone.
We were mightily impressed by the hands on activities offered by the Exploratorium—one of the greatest world-class museums of all times—and their dedication of the staff to bring the best of science, tinkering, and experience to this event. The well trained staff happily shared their enthusiasm and skills with thousands of kids (and adults) of all ages. The Tinkering Studio staff provided an amazing abundance of “hands-on” activities and learning, experimenting, and experiences that alone were well worth the price of admission. These folks are masters of experiments with art, science, technology, and ideas. See HYPERLINK "http://www.exploratorium.edu" www.exploratorium.edu
We were thrilled to see the make and play areas presented by users and providers of several toy genres and their creative leadership. Those reaching out to new fans included amazing displays of creativity presented by the Bay Area LEGO User Group ( HYPERLINK "http://www.baylug.org" \t "_blank" www.baylug.org) with colorful, large and small constructions; The display of CitiBlocs ( HYPERLINK "http://www.citiblocs.com" www.citiblocs.com) with thousands of wooden blocks being constructed by busy hands of all ages under the guidance of 12 year old Maker and Master Builder Colin Freed.; Klutz Toys, which set up hands-on creativity activities; and Blue Orange Games ( HYPERLINK "http://www.blueorangegames.com" www.blueorangegames.com) who playfully demonstrated its latest games, including Sumoku, a new crossword style game with numbers. Blue Orange Games also won this years Editor’s Choice and Education Award at the Maker Faire. The company was recognized for their lively and fun booth as well as their constant steady interaction with families and children while promoting fun and educational games. See more on the sites HYPERLINK "http://www.facebook.com/BlueOrangeGamesUSA" \l "!/media/set/?set=a.203751879660460.44952.187194544649527" \o "http://www.facebook.com/BlueOrangeGamesUSA#!/media/set/?set=a.203751879660460.44952.187194544649527" http://www.facebook.com/BlueOrangeGamesUSA#!/media/set/?set=a.203751879660460.44952.187194544649527; Everyone had so much fun playing games, building and discovering.
We stopped to learn about the useful information available from NASA and picked up a “NASA Space Glider Shuttle Glider Kir” for our grandson who will enjoy making a replica.
Also learned that Clif Kid is offering a Backyard Game of the Year Award HYPERLINK "http://www.clifkidbackyardgame.com" www.clifkidbackyardgame.com with some impressive prizes.
We were extremely impressed by two and creative toothpick artists, both smitten when they were young children and who ever since have been perfecting building techniques. Both can be found on Youtube. Scott Weaver* HYPERLINK "http://www.rollingthroughthebay.com" http://www.rollingthroughthebay.com, can be seen at The Exploratorium (until June 26) with the entire landscape of San Francisco complete with hills, cable cars, and outstanding buildings, all built using Elmer’s Glue, and toothpicks by Diamond and others.
We also examined the toothpick creativity as presented by the amazing Steven J. Backman** at HYPERLINK "http://www.toothpickart.com" www.toothpickart.com and HYPERLINK "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFM-cG43zJM" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFM-cG43zJM, who has artistically created astounding art museum quality toothpick art.
We enjoyed meeting Bruce Gee who created templates made from computer generated art that were transformed with the help of smart teen helpers into individualized transfer art. The results delighted children and adults who learned that they, too, could make transfer art using the right software and helpful guidance.
Likewise, for all the “wannabe spies” they can learn a new twist by creating a spy tool based on the bug-in-a-book kits from David Simpson at HYPERLINK "http://www.bug-in-a-book.net" www.bug-in-a-book.net, which works with best sellers as well as any classic books you might like to use to embed the handy device to listen to others more closely.
The highlight of the afternoon was a presentation on the Tesla Stage by Nolan Bushnell (Who launched the game industry with Pong (Atari) and later created Petster and AG Bear (Axlon), Chuckie Cheese Restaurants, and other contributions.) who was filled with good advice to support and encourage thinking outside of the box, suggesting actively and regularly trying new projects, learning to stimulate and strengthen the brain, taking risks to enhance creativity, and expand life experiences to the fullest. He had exciting news about anti-aging games (see HYPERLINK "http://www.anti-aging.com" www.anti-aging.com) and is currently in development with a new and innovative high school he is creating in LA that will have world-wide applications (site xxx).
Creativity was well represented by many amazing displays of art and kinetic sculptures of many kinds–some extruding fire; and a gigantic swing that was 40,000-pounds of stone and steel overhead that moved with the tug of a rope by dozens of children pulling in unison. ‘Colossus’ was originally built by Zachary Coffin for Burning Man in 2005. Just the sheer determination to set up some of these installations was awe inspiring.
Crafts, good food, new projects, and demonstrations were everywhere. We will update as we obtain more information and will post and share more in the future (see www.drtoy.com).
Kudos to Sherry Huss and the entire crew of enthusiastic staff, and the many helpful volunteers of Maker Faire who worked very hard to produce six years of events; two days of fun and learning that is first class all the way. Lucky are the kids from schools around the bay area who attended the kick off day on Friday. This is what school and learning should be first and foremost—discovery, hands on, experimental, tangible, provocative, and learning with a wow and wonder factor. There is so much more to share. For more information go on line and explore HYPERLINK "http://www.makerfaire.com" www.makerfaire.com. Consider subscribing to the publication Make: Technology On Your Time Magazine, for projects and information at HYPERLINK "http://www.makezine.com" www.makezine.com; learn more at HYPERLINK "http://www.makershed.com" www.makershed.com.
Watch for and do your best to attend a Maker Faire event at the following venues taking place through the rest of the year (see list).
Be sure to visit 7th Annual Bay Area Maker Faire 2012 at the same location--You ’won't want to miss it. We can’t wait to attend again next year. This time we will plan for two days so we can see all the great things we missed.
What an amazing world! We can enjoy a potpourri of self-expression, abundant imagination, diversity and unlimited potential. Maker Faire makes us feel optimistic about our future. Let’s play!
Forthcoming Maker Faire Events
HYPERLINK "http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2010/03/ann-arbor-mini-maker-faire-request.html" Mini Maker Faire Ann Arbor
June 4, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://makerfairenc.com/" Mini Maker Faire North Carolina
June 24-25, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://www.makerfairekc.com/" Mini Maker Faire Kansas City
June 25-26, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://www.makerfaire.ca/" Mini Maker Faire Vancouver
June 25-26, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://makerfaire.com/detroit/2011" Maker Faire Detroit
July 30-31, 2011
HYPERLINK "http://makerfaire.com/newyork/2011" Maker Faire New York
September 17-18, 2011
Notes on the Two Toothpicks Artists:
*Scott Weaver’s family has lived in San Francisco for three generations. Scott started building toothpick sculptures in 1968, when he was 8 years old. Early structures were abstract and between two and four feet tall. Then he built one sculpture that had a ping-pong ball roll through it. In 1974, Scott started a new sculpture and added the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street, which also had a ping-pong ball, roll through it. This is what started what is now rolling through the Bay.
** Steven J. Backman, a San Francisco native, makes unique and ingenious tiny sculptures using only one toothpick, a straight edged razor blade, and glue. It began in elementary school when he made a Science project of DNA molecules from ordinary toothpicks and beans. He decided to design a San Francisco cable car for an art project using toothpicks and glue. Shortly after, Steven established his toothpick art business named “Landmarks of San Francisco.”
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Western Supermarkets Ready for India Market Entre
India - The Indian cabinet is strongly considering the possibility of allowing foreign multi-brand retailers, defined as chain stores and supermarkets, to own 51 percent of Indian operations.
Single-brand retailers such as Gucci or Nike, currently at the 51 percent limit, could be raised to 100%.
These potential changes has clearly captured the attention of stores such as Tesco, Wal-Mart and Carrefour.
This potential good news for western retailers is viewed very differently by the millions of India's small retailers – known as the kirana shops. For them, this move is viewed as a threat.
The Indian cabinet appears to be of the opinion that foreign retailers will bring better logistics and help to put a cap on inflation in food prices.
Single-brand retailers such as Gucci or Nike, currently at the 51 percent limit, could be raised to 100%.
These potential changes has clearly captured the attention of stores such as Tesco, Wal-Mart and Carrefour.
This potential good news for western retailers is viewed very differently by the millions of India's small retailers – known as the kirana shops. For them, this move is viewed as a threat.
The Indian cabinet appears to be of the opinion that foreign retailers will bring better logistics and help to put a cap on inflation in food prices.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Sony's New Micro Vault Click Flash Drives
Users can now choose from 4 to 64GB capacities in an even more sleek and compact size. A great combination of convenience and expanded capacity.
UK, 19 September 2011 – Storing and sharing your favorite music, photos and HD video is easier than ever with the new high capacity Micro Vault Click P Series flash drives from Sony Europe. With storage capacities of up to 64GB, the Micro Vault Click gives users all the space they need in a small, stylish and easy-to carry design.
Available in either black (all capacities) or white (4GB/8GB/16GB), new design enhancements to the Micro Vault Click include a reduced form factor length of 5.6mm, giving it a slimmer profile, and a wider strap hole makes attaching to a key chain or mobile phone a snap. A 360-degree LED at the tip lets users know when data is being written, and when it is safe to remove. Sony has also brought back its popular and unique Click feature, letting users reveal the USB connector without adding length to the body and protect it when not in use.
With the ever growing popularity of rich multimedia content, from HD video to high resolutions digital photos, the Micro Vault Click is a welcome addition to Sony’s Micro Vault family. With its large storage capacity and slim profile, it is akin to having a second hard drive small enough for a key chain, all at a very affordable cost.
Downloadable software for the Micro Vault Click includes File Rescue and x – Pict Story™. File rescue enables users to recover any important data that might have been deleted by mistake, making retrieving lost data such as images, movies and music files a breeze. The x – Pict Story™ software allows the creation of an automated photo presentation.
Featuring storage capacities in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB & offering a 5-year warranty, the new Micro Vault Click is available now.
UK, 19 September 2011 – Storing and sharing your favorite music, photos and HD video is easier than ever with the new high capacity Micro Vault Click P Series flash drives from Sony Europe. With storage capacities of up to 64GB, the Micro Vault Click gives users all the space they need in a small, stylish and easy-to carry design.
Available in either black (all capacities) or white (4GB/8GB/16GB), new design enhancements to the Micro Vault Click include a reduced form factor length of 5.6mm, giving it a slimmer profile, and a wider strap hole makes attaching to a key chain or mobile phone a snap. A 360-degree LED at the tip lets users know when data is being written, and when it is safe to remove. Sony has also brought back its popular and unique Click feature, letting users reveal the USB connector without adding length to the body and protect it when not in use.
With the ever growing popularity of rich multimedia content, from HD video to high resolutions digital photos, the Micro Vault Click is a welcome addition to Sony’s Micro Vault family. With its large storage capacity and slim profile, it is akin to having a second hard drive small enough for a key chain, all at a very affordable cost.
Downloadable software for the Micro Vault Click includes File Rescue and x – Pict Story™. File rescue enables users to recover any important data that might have been deleted by mistake, making retrieving lost data such as images, movies and music files a breeze. The x – Pict Story™ software allows the creation of an automated photo presentation.
Featuring storage capacities in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB & offering a 5-year warranty, the new Micro Vault Click is available now.
For more information please contact
Sony Europe PR Team
e: press@eu.sony.com CGTA Acquires TRIPS West
Toronto, Canada - The Canadian Gift and Tableware Association (CGTA) acquired The Tourist, Resort and Imprinted Products Show (TRIPS West) from DMG World Media Inc. TRIPS West will run each February in conjunction with the Spring Alberta Gift Show.
The 2012 show runs from February 19 to 22 at Edmonton's Northlands Expo Centre. The CGTA owns and operates the Toronto, Albert and Montreal Gifts Shows. The Toronto show's semiannual editions were recently ranked at third and fourth on TSNN's Top 50 Canadian Trade Shows list.The Alberta Gift Shows ranked 7th and 9th and the Montreal Gift Shows ranked 16th and 17th.
The 2012 show runs from February 19 to 22 at Edmonton's Northlands Expo Centre. The CGTA owns and operates the Toronto, Albert and Montreal Gifts Shows. The Toronto show's semiannual editions were recently ranked at third and fourth on TSNN's Top 50 Canadian Trade Shows list.The Alberta Gift Shows ranked 7th and 9th and the Montreal Gift Shows ranked 16th and 17th.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Facebook Overall Growth is Lower
Overall growth has been slower for two months straight It's interesting to note that the United States lost nearly six million FB users, falling from 155.2 million at the start of May to 149.4 million at the end of the month. The UK, Russia, and Norway have also posted lower numbers.
The ultimate FB goal is one billion. Will it happen? Too soon to know.
A number of people we've interviewed feel there are too many restrictions such as a limit on friends. Other comments involve bugs, privacy issues, and the lack of real benefit for business users.
For now, it's a wait and see.
Source: Inside Facebook
The ultimate FB goal is one billion. Will it happen? Too soon to know.
A number of people we've interviewed feel there are too many restrictions such as a limit on friends. Other comments involve bugs, privacy issues, and the lack of real benefit for business users.
For now, it's a wait and see.
Source: Inside Facebook
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Why Public Relations Doesn't Just Happen
Public relations is a very important part of the marketing mix. A successful PR campaign provides third-party endorsement of products or services which is something no other marketing element can deliver. Many people think that once a company starts advertising, editors beat a path to your door. In some cases, that actually does happen, but it's not the norm.
Public relations is very different from advertising. One main difference is that you can't buy media placement. The story is either newsworthy, or it's not. Paid placement is called advertising.
Both marketing elements are important, but public relations can sometimes be a slow build. Results don't happen in a few weeks or in a month, especially with the three month lead time needed for magazines print deadlines. When dealing with television, newspapers or radio, the three month lead time is not an issue, but competition is an issue.
There have been situations where we've had an instant success story. We created a museum event in Philadelphia at a small children's museum that was an incredible media success story. Every newspaper, ethnic publication and television station showed up for this event. Over the years, we've also had a number of press conferences with tons of media coverage the next day. This is expecially true if the news is sensational or the product is very popular at retail.
In one case, we generated thousands of stories for a client, but we were trying to generate an article in a major business paper. Nothing worked. The editor was interested, but he didn't understand the point we were using as the "hook" for the story. When we finally drove home the point of differrence between mass market retailers and specialty retailers, he wrote the story and it was fantastic. Our story ended up on the front page of the business section minus one column, but it took months and months of work.
Many clients don't understand the PR process. For example, when I was handling the marketing for a major children's line of licensed apparel, the client had signed the advertising contract, but not the public relations contract. He just didn't understand the entire subject and finally asked for a meeting to discuss things. Shortly into the meeting, this charming, grandfatherly gentleman looked at me with a straight face and said, "Why do I have to pay for this, doesn't it just happen?"
At first, I thought he was kidding, but then I could see that he simply didn't understand the process, or the discipline. After a rather lengthy discussion, he signed the contract. The campaign was a big success and so was the clothing line.
Some clients don't have the budget for the entire marketing mix of trade advertising, consumer advertising, sales promotion, web site development and PR. Many will start with PR and trade advertising and then increase their marketing budget over time.
How To Choose An Agency
When you are ready to consider an agency, what should you look for in a PR team? For starters, the chemistry has to be there. You also need experience and media connections. Don't hesitate to ask for client references. Once you have them, pick up the phone and make some calls.
Don't assume that the new business people will service your account. If there is one account person that you feel has the expertise you need, consider requesting that this individual be the point person on your account. The agency should be willing to agree to this request in your written contract. Beware of bait and switch, where you are courted by the new business people who will never be seen again after the contract is signed.
What You Can Expect
Some points to remember:
• Nothing kills a bad product faster than excellent PR and advertising. Customers may purchase the product once and then, that's it.
• When products are photographed, the samples must be in perfect condition. The camera picks up and magnifies very tiny flaws. Retouching is expensive, so be careful when you select product samples for photography.
• PR is not a tool used to force retail distribution. If you try it, the move will come back to haunt you. When an editor asks for information about the retail distribution of a product and/or service, the PR agency had better have answers or the ability to obtain the answers quickly. Reporters and editors always manage to call for this information when they are on deadline so everything is a rush. A response such as we're planning to open outlets soon in your area is not the correct answer.
Put yourself in the editor's place. He/she is interested in writing about your product and the readers expect to be able to find the item in local stores, on respected web sites, or in catalogs. If they can't do any of the above, the editor will not write about the product.
I have had consumers track me down because they wanted a specific product and could not find it at the retail store mentioned in the article because the item had sold out. One Christmas, I was practically running a mail order operation out of the agency because frantic consumers were calling for one specific product that did not have wide retail distribution.
• Trade books usually publish one month in advance. Consumer books publish three, yes three months in advance. If you're hoping for a December magazine story, you'd better start planning in July or August.
• If your agency is creative, it will come up with innovative "hooks" for your products or services.
• The web is very different because a good story can generate almost instant results.
PR is a wonderful marketing tool, but you must understand the basics to understand how it can work for your company.
Public relations is very different from advertising. One main difference is that you can't buy media placement. The story is either newsworthy, or it's not. Paid placement is called advertising.
Both marketing elements are important, but public relations can sometimes be a slow build. Results don't happen in a few weeks or in a month, especially with the three month lead time needed for magazines print deadlines. When dealing with television, newspapers or radio, the three month lead time is not an issue, but competition is an issue.
There have been situations where we've had an instant success story. We created a museum event in Philadelphia at a small children's museum that was an incredible media success story. Every newspaper, ethnic publication and television station showed up for this event. Over the years, we've also had a number of press conferences with tons of media coverage the next day. This is expecially true if the news is sensational or the product is very popular at retail.
In one case, we generated thousands of stories for a client, but we were trying to generate an article in a major business paper. Nothing worked. The editor was interested, but he didn't understand the point we were using as the "hook" for the story. When we finally drove home the point of differrence between mass market retailers and specialty retailers, he wrote the story and it was fantastic. Our story ended up on the front page of the business section minus one column, but it took months and months of work.
Many clients don't understand the PR process. For example, when I was handling the marketing for a major children's line of licensed apparel, the client had signed the advertising contract, but not the public relations contract. He just didn't understand the entire subject and finally asked for a meeting to discuss things. Shortly into the meeting, this charming, grandfatherly gentleman looked at me with a straight face and said, "Why do I have to pay for this, doesn't it just happen?"
At first, I thought he was kidding, but then I could see that he simply didn't understand the process, or the discipline. After a rather lengthy discussion, he signed the contract. The campaign was a big success and so was the clothing line.
Some clients don't have the budget for the entire marketing mix of trade advertising, consumer advertising, sales promotion, web site development and PR. Many will start with PR and trade advertising and then increase their marketing budget over time.
How To Choose An Agency
When you are ready to consider an agency, what should you look for in a PR team? For starters, the chemistry has to be there. You also need experience and media connections. Don't hesitate to ask for client references. Once you have them, pick up the phone and make some calls.
Don't assume that the new business people will service your account. If there is one account person that you feel has the expertise you need, consider requesting that this individual be the point person on your account. The agency should be willing to agree to this request in your written contract. Beware of bait and switch, where you are courted by the new business people who will never be seen again after the contract is signed.
What You Can Expect
Some points to remember:
• Nothing kills a bad product faster than excellent PR and advertising. Customers may purchase the product once and then, that's it.
• When products are photographed, the samples must be in perfect condition. The camera picks up and magnifies very tiny flaws. Retouching is expensive, so be careful when you select product samples for photography.
• PR is not a tool used to force retail distribution. If you try it, the move will come back to haunt you. When an editor asks for information about the retail distribution of a product and/or service, the PR agency had better have answers or the ability to obtain the answers quickly. Reporters and editors always manage to call for this information when they are on deadline so everything is a rush. A response such as we're planning to open outlets soon in your area is not the correct answer.
Put yourself in the editor's place. He/she is interested in writing about your product and the readers expect to be able to find the item in local stores, on respected web sites, or in catalogs. If they can't do any of the above, the editor will not write about the product.
I have had consumers track me down because they wanted a specific product and could not find it at the retail store mentioned in the article because the item had sold out. One Christmas, I was practically running a mail order operation out of the agency because frantic consumers were calling for one specific product that did not have wide retail distribution.
• Trade books usually publish one month in advance. Consumer books publish three, yes three months in advance. If you're hoping for a December magazine story, you'd better start planning in July or August.
• If your agency is creative, it will come up with innovative "hooks" for your products or services.
• The web is very different because a good story can generate almost instant results.
PR is a wonderful marketing tool, but you must understand the basics to understand how it can work for your company.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Worldwide Cloud Services Projected to Reach $44.2 billion by 2013
Recent IDC research shows that worldwide spending on cloud services will grow almost threefold, reaching $44.2 billion by 2013.
The IaaS/PaaS market alone - according to market research firm The 451 Group - will grow from $964 million in 2010 to $3.9 billion in 2013. Whether your company is seeking to play at the SaaS, PaaS, or IaaS level of the Cloud Computing ecosystem, the surest way to get yourself and your company involved is to carefully research the benefits and compare them to your company needs.
The IaaS/PaaS market alone - according to market research firm The 451 Group - will grow from $964 million in 2010 to $3.9 billion in 2013. Whether your company is seeking to play at the SaaS, PaaS, or IaaS level of the Cloud Computing ecosystem, the surest way to get yourself and your company involved is to carefully research the benefits and compare them to your company needs.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Mega Brands Enters Into International Licensing Agreement with Mind Candy
Mega Bloks construction sets and Mega Puzzles based on the immensely popular kids brand Moshi Monsters to debut for the 2011 Holiday season.
Mega Brands, Inc. has entered into an exclusive, multi year international licensing partnership with Mind Candy to develop creative toys based on the global kids' hit Moshi Monsters. Under this agreement, Mega Brands will work closely with Mind Candy to develop a full range of Mega Bloks construction sets, as well as 3-D Breakthrough puzzles for the global marketplace. The licensed products from Mega Brands will debut worldwide for the holiday season.
Darran Garnham, Head of Global Licensing– Mind Candy, commented, “This is a hugely exciting deal for Moshi Monsters. We’re in the privileged position of partnering with some of the worlds most premium licensees and this is a fine example of that. We look forward to bringing the Mega range to shelf in time for Holiday 2011.”
Mega Brands, Inc. has entered into an exclusive, multi year international licensing partnership with Mind Candy to develop creative toys based on the global kids' hit Moshi Monsters. Under this agreement, Mega Brands will work closely with Mind Candy to develop a full range of Mega Bloks construction sets, as well as 3-D Breakthrough puzzles for the global marketplace. The licensed products from Mega Brands will debut worldwide for the holiday season.
Darran Garnham, Head of Global Licensing– Mind Candy, commented, “This is a hugely exciting deal for Moshi Monsters. We’re in the privileged position of partnering with some of the worlds most premium licensees and this is a fine example of that. We look forward to bringing the Mega range to shelf in time for Holiday 2011.”
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Best Use of Multiple Media Platforms
People ask if the best use of marketing dollars is to concentrate the majority of available dollars in new media, and the answer is still no.
The latest Nielsen report, commissioned by Google, supports the recommendation we've made for the last four years.The research shows that nearly 75% of consumers remember an ad when viewed across multiple media platforms vs. viewership on TV alone.
According to Nielsen's media lab study, participants viewed related content across a TV, computer, smartphone and tablet. A 15-second video ad promoting a premium sports sedan was shown to different groups with some people seeing no ads, and others seeing the ad on different combinations of screens.
In the group that was exposed to TV ads alone, 50 percent of people correctly attributed the ad to the correct auto brand. For groups that saw the ad across all screens – TV, computer, smartphone and tablet – the ability to remember the brand jumped dramatically to nearly three-in-four (74%). This is a tremendous increase in retention.
The latest Nielsen report, commissioned by Google, supports the recommendation we've made for the last four years.The research shows that nearly 75% of consumers remember an ad when viewed across multiple media platforms vs. viewership on TV alone.
According to Nielsen's media lab study, participants viewed related content across a TV, computer, smartphone and tablet. A 15-second video ad promoting a premium sports sedan was shown to different groups with some people seeing no ads, and others seeing the ad on different combinations of screens.
In the group that was exposed to TV ads alone, 50 percent of people correctly attributed the ad to the correct auto brand. For groups that saw the ad across all screens – TV, computer, smartphone and tablet – the ability to remember the brand jumped dramatically to nearly three-in-four (74%). This is a tremendous increase in retention.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Steuben...End of an Era
Steuben, purchased in 1918 by Corning Inc., will cease production on November 29th, 2011, according to the Steuben Courier. At least 60 workers will lose their jobs with the factory closing.
Steuben, luxury lead crystal made by hand in the United States, is prized by collectors worldwide. The factory opened in 1903, where founder and designer Frederick Carder's magnificent creations earned him a reputation within the decorative arts alongside Louis Comfort Tiffany and Rene Lalique.
Luxury goods are doing well, so to this reporter, the initial announcement was confusing, but the history reveals problems. After the business lost nearly $6 million in 2007, it was purchased from Corning Inc. in 2008 by Schottenstein Stores Corp., a Columbus-based private retail holding company with a portfolio of brands that includes upscale handbags, jewelry and Italian fashion.
Schottenstein was unable to reverse the downward slide and never saw a profit, according to company spokesman Ron Sykes.
At the time, Corning officials said the company wanted to move away from the luxury glass business and into the innovative technology and the industrial component industries.
The Corning Museum of Glass will discontinue its Steuben line, and the flagship store on Madison Avenue in New York City will close after the inventory is sold.
Corning has an agreement to repurchase the Steuben brand name from Schottenstein, but the company has no plans to re-enter the luxury glass business, according to Corning Inc. spokesman Joe Dunning. "It didn't fit our business model back in 2008, and it doesn't fit our business model now,"
Dunning said. "We have no plans to use it, but we are preserving the brand for any uses down the road."
Steuben, luxury lead crystal made by hand in the United States, is prized by collectors worldwide. The factory opened in 1903, where founder and designer Frederick Carder's magnificent creations earned him a reputation within the decorative arts alongside Louis Comfort Tiffany and Rene Lalique.
Luxury goods are doing well, so to this reporter, the initial announcement was confusing, but the history reveals problems. After the business lost nearly $6 million in 2007, it was purchased from Corning Inc. in 2008 by Schottenstein Stores Corp., a Columbus-based private retail holding company with a portfolio of brands that includes upscale handbags, jewelry and Italian fashion.
Schottenstein was unable to reverse the downward slide and never saw a profit, according to company spokesman Ron Sykes.
At the time, Corning officials said the company wanted to move away from the luxury glass business and into the innovative technology and the industrial component industries.
The Corning Museum of Glass will discontinue its Steuben line, and the flagship store on Madison Avenue in New York City will close after the inventory is sold.
Corning has an agreement to repurchase the Steuben brand name from Schottenstein, but the company has no plans to re-enter the luxury glass business, according to Corning Inc. spokesman Joe Dunning. "It didn't fit our business model back in 2008, and it doesn't fit our business model now,"
Dunning said. "We have no plans to use it, but we are preserving the brand for any uses down the road."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)