GM Blog Assignment # 6 (25 points)

The Best Countries For New Jobs Next Year

Susan Adams, 12.14.10, 04:45 PM EST

India and China lead the list, followed by Taiwan and Brazil.

On CBS' 60 Minutes last Sunday, the Brazilian billionaire Eike Batista told correspondent Steve Kroft that he's hiring Americans to weld his oil platforms. "To weld the platforms?" Kroft responded incredulously. "Yes," replied Batista, explaining that his country's booming economy is at almost full employment, and Brazil needs to import workers. "Already we have created this year 1.5 million jobs," continued the world's eighth richest man according to Forbes' most recent tally. "It's unbelievable."

That unbelievable job growth is reflected in the latest global employment outlook survey by the staffing firm Manpower ( MAN - news - people ). Brazil rates fourth on the tally of the nations with the greatest optimism about hiring in the first quarter of next year. Brazil's net hiring outlook--the number of employers surveyed who expect to increase their employment rolls minus the percentage who expect to decrease them--is 36%. That's driven by a 7% gross domestic product growth rate, three times higher than in the U.S.

Read the rest of the article here:  http://www.forbes.com/2010/12/14/best-countries-jobs-hiring-leadership-careers-employment.html?boxes=Homepagelighttop

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, summarize the article in 5 main points.  In paragraph # 2, discuss why you think that these 4 countries lead the list of "the best countries for new jobs next year".  Give at least 2 reasons.  Be specific with your thoughts. 

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 6 (25 points)

College bowl games expected to bring $420 million to Valley

College-football fans are expected to pump more money into Valley hotels, restaurants and other businesses during the coming three bowl games than in past years, despite the sluggish economy. The three games will be played in a two-week span that begins Dec. 28.

Glendale hosts Auburn and Oregon in the BCS National Championship and Connecticut and Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium, and Tempe hosts Missouri and Iowa in the Insight Bowl.

A higher-profile matchup in the Insight Bowl, the smallest of the three, is expected to boost out-of-town visitors and economic impact, Fiesta Bowl Chairman Duane Woods said.

Read the rest of the article here: 

http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2010/12/07/20101207arizona-college-bowl-economic-impact.html#ixzz18BjaO2dG

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, examine all the ways that money is spent at a bowl game.  What role do bowl events (beyond the football game) play in the success of the bowl game and the value in the community?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss why attendance is so important - regardless of the television ratings and sponsorship money.  Also, what bowl game are you most looking forward to?  Why? Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 5 (25 points)

Why Marketers Should Care About a Mexican Kid Falling Into a Stream

Gamesa Cookie Spot Shows Power of Social Media -- and Online Hispanic Community

From Adage.com

Joe Kutchera, the author of "Latino Link: Building Brands Online With Hispanic Communities and Content," is convinced that targeting Hispanics online is no longer possible without building -- and maintaining -- a continuous relationship with consumers on social networks. Perhaps that is why Kutchera, a former Time Warner executive, loves to tell the story of Gamesa, a PepsiCo-owned company that turned a viral sensation into its own advertising pitch in Mexico.

For the uninitiated, "La caída de Edgar" ("Edgar's Fall") is a home video featuring a Mexican kid named Edgar and his cousin Fernando hiking on a ranch near their home town of Monterrey. The video, originally uploaded in 2006, became so popular that it continues to attract viewers (over 21 million viewings as of Nov. 30) and gave rise to a local phenomenon that included ringtones, games, parodies, remixes and even a web page where Edgar was proposed for Mexico's presidency.

Read the rest of the article and watch the short videos here:  http://adage.com/bigtent/post?article_id=147391

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, now that you have watched the videos, provide your thoughts and opinions of the 2nd video.  What did you like and dislike about it?  Why? From an branding perspective, in your opinion, what was the most important part of the video?  Be specific with your thoughts.  The Gamesa video, says Kutchera, speaks volumes of the power of social media and how a good, engaging story can be told regardless of the media.  In paragraph # 2, discuss your feelings about social media (viral videos, blogs, etc.) and the role it can play in brand building.  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 5 (25 points)

Sans Oden, Blazers marketers tout 'team'

The latest setback for embattled Portland Trail Blazers center Greg Oden suggests that the franchise should continue its recent trend of touting the team’s collective talents, as opposed to one or two individual players.

So say sports marketing experts and business branding professionals who believe the Blazers face an uphill battle to engage fans after Oden’s season ended, due to the third serious knee injury he’s suffered since his 2007 Portland arrival.

Read the rest of the article here:  http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/news/2010/11/18/sans-oden-blazers-marketers-tout-team.html

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, discuss what you feel is the fundamental lesson learned through the Trailblazer's marketing focus.  Also, do you think it is worth the risk of focusing on a specific player versus the entire team or another specific theme?  Why?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, do you think the approach could vary from sport to sport or from team to team?  Explain your thoughts and why you feel the way you do.  Be specific.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

DECA EHS Spirit Contest

Special thanks to those that helped out with the event! It was nice event and definately something to build on with future promotional events in January. Congratulations to Brian Jackson for winning the contest and taking home a $25 Chipotle Gift Card!

Here are a few pictures.

Coca Cola and Africa

Check it out!

Ad Spot for Li-Ning Shoes

Check it out.  US Customs agents harrass Chinese man over Li-Ning shoes.  Interesting.

LeBron "LeBroke My Heart" T-shirt

Hey Cleveland fans...check out this shirt!

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 4 (25 points)

Globalization and Indian Coffee Houses

Saturday, November 27, 2010

by Jim Riley

India is one of the emerging markets which is being targeted by the multinational coffee chains.  But the likes of Starbucks will face intense competition from state-subsidised coffee houses, as this excellent video below demonstrates. 

From the BBC intro:

The Indian Coffee House in Kolkata has been an institution for more than 50 years. It has been a place where politicians, activists and intellectuals have come to converse over a cup of coffee. But as the number of modern western cafes increases, it is feeling the squeeze of competition.






Watch the video above.  In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph, answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, provide your insight to the video.  What is your general feeling on business competition?  Is it a good or bad thing?  For who?  Why?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss what you would do if you were the owner of the Indian Coffee House in Kolkata.  Would you step up your marketing strategies?  If so, give an example of what you would do.  Or, would you stand pat and rely on your brand reputation with the community?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 4 (25 points)

LeBron James Ad Asks for It

From WSJ.com

In an arty, soul-searching 90-second Nike commercial released in October, basketball star LeBron James asks repeatedly, "What should I do?"

Angry fans, in loud and blistering terms, have been telling him.

Myriad remixes and spoofs of the ad have attracted more views on the Web than the original Nike Inc. campaign, according to research from online-video measurement firm Visible Measures Corp.

While the original version and direct copies of the ad-which attempt to deal head-on with Mr. James's controversial decision to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers to play for the Miami Heat-have generated 5.1 million online video views, spoofs and parodies have generated 5.8 million views, Visible Measures says. The figures don't include views of Nike's paid advertising.

Continue to read the rest of the article here: 


http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703374304575622521037102594.html


In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, explain what a parody is.  Is it a positive or a negative to have parodies of an ad? (Think Old Spice).  Why do you feel this way?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss how these parodies can help Nike but hurt James?  Also, how should James and Nike respond to the parodies?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 3 (25 points)

From BBC News.

Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi is the world's largest indoor theme park and marks a large investment in future tourism for the area.

But the major attraction is Formula Rossa, the world's fastest rollercoaster.

Watch the following 4 minute video called "Riding the World's Fastest Rollercoaster". 

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/fast_track/9185704.stm

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  The video talks about Ferrari's investment goal being to increase tourism to the area.  In paragraph #1, discuss Ferrari's investment and the risk that the company takes by investing so much money into a theme park. Discuss your personal feelings on this investment idea.  Do you think it's a good or bad risk?  Why?  Be specific with your thoughts.

In paragraph # 2, what would be your global marketing strategy to attract tourism and theme park goers?  List a least 3 ideas and the reasoning behind them.  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 3 (25 points)

NASCAR hopes to tap younger audience with X Games icon

By Dustin Long
The Virginian-Pilot
© November 12, 2010

PHOENIX


X Games star Travis Pastrana announced plans to compete in seven Nationwide races next season and 20 in 2012, giving NASCAR another crossover star driver with a strong connection to younger audiences.


Pastrana, 27, is forming a Nationwide team with Michael Waltrip. The team plans to expose the action sports world's fans and participants to NASCAR and develop youth marketing initiatives.


Read the rest of the article here:  http://hamptonroads.com/2010/11/nascar-hopes-tap-younger-audience-x-games-icon


In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions. 


David Hill, Fox Sports chairman and CEO, complained that "the biggest problem facing NASCAR is that the young males have left the sport." He specifically pointed to the 18-34 male demographic, which is prized by advertisers.  In paragraph # 1, discuss why is this such a concern and  how will Travis Pastran's participation address this issue?  Be specific with your thoughts. 


In paragraph # 2, discuss why the 18-34 male demographic so important to advertisers?  Also, do you think the success of Pasatran determine how much he impacts the bottom line of NASCAR?  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts.


Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Are you into basketball sneakers???

Check out this site!  Basketball shoe brand rankings by endorsers in the NBA.  All the brands are ranked and the players are listed along with the shoe styles they are wearing.

http://hoopshype.com/sneakers.htm

Enjoy!

Mr. B

SEM Blog Assignment # 2 (25 points)

VSU students compete in NASCAR competition

BY JACOB VAUGHAN

NASCAR Sprint Cup races at Talladega Superspeedway are characterized by the large-scale wrecks that seem to occur at every outing.  Commonly referred to as the "Big One," the pileups often change the complexion of the race by producing a new pack leader.

That is exactly what four enterprising students from Virginia State University are banking on.

Curtis Walker, Briana Williams, Nichelle Broner and Vincent Pierson are the first VSU participants of NASCAR Kinetics: Marketing in Motion - a competitive program that affords college students the opportunity to gain real-world sports marketing experience.

Read the rest of the article here:  http://progress-index.com/news/vsu-students-compete-in-nascar-competition-1.1060404

In paragraph # 1, discuss the importance of this type of experience and how it can help you break in to the sports business world.   Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss how the Edison marketing program could partner with an area sports team or franchise to offer similar opportunities and experiences for your students.  Provide a short plan with ideas and potential outcomes.  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 2 (25 points)

Windows Phone 7 touches down in America

(CNN) -- Stretch out those fingers, because a new breed of touch-screen smartphones hits the U.S. and Canada on Monday.

A pair of phones running the new Windows Phone 7 operating system marks a long overdue refocusing of Microsoft's mobile efforts.

For AT&T customers, Samsung Electronics released its Focus, which boasts a 4-inch, high-contrast screen for showing off Microsoft's revamped operating system.

The other newcomer is HTC's HD7, which has an even bigger screen and is showing up on T-Mobile USA's store shelves. Both models cost $200, with a two-year wireless contract.

Read the rest of the article here: 

http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/mobile/11/08/windows.phone.7/index.html

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, discuss the consumer benefits of the Windows 7 phone.  Do you think these benefits would be different or the same in Europe and Asia when compared to North American consumers.  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, give your explanation of why the phones would be introduced in Europe and Asia before North America.  Also, if you were a representative for these phones traveling to Europe and Asia to meet with stores that would be potentially carrying these phones, what would be a few general things that you would need to be aware of prior to your meetings.  Hint.  Think Kiss Bow and Shake Hands. Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 1 (2nd quarter) (25 points)

TV Ads Shrink to Match Low Attention Spans

From Time.com (Business & Tech)

(NEW YORK) — And now, a word from our sponsors. A very brief word.
TV commercials are shrinking along with attention spans and advertising budgets. The 15-second ad is increasingly common, gradually supplanting the 30-second spot just as it knocked off the full-minute pitch decades ago.

For viewers, it means more commercials in a more rapid-fire format. For advertisers, shorter commercials are a way to save some money, and research shows they hold on to more eyeballs than the longer format.

"It used to be that the most valuable thing on the planet was time, and now the most valuable thing on the planet is attention," says John Greening, associate professor at Northwestern University's journalism school and a former executive vice president at ad agency DDB Chicago.

Continue to read the rest of the article here: 

http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,2027793,00.html

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, from a television viewer's perspective, discuss your views of this popular trend of companies moving towards 15 second advertisements from previously longer 30 second advertisements.  What do you think of this trend?  Good or bad?  For who?  Why?  Be specific with your thoughts.

In paragraph # 2, discuss what industry (or industries) (i.e automotive, food, technology, fashion, entertainment, etc.) you feel can benefit the most from this new trend.  Why do you feel this way?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Edison DECA Has Big Day at Districts!

Congratulations to the following DECA members who participated in the District Leadership Conference on Monday, Nov. 1 and PLACED!

If a student placed **overall** they have earned a spot at States in March!

Apparel and Accessories:

Ruby Pan  placed 1^st in the test

Olivia Hansell place 1^st in Role Play 1, 3^rd in role play 2 and 3nd **overall.

Automotive Services:

Tariq Masoud placed 2^nd in the test

Business Services:

Betiel Mussie placed 2^nd in the test, 1^st in Role play 2, and 3^rd  **overall.

Hotel and Lodging:

Thang Dang placed 3^rd in the test

Quick Serve Restaurant Management:

Bob West placed 1^st on the test, 1^st in role play 1

Full Serve Restaurant:

Jwalita Veeramachaneni placed 1^st on the test and 3^rd **overall

Sports and Entertainment:

Dil Amerkhail placed 3^rd in role play 2

Principles of Business Management:

Andrew Chesley placed 1^st in the test, 1^st in the role play and 1^st **overall

Fundamentals for Job Interview:

Binetou Niang placed 1^st **overall

SEM Blog Assignment # 1 (2nd quarter) (25 points)

Early LeBron Shoe Sales Show Positive Trend

By: Darren Rovell
CNBC Sports Business Reporter

All the marketing polls reflect that LeBron James clearly hurt himself with the way "The Decision" went down in July. 

But business statistics don't lie.

An extensive survey of retailers by CNBC reflected that many considered the LeBron 8, which hit stores last week, a good sell. Another described sales as average, while one retailer said sales were miserable.

Matt Powell, analyst for SportsOneSource, a market retail tracking firm, said he spoke to three retailers who told him this was on pace to be their best-selling LeBron shoe yet. Powell also said that sales of NBA jerseys over the last four weeks are up more than 30 percent, thanks to people buying LeBron, Wade and Bosh jerseys.

Continue to read the rest of the article here:  http://www.cnbc.com/id/39967513

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions. 

The article discusses a few of the challenges the shoe has.  "Besides the criticism from "The Decision," the LeBron 8 had several obstacles entering the marketplace. One was clearly price. At $160, the shoe is one of the highest priced premium basketball shoes on the market.

Another concern is the weight of LeBron's shoe, which could be considered a turnoff as the focus moves to lighter weight shoes. While the shoe does feature Nike technology like Flywire and a full length air bag, it is heavier than other shoes that have hit shelves.

In paragraph # 1, discuss which one of these challenges you feel is the hardest to overcome and why?  Do you feel there are other challenges that are not mentioned in the article?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, talk about a shoe that has recently come out that you are really impressed with.  What makes it so impressive?  Do you own a pair?  What shoes does it compete with?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Sports & Entertainment Marketing Blog Assignment # 8 (25 points)

Wolves need some marketing genius to go with their new shooters

This is not exactly scientific, but when you look around Target Center and maybe three of 100 spectators are wearing anything to indicate an appreciation for the team or an individual player, it shows the immense brand building that remains for the Timberwolves in this extra-competitive sports market.

The replica jersey or uniform top has become the apparel of choice for fans watching the Vikings in the Metrodome, the Wild at Xcel Energy Center and, now more than ever, the Twins in Target Field.
This show of affection is accompanied by what are mostly expensive tickets to watch these well-supported home teams.

Read the rest of the article here. 

http://www.startribune.com/sports/wolves/105317188.html?elr=KArks7PYDiaK7DUqyE5D7UiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUoD3aPc:_27EQU

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, consider the marketing strategy disucssed in the article to generate interest in the Wolves.  Other than cutting ticket prices, what would be 2 other marketing strategies you would employ to bring people to the games.  Hint, think about the 5 P's of marketing!  Be specific with your thoughts. 

In paragraph # 2, you will now put on your team franchise owner's hat.  If you were to start an NBA expansion franchise with a brand new arena to play in, what city would you choose?  Why?  Next, describe your marketing strategy for the team.  What would be your main focus?  Promoting the team, the individual players, the arena, or something else.  Why would you choose this specific strategy?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 8 (25 points)

Ad Industry Finally Gaining Some Respect in China

Spirits Up at Conference Amid Signs Government Now Values Importance of Advertising as a Business

NANCHANG, China (AdAge.com) -- With ad spending growth still in the double digits, ad agency executives in China are in buoyant spirits, but the mood at this year's China International Advertising Festival in Nanchang is especially positive, thanks to recent signs the government is looking to invest in and recognize the importance of advertising as a business.

Government officials and agency leaders are buzzing about a speech given last weekend in Chengdu by Liu Fan, vice minister of the State Administration of Industry and Commerce (SAIC), which regulates China's ad market.

Read the rest of the article here.  http://adage.com/globalnews/article?article_id=146667

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions. 

The article talks about government officials and agency leaders buzzing about a speech given last weekend in Chengdu by Liu Fan, vice minister of the State Administration of Industry and Commerce (SAIC), which regulates China's ad market. He goes on to mention that advertising is "fundamental to economic development and sustaining a harmonious society".  In paragraph # 1, describe what you think he means by this statement.  Do you agree or disagree and why?  Be specific with your thoughts. 

Also mentioned in the article, Mr. Liu's speech suggested the government's attitude is changing because it now sees the ad business as, well, a business. "China now recognizes advertising as a commercial activity".  In paragraph # 2, discuss what you think are the major hurdles and challenges facing advertisers in China and why you feel this way.  Be specific with your thougths.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 7 (25 points)

From Advertising Age.

How P&G Remains a Leading Global Marketer

NEW YORK (AdAge.com) -- Procter & Gamble Co. became the first corporate inductee to the American Advertising Federation Hall of Fame on March 25, and while it's a big honor, it could be seen as a mixed blessing. After all, the other inductees are retired, and many have been honored posthumously, while P&G still considers itself very much in the game.

In an interview with Advertising Age prior to the induction, P&G Chairman-CEO Bob McDonald said avoiding the trap of leaning too heavily on the company's marketing legacy is one thing that keeps him up at night. Increased focus on digital marketing, he said, is one of the keys to P&G's strategy to remain a leading marketer.

Another key is bringing the power of multiple brands together into umbrella marketing efforts, and Global Brand-Building Officer Marc Pritchard said P&G appears to have gotten better return on investment from its corporate branding effort around the Winter Olympics than from many individual brand efforts.
Such multi-brand campaigns long have been the promise behind P&G's regional market-development organizations, such as the North American one headed by Group President-North America Melanie Healey.

And in short order following the Winter Olympics, she's leading another group effort, P&G's "Future Friendly" green-marketing campaign that unites multiple brands. Despite the recession, consumer demand for more sustainable products isn't abating, Ms. Healey said, but she said the mainstream consumers P&G is targeting with its campaign also don't want to sacrifice performance.

Ms. Healey's group also heads media planning and buying operations for P&G, and a year after the company took advantage of a soft recessionary media market to drive down costs, she said it retains hopes of getting better pricing once again going into the upcoming TV upfront.
Watch the following short 3 minute video called "How P&G Remains a Leading Global Marketer"



In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions. The CEO talks about constantly trying to change the products in order to best satisfy the needs and wants of consumers.  In paragraph # 1, discuss that statement and provide your perspective on that marketing strategy.  While it works for P & G, do you think it's a strategy that all companies should live by?  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In addition, the article talks about 3 other marketing strategies currently working for P & G:  a focus on digital marketing, bringing the power of multiple brands together into umbrella marketing efforts, and "green marketing".  Of the 3 strategies mentioned in the article, in paragraph # 2, disucss which one you feel gives P & G the best opportunity to connect with consumers.  Why do you feel this way?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Sports & Entertainment Marketing Blog Assignment # 7 (25 points)

From Forbes Magazine Video.

Watch the following 2 minute video called "Orlando Magic's Amway Center Goes High Tech".



After watching the video, in a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions. In paragraph # 1, what are your general thoughts on adding all this technology to an arena? Good, bad, and why do you feel this way? Also, would you be willing to pay the increased ticket costs for technology that you may not use? Why or why not? Be specific with your thoughts. In paragraph # 2, discuss the specific technology that appeals most to you? What do you like about it? What about the least appealing technology? Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 6 (25 points)

Ethics Around the World:Promotion is typically used as a tool to communicate with audiences.  The role that promotion plays in global marketing strategy differs across national borders.  The differnce in roles is not just to due to legal restrictions on advertising.  Some cultures view advertising as rude.  Telling customers what they should have may be seen as arrogant.

Marketers often act as a change agent in culture.  They provide new products, ideas, and lifestyle alternatives.  But in some cultures, marketing activities represent a threat to established order.  Communist economies did not allow for the marketing process to work.  Manufacturers were fiven specific requirements for products.  For example, a scientific analysis was undertaken to determine the ideal number of shoes needed for each foot size.

Lack of access to promotional techniques can prevent companies from developing products to meet customers' needs.  Rules and regulations that limit promotion can give advantages to existing businesses and can limit competition from entrepreneurs.  At the same time, advertising bans can protect consumers.  China has banned advertising of medicinies because a large number of fake products were being sold.

In a a 2 paragraph response ( a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), provide answers to the following questions.  In paragraph #1, explain the role that marketing communication plays in social change and describe the advantages and disadvantages of allowing companies to freely engage in advertising without regulation.  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss how do you feel in general about promotion and advertising being regulated and why you feel this way?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Sports & Entertainment Marketing Blog Assignment # 6 (25 points)

ESPN aims for female audience with espnW

By Michael Hiestand, USA TODAY

Selling ESPN specifically to women might not seem sensible.  But ESPN, always on the prowl for spinoffs, wants to target women with espnW.  As ESPN vice president Laura Gentile notes, ESPN's own research finds "women see us as an admirable brand that has authority. But they see us as their father's brand, or husband's brand, or boyfriend's brand. They recognize it's not theirs"

No wonder. Men account for 76% of ESPN's overall viewership. And just two types of programming it produces draws majority-female audiences: The National Spelling Bee on ABC (63% female) and cheerleading shows on ESPN2 (52%) — with ESPN2's Wimbledon coverage in third place with 48%.

Read the rest of the article here:  http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/hiestand-tv/2010-09-30-espnW-baseball-tv-playoffs_N.htm?csp=usat.me

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, discuss your thoughts on this innovative idea.  Do you think the idea could ultimately develop into a network channel?  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts. 

According to this news story, men account for 76% of ESPN's overall viewership and just two types of programming draws majority-female audiences: The National Spelling Bee on ABC (63% female) and cheerleading shows on ESPN2 (52%).  In paragraph # 2, address the following scenario.  If you were a marketing professional at the network charged with the task of attracting more female viewers, what would your strategy be?   Be specific with your thoughts. 

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Baltimore Field Trip. Ravens Lockeroom Video

Baltimore Field Trip Photos!

Check out the pictures from yesterday.  More to come...

http://picasaweb.google.com/ehsmktgteach/BaltimoreFieldTripOct6th201002#

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 5 (25 points)

VW's quest to conquer America

FORTUNE -- Volkswagen -- which used to ask customers to "think small" -- is thinking big. Some might even say it's thinking grandiose.

Now second among the world's automakers in numbers of cars produced, VW Group has declared its intention to become the global leader, overtaking Toyota (TM) by 2018. Key to the plan is its ambitious goal to triple sales in the U.S., long a weak link in VW's global operations.

It's going to be quite a challenge. Back in 1970, when the Beetle was in its heyday, VW sold 569,696 cars, making up 7% of the market. Hurt by Japanese and Korean competition, unfavorable exchange rates, and a weak dealer network, it hasn't come close since. In the past decade VW's U.S. sales have declined from 358,429 in 2000 to 213,454 in 2009, just 2% of the market (3% if you include Audi, VW's luxury brand). Deutsche Bank estimates that VW has been losing more than $600 million a year in North America since 2003; last year's revenues there were $15.2 billion.

Read the rest of the article here:  http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/04/autos/volkswagen_usa.fortune/index.htm

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  , The article mentions VW's goal to triple sales in the USA.  Think about the quote "VW needs to spend much more time understanding the U.S.A. consumer".  In paragraph # 1, describe at least 2 specific marketing activities (9 functions) you think VW would have to engage in to better understand the US consumer.  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss what car companies (USA or Global) you think do a good job marketing their products and services and why you think they do a good job.  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Sports & Entertainment Marketing Blog Assignment # 5 (25 points)

If English Soccer Can Take in $155M From Sponsored Jerseys, What About NBA, NFL?

Mark Cuban: Ads on Uniforms a Matter of 'How Much' Not 'If'

NEW YORK (AdAge.com) -- It was just a small blurb in Sports Illustrated magazine's "By the Numbers" section two weeks ago: "$155 million -- Income generated by the 20 English Premier League soccer teams this season by selling ad space on their jerseys."

.

But those 21 words are causing the four major American sports leagues, its corporate partners and even fans to rethink the idea of sponsor patches on team uniforms.

Read the rest of the article here: http://adage.com/article?article_id=146264

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, provide your thoughts on this issue.  If all of the major professional sports leagues (NBA, NFL, NHL,and MLB) got on board and started doing this, do you think it would be a good or bad thing for the SEM industry?  Why or why not?  Provide at least 2 reasons for whichever side of the coin (good or bad) you take.  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss which major professional sports league you think would benefit the most and why.  Provide at least 2 reasons for why you think this particular league would be most beneficial.  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 4 (25 points)

NBA Superfan Challenge Gives Fans Access to Pre-season Tour

Digital Contest Will Give Two Winners Behind-the-Scenes Access to NBA Players Like Yao Ming and Tour Events

SHANGHAI (AdAgeChina.com) – The National Basketball Association is reaching out to sports fans with an interactive campaign to promote next month's NBA China Games 2010. In a pre-season publicity tour, the Houston Rockets, including local hero Yao Ming, will play two games against the New Jersey Nets in Beijing and Guangzhou.


The Rockets and Nets will play in Beijing on Oct. 13 at the Wukesong Arena and in Guangzhou on Oct. 16 at the Guangzhou International Sports Arena.

The week-long tour includes community and charity events, basketball development programs, player appearances, and fan promotions likely to attract viewers across China, where basketball has a long history. The sport dates back a century to an era when American missionaries turned up with a Bible in one hand and a basketball in the other to lure young Chinese to church.

Read the rest of the article here: http://adage.com/china/article?article_id=146172

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, discuss the promotion that fans will have the opportunity to enter.  Do you think the promotion has fan appeal? Why or why not?  In your opinion, what aspect of the promotion do you think will be the most attractive to fans?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss the NBA's challenge to appeal to a diverse target market in China, which has over 300 million basketball fans, according to CBA (China Basketball Association) estimates.  By doing this big promotion, are they going about tackling the challenge in the right way?  Why or why not?  Do you think other strategies should be tried?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 4 (25 points)

NBA Superfan Challenge Gives Fans Access to Pre-season Tour

Digital Contest Will Give Two Winners Behind-the-Scenes Access to NBA Players Like Yao Ming and Tour Events

SHANGHAI (AdAgeChina.com) – The National Basketball Association is reaching out to sports fans with an interactive campaign to promote next month's NBA China Games 2010. In a pre-season publicity tour, the Houston Rockets, including local hero Yao Ming, will play two games against the New Jersey Nets in Beijing and Guangzhou.


The Rockets and Nets will play in Beijing on Oct. 13 at the Wukesong Arena and in Guangzhou on Oct. 16 at the Guangzhou International Sports Arena.

The week-long tour includes community and charity events, basketball development programs, player appearances, and fan promotions likely to attract viewers across China, where basketball has a long history. The sport dates back a century to an era when American missionaries turned up with a Bible in one hand and a basketball in the other to lure young Chinese to church.

Read the rest of the article here: http://adage.com/china/article?article_id=146172

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, discuss the promotion that fans will have the opportunity to enter.  Do you think the promotion has fan appeal? Why or why not?  In your opinion, what aspect of the promotion do you think will be the most attractive to fans?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss the NBA's challenge to appeal to a diverse target market in China, which has over 300 million basketball fans, according to CBA (China Basketball Association) estimates.  By doing this big promotion, are they going about tackling the challenge in the right way?  Why or why not?  Do you think other strategies should be tried?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 3 (25 points)

Sports Marketers Challenged To Sell In New Landscape      

From CNBC, Sportsbiz

What intrigued me most about taking in the IMG Sports Marketing Symposium in New York City today was that — from all external signs — sports marketing has never been in better shape.

People are watching live sports in numbers that measure up against pre-Internet era consumption. For all the talk about fragmentation, fans are forgoing the DVR, flipping on Facebook or Twitter on a side device and tuning in to sports, en masse. New technology is enabling phenomenal new and exciting levels of interaction between fans and sports (with marketers finding a place within the medium).

Read the rest of the article here.  http://www.cnbc.com/id/39293244

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), respond the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, what do you think of the word and concept “Eventize” as it applies to current sports marketing trends.  Do you think this concept is what consumers are looking for?  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, tell me about your favorite sport (cannot use the NFL or College Football because it is already discussed in the article) and what technolically unique marketing strategies it is using to attract new fans/customers and retain existing ones.  Do you think they are acutally working?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 3 (25 points)

Lucha Libre Video Game Gets Ready to Tackle U.S. Market

'Heroes del Ring' Introduces Americans to Storytelling Starring Masked Mexican Wrestlers

NEW YORK (AdAge.com) -- With the recent focus on Hispanic-targeted media and entertainment, one arena has remained largely untapped: video games. But that's about to change as "Lucha Libre AAA 2011: Heroes del Ring," a Mexican wrestling game from upstart publisher Slang, prepares to enter the ring next month.

 

"Heroes del Ring" is the largest video-game project to be conceived and created entirely in Latin America, and Slang is the first Mexican publisher of video games for the Xbox, PlayStation (PS3, Play Station Portable PSP), Wii and Nintendo DS consoles. Only 2% of characters in current video games are Hispanic, according to executives at the Vox Collective, the New York-based independent shop handling advertising for "Heroes," so this launch is a "cultural milestone," said Roberto Ramos, CEO and president of the Vox Collective.

Read the rest of the article here.  http://adage.com/hispanic/article?article_id=145965

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), respond to the following questions.  "In order to get audiences excited about the sport, Vox has created three trailers in both Spanish and English that each tackle various aspects of the game: the storytelling element of lucha libre, the characteristics of the sport and the gamer's experience. Thirty-second spots will air on cable channels such as ESPN, SyFy, MTV, MTV2 and G4 starting next week, as well as on Hispanic media outlets".  In paragraph #1, discuss the marketing activities that Slang plans for this product. What are your thoughts?  Do you think the marketing will be successful here in the USA?  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph #2, discuss what you think will ulimately determine the success of Lucha Libre AAA 2011: Heroes del Ring in the USA.  Think about the 5 P's and the 9 functions of marketing. Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

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Global Marketing Blog Assignment # 2 (25 points)

Burger King Introduces Iconic Character in the U.K.

Fast-Food Chain Hopes the King and New Owners Will Reverse Sales Slump

LONDON (AdAge.com) -- Burger King is introducing the iconic King character in the U.K. as part of a new campaign with the tagline, "Taste is King."

The King has landed in the U.K.

The 60-second spot, created by Crispin Porter & Bogusky, broke over the weekend during a prime-time airing of "The X Factor," the hugely popular British version of "American Idol." It launched just as Burger King confirmed it had agreed to a $4 billion sale to 3G Capital Management.


The commercial is part of an integrated campaign for the brand that will see the King making a tour of major U.K. cities this month. Residents of these cities, including London, Edinburgh and Glasgow, will be encouraged to follow the King, just as a growing horde of people do in the TV ad, to receive discounts and other offers at their local Burger King restaurant.

Read the rest of the article:

http://adage.com/globalnews/article?article_id=145798

In a 2 paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, discuss how Burger King plans to market the "King".  In other words, what marketing activities (i.e. commercials, etc) are they planning to implement over the next few months that will become part of their overall marketing campaign in the U.K?  Do you feel they will be successful?  Why or why not?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragaph # 2, discuss some of the cultural considerations that Burger King would need to be aware of when taking their brand to another country. Watch the short commercial.  What did you see in the commercial that was culturally specific to the U.K?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of your blog entry.

SEM Blog Assignment # 2 (25 points)

Tim Tebow joins Twitter, Facebook as part of new marketing push

Four days before his first NFL regular season game, Tim Tebow is now on Twitter.

The popular rookie Denver Broncos QB launched a Twitter account and a new website -- TimTebow.com -- on Wednesday. Tebow, who also started a Facebook page, drew thousands of followers in just a few hours after joining Twitter.

His first tweet:

"Thanks for all the years of support - I'm really excited about being able to keep in touch with all of you on twitter and facebook"

The launching of the social media platforms is part of a coordinated unveiling of a new company -- XV Enterprises -- that will manage Tebow's marketing interests. XV Enterprises (Tebow's uniform number is 15) is run by Tebow's brother, Robby Tebow, and friend Angel Gonzalez, CNBC reported.

Continue to read the rest of the article. 

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2010/09/tim-tebow-joins-twitter-facebook-as-part-of-new-marketing-push/1

In a two paragraph response (a minimum of 5 sentences for each paragraph), answer the following questions.  In paragraph # 1, think about an athlete and their potential endorsement opportunities.  For example, signing a deal with Nike or Gatorade.  Discuss how may Tebow's Twitter account have a positive effect on his image and endorsement opportunities?  Is there potential for his Twitter account to have a negative effect on his image and endorsement opportunities?  Be specific with your thoughts.  In paragraph # 2, discuss your views on Social Media outlets like Twitter and Facebook as they relate to athletes, entertainers, and sports and entertainment organizations.  How can athletes, entertainers, and sports and entertainment organizations use them to their benefit?  Be specific with your thoughts.

Please sign your name to the bottom of you blog entry.