Introducing Diversity

On December 1, the New York Times released a story about Bologna. What’s so special about Bologna? Well, Ms. Anne Bologna was recently named as the first female Managing Director at MDC Partners, which owns agencies such as Crispin Porter & Bogusky. Not only is Ms. Bologna a woman, she is also 54 years of age. Ladies and gentleman, introducing diversity in the ad agency workplace.

Happy... Black Friday?

A few weeks ago, we took a moment to analyze advertisements that supposedly related to Veterans’ Day. To my disappointment, very few brands actually took the meaning of the holiday to heart, and most abused the day as a commercial opportunity for sales promotions. With Thanksgiving coming up, I have started to notice another disappointing time in the world of advertising. Instead of giving thanks, nearly every brand in the world is already blubbering about Black Friday.

From Walmart to Target and Old Navy to JC Penny, the television has recently been plagued with obnoxious jingles and large discounts around every corner. I have yet to see a single brand actually mention Thanksgiving, let alone commemorate the true meaning of the holiday. How refreshing it would be if a brand put the sales promotions aside and took the time to give thanks. The first brand I see that takes this initiative will be one I make an effort to support during this crazy time of year.

Although I have not run across any Thanksgiving ads this year that I truly appreciate, the one above at least recognizes how ridiculous advertising during holidays has become. Enjoy, and Happy Thanksgiving!

Coca-Cola Arctic Home

Throughout the year, Coca-Cola has been a brand we looked to for excellence in advertising. This week, as we are discussing strategic philanthropy, Coke remains at the front of the pack. This ad caught my attention last night during the previews at the movie theater, and I believe it is a very inspiring example of how brands can make a meaningful and creative connection with a cause.

Too good to be true?

In today’s world, we have all been taught that online advertising is the current trend and the future. Whether or not traditional advertising will remain powerful can be debated, but no one denies the clout of the internet. A legitimate concern, however, is that everyone is currently looking at the pros to online advertising, and ignoring the cons. An article on the Web Design Library caught my attention this week specifically because it bothered to analyze both sides of the issue.

Can you repeat that?

(In case you didn't catch it, "HeadOn! Apply directly to the forehead!")

Has there ever been a more annoying commercial? Probably not. Does that matter? Nope.

Why Americans Hate Advertising

For research in my Ad Writing class at Colorado State University – Pueblo, I have recently been searching for a lot of topics related to advertising on my computer. Consequently, an ad popped up on my screen the other day that linked to an article entitled, “Why Americans Hate Advertising.” Needless to say, I took the bite.

TV Ad: Heartwood

The Body Shop

Without a doubt, Dove's Real Beauty campaign was inspirational for portraying women in a new light. It contributed to a growing trend that supports all female body types and encouraged other brands to reject the typical definition of beauty. Although I believe the concept of this trend is outstanding, there are also good and bad ways to communicate the efforts. Dove, for example, created a very successful campaign. Others, such as The Body Shop, weren't so lucky...

Kool Aid Man

There are several aspects of fictional characters that give them an edge as brand representatives. They follow directions, only say what has been approved by the organization and can avoid issues with all types of illegal activities. The Kool-Aid Man, a smiling pitcher that has survived through decades of advertising, is a perfect example of why brand characters can be so successful.

Radio Final Product

Revised Radio Spot
Berkey Filters
10/7/2011

"No, I didn't"

I was on my way to the Chile Festival last week, walking down yet another street plagued with signs and advertisements. I habitually ignored as many as possible, but one finally caught my attention. It said, "You just proved signs work." My reaction, "No, I didn't."

Be aware of your surroundings…

A lot of internal issues can cause advertisements to fail. Everything from offensive material to a lack of excitement turns consumers off, but something often forgotten is how advertisements are also influenced by the context in which they are placed. In fact, even the most effective ad can become an epic failure when the authors are not aware of its surroundings. 

Really?

               

Even if you don’t know the title of the song that plays during this advertisement (and most people don’t), it’s one of those melodies that nearly everyone recognizes. In actuality, it was the first thing that caught my attention when this commercial aired on television, and it’s one of the biggest strengths in this ad.

Berkey Filters Radio Spot

Berkey Filters “Colorado Resource” :30 Radio
Produced
9/12/2011

Even the bathroom isn't safe...

According to an article from CNN, the O'Hare International Airport at Chicago has installed advertising mirrors in the public restrooms. Is there anywhere advertising won't go?