Remote Controlling Your Life
The infamous remote control – the wireless universal device that connects us to television, providing us with news, information, perhaps an escape from reality, or maybe all three. Some say that cable/satellite television has taken over a good percentage of our lives and usually the source of water cooler chatter the next day, causing more people to watch certain events on TV that they normally don’t have an interest in.
Why not cuddle up with a good book, or read the newspaper, or go outside and get some much needed fresh air? Any one of us could chime in and say, well, that’s what “‘iPad’s, and Kindle’s, and vacations are for!” On average, the percentage of people who watch major network television skyrocketed this year. With high-profile productions like the Superbowl and the Oscars, many people feel the need to watch these programs, even if they aren’t huge sports fans or movie buff’s.
Why? They are a large part of our culture, a “staple in the entertainment world,” as my friend Erin states. But despite these productions, which only happen a few times a year, whats the draw to having cable television? Do we really need it? There are so many options and channels available to address anyone’s needs. Outside of reality television, (I know, I often go back to this topic as an example) on cable channels like E! Entertainment News, Bravo, VH1, and MTV, there are plenty of shows available that offer quality programming. I think there are far too many to list, many of which I have written down as “shows to catch up on”. I can almost guarantee that everyone who reads this has started to watch a television show based on others suggestions, rather than watching it from the pilot on their own free will. I admit that has happened to me on more than one occasion. 
One of the first things I prefer cable for is the sports package, (obviously) but even more incredible is one of the best inventions on the planet: DVR. Digital Video Recording, I salute you. Sometimes, life gets in the way. To be able to come home after a long day of work, or school, and watch something you enjoy (fast forwarding through annoying commercials) is truly one of life’s little pleasures.
Here’s today’s debate:
With the spring season almost upon us, the moving season has begun. I remember when I was moving in to my apartment, outside of water and electricity, one of the first items I took care of was the cable/internet bill. Recently, two of my friends moved into an apartment together. They are deciding not to have cable at their place. Faithful readers, I ask, is this a smart decision? While yes, I realize not everyone is like me, getting up just a little bit earlier in the morning to watch reruns of Saved By the Bell on TBS, even though I own every single season on DVD. I also realize that everyone is not a diehard sports fan like me, switching back and forth between games on television and either game-casting or watching them live on ESPN3. I’ll even admit I have given up television on vacations that usually last roughly 7-10 days, but that is about all I can stand without feeling disconnected and current with whats going on in the world.
But really, no cable? In their defense, my friends DO have a high-speed internet connection as well as a Netflix account. What’s the point of having cable/satellite TV and paying ridiculous fees when you can just instantly download them? Well – that’s a good question.
Over the past couple of years, approximately 800,000 people in the US gave up TV for the web according to the Convergence Consulting Group. With new features like HD channels and other bells and whistles, people are getting tired of the additions to the cable bill every month. It seems the web will always be a cheaper alternative, but is it more about the convenience of price or is it something else? 800, 000 people does not seem like a lot but if it continues to grow, which it very well might, it could put a damper on the $84 billion dollar cable/satellite television market (Source: Techcrunch.com). Remember the annoyance of the “switch to digital television” ordeal? This turned a lot of people off to explore the web-based television experience.
My MacBook Pro – and my connection to well, everything.
According to a study done by Logitech, ZDnet.com, talks about the power of the remote control, and how television controls our lives more than we might think – or expect. According to the study, 36% of Americans would rather give up sex for a month then give up their remote control to watch television. THIRTY-SIX PERCENT, really?! According to an article from the technology section of MSNBC, “Twenty-seven percent of respondents would prefer to stop using their toothbrushes for a month than lose access to the remote control. ” Okay, I love new episodes of Glee and a basketball double-header as much as the next person, but, getting rid of toothbrushes? Ew. Just…ew. That’s a bigger number than I would like to see. I am not sure whether the correlation between the remote control versus actually watching television is there, or the increase of laziness in Americans, but you get my point.
Since the Comcast Corporation recently acquired the rights to take over NBC Universal, the company has been exploring ways to target the online video community head on. They have control of most online sites including Telemundo, CNBC, Universal Pictures studio, and even a little percentage of Hulu.com. Comcast offering the rights to these shows online is still in negotiation stages. The market is still very new, but it offers alternatives for those who only want to watch specific shows and not waste their money on programs they could care less about. Seems pretty reasonable to me, but it also seems to come down to having a personal choice about what they ultimately want to watch, and a solid internet connection.
Don’t forget – that will result in the scrutiny of internet service providers and its performance. I personally, love being able to flip through channels and “surf” to find something I’d enjoy, if I have free time on my hands. However, I would prefer specific cable packages, others would potentially disagree with. (i.e. sports over movie channels, etc.) Since Apple, Amazon.com and Netflix are amongst the top online competitors to network and cable television, will they emerge victoriously? We can only watch and find out. Share your thoughts below:
Product Placement, Care For An Apple?
There has been a lot of buzz lately surrounding the release of the ever popular, ever sleeker Macbook Pro laptop computers, as well as the release of the iPad 2 coming up March 2. And we can’t forget earlier in the month when the Apple iPhone4 finally became available for Verizon Wireless cell phone users. Apple, Inc. a world-wide company that designs electronics, software and computers have a lot of pressure riding on them this week. AppleTV is actually pretty awesome – But who ever thought the iPad would catch on like it has? Maybe because it has the brand behind it – I still don’t particularly care for the name and although I’ve played around with some before, I still prefer my computer and Android phone over the cool little tablet gadget thing that you can read the Huffington Post on… riding the metro home from work.
Let me ask you, faithful readers, have you ever been so mad at your computer you want to throw it up against the wall? Come on, we’ve all been there – and at some point in our lives, whether you’re an “Apple” or a “PC”, have witnessed the sad mac/blue screen of death. Does it make you give up and switch to the other side? If you compare the amount of times that has happened whether it was user error or manufacturing error, I bet it turns out to be about a 50-50 split. My first home computer was an Apple IIGS, and have stuck with Macintosh computers ever since. I just don’t like PC’s as much as I do the Mac. My friend Trevor (@MrTrevC) prefers Windows-based computers. He has never wanted a Mac, nor does he even own an iPod. “Last on my list,” he says. But hey, preference is everything in the consumer world, and brand loyalties don’t fall far from the tree (pun intended for an apple?, sure, why not).
So what makes Apple so great? Some can argue the operating systems, some argue the quality of the applications, the layout, and more. Different strokes for different folks. But aside from personal opinion, How does Apple do SO well outside of picking sides? Its simple: product placement. For grad school, my assignment this week is to write a research paper on the marketing behind Apple, Inc. I have to wonder if my professor knew that there was a lot of press about the new products coming out this week when she made the syllabus at the beginning of the semester. I thought a post about Apple products tied it in nicely.
Adding to the mix, the Oscars are this weekend. There are some hefty contenders this year, and still so many movies I have yet to see. What do the Oscars have to do with Apple? Aside from wearing a dress out of apple slices or something with the famous logo on it, more than you think. Product placement in movies and television subliminally mind trick you into a desire to purchase products. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. Although experts are calling it a downfall compared to the past several years, Apple products take the cake in product placement in the top 33 movies that hit the number one spot this past year. The press about this, is getting people talking, just a few days before the 83rd annual Academy Awards are set to air. Brandchannel found a total of 591 different brands and products which factor out to a 17.9 average of products per film. For Apple, products showed up in 10 of the top movies. They aren’t the only ones on the bandwagon this year, though. Nike, Chevrolet, and Ford products shared a total of 8 films each. To find out more about the winners in product placement this year, check out Brandchannel’s recent post.
This has been going on for years, and whether we actually look closely enough at the movies we’ve seen over and over again or not, you’ll remember it, too. This was the first movie clip that came to mind:
I look forward to movies like Scream 4 coming out this summer with the latest technologies to work with. Does it share the same appeal? We have started to notice Mac computers and people using iPhone’s in television and movies more and more, but lets think if these story lines will actually work in the next couple years. With Scream 4, why would you answer an “unknown” caller from your cell phone, wait, how did the killer get your phone number in the first place? Wait, knowing half the people died from answering the phone in the first place, why would you even bother using it? Why didn’t the psycho killer just tag you in a post on Facebook or broadcast personal videos on Justin.tv? I wonder if it will have the same effect the fourth time around. We can only wait and see, and that’s why movies are one of the greatest forms of entertainment.
All in all, I love the effort that is made with the marketing and promotional aspect of sports and entertainment. Even the satire of marketing with recent products…remember this?
Also, check this video out, on the longer side, but a great little history compilation of product placement in movies:
Tell me you aren’t hungry right now, or thinking about getting a new car, or a new pair of sneakers, or hey, even a new laptop? Even though you might not actually purchase these products, you’ve at least thought about it and toyed with the idea of looking into buying something after reading this. The marketing department has done its job, and as a consumer, its your job to do yours. Maybe the next time you watch a movie, you’ll be able to recognize those products you love or hate or be introduced to something you never knew about… A thought to leave you with: What brands are you loyal to?
Images in the Media
One of the first lessons learned in marketing and advertising classes is the definition of a “brand image” = The perception of your product or brand by the consumer. In the media, this idea is sometimes scrutinized to result in breaking points and disasters. Can someone be an actual brand, though? Oprah? Donald Trump? Possibly. One could argue that they have built a personal image of themselves that allowed the public to continue to add value to anything they sell and endorse. One could also argue that they paid little attention to the branding of themselves. Instead, they are praised for making wise business decisions that allowed them the freedom of expression and profit to do what they wanted. This caught on to others that wanted to do the same. Nowadays, with social media existing in our everyday routines, things have changed. Everyone is a photographer. Everyone is the paparazzi. Everyone is under the microscope. Could you handle that?
Remember when we had to call people up on land line phones and most likely wait a day or two for a response? I freaked out when I saw a pay phone at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, waiting in line for the ATM at the Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic this past January. I’m not saying that I don’t love the thought of “instant” connections with people, even random strangers from time to time, but being in the spotlight also gives cause for concern if you aren’t someone who can handle it properly. Online media has spread like wildfire. Facebook has recently partnered with thousands of respectable companies to promote their updates and newest advertisements at a faster, less expensive pace. Take for example, the celebrity end:
Socialites like The Kardashian sister’s, who are more or less exploited in every fashion, are making upwards of millions of dollars in revenue from their reality television show, a clothing line, and several major products the girls personally endorse. (image via iGossip)
I’m not knocking the fact that they aren’t beautiful, but I don’t think I can take any of them seriously.
Newsflash: 99% of reality TV is scripted. Aside from the unrealistic aspect of it all, people do watch, and it is entertaining (sometimes) to see what the fashionistas will wear next. But, will she get fat? Will she lose more weight? What athlete is she dating next? Will she wear something I won’t like? Do I REALLY care? Reality television is far from actual reality, though “Jerseyday” and status updates that read, GTL (Gym, tanning, laundry) on Thursday evenings seems to be the highlight of some of my friends’ day. As well as the #1 topic of watercooler conversation (love to the ladies of 2607).
Choosing to be in the spotlight, though, could easily put a damper on how people view and respect someone, including over-analyzing the choices that they make. When I first signed up for twitter, not a lot of my good friends were on it. It hadn’t quite turned into a craze yet, even though Ashton Kutcher (@aplusk) was hopelessly promoting it. I was following him, and yes, @KimKardashian. I settled for many E! News celebrities, aka ones that are annoyingly in the spotlight, yet we just can’t seem to get enough of. Innocence seems to disappear.
Celebs say they are on twitter and other social media sites so they are able to retaliate with the truth and address any rumors quickly to the masses. This I actually agree with. I think the media can twist words or skew video into making someone not who they really are. If I was in their position, I’d want the chance to be able to defend myself. As a celebrity or athlete, especially one who is very recognizable, image branding should be a main priority in that they must be able to market themselves appropriately.
However, the general consumer public doesn’t quite get this concept yet. I wonder though, under a microscope, do we actually consider these people role models? It all goes back to images and branding. Although we feel more connected, and thus in support of those we interact with on a regular basis, celebrities and athletes have to work extra hard in promoting themselves the right way, more than just a business or company does for a particular product or service.
I hate to use this as a transition, but lets take a look at Justin Bieber. He is someone who is not even close to being able to vote in America yet, but selling out Madison Square Garden, worlds most famous arena, in less than 30 seconds. Awesome? Sure, it’s pretty amazing for this 16-year-old to accomplish such a feat. But recently, he has taken precedent over much more important topics, like what is happening in Egypt and political and health issues prevalent in the US. Headlines read: MVP at All Star Game, LA has Bieber Fever. (He did have a pretty sweet crossover move and assist during the celebrity all star game)
But come on, right next to news articles about Hosni Mubarak and Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi? What? No. No one can tell me that this kid, who released his life [uh, at 16?] story in 3-D movie form a couple weeks ago is on the same level as world issues. At least Justin is a positive example of channeling the good from media scrutiny. What about those that are unable to handle the pressure? Magazines like US Weekly and the National Inquirer are just waiting for something juicy to tell the world about. I admit I visit Perez Hilton and TMZ.com on occasion, I even watch Joan Rivers tear apart celebrity fashion choices on E! News Fashion Police after award ceremonies, just waiting for someone to make a mistake.
Luckily, 90% of celebrities and athletes aren’t in the public eye, for a reason. If you actually hung out with these people, do you really think you’d enjoy yourself? Who knows. All we know is what we see on the outside and what we’re told. The key is, to keep an overall image of one’s self as positive as possible. The saying, “any press is good press” just doesn’t seem to fly like it did during the pre-Internet era.
Being in the spotlight is not all glitz and glamour as it might seem. In the sports world, we can talk about Tiger Woods and his downward spiral for hours…or even the tragic death of Steve McNair. What about Albert Haynesworth? Millions and millions of dollars floating around and it seems that nothing positive can come of his situation. The most recent causality, Jarret Jack, backup point guard for the Hornets, was arrested late last night for a DUI (To read more, check out AJC’s article).
So I’ll ask, what can be done to prevent these role models from doing harm to themselves and damage to their own images? What can be said to the younger generation who want to live out their dreams of becoming professional athletes or A-List celebrities? Don’t mess up? Keep your mouth shut? Make sure you know the difference between right and wrong? Maybe. Any story line can have multiple angles and sides and dependent on the situation. Anyone, famous or not, needs to be aware of the bigger picture, that life is far worthy of living if you work hard for the right reasons and goals.
Fortunately, there are some good eggs out there, promoting positive and meaningful attitudes toward what life has to offer. Take Trevor Bayne, a 20-year old rookie who won the Daytona 500 this past weekend. A Cinderella-like story of a kid from Knoxville, Tennessee who is just breaking into the business. One whose official site still reads “Coming Soon.”
As a 20 year old, what would be your first purchase if you were awarded $1,463,813 from the purse on your birthday? Who do these people have to advise them on the right thing to do, financially and beyond?
I know, I know…each person is entitled to their own opinions and can make their own decisions, but surrounding yourself with those that are upwardly moral can keep someone not only motivated to have a strong work ethic, but maintain a constant ride towards a positive direction for success. At the end of the day, we know what we should or shouldn’t be doing and it’s ultimately up to us to make those decisions. A great saying is “If you’re an eagle, don’t fly with pigeons.” You be the judge. How’s it going so far?
College Rivalries, How Far is Too Far?
Auburn University is no stranger to the media this past year. Stemming from player allegations and the Heisman Trophy to the BCS National Championship. Nor is it a stranger to its biggest in-state rival, the University of Alabama. Auburn, known for having one of the best agricultural research facilities in the United States, was devastated to hear that the 130+ year old oak trees at Toomer’s Corner had been poisoned. A Bama fan, bitter after attending the Iron Bowl where unbeaten Auburn (#2 in AP at the time) came back from a 24–0 second quarter deficit over 9–2 Alabama (#9, AP) to beat the Tide in Tuscaloosa, 28–27. It was both the largest comeback in the history of Auburn football and the largest comeback ever allowed in Alabama football history.
This fan took it personally… intentionally using Spike 80DF on the trees, a herbicide that attacks through the roots and works it way up, destroying a true War Eagle tradition. Luckily, it isn’t something that is harmful to humans or toxic to animals unless ingested or exposed to in heavy doses. The main ingredient, tubuthiuron, poses a heavy and lasting threat to the trees that could stay in the soil for years. For more information on Spike 80DF go here. So, was there an alterior motive to what this Harvey Almorn Updyke Jr. guy was thinking? Not sure, but 18 years as a former Texas State Trooper, he definitely knew what he was doing and showed no remorse. The oak trees, located at the corners of Magnolia Avenue and College Street on AU’s campus, represent the spirit and pride of any Auburn celebration.
via (anniesplace.wordpress.com)
I have unfortunately, but fortunately witnessed this when I was on a road trip down to Auburn for a Tennessee football game. Its an unbelievable sight to see. But, throwing countless rolls of toilet paper and turning it into a TP wonderland? One might argue that its an ironic waste of trees, but the tradition has been going on for decades and the War Eagle’s take pride in it. The University has already starting working on efforts to save the trees. You can find out more here.
So this brings me to my topic of discussion. College rivalries…or really any sports rivalry: how far is too far? Where is the little guy on our shoulders that says to us, “hey, we should probably back off…”
Ranging from high school to professional sports, from in-state to out of state, and throughout the world, rivalries are all around us. Yankees-Red Sox, Ohio State-Michigan, Mavericks-Spurs, Lakers-Celtics, Army-Navy, and Oklahoma-Texas, just to name a few off the top of my head. Don’t get me wrong, I have been involved with rivalries starting as a die-hard Georgetown fan at a very young age. I would never dream of rooting for the Orange of Syracuse University. Even living in Maryland, about 30 minutes away from College Park, it was clear to everyone that Duke was the enemy. As I moved on to my college career at the University of Tennessee, sorry Gators, Gainesville is on the list, too. I didn’t really take anything seriously, though, or rather, realized the seriousness of what it means to have two schools rival with one another, until I started college. I witnessed some pretty wild stuff. As a student on campus of a university that gets emotionally invested (too much? no way!!) in the value of football and basketball, it turned me into having an ongoing love/hate relationship with people at these universities. I took a walk on the wild side a couple times, having dated two Florida Gators…boy was that interesting…but back to the point…how about some examples:
If any of you remember when Facebook (or, TheFacebook) was only open to colleges and when student athletes started to join, it would be in our best interests, as fans, to psyche out the competition, without crossing the line. A QB out of the SEC East signed up for Facebook and us Vols fans decided it would be hilarious (and it kind of was), to not add this guy as a friend, but simply “poke” him. Having to X out each one was not harmful, just really really annoying. Especially when you get thousands of pokes all at once. I remember hearing stories about other fans that had access to university fax lines where they would send full pages of black ink to the universities the morning of National Signing Day in record numbers to use up the toner. Crossing the line yet?
At Tennessee, The Rock is just as sacred as Toomer’s Corner. Used to express whatever students felt like, though, if offensive, it was often painted over with a happy birthday wish or a sorority promoting their philanthropy. I decided to go through my archive of old camera phone pictures, yep, still took them before the age of Android, and yep, still have the picture.
One Friday before game day, a certain message showed up on the rock that simply said this: The number was real, folks. Not sure how or who got a hold of it, but they posted it for all to see. To my surprise, it was left up, for days…
Although the number was disconnected within a few short hours, this might have been an example of something that goes a little too far, especially when the threat of personal safety is involved. This is an argument that has gone on for centuries, citing no harm done….yet, just simple harassment. Sadly, there are plenty of opportunities for taking a step past appropriate, including the destruction of university property. Taking it a step further and actually attacking the people themselves is something I fear could happen far too easily in today’s society. The constant harassment is harmless, or is it? On a serious note, if taken further than just verbal abuse, could not only endanger athletes and coaches, but their families as well. What would it prove, anyway?
As a fan, we need to realize that from a business and marketing perspective, these rivalry games can mean big revenue and a major increase in merchandise sales, not to mention sway highschoolers to apply to these schools and give money to the University. (and yes, I’ve seen where admissions have gone WAY up when you win championships, check the stat books).
We all want to be a part of something special and proud to don our colors no matter how obnoxious it can be (Tennessee Orange?) We hope that it can continue on for years to come without the threat of harm to anyone. I feel that it is important to surround myself with people who can positively support their team. Sure, add in some heavy cursing from time to time, crude posters, and even “hulk out” during games when something goes wrong. (Lets not talk about the Vols and the LSU/UNC games this year. *Sigh*)
My point is this: Regardless of hatred, or love, or loyalties, there is NO reason, or right, to destroy university or personal property nor intentionally attack someone with verbal threats, physical harm, or anything of a serious nature. Period. Bring back the friendly(ish), entertaining aspect of what a rivalry is. Bring back face paint. Bring back sleeping outside 10 hours before a big game and getting really really sick after, but knowing it was worth it. Take more pictures. Cherish these moments with your friends and families.
(via Hoya Blue)
(via All Metro Sports)
and most importantly, show the support of your team, whoever it may be, the right way. Oh, if you’re going to talk smack to an opponent, know your stats and at least Google some information to talk about.
Go Hoyas. Go Vols. Tradition doesn’t graduate.
Happy Birthday, Michael Jordan
Talented, legendary, and most importantly, inspiring to someone like me in the sports business who wants to explore the marketing and branding side of the industry. To pay tribute – some of my favorite MJ commercials, in no particular order. What are yours?
1. “The Clock Tower: There are no Cinderella’s” and no I don’t automatically love this just because it has the Hoyas in it, but it does help…
2. “Maybe.” Many have said that this was a “response” to Lebron’s Nike ad after leaving the Cavs…but really, this came out a few years back. Still makes a valid point, and one I happen to agree with.
3. “The Showdown.” I don’t care how fattening it is, or how much the movie Supersize Me tried to change my mind, I will always be a fan of the BigMac™ sandwich after this. Oh, and trying my hardest to beat people at a game of Horse.
Art taking a twist to the cheeseburger…in Jordan form. One of my favorite pictures. Designer Olle Hemmendorff’s Nike’s Air Max 90. 
(via OKGreat.com)
4. “Space Jam” Nothing more can be said about this awesome movie…my friend Christine (@cesswein) and I used to watch this movie on repeat in college. I became an even bigger fan of Bill Murray, his iced knees after 5 minutes of play and convinced me that I really really really want to play golf with Larry Bird. Props to David Falk for this.
5. “23 vs. 39″ I wish I could sweat yellow Gatorade. Great commercial.
6. “Nike Air Jordan Evolution” This video is a little longer than the rest but well worth the watch and includes some cool behind the scenes/outtakes. For those of you that are not familiar, this is a must see. I had to include Mars Blackmon clips somewhere. Spike Lee is epic.
May we all be our own trendsetters, complete with really cool shoes.
Time out! Break in the Action!
Going to try this thing out…and see how long I can stand it…Hopefully this will turn into something really fun. I think I got the name right, focusing mainly on sports and throwing in a little movie/tv trivia (or useless information, that only I seem to know), perhaps a little fashion, musings from life as an MBA and Marketing grad student, and yes, even a little Glee.
… Stay tuned.
