Misplaced at C.E.S.

Posted on February 15, 2011 by pamelakdeacon


While attending the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, I was excited and invigorated to see all the latest and greatest technology being showcased.   Big brands, high tech, high profile celebrities, big announcements, catchy slogans.  And then….this ad caught my eye, and I had to scratch my head and wonder, how on earth did this end up here.

RedLaser promotes itself with the tagline:  “Impossibly accurate barcode scanner”.  Look up the word Impossibly in Dictionary.com and it comes back with, “not possible, unable to be done, difficult”.  Dictionary.com also notes that impossibly can be confused with impracticable, and is synonymous with unbearable, intolerable and unmanageable.  So, point in case, they’ve just promoted themselves as the not possible, difficult and sometimes thought of as intolerable and unmanageable bar-code reader.  Hmmmm…makes you want to go right out and get one, huh?  I’ve heard of some strange marketing tactics, but this one takes the cake.  Maybe it’s why their brand name is so much smaller than the visuals on their advertisement.

And speaking of the visuals within the advertisement, if you weren’t confused by the wording alone on the advertisement, well lucky you, because just to provide a little more confusion and complexity to the ad, the predominant visuals at the top of the ad include a barcode along with a “lovely” (insert sarcasm here) QR-code.  If you haven’t yet had the privilege of seeing one of these QR-codes, let me describe it to you.  Take your nice, creative, colorful, thought-provoking ad and brand (which you may have paid an agency a pretty penny for), and then ruin it by placing this gawdy QR code on it.  Why a brand would want to ruin their message with this code on their ad is unimaginable to me (or should I use the term unbearable – synonymous with impossibly)? Let me point something out…..QR-codes, yeah, they were relevant about 7 years ago.  Technology has moved forward at the speed of well, technology.  Today, you don’t need a gawdy code placed on your ad to distract from your message and brand.  Today, we have image recognition technology – the ability to take a picture with your smartphone and receive all types of data, information, gaming, social media, video, coupons, demos, etc.  Let me say this again……TAKE A PICTURE OF THE ADVERTISEMENT.  NOT take a picture of the QR-code.  NOT scan a bar code for product price information.  I’m talking about more features, functionality, and information at your fingertips instantaneously just by taking a picture of the image you want to know more about.  You know the slogan, “We’ve come a long way baby” (okay, I know I’m dating myself for all you young readers), but hey, we really have come a long way, at least much further than using an antiquated and limited QR-code.

Look, I don’t mean to pick on RedLaser, specifically, as there are lots of other companies cluttering their advertisements with QR-codes.  But to both clutter your ad AND devalue your brand with negative wordage just seems like a really bad idea.   Three suggestions for future success:  (1) fire your marketing person, or at the very least, enroll them in Marketing 101, (2) find some positive descriptors to describe yourself, and (3) get rid of the QR clutter on your advertisements.  It will make you feel better about your product, and maybe a consumer or two would feel good about it as well.  Harsh – maybe.  But in times of economic pressures and tough business – you’ve got to sell yourself and your product in a way that makes people absolutely want it, can’t live without it, and not be distracted with ad clutter.  This makes me absolutely want to avoid it.

By: Pam Deacon, VP Sales at Geosync Global, LLC

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Brands controlling you!?

Posted on December 29, 2010 by gshaynehuston


Being a fanatic about gadgets tends to also make you an early adopter. In my case, especially when it comes to mobile phones. I am becoming less of a fan of the providers however. One of my biggest pet peeves has been the iPhone, only available on AT&T. That one fact kept me from getting an iPhone for over a year. I caved in order to do some testing and it was a tough choice.

During the most recent round of announcements my desires connected with two different device options. The new Android Gingerbread and the Windows Mobile 7 phones were calling out to be retrieved. Here the iPhone frustration returned. The only way to get the new Gingerbread is initially with T-Mobile. I am a Verizon user and wanted to test the new Mobile 7 and I have learned Verizon is focused on Android and not carrying the Windows 7 versions. Now who will I have it to choose as a provider?

Brands wonder why they can not maintain loyalty? When they force consumers to choose items that are less, than the brands create the risk of losing loyalty. So now I have iPhone AT&T and have also order my Gingerbread device from T-Mobile. Verizon you are losing me as a brand loyalist and I have touted your devices as some of the best. Should I have stayed loyal… give me a reason.

It seems to me that the motives can only be greed. Pick or lock up the product that is believed to be the winner to gain the largest portion of the winnings. Verizon, provide me with all the options so I can keep one aspect of my choices stable. Now we as the consumers get to suffer greater change than necessary.

I know I am picking on Verizon at the moment but be assured they are not the only brand causing their customers more turmoil than necessary. Apple and AT&T, Gingerbread and T-Mobile, and most major retail stores. I believe this is one of the reasons that the “marts” of the world are so successful.

When you leave your house to run some errands what is your primary thoughts of how to accomplish this task? Are you focused on the different brand stores you can visit or which store(s) that would limit your number of stops? In my case I plan the trip according to minimizing how much time I spend away from home. Therefore I visit the places that have carry a variety of items. I will however, insert stops that are required to get the best quality as well.

By the way, when you switching, if you are getting a new number there are a few things to keep in mind. One, you are going to get phone calls from people who believe they are calling someone else. I could have made a killing recently if I had been a medical equipment salesman.  Two, be prepared for incoming messages as well. Not just from people thinking they are texting someone else, but also from the services that the prior owner had subscribed. Too much fun let me tell you…

Brands, if you want loyalty provide your customers with all the choices possible and truly provide your loyalty to your customers. I believe this is truly the winning business plan.

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QR Codes R Antiquated

Posted on September 21, 2010 by gshaynehuston


The QR Code is a prime example of technology moving so fast that you may miss it. What are QR Codes you say? To simply put it, QR Codes are a form of barcoding that allows mobile phones or other camera device, with an installed reader, to go to a URL result.  This helps to avoid the tedious typing that can be frustrating at times via the small keyboard to get to a website.

Microsoft also has it’s version of a QR code called Tags which is essentially the same thing but more colorful.  They use a diamond shape with bright colors to add some pizazz to the image.

So if you are wondering what has surpassed this technology, it is called Augmented Reality.  This is a big way to essentially describe the process of taking a photo and allowing it to give the user additional information/options about the photo subject. No longer is it necessary to put the rather unattractive QR code on that expensive graphic design.  Rather, use the design to be the unique identifier.

Examples of using this process include activating newspaper ads to deliver videos and returning information or actions such as donations. This is a very positive process for non-profit organizations looking for ways to become mobile. Posters for movies and other purposes can be activated to create a mobile connection to buying tickets, watching previews and so on.

Most recently we have utilized the technology to create different types of games. We have done a scavenger hunt, preparing a treasure hunt and discussing a tag game that involves augmented reality.

The only limitation is our imagination!!

Let us know if you want to hear more ideas of using technology.

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Brand or Blind Loyalty

Posted on September 18, 2010 by gshaynehuston


G. Shayne Huston

Shayne Huston

Brand loyalty is a goal we all wish to achieve and many would give a 1st born to accomplish.  Ok, maybe not their first born but it is a dream of most organizations. How far should it go however? Should it allow us to become blind to the manufacturing defects and make excuses for them?  I thought we became tired of this with Microsoft issues.  Now it seems that we will accept it from the Apple organization led by Mr. Jobs.

Many times I have been involved in conversations about the iPhone 4 and some of the design issues.  What I hear in return from the zealous fans of Apple is that “oh that issue is blown out of proportion, just get a bumper or case”, “who in their right mind, spending that kind of money, would not buy a case anyway”.  Good problem solving skills if you own the product but excusing Apple for a poor design should not be included.

Personally I use many products of Apple, Microsoft, Google and others. I pick the favorites based on their capabilities to perform the tasks that aid me in my job. One device I use is the Droid from Motorola. Many of you are probably now saying, “Oh, that is why he is against the iPhone” however I would counter by stating I like the iPhone but dislike AT&T.  Anyway, the point is that I had a nice cover for my phone to help protect it. Recently I removed it because of it’s bulk and wanting to have a thinner device to carry in the pocket. If I choose to have my phone nakedly adorn than that is my choice and I should not be forced to use one to cover up a flaw.

Come on people, where is the American belief in making sure that things are manufactured at the highest level of quality. Brand loyalty is one thing, turning it into Blind Loyalty is dangerous.  If Mr. Jobs said, ‘here drink the kool-aid’ would you be drinking that too?

Follow Shayne on Twitter at this link.

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GenMy Phenomenon

Posted on August 3, 2010 by gshaynehuston


G. Shayne Huston

G. Shayne Huston, CEO Geosync Global

In this new world of evolving and involving supported by social media tools we need to be prepared to change as marketing and brand evangelists. One of the changes that I am observing is the downgrading of the age demographic that is automatically connected to technology software and services. If you do not know, recent information showed that the average age of a “texter” is 35 years old and the average age of a Facebook participant is 35 years old.

These were areas typically held for the youth of the world but have transitioned even to the use by my 87 year old grandmother who uses instant messaging. My 67 year old father Facebook posts about his antique cars. My 24 year old daughter uses both to share her frustrations in life. Heck, my 2 year old granddaughter, maybe the youngest iPad user, navigates my iPad like a pro. Ivy Bean, who passed away just recently God rest her soul, was 104 years old. I hope that I am still working my computer at that age!!

If this is the case, why do we continue to think that using these channels are primarily to reach the younger crowd. I would suggest that many also think that gaming is primarily the young as well and I could give another diatribe that disputes that assumption as well.

It is time to look at the GenMy phenomenon for what it is… acceptance by non-age defined individuals who like to use the applications. There is a flip side as well, there are many of various ages that will not touch some of the social media connections. I know that from personal interactions as well.

I believe it is time to come up with a new category that does not involve age and just speaks to this group. Be prepared to be surprised by their grasp of the intricacies of these tools and the shrewdness of what is good and bad.

If you are wanting some ideas on how to track this type of info you may get some ideas from this blog entry as well… GenMy – Are you prepared?

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GenMy – Are you prepared?

Posted on June 25, 2010 by gshaynehuston


G. Shayne Huston

You see it in use every day. Change your ring tone, customize your Google page, change your filters on your email and even in selecting the features in your car.  It is no longer a “one size fits all” world where mass communications, such as TV ads and radio spots, motivate people to action. Consumers now want the ability to select and customize how and when they receive communications. Now with the Apple iPad, making such an impact and providing an easier and more pleasing way to read, your tendency may be to jump into the mix. If you decide to move in this direction be cautious of who owns the relationship with the end customer.

With information at the fingertips of almost everyone the demand is now “My way”.  Our computers remind us of this each day, MyDocuments, MyPictures, MyMusic, etc. If you want to communicate with your consumers and grow into new demographics you will need to speak their way. This means that you need to know which channel the recipient likes to use and for which types of communications.

Are you capturing the emails of the individuals who prefer emails? Let me ask you another question. How many email addresses do you have? I have been asking many people this question and I have not found a person yet that has only one email address. This suggests the business logic currently used in storing only one email address should be reviewed and updated. The basic reason for multiple email addresses, as shared in discussions, is one for home and the other for work. Typically add another one used to send junk mail when you register on certain websites. If you are like me you may have several more because you want to see how each system works. (New communication options you should check this out Google Wave)

Let’s advance a little and imagine this, individuals that have no email address because email is passé. What?! How are they communicating in today’s world? They use text messaging and social sites. Are you collecting mobile phone numbers, Facebook/MySpace/Twitter/etc. addresses? I would also suggest you may be storing more mobile numbers than you realize. Many individuals have decided to ignore traditional land line phones and use their mobile phones as a primary contact. This trend is continuing and believed that, other than remote areas, most consumers will cut back on cost and remove their land lines. Some of the individuals that I have spoken to only keep their land line so that telemarketers use it to call. This is like have the 3rd email address for junk mail.

The world has been changing and will continue to amaze us with the diversity created each day. Evaluate the information you are capturing about your loyal fans and faithful consumers. Talk with them through the channel they love and they will communicate in return. Insure that you can capture, track and then integrate these multiple channels in your efforts to connect and build relationships.

To steal a phrase from my grandmother … “My, My, My *shaking her head* what is it with this generation?”

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Win an iPad by entering this drawing

Posted on June 5, 2010 by gshaynehuston


Shayne Huston, Innovationist

Shayne Huston, Innovationist

If you have not had a chance to play with the Apple iPad then you may want to check it out. Being an early adopter of technology gadgets I picked up the first release of this new and exciting device when it first came out. No, I did not stand in line but rather ordered it online so it was delivered to me at my house. So much easier.

First recommendation is that you should absolutely get the Apple iPad Case as it will create a nice angle for typing on the keyboard as well as flipping over to be a nice stand for watching movies. Netflix is a great iPad application as well and comes in very convenient when working on another computer and you want that working audio.

I enjoy using the iPad for taking notes in meetings because of its nearly full size digital keyboard. With the case mentioned earlier it is also very nice for taking notes in a meeting. It’s low profile will be less obstructive than a laptop and should reduce the perception that you are playing games or reading emails.

For taking notes I would highly recommend the Evernote application. This application will allow you to work across devices. Evernote also has a podcast that you can listen to and pick up other helpful hints as well. Most of the applications you will find on the iPad are the iPod touch versions. There is a button that will allow you to double its size to fit the iPad screen. Skype is an example of this and can be rather irritating because it does not behave exactly the same.

As an eReader this device is a very nice size and by getting the right magazine(s) it can provide a very unique opportunity. I would recommend trying the Popular Science iPad version. Very nice multi-directional interaction that will have you testing all the features. You should also check out the Marvel Comics for the iPad. Great ability to zoom in and move from one comic pane to the next.

Now for the fun. If you would like to register for the drawing then you will need to qualify by following these steps.

  • You will need an iPhone or Android based phone
  • Download the free kooaba application
  • Register your application
  • Take a kooaba picture of the following graphic
  • Enter the Contest and complete the form

(If you have issues because of your screen resolution then we suggest you print the graphic and take the kooaba picture)

By entering this contest you are giving permission for Geosync Global, LLC to reach out to you for both the contest information as well as other Geosync Global, LLC opportunities. Geosync Global, LLC will not sell your information to any other parties. Your chances of winning will depend on the number of entries.

Geosync Global, LLC., Des Moines, Iowa 50319, is the sole organizer of this iPad giveaway contest. The competition is open to USA and Canada residents where allowable by law only, and only one entry per person will be accepted. Winner will be notified via email, and will be awarded the grand prize of a 16GB Apple iPAD without 3G and no extra accessories. The decision of Geosync Global, LLC is final. All entries become the property of Geosync Global, LLC including the right to announce the winner and other promotional, reference, research, or official business materials without limitation; entries will not be returned. Geosync Global, LLC reserves the right to cancel, modify or delay the contest. If you are selected as the winner, Geosync Global has the right to publish your name at our sole discretion. Drawing is scheduled to be held September 30, 2010. If less than 1,000 entries have been received by the drawing date than the contest will be postponed. By successfully completing the steps you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win the iPad. Odds are strictly determined by the number of entries received. Do to the varying quality of cell phone cameras and other variables when taking photos, Geosync Global does not guarantee your phones ability to recognize and be entered into this contest.
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Verizon iPhone, iPad, iPod a reality!

Posted on May 24, 2010 by gshaynehuston


G.Shayne Huston

I do not know how you feel but I do not like being told what company I have to choose for services. This is exactly the situation with Apple and AT&T which steps on the consumers rights to choose and select their preferred supplier. This is especially irritating with the supplier you are forced to utilize is inferior to others. With the announcement of the new iPad from Apple, and the disappointing fact that it is limited to ATT for 3G the control continues.

Don’t give in to that pressure because there is an alternative to gain the abilities of iPad/iPhone/iPod & Verizon today.

I have wanted to play with the functionality of the iPhone interface for quite some time. Unfortunately giving up the coverage of Verizon was not acceptable and the interface could not overcome the AT&T deficit I feel exists. I recently acquired iPod Touch and began the journey of the Apple downloads. Now how to get some of the phone capabilities?

Verizon is my choice for cellular service I have also recently purchased a MiFi wireless device. If you have not seen advertisements on this gadget it is a device that behaves like a wireless hotspot for up to five devices through the Verizon cellular system. For instance you can go to your favorite park location bring out your MiFi and connect your iPod touch for network access. Downloading the application called Skype for your iPod Touch and the use of a headset you have created a Voice Over IP (VOIP) phone.

Recently a teammate and I tested the connection from my VOIP arrangement and his iPhone. The process worked extremely well and voila a version I can utilize without giving up my favorites.

Follow us @geosyncglobal or email us now. feedback@geosyncglobal.com

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eReader Future

Posted on May 17, 2010 by gshaynehuston



By G. Shayne Huston

eReaders have been the talk lately and our review and study of them brings some interesting comparisons and thoughts of the market. Much like the iPod it has started out with a single focus to the deliverable. The goal being to allow what was currently read on hard copy to be read digitally.

This is not something new as I can recall getting books downloaded to my PC or my early smart phone. However newer technology is allowing the eReader to be handier and more sophisticated. The access to a large volume of materials makes it a nice device to have to minimize the number of books and materials you need to carry. A gentleman I know likes to take books on his vacation and the Kindle allows him to do just that and to avoid the extra luggage cost.

The best feature and what I feel gives the Kindle the edge is its ability to satisfy the need for instant access to the material. You read about a book you would like to have you finish a book, you feel like changing subject matter for awhile and all you have to do is connect to the Kindle 3G store and immediately download new reading material. ( Demo of the Kindle 2 )

Now the Sony version has its features as well. It however needs you to connect via a PC connection in order to get your desired literature, limiting that access when traveling. However, there is a plus side to this as you can also read the same literature on your PC. Another differentiation is the Sony’s touch screen allowing the navigation to be done with touch of a finger. One of the earlier versions also has a backlit display. This allows for the reading of information in low/no light settings. ( Demo of the Sony PRS505 )

I don’t want to minimize the capabilities of these devices so I will add some information. Both devices have some additional capabilities like audio/music output. The Kindle has a text 2 speech feature. However, the primary focus is the reading market.
Are you willing to spend a significant amount of money on these devices? Many in the United Kingdom seem to say no. They prefer to read the information on their mobile phones preferring to carry a single multifunction device.

Other announcements are coming in the future, but will the eReader’s future be similar to the iPod? The eReaders are a single purpose device designed to allow the user to read digitally. They are predominately black and whitep with some color devices newly available. They primarily support the linear type of reading vs. the more diverse movement of say a web browsing session. Again, the single purpose device requires the consumer to carry the eReader as well as a mobile phone and possibly a laptop.

If new devices are created with their multipurpose capabilities along with color would seem to suggest that eReaders may have to make their purpose dramatically different to persist. A relatively new tablet has some of the abilities spoken of in the rumors. It is the Dell Latitude XT2 tablet with multiple touch interface and is light weight. It is still not as light as the eReaders and the price is significant as well. ( Demo of the XT2 )

The Apple iPad has increased the capabilities in the market and has already started to challenge the typical eReaders described above. I would suggest that Apple released this product earlier than they wanted. They could not wait longer because of the market share Kindle, Sony, Nook and others would control and present a barrier to the acceptance of the iPad.

The true device I feel is the one that lands between the iPad and the Dell XT2. Give me the light weight of the iPad with the power of the XT2 and we have the perfect machine. We are keeping our eyes and ears open looking for the improved solution. Will it be Apple to the rescue again?

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