Top trends and a few predictions for 2012

January 23rd, 2012

1. Custom Design Approach

Always our passion, we predict an increase in custom illustration and photography when it comes to graphic design. Like we’ve said for years, stock imagery can be used by all and doesn’t evoke the same attention or connection that a hand drawn look can bring. See if you can spot the added touches and effects of illustration and photography through advertising and marketing collateral this year.

 

2. Growth in Half Off Deals

Don’t count Groupon, Living Social or Restaurant Deals out just yet. Some reports say the fad may be dying down but we can see these consumer favorites keeping up with their historic growth through 2012. The consistent growth in popularity should be recognized as a mentality of the audience. People do love a good deal!

 

3. Targeted advertising

You think you connect with ads now but just wait for this year’s interactive advertising, complete with features including 3D interaction, audience response and demographic-specific advertising everywhere you look, including your Google mail, web browser, cell phone and more. Watch what you search because a simple vacation browse will leave you open to tourism and travel agent advertising overload!

 

4. Bing at #2

Coming up quickly, we see Bing making it to the number two spot this year, just behind Google as a top search engine. Bing’s quick and reliable search makes it easy for users to navigate the web and their marketing strategy far surpasses competitors who use to hold strong to the top positions.

 

5. New web development

With new technology in web programming and coding, we predict you’ll have the opportunity for more interactive online in the coming year. We’re envisioning 3D websites, more video and photos that viewers can personally interact with, not to mention live video chatting.

 

6. More banks adding mobile

As the need for convenience continues to consume us, we predict a rise in mobile banking applications in 2012 but not just from your national banks, but community and local banks as well. In fact, mobile banking demonstrated 10% market penetration within the past two years.

 

7. Multi-level Design

The separation between print and interactive continues to grow thin and in 2012 we see more cross-platform compatibility moving in to play. In the realm of graphic design, it’s not just about designing for print anymore; you need to consider web, television and even mobile. Making a design fit multiple platforms this year will help it to expand across more mediums, reaching more of the target audience.

 

8. Make it green

The eco-movement grows more and more with each year but in 2012 we predict a trend in people moving past just recycling in the office and think more outside of the box when it comes to keeping out planet green. If you’re looking to put another foot on the eco-movement and helping this trend succeed, consider printing on recycled paper or switching from water bottles to a water cooler in 2012.

 

9. New social media

Yes, it’s possible. There is a social media world outside of Facebook and Twitter and we see it having more of an impact as 2012 continues. Pinterest stands as a great example of a social media platform already gaining an impressive audience and buzz among social media users. The trend this year will definitely be the quick to learn and quick to use social media. Pinterest is a winner because it takes literally no effort on the users part yet your still interacting with a social network; you simply look at photos for inspiration and ideas on any and all subjects imaginable. If you want, you can like, repin or add posts, otherwise you can just browse at leisure!

 

10. Subtle colors

Each year unveils a popular color palette. For example, according to designpink.com, 2011’s color of the year was honeysuckle – uplifting and optimistic. For 2012, we envision the trend to fall with a more subtle color palette, maybe with a brown or slate hue as the color of the year. After all, this would go right along with the number eight trend – Make it green – by promoting earth tones.

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TODAY Girls – The TODAY Show Celebrates 60 Years

January 13th, 2012

Before Ann, Kathy Lee and Hoda, the TODAY show had Margaret Larson, Florence Henderson and Lee Meriwether pioneering the role of woman in broadcast journalism. If you caught some of this morning’s broadcast of the TODAY show, then you already know the popular network program proudly celebrated its 60-year anniversary on-air this morning. Today’s program specifically highlighted the original women of the TODAY show, formally called “TODAY Girls.”

They weren’t just popular for their looks and wit, but these women pioneers were some of the first in the industry to make it on screen with important journalistic responsibilities, including weather, lifestyle and news segments. In fact, the men of the industry were sure women wouldn’t make it on network television, yet opted to compromise by allowing these women to appear on the morning news, a new program concept the men were sure no one would actually watch.

As one of the first co-anchors of the TODAY show – before she was even officially given the title – Barbara Walters also explained today about how she initially compromised on her role in conducting interviews and was allowed to ask the fourth question, Perhaps that’s how Walters learned to make her questions count by asking the tough ones.

Now it’s 60-years later, the original TODAY Girls, along with Walters and the female anchors to follow, made the show what it is today and are yet another example of pioneering women we salute here at A. Bright Idea.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/45985832#45985832

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A breakdown of holiday campaigns

December 16th, 2011

David Wells, Jr. Marketing Specialist/Photographer

Retail businesses realize this time of year as a major key to their financial success. As stores compete for consumers’ attention with holiday advertising campaigns, the campaigns range from utilizing a feel-good angle or humor. Others aren’t very smart, while  some appeal to different age groups. Looking at television advertising campaigns, we’ve analyzed each one and provided some personal insight to their campaign efforts. After all, this topic allows us to combine two things we’re passionate about at A. Bright Idea – advertising and the holidays!

Target: Shopping lunatic/Done

You’ve likely all seen the Maria Bamford series Target debuted in 2010. It was so successful and memorable they brought it back for this year’s Black Friday promotion and continued through the holiday shopping season. The ad series features a ‘shopping lunatic’ who prepares herself for the madness holiday shopping brings. The ads are funny, memorable, well-branded and remain one of our favorite holiday campaigns.

Shopping Lunatic 

Greeting Card Jingle 

This year, Target also utilizes a ‘Done’ theme, letting consumers know they have Target to help them get things finished for the holidays. Showcasing televisions, greeting cards, lights, cookies, and other potential gift ideas and holiday necessities, everything gets crossed off the list. This ad does a great job letting consumers know Target is a one-stop-shop for any holiday checklist.

Done. 

Best Buy: Game On, Santa.

Best Buy, the electronics giant for holiday gifts, decided to take on Santa Claus this year through their advertising campaign. The ads are humorous, featuring moms who are proud of their holiday purchases telling Santa he’s too late and they don’t need him. Smart idea? We don’t think so. Who are these ads targeting? Most moms, which seems to be the target audience, would want to uphold the Santa figure for their children as long as possible, not challenge him. The ads make us worry what little kids think of seeing their mom kick a Santa statue off a roof, smashing it on the ground. What do you think of the campaign taking on Santa Claus?

Game On, Santa

Game On, Santa 2

Game On, Santa 3

Lexus: December to Remember Music

The Lexus holiday campaign features a ‘familiar’ Lexus jingle hinting to listeners they are receiving a new car for Christmas. The ads are well done and memorable, offering an undertone of showing appreciation for your loved ones. A problem remains, with these ads, Lexus is challenging the perception that luxury cars don’t make good gifts, and people buy them for family members this time of year. Also, will people really associate the jingle they hear with getting a new Lexus? Not likely. Perhaps the appeal sways toward current Lexus owners. If you’re a Lexus consumer, does this commercial work for you?

December to Remember 

John Lewis: For gifts you can’t wait to give

Most American’s probably haven’t seen this ad by the UK department store, John Lewis. The heart-wrenching ad, especially for those who have kids, has an unexpected ending making viewers appreciate the real meaning of the holiday season. As one of the most shared holiday videos on YouTube this month, this is a top holiday campaign.

John Lewis gifts

 

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President and Founder Anita Brightman provides insight into strategies for long-term success in I95 Business

December 15th, 2011

How to Position Your Business for Success

BY CYNTHIA NUTWELL
December 2011

Expert Advice on Budgets, Marketing and More

In today’s uncertain economy, successful businesses are implementing strategies to ensure their long-term success. Whether it’s increasing budgets for growth or crafting effective marketing, I95 BUSINESS probed three business owners for ideas on how to position for success.

Positioning for Growth
Anita Brightman, president of A. Bright Idea Advertising & Public Relations, positions her 19-person firm for growth. With offices on both coasts, Brightman’s agency expansion is due to large federal contracts, small business brand development and environmental remediation projects. Brightman also deals with companies and clients who want to do more with shrinking budgets.

To read the full article, click here: http://i95business.com/2011/12/how-to-position-your-business-for-success/

 

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December Top 10 – Holiday Movies

December 9th, 2011

 

The holiday season brings out the best in American classics, with movies set decades past or those from recent years. This year’s December top 10 pays homage to the best of holiday movies from every generation.

 

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

A box office flop, this classic didn’t gain popularity until 30 years later when it started airing each year on television. Now a classic tale, It’s a Wonderful Life reminds us to appreciate our loved ones and the life we have.

 

2. A Christmas Story (1983)

“You’ll shoot your eye out kid.” And don’t forget the leg lamp, something every family should have.

 

3. The Muppet’s Christmas Carol (1992)

Kermit, Miss. Piggy, Gonzo and the gang tell the classic story with a small twist of adult humor.

 

4. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

The Griswolds taught us all simple is better. Over-the-top light displays aren’t always necessary.

 

5. Home Alone (1990)

Kevin McCallister was every kid’s super hero, living life in a big house with no parents and conquering the bad guys with some hilarious tactics.

 

6. Elf (2003)

What’s not to love about an adult (not to mention giant) elf entering the real world? “Everything really is better with syrup.”

 

7. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Inspiring miracles keep the real Kris Kringle alive in the hearts of all. This classic also ties in the famous Macy’s Day parade and New York City excitement at Christmas-time.

 

8. The Polar Express (2004)

With heart-warming talent, including Tom Hanks, children experience a whirlwind adventure on the Polar Express, where St. Nick and the spirit of Christmas truly come to life.

 

9. The Santa Clause (1994)

Don’t fret! One Santa may die but Tim Allen jumps in to rescue Christmas, whether he wants to or not. This hit tells the story of family, believing and embracing holiday cheer no matter the circumstances.

 

10. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966 and 2000)

Whether you love the cartoon version or Jim Carey’s Grinch, Whoville’s Whos tell a great tale of family and community strength, even turning the Grinch into a Christmas believer.

 

Holiday Bonus – #11

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Tim Burton shares a scary interpretation of The Grinch with a ghoulish twist, yet a movie that you just can’t turn off when it’s on.

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Don’t take the Power out of PowerPoint

November 29th, 2011

A four-star general in the Army recently asked me how I found myself wanting to work in public affairs for the government.

The answer is simple – I grew up on base, and I know how important clear, concise and honest information is to a captivated audience.

So I was pumped (yes pumped) for a defense-hosted small business conference down south, heavily attended by heavy hitters of the nation’s largest military Commands. All presenters echoed their respect and deep need for small business relations – in small paragraphs bordered with neon green firework graphics and some with full blown left-to-right animation in italics to show they really really meant it. And, I look forward to briefings on meaningful Soldier-driven missions – if I could read the small novel in Comic Sans font on a single PowerPoint slide.

I get it. PowerPoint is accessible and easy to share. But, that makes it even more important not to abandon your key messages and brand.  Clipart had a place and it has passed. Now, it’s just a distraction from the main points and doesn’t capture the attention you were hoping for from your audience.

It’s so important to remember that when you give a briefing to remember the core word – “brief.” Keep your PowerPoint professional, clear and concise – there is a reason that bullets are the default formatting on each slide.

So this holiday season when you’re going around the table, professing your gratitude for family, friends and fellowship – don’t forget to be thankful for your organization’s style guide. I know I am.

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Top 10 Things We’re Thankful for at A. Bright Idea

November 8th, 2011

 

In the Thanksgiving spirit, this month’s top 10 list focuses on the items we, at A. Bright Idea, are most thankful for this year. We hope all of our clients, community members, family and friends have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

 

  1. Strong family

Not only the family at home, we’re also thankful for our work family. We laugh together, we cry together, we fight and we love each other like family!

 

  1. Good friends

We often say our clients are like friends and it really is true here at A. Bright Idea. This year, we’re thankful for all of our clients, you are our friends.

 

  1. Health and babies

In 2011 the next generation of A. Bright Idea creative talent was born with staff babies including Matthew Mauldin, Jr. and Silas Maxton Dietrich.

 

  1. Community relationships

After another year of supporting organizations such as the William E. Proudford Sickle Cell Fund, the Harford County Public Library Foundation and Sonoma Valley Teen Services, we truly cherish the organizations within our community that help others and we’re thankful for the opportunity to support their efforts.

 

  1. New clients

This year we’ve been grateful in welcoming our new clients, including Highview Memorial Gardens, Power Cleaning, Sonoma Valley Teen Services, RoarITech, Live Well Family Chiropractic, Delaware Restaurant Association, St. Francis Winery, Upper Chesapeake Health and Harford County Public Schools.

 

  1. Creative talent

Our growing team of talented professionals – the people that make A. Bright Idea – are something we’re very grateful for this year! Their out-of-the-box thinking continues to wow.

 

  1. Growing in new areas

With our office in Sonoma, California and expansion in Bel Air, we’re thankful for creative space and new neighbors!

 

  1. Technology

Where would we be without technology? We’re so thankful for our iPhones, computers and Internet, not to mention the people who know how to make them work!

 

  1. Inspiration

At A. Bright Idea, those “ah ha” moments are what we live for and we’re so thankful for each and every one!

 

  1. Coffee

This is an obvious one! We’re thankful for the coffee that gave us the extra jolt to write this blog.

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My Hobby vs. My Work

November 2nd, 2011

David Wells, Jr. Marketing Specialist/Photographer

Running 26.2 miles is not something most people just decide to do and do it the next day. It requires time, dedication, preparing and training. I ran in the 36th Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday in Washington DC, along with over 20,000 other runners. Marathon training is long term and I applied the following strategies to my training:

  • Learning and recalling the strategies that worked and didn’t work for previous races.
  • Reading about marathons. This research tells me what my competitors are doing and tips for making my plan work.
  • Using a multitude of training exercises- lifting weights, swimming, biking, eating healthy, sleeping, stretching and more.
  • Focusing on the end goal- the great feeling of accomplishment after it’s over- to get me through the tough training times.
  • Having others keep me accountable and help me along the way.

I obviously work for A. Bright Idea Advertising and Public Relations; but I also work in the marketing and public relations department. What I know about marathon running and advertising for business’ is that success takes commitment. The commitment also involves trust in a plan. Using the right tools and strategies paired with a long term commitment will elevate a successful outcome – and that’s what I’m hoping for as I cross the finish line. I apply similar strategies to a clients marketing plan that I do for my training, as I identified above.

At A. Bright Idea, we handle clients’ advertising and provide suggestions to marketing plans to better their business. These include strategic plans, a variety of advertising including print, radio, television or outdoor, marketing collateral like brochures, flyers, posters, and business cards, planning events, social media and much more.

When we meet with clients, we oftentimes recommend a long-term plan that includes a variety of advertising platforms working in conjunction with each other to position and establish the business as a professional company—much like I apply multiple training exercises to my running plan.

Long-term advertising plans prove successful to most companies. Building a company’s brand and business takes time. Utilizing various advertising platforms also help businesses stay top of mind with consumers. At A. Bright Idea, we work from proven tools and strategies that have worked and haven’t worked for various industries and clients. We provide thorough research by reading articles and finding out what competitors are doing. We also focus on the clients’ end goal to get through the tough spots. All similar strategies that I applied to my marathon training.

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A. Bright Idea Supports the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration

October 26th, 2011

A. Bright Idea supports the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration with getting the word out about National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, October 29, 2011.

Look for this ad running all week on the NBC Today Show!

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day – Today Show Commercial

 

 

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Economic Impact on California State Parks: Sign of the Times

October 10th, 2011

Jack London State Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written by T.J. Brightman, Vice President of Client Relations

 

The California budget crisis has forced the closure of nearly 70 state parks, three of them in Sonoma County, California.  If successful, the state indicates it will recognize a savings of $33 million dollars over the next two fiscal years.   It will mark the first time in 100 years, including the Great Depression, that the parks department will entertain closure due to budget concerns.

As many of you know, A. Bright Idea expanded its reach of services by opening an office in Glen Ellen, Sonoma, California a little over a year ago.  In that time, we have had the opportunity to not only make some new friends within the business community but also experience first hand the true beauty that this part of the country has to offer.

Not only does A. Bright Idea find itself in the middle of wine country, but is just a stones throw away from Jack London State Park, a memorial to creative writer and adventurer Jack London who made his home in Glen Ellen from 1905 until his death in 1916.  It was on these 1400 acres that the American author wrote more than fifty fiction and nonfiction books, essays and short stories.  It was also on this hallowed ground that Jack London worked and lived off the land, experimenting and inventing  various  agricultural techniques.

This weekend, Brooke Austin, A. Bright Idea’s newest hire and Director of West Coast Operations, and I had the opportunity to take a behind the scenes tour of Jack London State Park with Chuck Levine, former board member of the Valley of the Moon Natural History Association.  Being an “East Coaster” all my life, I can’t say that I’ve ever been moved by the natural beauty of the outdoors more than I was during my visit to Jack London.  Maybe it was the giant redwoods, or simply seeing the views of Sonoma County from the Jack London residence that got my attention.   There was something special and tranquil about this place that could only make me imagine what Jack London saw in Sonoma when he moved from San Francisco in the early 1900s.

It was London who said, “All I wanted was a quiet place in the country to write and loaf in and get out of nature that something which we call need, only the most of us don’t know it.”

Politics aside, to think that a park like Jack London could close within the year is nothing more than a tragic outcome of the current economic crisis.  Last week, California Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill that would allow qualified nonprofit organizations to take control of the parks scheduled for closure, assuming the management and operations.

As the Valley of the Moon Natural History Association positions itself to manage Jack London State Park, we are proud to partner with this nonprofit and continue our commitment of community as the organization works to secure control of the park and its overall operations in the coming year.

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