This and that

A couple interesting bits of news on Media Post today. Target is launching an absolutely enormous outdoor ad system in Herald Square, NYC. Transit commuters will find themselves walking by large ads projected on the walls of passages and corridors. As they walk by, or touch the projections, their motion will alter the ad. For example, Target logos falling like snowflakes will burst into larger snowflakes when touched. The goal here is to keep users interacting with (engaging with?) the ad in a whole new way. It's a new take on some of the innovative advertising that Times Square has seen in the last few months (i.e., allowing users to use their cell phones to design Nike shoes in real time on large screens).

Look for more companies figuring out how to use technology to directly interact with the consumer in a way that's fun, entertaining, engaging -- and just incidentally boosts brand recognition!

On a somewhat related note, did you know that more than half of adult internet users create their own video? Of course, I'm certain that some of that is, well, shall we say for private consumption. Nevertheless, it points to a continuing expanding market for personalized online video. Currently, the editing process is seen as too cumbersome or "techie" for the casual user. New software that makes editing easier will likely lead to increased uploading of home made videos. Watch out YouTube!

Finally, I want to make note of Cory Treddiletti's really amusing take on "Giving Digital Thanks This Season" Personally, I'm thankful for my iPod, which allows me to walk or drive to work without having to ever talk to or really look at another human being.

Stephanie