I’ve recently had cause to notice the issue of marketing on IT related products.
THE GOOD. Whenever I was sitting at a cafe or at my desk typing on my loaned macbook air (see other post), anyone could clearly see that I’m using a Mac. The brand is broadcast to the world as part of the technology. I also feel a little bit cooler because I know the world knows that I’m using a Mac. There aren’t little stickers all over saying that the processor is Intel and the sceen is made by X and Microsoft approves this computer like on my Leveno/IBM.
THE BAD. Several weekends ago, much to the dimay of my legs, decided to run a half marathon. I showed up a day early to pick up my number and, rather than being handed just a typical . As part of the “swag bag” given to all runners I found a PDA. Yes, you did not misread that. I found a Personal Digital Assistant as part of a swag bag for running a half marathon in upstate NY. While I didn’t finish last (1:38:52) I am not of the caliber of athlete used to receiving such sponsorship. OK, below is a picture of the PDA front and back.
- Free PDA?
I put this under “the bad” because of the waste. I honestly can’t imagine anyone using this, and it is destined to end up in a landfill for 99% of the folks receiving them. I find it actually amazing that an organization can basically provide a PDA in the same role they may provide a balloon or stress ball in the past.
THE UGLY. In looking around my office and in thinking about most of the server rooms that I’ve been in during the past, it is clear that the impact of the creative folds in the organization has had little impact on technology design. The predominant design pattern of the day screams functional, both in form and style. In a world in which markets for toasters and other kitchen appliances from famous designers are commonplace, it is surprising that the word of technology has remained so functional. And it is true that when your significant other comments that your coat looks very functional what he/she really means is that it is ugly. My Thinkpad and my wife’s Gateway are both pretty ugly. I never really cared what a computer looked like till I borrowed a new Mac.
