Author Archive for stuart

Why MySpace has more US users than Facebook

08
Sep
08

facebookvmyspace1.jpg

I have to be honest. For social networking, I’m a Facebook man. I find their features and social connectivity far superior to their main competitor, MySpace. However, TechCrunch discusses how MySpace’s performance as the better music platform contributes to the shocking gap between the two networks of 18 million US users, tilted in MySpace’s favor.

Unlike Facebook, the utilization of MySpace has resulted in the soaring popularity of countless bands whom otherwise would have remained in a state of anonymity. If you are in a band, what is the first thing that you do after coming up with a name? Create a MySpace page.

Facebook’s reliance on third party applications such as iLike have yet to dent MySpace’s place atop the US social networking hierarchy, despite Facebook’s position as the largest social network in the world. With MySpace’s September launch of MySpace Music, a new music platform/store supported by the major labels, this gap will only grow. Regardless, my heart will always belong to Facebook.

Picture courtesy of Ben Heine.

THE DOWNSIDE OF VIRAL?

25
Aug
08

It’s safe to say the online advertising realm has accepted the use of viral video as a regular tool in their digital arsenal. But what happens when a viral campaign goes too far and induces fear? Slate examines an interesting case of a series of videos by Cardo Systems doing just that. Featuring cell phones popping popcorn, the videos have managed to create a mini-hysteria due to old fears that cell phones cause cancer. Another result has been over 10 million views to date. Although viral is not supposed to induce a halcyon reaction, is the outcome of Cardo’s campaign such a bad thing? Does negative PR from a viral campaign equate to bad PR when the conclusion is increased traffic and attention? You tell me.




The TrendWatch:


The TrendWatch is the collective postings of some of the FullSIX Group’s designers, strategists, and consultants on new media and marketing trends. It is meant to be an impromptu think-tank, and is a way for us to share theories and beliefs about how we think communication and connectivity is evolving.

We work for The FullSIX Group; a leading full service marketing agency with digital DNA. From our 15 international offices with over 600 employees, we constantly embrace and encourage innovation to make integrated marketing and communication campaigns that are more accountable and efficient for our clients.