IndianMaze

Meeting academics is always an eye opener for me. Everytime, they make me see another shade of life. This morning was no exception. I happen to go to my alma mater to see some academicians selecting candidates for the next batch for a different course and institute. This institute is not well known in this part of the country and is perceived to be a traditional, conservative place. However, the response is great from the candidates who come to seek admission through a series of exams, group discussions and finally interview with a panel. The institute was concerned about it's low awareness scores in North India and were debating whether to build awareness, should they not use advertising. No brainer one would say. Advertising is used so very effectively to increase awareness and in the process build value for the brand/offering. But consumer has a mind of her own. Lot of potential students gave a feedback that the fact that institute does not advertise gives a lot of credib...

Few friends were drowning their sorrows in the respective preference of drinks at a club. This is usual but for the venue. Normally, these suited friends would be seen in the 5 Star bars and drinks would be Single Malts, Rose wines etc. Club menu offers limited choices and almost half the prices offered by 5 Star bars. Expected. The interesting bit was when one asked "what would people do when they want to save money but still pass time?" Opportunity strikes in most adverse circumstances. To cut a long story short, consensus was that people will spend more time socialising at home with families and friends and consume more food (part home cooked and part packaged/ordered from nearby restaurant) and consume more media. I sense an opportunity for TV channels (more time spent), magazines (more readership per copy and time spent), radio, video rentals. Does it mean more DVD players being sold? why not? Are creative guys working on it? Opportunity for more advertising?