2008 Culture
Important Video Points:
- This video below demonstrates the global connection that is present in today’s culture, this is due in part to the freedom on the web. It discusses the importance of the digital age and how it aids in connecting each individual. The point that is also discussed is how this connection allows for a personal link to the audience. It pinpoints how the information found on the web seems rawer and less altered by the large network media conglomerates. The video also states that the big media corporations are losing audience due to the popularity, freedom and ease of use that the internet allows. Lastly, it discusses how celebrities are pursuing connecting digitally with people because it allows them to connect directly with the audience they are trying to influence.
Analysis of the Video Content:
- This information is important to understand because it affects the consumer in various ways. The video helped express the importance of staying current in everything from media to technology. This also helps the advertisers know the consumer more appropriately and personally. The close connection builds trust from the audience viewing the digital media, thus creating loyalty to the digital media that the individual is connected to. The celebrity effect on the consumer is important to understand because of the connected world we live in today. This effect just demonstrates the impact the cult of celebrity has on many consumer segments.
2008:Cultural Influences
Sarah Palin controversial over the amount spent on clothes during Presidential Campaign
Tiny Fey brings a comical side to the campaign by portaying Sarah Palin in skits.
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Travis Barker and DJ AM were in plane crash
Wal-mart employee trampled to death by eager consumers on Black Friday
Miley Cyus and Vanity Fair reveal a controversial photo shoot.
Nick Jonas and Disney support diabetes awareness
Lindsay Lohan revealed her sexuality as bisexual. This caused controversial media coverage
Travis Barker and DJ AM were in plane crash
Wal-mart employee trampled to death by eager consumers on Black Friday
Miley Cyus and Vanity Fair reveal a controversial photo shoot.
Nick Jonas and Disney support diabetes awareness
Lindsay Lohan revealed her sexuality as bisexual. This caused controversial media coverage
Grey’s Anatomy introduces and takes away a gay woman character causing a controversial stir.
Britney Spears releases new album, The Circus, as well as a personal makeover
Media coverage of Eliot Spitzer scandal with call girl escalates
Reality TV, such as the Hills is found out to be scripted.
Lauren Conrad’s Line is dropped from Kitson contact
Anchor Blue drops Heidi Montags fashion line “Heidiwood” from contract
Top Five television shows in 2008
Heroes
House
Prison Break
Grey’s Anatomy
Gossip Girl
The Dark Knight was release in summer causing media attention due to Heath Ledgers death
The movie grossed $530,258,989
Sources:
Britney Spears releases new album, The Circus, as well as a personal makeover
Media coverage of Eliot Spitzer scandal with call girl escalates
Reality TV, such as the Hills is found out to be scripted.
Lauren Conrad’s Line is dropped from Kitson contact
Anchor Blue drops Heidi Montags fashion line “Heidiwood” from contract
Top Five television shows in 2008
Heroes
House
Prison Break
Grey’s Anatomy
Gossip Girl
The Dark Knight was release in summer causing media attention due to Heath Ledgers death
The movie grossed $530,258,989
Other top grossing movies are:
$318,298,180:Iron Man (2008)
$317,011,114:Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
$227,946,274:Hancock (2008)
$223,641,119:WALL·E (2008)
$215,395,021:Kung Fu Panda (2008)
$159,066,369:Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)
$4154,529,187:Horton Hears a Who! (2008)
$4152,637,269:Sex and the City (2008)
$143,704,210:Mamma Mia! (2008)
$318,298,180:Iron Man (2008)
$317,011,114:Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
$227,946,274:Hancock (2008)
$223,641,119:WALL·E (2008)
$215,395,021:Kung Fu Panda (2008)
$159,066,369:Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)
$4154,529,187:Horton Hears a Who! (2008)
$4152,637,269:Sex and the City (2008)
$143,704,210:Mamma Mia! (2008)
Analysis
The cultural influences of 2008 have demonstrated a strong media and entertainment hold on the public. This attention has positive and negative consequences that affect all aspects of consumer knowledge, spending, and lifestyle.
The cultural influences of 2008 have demonstrated a strong media and entertainment hold on the public. This attention has positive and negative consequences that affect all aspects of consumer knowledge, spending, and lifestyle.
Sources:
perezhilton.com
google.com
yahoo.com
nytimes.com
mtv.com
Pamphlet for Heart Disease
This is an example of a Pamphlet that will come inside every bag that Butler Bag will sell. It is a personal story of someone with the disease of which the bag supports. This one happens to be a personal story on heart disease.
Stephanie
I was first diagnosed with an ASD when I was three months pregnant with my second child, which was a great shock to my family and me. The doctors all said the hole was very large and wanted to operate as soon as possible, so when my baby was six months old I went in for open heart surgery which was all very successful and, after five days in hospital, I came home. When I had recovered from all this, which I must say was very quick, I asked to have my two sons tested, as I had gone through my life a very fit person with no signs of heart trouble. I found that my eldest son also had an ASD but luckily the hole was relatively small he was able to have a device fitted using a catheter. This operation went very well and he went home the next day.
Thank you for your purchase from Butler Bag.
Most of all thank you for supporting Heart Disease!
Stephanie
I was first diagnosed with an ASD when I was three months pregnant with my second child, which was a great shock to my family and me. The doctors all said the hole was very large and wanted to operate as soon as possible, so when my baby was six months old I went in for open heart surgery which was all very successful and, after five days in hospital, I came home. When I had recovered from all this, which I must say was very quick, I asked to have my two sons tested, as I had gone through my life a very fit person with no signs of heart trouble. I found that my eldest son also had an ASD but luckily the hole was relatively small he was able to have a device fitted using a catheter. This operation went very well and he went home the next day.
Thank you for your purchase from Butler Bag.
Most of all thank you for supporting Heart Disease!
2008 Design, Color, Fabric, Trends
Major New Fashion Looks for Fall 2008 Winter 2009
1. STATEMENT SHAPE - Strong architectural coat silhouette - Trapeze A-lines, belted, origami folds, half sleeves.
2. COLOUR - JEWEL BRIGHT JOLTS - RED, RED, RED! PURPLE, PUCE, INK BLUES, TEAL, SEA, COCOA, BLACK.
3. STATEMENT SHOES - Sculptured/spiker heels. Contrast heels/soles/cutwork, multiple straps/buckles/ties.
4. FUR - FAUX/REAL - MONGOLIAN - Whole garments, shawl collars, gilets, trims, arm warmers, hem bands, bags.
5. BIKER JACKETS - Leather and/or fur trimmed biker jackets. Tartan/country/denim biker jackets. Gilet options.
6. PROM SKIRTS/DRESSES - Full fairy prom skirts/dresses. Longer skirts and tulip skirts.
7. BOHO FOLK - Complex stylised folksy floral print mixes, brilliant paisley, luxury fringing, wild Boho gilets.
8. LACE - Garments in textured lace, Swiss/Austrian/Guipure/Chantilly lace, fine lace, trims, with sheers.
9. PEEK-A-BOO - Black dresses/see through sheer areas, key hole necklines, sheer dark or lace tights.
10. GOTHIC BLACK - Smoky black Goth looks - velvet sheers, satins. Hardware, studs, lots of chains.
11.COUTURE CRAFTED OPULENCE - Trousers, tunics, jackets dresses totally in brocades/metallics/sequins.
12. COUNTRY PLAIDS & WOOLS - Traditional tartans/vivid colours; tartan footwear/bags. Country life tweeds.
13. MILITARY BUTTONED UP - double-breasted Empire Pea coats in red, blue, gold, black; stand cowl necks.
14. GLOW - LEATHER, PATENT - Patent/ Leather dresses, coats, macs, bags, shoes, shoe boots that shine.
15. KNITS - Chunky cable knits, oversized cowl necklines, gossamer spider's web like knitwear, origami knits.
16. MANNISH - Tailored pants, masculine pant suits. CARROT TOP trousers. FLARED pants. SKINNY leathers.
17. ANIMAL PRINTS AND FURS - Animal print fabrics also in brights. Zebra/leopard bags, footwear.
18. FULLER SLEEVES & SLEEVE HEADS - Cropped fuller sleeves, structured rise supported/extended shoulders.
19. JEWELLERY - CHAINS - BIG RINGS - CUFFS - Lots of layered gold chains at neckline/wrist. Ornate cuff bangles.
20. BOLD LEGWEAR - Lace/bright hues/black opaque tights. Sheer dark hosiery. Animal/floral hosiery. So for statement fashion think sculptured, folksy, animal, biker, opulence, lace, fur, tartan, bold tights, black or inky toned gothic and make your fashion statement
-The autumn 2008 Winter 2009 fashion season is one full of attractive jewel colors, opulent fabrics, contrasting knit textures and exciting prints.
-If you choose the garments carefully to suit your skin tone, they create a shot of complexion enhancing color. For instance, blues and purple lift the eyes, reds add a natural warm blush, whilst gold reflects highlights onto hair. Iris purple is one of the few colors that look good on every skin tone from palest blonde females to raven haired women.
-All the clarity of the most beautiful hues of the world's loveliest colored gemstones are there - peridot, aquamarine, topaz, sapphire, tanzanite, amethyst, tourmaline, kunzite, ruby pink, garnet red, yellow citrine and smoky quartz.Winter white and black add the perfect contrast.
-Black and inky navy are used as a base for Folk Boho prints, which often feature red and golden tones. Red, one of the main autumn colors Fabrics.
-Fabrics for autumn have substantial textural or surface print interest.
-Golden and silver cloth is usual for brocade, but look out too for brocade in jewel colors, and there are fine dresses in sea and emerald greens.
-Print fabrics with riotous designs, and painterly effects, compete with folkloric and border print designs.
-Expect to see clothes with roses, flowers, paisley, small neat patterns or hound's-tooth checks in colored silks and chiffons competing with rich heavy plain satins, and velvet.
-Knitwear Fashion trends 2008. Winter white, soft greys and soft pastel tints worked well for knitwear.
-Knits are newsworthy this winter. There are many forms of texture, especially extreme chunky knits which feature heavy cable work. These contrast well against the fine knits, fur trimmed pieces or the openwork loose stitched gauzy knits in the finest silk, mohair or cashmere.
-Winter white, soft greys and soft pastel tints are colors that work well for knitwear. This lovely textured knit with a nod to folkloric Austrian knits left is by Blumarine.
-The soft dusty old rose tone is one of the main colors of autumn 2008.
Synthesis:
These topics were important to research so one could understand where fashion is going to be by 2010. The color, textiles, and trends all helped in forecasting for 2010.
Sources:
www.fashion-era.com
1. STATEMENT SHAPE - Strong architectural coat silhouette - Trapeze A-lines, belted, origami folds, half sleeves.
2. COLOUR - JEWEL BRIGHT JOLTS - RED, RED, RED! PURPLE, PUCE, INK BLUES, TEAL, SEA, COCOA, BLACK.
3. STATEMENT SHOES - Sculptured/spiker heels. Contrast heels/soles/cutwork, multiple straps/buckles/ties.
4. FUR - FAUX/REAL - MONGOLIAN - Whole garments, shawl collars, gilets, trims, arm warmers, hem bands, bags.
5. BIKER JACKETS - Leather and/or fur trimmed biker jackets. Tartan/country/denim biker jackets. Gilet options.
6. PROM SKIRTS/DRESSES - Full fairy prom skirts/dresses. Longer skirts and tulip skirts.
7. BOHO FOLK - Complex stylised folksy floral print mixes, brilliant paisley, luxury fringing, wild Boho gilets.
8. LACE - Garments in textured lace, Swiss/Austrian/Guipure/Chantilly lace, fine lace, trims, with sheers.
9. PEEK-A-BOO - Black dresses/see through sheer areas, key hole necklines, sheer dark or lace tights.
10. GOTHIC BLACK - Smoky black Goth looks - velvet sheers, satins. Hardware, studs, lots of chains.
11.COUTURE CRAFTED OPULENCE - Trousers, tunics, jackets dresses totally in brocades/metallics/sequins.
12. COUNTRY PLAIDS & WOOLS - Traditional tartans/vivid colours; tartan footwear/bags. Country life tweeds.
13. MILITARY BUTTONED UP - double-breasted Empire Pea coats in red, blue, gold, black; stand cowl necks.
14. GLOW - LEATHER, PATENT - Patent/ Leather dresses, coats, macs, bags, shoes, shoe boots that shine.
15. KNITS - Chunky cable knits, oversized cowl necklines, gossamer spider's web like knitwear, origami knits.
16. MANNISH - Tailored pants, masculine pant suits. CARROT TOP trousers. FLARED pants. SKINNY leathers.
17. ANIMAL PRINTS AND FURS - Animal print fabrics also in brights. Zebra/leopard bags, footwear.
18. FULLER SLEEVES & SLEEVE HEADS - Cropped fuller sleeves, structured rise supported/extended shoulders.
19. JEWELLERY - CHAINS - BIG RINGS - CUFFS - Lots of layered gold chains at neckline/wrist. Ornate cuff bangles.
20. BOLD LEGWEAR - Lace/bright hues/black opaque tights. Sheer dark hosiery. Animal/floral hosiery. So for statement fashion think sculptured, folksy, animal, biker, opulence, lace, fur, tartan, bold tights, black or inky toned gothic and make your fashion statement
-The autumn 2008 Winter 2009 fashion season is one full of attractive jewel colors, opulent fabrics, contrasting knit textures and exciting prints.
-If you choose the garments carefully to suit your skin tone, they create a shot of complexion enhancing color. For instance, blues and purple lift the eyes, reds add a natural warm blush, whilst gold reflects highlights onto hair. Iris purple is one of the few colors that look good on every skin tone from palest blonde females to raven haired women.
-All the clarity of the most beautiful hues of the world's loveliest colored gemstones are there - peridot, aquamarine, topaz, sapphire, tanzanite, amethyst, tourmaline, kunzite, ruby pink, garnet red, yellow citrine and smoky quartz.Winter white and black add the perfect contrast.
-Black and inky navy are used as a base for Folk Boho prints, which often feature red and golden tones. Red, one of the main autumn colors Fabrics.
-Fabrics for autumn have substantial textural or surface print interest.
-Golden and silver cloth is usual for brocade, but look out too for brocade in jewel colors, and there are fine dresses in sea and emerald greens.
-Print fabrics with riotous designs, and painterly effects, compete with folkloric and border print designs.
-Expect to see clothes with roses, flowers, paisley, small neat patterns or hound's-tooth checks in colored silks and chiffons competing with rich heavy plain satins, and velvet.
-Knitwear Fashion trends 2008. Winter white, soft greys and soft pastel tints worked well for knitwear.
-Knits are newsworthy this winter. There are many forms of texture, especially extreme chunky knits which feature heavy cable work. These contrast well against the fine knits, fur trimmed pieces or the openwork loose stitched gauzy knits in the finest silk, mohair or cashmere.
-Winter white, soft greys and soft pastel tints are colors that work well for knitwear. This lovely textured knit with a nod to folkloric Austrian knits left is by Blumarine.
-The soft dusty old rose tone is one of the main colors of autumn 2008.
Synthesis:
These topics were important to research so one could understand where fashion is going to be by 2010. The color, textiles, and trends all helped in forecasting for 2010.
Sources:
www.fashion-era.com
2008 Social
Times Square Goes Green
The first eco friendly billboard goes up in Times Square. It will be powered by wind turbines and solar panels. When there is no wind or sun, the sign goes blackHumanitarian Trend
In a survey New York Times preformed, 36% said they would like to have a career in being an advocate for a group or issues they care aboutGay Rights
Join the Impact website is formed on November 4th after gay marriage is banned in many states. Many rallies have been held by gay activists that have caught the public and media’s attention. A musical entitled prop 8 was produced in order to get more attention on the issue. Celebrities such as Jack Black, Melissa Etheridge, Drew Barrymore and Mary J Blige are in opposition of the Proposition.
Aids
AidsThe Aids Cure has been in the talks during 2008. According to Federal Offices, the cure is a few years away. Many companies have joined or continue the help fight against aids including Starbucks, American Idol, and Product Red. Bill and wife Melinda Gates Foundation gives 12.5 Million to the aids research and care.
Target Breast Cancer Line
Target again brings breast cancer line to the forefront and continues supporting the cause. The motto for the line is: Whatever Your Reason,Wear One. The line is composed of tshirts,tanks purses etc and is at lower price points allowings Targets target consumer to puchase the items.
Demographics: Women
According the US Census, 80.8% (305,186,613) of the American population resides in cities and suburbs.
-Population has reached 435 million.
-The average income of a middle class household is $55,000
-The middle class: are educated with college degree
-Middle Class household: Childless or one child
According the US Census, 80.8% (305,186,613) of the American population resides in cities and suburbs.
-Population has reached 435 million.
-The average income of a middle class household is $55,000
-The middle class: are educated with college degree
-Middle Class household: Childless or one child
Natural Disasters
Tornados plagued the United States during 2008. Horrific tornados ripped through Georgia, Virginia, Oklahoma, Missouri and other out skirting states. Many died and flooding caused those to evacuate homes and businesses. This hurt the local economy in many communities as well as those who were individually affected.
Synthesis
Overall, 2008 has proved that the majority of the population has been joining the fight for many social movements. Encouraging others to join the fight by volunteering, donating, or raising money and awarness has been seen throughout the year. With natural disaster hitting close to home, it is hard to look away from helping others. With celebrities joining in on the causes, there will be more media awareness and participation in the years to come.
Sources:
okgov.
nytimes
yahoo.com
gatesfoundation.org
target.com
census.gov
Barack Obama
Politics 2008
With the 2008 election now decided it is important to look at our new president, Barack Obama's stance on many important issues that will affect America in the next four years. These are Obama’s stance on many important issues.
Abortion
Should abortion remain a legal option in America?
"One of the things that I've always said is that abortion is a deeply moral issue. And those who would deny that there is a moral component to it I think are wrong. The reason that I make a decision to support the choice position is not because I don't think it's a moral issue but because I trust women to make a prayerful decision about this issue."
“Should parental consent be required for pregnant minors?
I oppose spousal notification or consent [to obtain an abortion]. Regarding parental notification, I would oppose any legislation that does not include a bypass provision for minors who have been victims of, or have reason to fear, physical or sexual abuse."
Cuba
“Should the US continue to support an embargo against Cuba?”
That's why, when I'm President, I will grant Cuban-Americans unrestricted rights to visit families and send remittances to the island. Because that's the way to bring about real change in Cuba. Through strong and smart diplomacy, not just tough love...As President I am not going to take off the embargo, it's an important inducement for change because we know that Castro's death will not automatically guarantee freedom."
Economy
“Should the US include mandatory regulations for labor rights in free trade agreements?
"And I'll also oppose the Colombia Free Trade Agreement if President Bush insists on sending it to Congress because the violence against unions in Colombia would make a mockery of the very labor protections that we have insisted be included in these kinds of agreements. So you can trust me when I say that whatever trade deals we negotiate when I'm President will be good for American workers, and that they'll have strong labor and environmental protections that we'll enforce."
“Has the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) had an overall benefit for the US?”
We can't keep passing unfair trade deals like NAFTA that put special interests over workers' interests...
“Should the federal government bail out failing US private corporations like it did with Bear Stearns of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac at taxpayers expense?”
"This is no longer just a Wall Street crisis - it' an American crisis, and it's the American economy that needs this rescue plan...
This is not a plan to just hand over $700 billion of taxpayer money to a few banks. If this is managed correctly, and that's an important if, we will hopefully get most or all of our money back, and possibly even turn a profit on the government's intervention - every penny of which will go directly back to the American people. And if we fall short, we will levy a fee on financial institutions so that they can repay for the losses they caused."
“Do labor unions provide an overall benefit to workers in the US?”
"...[A]s I look out on this crowd and as I travel across this country, the one thing I know for certain is that labor unions are still mobilizing. Labor unions are still organizing. And you're still fighting to give America's working people a voice in Washington.
I'm tired of playing defense. I know the AFL-CIO [American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organization] is tired of playing defense. We're ready to play some offense. We're ready to play offense for a decent wage. We're ready to play offense for retirement security...
We're ready to play offense for organized labor. It's time we had a President who didn't choke saying the word 'union.' A President who knows it's the Department of Labor and not the Department of Management. And a President who strengthens our unions by letting them do what they do best - organize our workers. If a majority of workers want a union, they should get a union."
Education
“Is the increasing cost of college and university tuition pricing America’s middle class out of higher education?”
"And so, as I stood in those Illinois colleges listening to students tell me about their problems, I started thinking, when did the cost of college stop becoming our problem? When did the headlines about skyrocketing tuition start getting crowded out by Michael Jackson and Martha Stewart, and when did this national priority start playing second fiddle to the latest partisan food fight in Washington? I'm not sure, but I do know that I've met enough good citizens who think about the other guy and want to change this. And I believe there are enough members of both parties who want to start this country down the path of making college affordable and accessible for every American...I believe it's time for Congress to follow your lead. This week, I'm introducing the Higher Education Opportunity through Pell Grant Expansion Act - the HOPE Act. This bill will make college more affordable for 430,000 Americans by increasing Pell Grant awards."
Energy
“Should the US tap into its emergency oil reserves to help bring down the price of gasoline?”
"I agree with the President's decision to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help replenish supply shortages resulting from Hurricane Katrina. Nearly all oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico has been shut down
Environment
“Are humans substantially responsible for global climate change today?”
"Global warming is real, is happening now and is the result of human activities. The number of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes has almost doubled in the last 30 years. Glaciers are melting faster; the polar ice caps are shrinking; trees are blooming earlier; oceans are becoming more acidic, threatening marine life; people are dying in heat waves; species are migrating, and eventually many will become extinct."
Health Care
“Should all Americans have a right to government or employer subsidized basic health care?”
"...I also believe that every American has the right to affordable health care. I believe that the millions of Americans who can't take their children to a doctor when they get sick have that right....My plan begins by covering every American.If you already have health insurance, the only thing that will change for you under this plan is the amount of money you will spend on premiums. That will be less...If you are one of the 45 million Americans who don't have health insurance, you will have it after this plan becomes law...If you cannot afford this insurance, you will receive a subsidy to pay for it...To help pay for this, we will ask all but the smallest businesses who don't make a meaningful contribution today to the health coverage of their employees to do so by supporting this new plan. And we will allow the temporary Bush tax cut for the wealthiest Americans to expire."
Iraq war
“Has the Iraq war made America safer?”
"Perhaps the saddest irony of the Administration's cynical use of 9/11 is that the Iraq War has left us less safe than we were before 9/11. Osama bin Ladin and his top lieutenants have rebuilt a new base in Pakistan where they freely train recruits, plot new attacks, and disseminate propaganda. The Taliban is resurgent in Afghanistan. Iran has emerged as the greatest strategic challenge to America in the Middle East in a generation. Violent extremism has increased. Terrorism has increased. All of that is a cost of this war."
Marriage
“Should there be a Constitutional amendment or federal law defining marriage as only between a man and a woman?”
"Today, we take up the valuable time of the US Senate with a proposed amendment to our Constitution [the Federal Marriage Amendemnt] that has absolutely no chance of passing...Now, I realize that for some Americans, this is an important issue. And I should say that personally, I do believe that marriage is between a man and a woman...I agree with most Americans, with Democrats and Republicans, with Vice President Cheney, with over 2,000 religious leaders of all different beliefs that decisions about marriage, as they always have, should be left to the states."
Synthesis
Obama being elected has changed the moral of the American people. America needed a change after the past eight years. Obama's views will hopefully help with America's foreign policy and change how other countries view America.
Resources
ProCon.org
Politics 2008
With the 2008 election now decided it is important to look at our new president, Barack Obama's stance on many important issues that will affect America in the next four years. These are Obama’s stance on many important issues.
Abortion
Should abortion remain a legal option in America?
"One of the things that I've always said is that abortion is a deeply moral issue. And those who would deny that there is a moral component to it I think are wrong. The reason that I make a decision to support the choice position is not because I don't think it's a moral issue but because I trust women to make a prayerful decision about this issue."
“Should parental consent be required for pregnant minors?
I oppose spousal notification or consent [to obtain an abortion]. Regarding parental notification, I would oppose any legislation that does not include a bypass provision for minors who have been victims of, or have reason to fear, physical or sexual abuse."
Cuba
“Should the US continue to support an embargo against Cuba?”
That's why, when I'm President, I will grant Cuban-Americans unrestricted rights to visit families and send remittances to the island. Because that's the way to bring about real change in Cuba. Through strong and smart diplomacy, not just tough love...As President I am not going to take off the embargo, it's an important inducement for change because we know that Castro's death will not automatically guarantee freedom."
Economy
“Should the US include mandatory regulations for labor rights in free trade agreements?
"And I'll also oppose the Colombia Free Trade Agreement if President Bush insists on sending it to Congress because the violence against unions in Colombia would make a mockery of the very labor protections that we have insisted be included in these kinds of agreements. So you can trust me when I say that whatever trade deals we negotiate when I'm President will be good for American workers, and that they'll have strong labor and environmental protections that we'll enforce."
“Has the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) had an overall benefit for the US?”
We can't keep passing unfair trade deals like NAFTA that put special interests over workers' interests...
“Should the federal government bail out failing US private corporations like it did with Bear Stearns of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac at taxpayers expense?”
"This is no longer just a Wall Street crisis - it' an American crisis, and it's the American economy that needs this rescue plan...
This is not a plan to just hand over $700 billion of taxpayer money to a few banks. If this is managed correctly, and that's an important if, we will hopefully get most or all of our money back, and possibly even turn a profit on the government's intervention - every penny of which will go directly back to the American people. And if we fall short, we will levy a fee on financial institutions so that they can repay for the losses they caused."
“Do labor unions provide an overall benefit to workers in the US?”
"...[A]s I look out on this crowd and as I travel across this country, the one thing I know for certain is that labor unions are still mobilizing. Labor unions are still organizing. And you're still fighting to give America's working people a voice in Washington.
I'm tired of playing defense. I know the AFL-CIO [American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organization] is tired of playing defense. We're ready to play some offense. We're ready to play offense for a decent wage. We're ready to play offense for retirement security...
We're ready to play offense for organized labor. It's time we had a President who didn't choke saying the word 'union.' A President who knows it's the Department of Labor and not the Department of Management. And a President who strengthens our unions by letting them do what they do best - organize our workers. If a majority of workers want a union, they should get a union."
Education
“Is the increasing cost of college and university tuition pricing America’s middle class out of higher education?”
"And so, as I stood in those Illinois colleges listening to students tell me about their problems, I started thinking, when did the cost of college stop becoming our problem? When did the headlines about skyrocketing tuition start getting crowded out by Michael Jackson and Martha Stewart, and when did this national priority start playing second fiddle to the latest partisan food fight in Washington? I'm not sure, but I do know that I've met enough good citizens who think about the other guy and want to change this. And I believe there are enough members of both parties who want to start this country down the path of making college affordable and accessible for every American...I believe it's time for Congress to follow your lead. This week, I'm introducing the Higher Education Opportunity through Pell Grant Expansion Act - the HOPE Act. This bill will make college more affordable for 430,000 Americans by increasing Pell Grant awards."
Energy
“Should the US tap into its emergency oil reserves to help bring down the price of gasoline?”
"I agree with the President's decision to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help replenish supply shortages resulting from Hurricane Katrina. Nearly all oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico has been shut down
Environment
“Are humans substantially responsible for global climate change today?”
"Global warming is real, is happening now and is the result of human activities. The number of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes has almost doubled in the last 30 years. Glaciers are melting faster; the polar ice caps are shrinking; trees are blooming earlier; oceans are becoming more acidic, threatening marine life; people are dying in heat waves; species are migrating, and eventually many will become extinct."
Health Care
“Should all Americans have a right to government or employer subsidized basic health care?”
"...I also believe that every American has the right to affordable health care. I believe that the millions of Americans who can't take their children to a doctor when they get sick have that right....My plan begins by covering every American.If you already have health insurance, the only thing that will change for you under this plan is the amount of money you will spend on premiums. That will be less...If you are one of the 45 million Americans who don't have health insurance, you will have it after this plan becomes law...If you cannot afford this insurance, you will receive a subsidy to pay for it...To help pay for this, we will ask all but the smallest businesses who don't make a meaningful contribution today to the health coverage of their employees to do so by supporting this new plan. And we will allow the temporary Bush tax cut for the wealthiest Americans to expire."
Iraq war
“Has the Iraq war made America safer?”
"Perhaps the saddest irony of the Administration's cynical use of 9/11 is that the Iraq War has left us less safe than we were before 9/11. Osama bin Ladin and his top lieutenants have rebuilt a new base in Pakistan where they freely train recruits, plot new attacks, and disseminate propaganda. The Taliban is resurgent in Afghanistan. Iran has emerged as the greatest strategic challenge to America in the Middle East in a generation. Violent extremism has increased. Terrorism has increased. All of that is a cost of this war."
Marriage
“Should there be a Constitutional amendment or federal law defining marriage as only between a man and a woman?”
"Today, we take up the valuable time of the US Senate with a proposed amendment to our Constitution [the Federal Marriage Amendemnt] that has absolutely no chance of passing...Now, I realize that for some Americans, this is an important issue. And I should say that personally, I do believe that marriage is between a man and a woman...I agree with most Americans, with Democrats and Republicans, with Vice President Cheney, with over 2,000 religious leaders of all different beliefs that decisions about marriage, as they always have, should be left to the states."
Synthesis
Obama being elected has changed the moral of the American people. America needed a change after the past eight years. Obama's views will hopefully help with America's foreign policy and change how other countries view America.
Resources
ProCon.org
Color Interiors
Research has shown that interior decorating changes in tune with color/textile changes in the fashion world. In the 70's colors were rainbow, greens oranges, and overall a very bright experience. Similarly, the interiors of the 70's saw a lot of bright greens, oranges, and rainbows in wall paper, flooring, paint, couches lamps, tables and other textiles (pillows, sheets). The 70's was also a time of man made textiles, which is also seen on a smaller scale in interior decorating.
In this photo you can see the man made type chair, and the extreme color choice, in tune with the 70's.
The colors of the 80's began muted due to the recession; however they grew to more sophisticated colors of black, white, with bright accessories (oranges, purples, pinks, reds). Similarly the interior decorating/design industry changed to the use of these colors. Using reds, yellows, pinks, oranges, as complementary colors in contrast to whites and blacks. The
80's was also a time of synthetic materials, which can also be seen in interior accessories and shapes.
You can see from this picture the the room uses the contrast of black and white with the brighter colors of red and yellow. You can also see the plastic lamp in the corner, following the synthetic trend.
In the 90's animal prints, sex, bright colors, blacks, pastels, were all the rage. And nature inspired colors and materials were on their way in.
This picture shows the contrast of extremely bright pinks with a modernistic white and black. You can see the shift to cottons and natural inspired textiles instead of synthetics.
The new millennium has brought natural colors, and textiles. Focusing on metallics, greens, blues, muted purples, and oranges. There is less nylons, rayons, and spandex, creating an earht inspired feeling and consciousness.
This is a current picture of todays lighting accessories. From this simple picture you can see the muted and earthy tones, in comparison to past generations.
Synthesis:
Over time you can see that fashion colors and trends directly affect the current interior decorating and design. They are all intercorrelated through the world of fashion. However, it doesn't take the interior design world a little more time to catch up with fashion colors and trends.
Research has shown that interior decorating changes in tune with color/textile changes in the fashion world. In the 70's colors were rainbow, greens oranges, and overall a very bright experience. Similarly, the interiors of the 70's saw a lot of bright greens, oranges, and rainbows in wall paper, flooring, paint, couches lamps, tables and other textiles (pillows, sheets). The 70's was also a time of man made textiles, which is also seen on a smaller scale in interior decorating.
In this photo you can see the man made type chair, and the extreme color choice, in tune with the 70's.
The colors of the 80's began muted due to the recession; however they grew to more sophisticated colors of black, white, with bright accessories (oranges, purples, pinks, reds). Similarly the interior decorating/design industry changed to the use of these colors. Using reds, yellows, pinks, oranges, as complementary colors in contrast to whites and blacks. The
80's was also a time of synthetic materials, which can also be seen in interior accessories and shapes.
You can see from this picture the the room uses the contrast of black and white with the brighter colors of red and yellow. You can also see the plastic lamp in the corner, following the synthetic trend.
In the 90's animal prints, sex, bright colors, blacks, pastels, were all the rage. And nature inspired colors and materials were on their way in.
This picture shows the contrast of extremely bright pinks with a modernistic white and black. You can see the shift to cottons and natural inspired textiles instead of synthetics.
The new millennium has brought natural colors, and textiles. Focusing on metallics, greens, blues, muted purples, and oranges. There is less nylons, rayons, and spandex, creating an earht inspired feeling and consciousness.
This is a current picture of todays lighting accessories. From this simple picture you can see the muted and earthy tones, in comparison to past generations.
Synthesis:
Over time you can see that fashion colors and trends directly affect the current interior decorating and design. They are all intercorrelated through the world of fashion. However, it doesn't take the interior design world a little more time to catch up with fashion colors and trends.
Survey Results
Original Target Market Survey
We handed out the original target market survey to 30 people and received 14 electronic response. From their answers we found the following data:
We handed out the original target market survey to 30 people and received 14 electronic response. From their answers we found the following data:
- When testing the perceived value for a purse in support of a social cause we found that:
- 72% said $185 was a perfect price
- 28% said $185 was too expensive
- When testing for the importance of social movements we found that:
- 62% considered social movements an interest
- 24% saw them as very important
- 14% saw social movements as a hobby
- We asked in the survey if they would spend more on a purse that was in support of a social cause, and we found:
- 79% said they would spend more
- 21% said they would not feel more inclined to spend more
- Our final question was testing the style preference of people surveyed, and we found that:
- 67% preferred a large tote
- 31% preferred a hobo style
- 2% preferred a small tote
Prototype test Survey
We handed out a second survey testing our overall purse idea and its: style, size, and shape. From the 23 response we found that:
We handed out a second survey testing our overall purse idea and its: style, size, and shape. From the 23 response we found that:
- We asked how much they would pay for one of the purse (sketched), and we found that:
- 50% would pay $200
- 30% would pay $150
- 10% would pay $250
- 10% were outliers
- We tested how much they would pay for the purse (sketched) and if it supported a social cause, and we found:
- 55% would pay $250
- 15% would pay $300
- 15% would pay $350
- 15% would pay $200
- We tested (scale of 1-10, 10 being the best) the style of our four sketched bags and found that:
- 42% rated them an 8
- 18% rated them at 9
- 18% rated them at 10
- 22% were outliers
- We tested (scale of 1-10, 10 being the best) the shape of our four sketched bags and found that:
- 34% rated them at 8
- 22% rated them at 10
- 11% rated them at 9
- 11% rated them at 7
- 22% were outliers
- We tested (scale of 10-10, 10 being the best) the size of our sour sketched bags and found that:
- 50% rated them as 8
- 28% rated them at 10
- 22% rated them at 9
Combined surveys of perceived value of $185
We combined the results from survey one and two to see the overall perceived value of $185 for our purse prototype and we found that:
We combined the results from survey one and two to see the overall perceived value of $185 for our purse prototype and we found that:
- 65% said it was perfect price
- 34% said it was too expensive
- 1% said it was too cheap
Synthesis:
From our surveys we see a trend of the consumer seeing $185 for a purse in support of a social movement, ideal. A majority of the women would expect/be willing to pay $250 for a purse in support of a social movement. We also see that no one person did not find interest in social movements, proving how mass this hidden current is becoming. Furthermore, we found that the overall size of our sketched prototypes were ideal. In addition, many really liked the shape and style but not as much as the size. We also see that women prefer large totes instead of any other style of purse. In conclusion, we got some responses of what need hadn't been met in purses. An overwhelming majority said they need a purse that can hold everything and organize it all. According to this, they will be really happy with the size and the Butler Bag signature style of purse; meeting their unmet need.
From our surveys we see a trend of the consumer seeing $185 for a purse in support of a social movement, ideal. A majority of the women would expect/be willing to pay $250 for a purse in support of a social movement. We also see that no one person did not find interest in social movements, proving how mass this hidden current is becoming. Furthermore, we found that the overall size of our sketched prototypes were ideal. In addition, many really liked the shape and style but not as much as the size. We also see that women prefer large totes instead of any other style of purse. In conclusion, we got some responses of what need hadn't been met in purses. An overwhelming majority said they need a purse that can hold everything and organize it all. According to this, they will be really happy with the size and the Butler Bag signature style of purse; meeting their unmet need.
Economics: 2008
Inflation
The year 2008 is over half way through. This year's first quarter consumer price index has increased 3.5%, followed by an additional 4.2% increase in the second quarter, and in an increase to 4.7% in the third quarter. The consumer price index in apparel/ accessory specific was 128.9 in January, and 130.3 in September.
This current 2008 data shows consumers are paying higher prices for the same items. This price increase (inflation) has occurred within a matter of months, or one quarter. The inflation also encompasses the apparel industry.
Consumer Spending
Currently, 2008's personal income has increased by .5%, or 61.5 billion dollars, as of August. However, disposable consumer income has declined by .9%, or 93 billion dollars. Personal consumption expenditures has also dropped .1%, or 3.9 billion dollars.
According to the current data, consumers in the US are begining to feel constrained by the current inflation or in the bigger picture, the failing economy. This can be seen by their income increasing but their spending abilities decreasing.
Unemployment/Employment
The begining of September 2008 saw a 100,000 job lose, which was followed by a 159,000 job lose at the end of September. This was a steep drop from the begining of August, of a 84,000 job lose. As of August of 2008 the unemployment rate is 6.1%. Male's unemployment rate is currently 6.7% and a female rate of 5.5%. These are also relatively high, considering in January the male rate was 5.1% and the female rate was 4.7% (data from August/September 2008). The most recent data shows women's unemployment rising to 5.8% and men's shooting to 7.2%. The national unemployment has reached 7% in November. Furthermore, in November alone, there has been 500, 000+ job layoffs across the country, bringing 2008's total to more then 2,000,0000+ job loss.
From this data we can see the job loss in the US is growing very rapidly. This will tighten up consumer spending, because they no longer have the necessary disposable income. In the long run companies that are more high end (expensive/non-necessity) will pay the consequences when their sales fall because of the growing unemployment rate.
Outsourcing
The US is notorious of outsourcing cheap labor from other countries. However, the trend has decreased in the current year. Imports in services and goods are down by 59%. Exports are seeing 12.3% in the second quarter, and they rose again by 3.4% in the third quarter.
Imports to the US has dropped by 7.3% in the second quarter followed by a 3.2% drop in the third quarter.
The drop of imports into the US is directly correlated to the lack of consumer/global confidence in the US economy. Global markets are uneasy in investment within the US economy because of its steady spiral downward. So the current trend is to bring some revenue into the country through exports, which is seeing a huge growth compared to past trends.
Sales and Data
In the first quarter of 2008 corporate profits saw a decrease in sales by 17 billion dollars. In the second quarter, sales fell by 60.2 billion dollars. The third quarter saw a decrease, by 14.6 billion dollars. Directly correlated to these sales, is the fall of the real GDP. In the second quarter, real GDP was at 2.8 (unhealthy but better then expected) but this number dropped to -0.5 in the third quarter. Furthermore, we see an extreme drop in sales for durable and nondurable goods in 2008. The second quarter saw a drop in durables of -.21% followed by a drop to -1.19% in the third quarter. Nondurable goods dropped in the second quarter to 0.80% which was followed by -1.51% in the third quarter.
The numbers show that retail sales for apparel (non durables) has drastically dropped. Which shows consumers buying less and buying less often. The drop in GDP shows the overall condition of the US market. The negative percentage shows we are not producing enough to meet our needs, or we consumers aren't buying in proportion to current inventories. Corporate profits are also seeing a heavy decrease, which may lead to a number of bankruptcies in the fourth quarter or in 2009. Overall we see the economy struggling and the consumer struggling. So to survive this market you need to keep that in mind when planning prices and choosing merchandise.
gov.first.com. Retrieved on October 25, 2008.
BEA.gov. Retrieved through October and November, 2008.
economagic. com. Retrieved October through November, 2008.
newyorktimes.com. Retrieved October 25, 2008.
The year 2008 is over half way through. This year's first quarter consumer price index has increased 3.5%, followed by an additional 4.2% increase in the second quarter, and in an increase to 4.7% in the third quarter. The consumer price index in apparel/ accessory specific was 128.9 in January, and 130.3 in September.
This current 2008 data shows consumers are paying higher prices for the same items. This price increase (inflation) has occurred within a matter of months, or one quarter. The inflation also encompasses the apparel industry.
Consumer Spending
Currently, 2008's personal income has increased by .5%, or 61.5 billion dollars, as of August. However, disposable consumer income has declined by .9%, or 93 billion dollars. Personal consumption expenditures has also dropped .1%, or 3.9 billion dollars.
According to the current data, consumers in the US are begining to feel constrained by the current inflation or in the bigger picture, the failing economy. This can be seen by their income increasing but their spending abilities decreasing.
Unemployment/Employment
The begining of September 2008 saw a 100,000 job lose, which was followed by a 159,000 job lose at the end of September. This was a steep drop from the begining of August, of a 84,000 job lose. As of August of 2008 the unemployment rate is 6.1%. Male's unemployment rate is currently 6.7% and a female rate of 5.5%. These are also relatively high, considering in January the male rate was 5.1% and the female rate was 4.7% (data from August/September 2008). The most recent data shows women's unemployment rising to 5.8% and men's shooting to 7.2%. The national unemployment has reached 7% in November. Furthermore, in November alone, there has been 500, 000+ job layoffs across the country, bringing 2008's total to more then 2,000,0000+ job loss.
From this data we can see the job loss in the US is growing very rapidly. This will tighten up consumer spending, because they no longer have the necessary disposable income. In the long run companies that are more high end (expensive/non-necessity) will pay the consequences when their sales fall because of the growing unemployment rate.
Outsourcing
The US is notorious of outsourcing cheap labor from other countries. However, the trend has decreased in the current year. Imports in services and goods are down by 59%. Exports are seeing 12.3% in the second quarter, and they rose again by 3.4% in the third quarter.
Imports to the US has dropped by 7.3% in the second quarter followed by a 3.2% drop in the third quarter.
The drop of imports into the US is directly correlated to the lack of consumer/global confidence in the US economy. Global markets are uneasy in investment within the US economy because of its steady spiral downward. So the current trend is to bring some revenue into the country through exports, which is seeing a huge growth compared to past trends.
Sales and Data
In the first quarter of 2008 corporate profits saw a decrease in sales by 17 billion dollars. In the second quarter, sales fell by 60.2 billion dollars. The third quarter saw a decrease, by 14.6 billion dollars. Directly correlated to these sales, is the fall of the real GDP. In the second quarter, real GDP was at 2.8 (unhealthy but better then expected) but this number dropped to -0.5 in the third quarter. Furthermore, we see an extreme drop in sales for durable and nondurable goods in 2008. The second quarter saw a drop in durables of -.21% followed by a drop to -1.19% in the third quarter. Nondurable goods dropped in the second quarter to 0.80% which was followed by -1.51% in the third quarter.
The numbers show that retail sales for apparel (non durables) has drastically dropped. Which shows consumers buying less and buying less often. The drop in GDP shows the overall condition of the US market. The negative percentage shows we are not producing enough to meet our needs, or we consumers aren't buying in proportion to current inventories. Corporate profits are also seeing a heavy decrease, which may lead to a number of bankruptcies in the fourth quarter or in 2009. Overall we see the economy struggling and the consumer struggling. So to survive this market you need to keep that in mind when planning prices and choosing merchandise.
Look at 2009:
Data shows that 2009 will bring a deeper recession then the current one. Halting all consumer spending, bringing unemployment to double digits, bankrupt auto industries and many retailers, and we may see an adjustment in the US currency. GDP is suppose to hit 1.5% in 2008; however considering its already at -0.5% we can expect an even larger decrease. Unemployment has also reached the 2009 projecting and will grow with the loss of US auto industry. We do have hope, past trends show that a new president acts as an economic stimulus. Furthermore, the incoming president has planned a trillion dollar stimulus package including: rebuilding inf structure, increasing employment, and giving the middle lower class more disposable income. This plan in itself should turn around the economy by 2010, if implemented correctly. Which in turn will save retailers and increase consumer spending across the country.
Resources:Data shows that 2009 will bring a deeper recession then the current one. Halting all consumer spending, bringing unemployment to double digits, bankrupt auto industries and many retailers, and we may see an adjustment in the US currency. GDP is suppose to hit 1.5% in 2008; however considering its already at -0.5% we can expect an even larger decrease. Unemployment has also reached the 2009 projecting and will grow with the loss of US auto industry. We do have hope, past trends show that a new president acts as an economic stimulus. Furthermore, the incoming president has planned a trillion dollar stimulus package including: rebuilding inf structure, increasing employment, and giving the middle lower class more disposable income. This plan in itself should turn around the economy by 2010, if implemented correctly. Which in turn will save retailers and increase consumer spending across the country.
gov.first.com. Retrieved on October 25, 2008.
BEA.gov. Retrieved through October and November, 2008.
economagic. com. Retrieved October through November, 2008.
newyorktimes.com. Retrieved October 25, 2008.
Qualitative Strategic Plan
Group Name: Peaceful Shipwreck
Group Members:
Kim Armentrout
Kim Armentrout
Andy Bennett
Jamie Carver
Sierra Cook
Siena Moore
Qualitative Strategic Plan
Color
- Forecast
~Color Cycles/ Identifying cycles color went through (1978-2009)
-Siena: 1978, 1980, 1982
-Jamie: 1984, 1986, 1988
-Sierra: 1990, 1992, 1994, 2009
-Kim: 1996, 1998, 2000, 2008
-Andy: 2002, 2004, 2006
*Each person will identify the beat of their three years and correlate the beat with the year’s color palette. Also, we will stick to our original strategic plan and identify the forecast for the context, product, and consumer for 2009.
** Each group member will identifying the gender and demographic influences on color within their delegated years. Each member will also identify the color inspiration and how it relates to the color’s name.
***Each member will identify the color life spans, flops, and successes within their assigned years.
- Products/ Identify the role color played in accessories, bags, cosmetics, automobiles
-Sierra: Accessories
Shoes, necklaces, earrings, hair, belts, sunglasses, rings, bracelets, anklets
-Siena: Cosmetics
Skin products, eye liner, powder, mascara, eye shadow, fake nails, lotions, perfumes
-Kim: Interior Design
Pillows, sheets, furniture, drapes, carpet, paint, bedding, wallpaper, towels
-Jamie: Food Industry
Restaurants, Fast Food, Grocery, Cafeterias, Organic, Healthy, Meats, Vegetables
-Andy: Auto Industry
Cars, Motorcycles, Car Paint, Car Interior, Car Technology
- Color Board
*After zooming in on the macro-environment the team will combine the data to prepare a forecasted color board for 2010. As a team we will bring together our: inspirations, themes, photos, to develop our forecasted 2010 color palette for Butler Bag.
2008 Momentum
- The Context
~Siena: Political
--Presidential Race
- -Democrat VS Republican
--Recession
--Disposable Income
--International Issues
~Kim: Economic
--Inflation
--Consumer Spending
--Unemployment
--Imports/Exports
--Interest Rates
~Jamie: Social
--Social Movements
- -Aids Awareness, Going Green, Voting
--Equality
--Lifestyle
~Sierra: Cultural
--Media/ Entertainment
- -Movies, magazines, newspapers, TV, commercials
--Celebrity Culture
--Arts
- The Product
~Andy: Design, Color, Fabric
--Trends
--Styles
--Materials
--Technology
--Price Points
--Major Designers
- The Consumer
~Sierra: Qualitative data about end user
--Psychology
--Demographic
--Behavioral
--Why consumers buy
--Perceived value/ willingness to pay
*Each group member will take pictures of observations of the consumer/trend setters/ outliers/ ugly/ and other
**The team will further investigation the hidden currents in the social and cultural movements.
***The team will also test the hidden currents and previous synthesis for accuracy and update data if needed.
Testing
* In using the data gathered and forecasted through 1978- 2009 the team will create a Butler Bag prototype to be tested.
- Surveys
--Create and randomly distribute surveys to obtain information about the consumer preference.
--Discover the consumer Perceived Value/ Willingness to pay.
- Focus Groups
--Personally interview groups/ individuals
--Discover Perceived Value/ Willingness to pay
--Test Prototype/ Color/ Prices
- Field Trip (Consumer Watch)
Travel to different destinations to observe consumers
*This data combined with our consumer data will help identify our target market.
**Make adjustments to prototype based on the data tests.
Understanding Butler Bag
- Company’s Mission
- Price Points
- Colors
- Competitors- Identify direct completion
- Product Lines
*The team will adjust the prototype to meet the Butler Bag image.
Develop Forecast
* Combine all our data to create a line of bags with a color forecast. Using this data we will identify materials, finishes, price points, target market, and competitive analysis for our forecast of 2010 for Butler Bag. The team will identify how the forecasted bag meets the needs of the market or whether the forecast identifies a new market. Peaceful Shipwreck’s forecasted line of bags will be new and innovated but inspired by the classic style of Butler Bag.
Poster Template Link
Here is the link to our poster of research synthesis:
https://teamsite.oue.wsu.edu/progeval/amt/Shared%20Documents/FinalPeacefulShipwreckTemplate.pdf
https://teamsite.oue.wsu.edu/progeval/amt/Shared%20Documents/FinalPeacefulShipwreckTemplate.pdf
______________________________________
Advertising in 2004
Advertising in 2004
Consumers are hit with advertisements from the moment they wake up. From products such as their clothing, hair products, to even their trash bags...
According to Media Awareness Network, we as consumers are hit with more than 3,000 ads per day. The problem is there is limited space for ads to be placed,this is why companies are going the extra mile to make sure their advertisement is not lost in the "noise". Some are going as far as buying advertisement in outer space, as consumers will be able to see the ads at night. There are many types of advertising that a consumer is hit with during their daily activities.The most popular type is called Ambient advertising . This consists of ads on vehicles, taxis,and gas pumps. These are simple and efficient ways for companies to constantly be in a consumers mind. Another huge advertising market is in celebrities. With celebrities endorsing products, it is hard for that company to be left out of the media. It is a great way to break into a a consumer segment that may not have been open to the company before. With billboards and similar media areas running out of space, companies are placing products in multi media. Such movies as Talladega night:The Ballad of Ricky Bobby have blatant product placements throughout the whole film.
The fashion industry uses advertisements in many medias such as magazines, billboards,TV,and movies. It is the fastest and most prevalent way for companies to reach out to consumers. As ads can be received by the public both positive and negative, it is a way to gain consumers or lose a consumer market. An example of this would be the ads by Calvin Klein sparked President Clinton's attention and brought his company name to attention. As they say, "Even bad press is good press". This is relevant to the Consumer Feedback Loop. The company advertises what they think we need, and the consumers believes and purchase. Without advertisements, the fashion industry would not be able to relay trends and tell consumers that what they already own is out of style. This is the "Fashion Consumer Feedback Loop."
Consumers are hit with advertisements from the moment they wake up. From products such as their clothing, hair products, to even their trash bags...
According to Media Awareness Network, we as consumers are hit with more than 3,000 ads per day. The problem is there is limited space for ads to be placed,this is why companies are going the extra mile to make sure their advertisement is not lost in the "noise". Some are going as far as buying advertisement in outer space, as consumers will be able to see the ads at night. There are many types of advertising that a consumer is hit with during their daily activities.The most popular type is called Ambient advertising . This consists of ads on vehicles, taxis,and gas pumps. These are simple and efficient ways for companies to constantly be in a consumers mind. Another huge advertising market is in celebrities. With celebrities endorsing products, it is hard for that company to be left out of the media. It is a great way to break into a a consumer segment that may not have been open to the company before. With billboards and similar media areas running out of space, companies are placing products in multi media. Such movies as Talladega night:The Ballad of Ricky Bobby have blatant product placements throughout the whole film.
Analysis of Data
The fashion industry uses advertisements in many medias such as magazines, billboards,TV,and movies. It is the fastest and most prevalent way for companies to reach out to consumers. As ads can be received by the public both positive and negative, it is a way to gain consumers or lose a consumer market. An example of this would be the ads by Calvin Klein sparked President Clinton's attention and brought his company name to attention. As they say, "Even bad press is good press". This is relevant to the Consumer Feedback Loop. The company advertises what they think we need, and the consumers believes and purchase. Without advertisements, the fashion industry would not be able to relay trends and tell consumers that what they already own is out of style. This is the "Fashion Consumer Feedback Loop."
The Consumer in 2004
The Consumer
- Understanding consumer financial habits in 2004 from the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Board of Standards consumer survey
Data collected from the CFP BOARD’S 2004 GENERAL MARKET CONSUMER SURVEY 
[Survey participants said that they saved or invested 10% of their total income (median).
Consumers were asked to allocate their assets across three general risk definitions (as they perceived them). On average, 16% of assets are in perceived “high risk” vehicles, 31% are allocated to “moderate risk” instruments, and 53% are in “low risk” instruments.
An examination of how consumers allocate their assets shows real estate equity is the largest allocation at 32% followed by retirement savings plans (19%). CDs, money market and savings accounts compose 12% of assets while stock mutual funds are 6%. The balance is spread across individual stocks, pensions,
annuities, bond funds, individual bonds and other miscellaneous allocations.]
Data from: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards’ 2004 General Market Consumer Survey
Analysis of the surveyed information:
- This information is important to understand because it depicts how the consumer assigns a portion of their income. Depending on these factors and other economic aspects that affect the consumers financial spending, we are able to identify the discretionary income that consumers have left that they will use on fashion industry goods.
- This graph above shows how the consumer assigned their invested income in 2004. This information demonstrates that the consumers surveyed assigned most of their invested money in real estate then any other area. This is important to note in 2004 because of how this allocation of fiances is affecting the consumer market economically in 2008 and in the coming years.
___________________________________________
Data collected from from the (CFP) BOARD’S 2004 GENERAL MARKET CONSUMER SURVEY
[Three lifestage groups:
- Up and Comin: Ages 20-29 (30% of survey respondents)
- Mid-Life: Ages 49-54 (31% of resondents)
- Retirement Cusp: Ages 59-69 (39% of respondents)]
Data From: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards’ 2004 General Market Consumer Survey
The Federal Reserve Board’s Survey of Consumer Finances for 2004 dicusses the key changes in 2004 from years past on net worth finaces and real estate:
[Three key shifts in the 2001–04 period underlie the
changes in net worth. First, the strong appreciation of
house values and a rise in the rate of homeownership
produced a substantial gain in the value of holdings
of residential real estate. Second, despite the general
recovery of prices in equity markets since 2001, the
direct and indirect ownership of stocks declined, as
did the typical amount held. Third, the amount of
debt relative to total assets increased markedly, and
the largest part of that increase was attributable to
debt secured by real estate.]
Data Collected from the: The Federal Reserve Board’s Survey of Consumer Finances for 2004
Analysis of the surveyed information:
- This information helps identify the psychographic way a consumer thinks about financial situations in different consumer segments. In understanding how the consumer feels about their financial situation we are able to apply this knowledge in understanding why the consumers make purchases.
- This information collected above show how the consumers surveyed were feeling about their financial situation in 2004. The tables point out that the in 2004 the more financially confident consumers are in the older consumer segments and the less are in the younger consumer segment. This is important to identify because it helps identify different traits between consumer segments that can be applied to understand what their discretionary income is used for.
Sources:
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards’ 2004 General Market Consumer Survey
The Federal Reserve Board’s Survey of Consumer Finances for 2004
2004 Information Specific to Product
Textiles: 2004-
-The two articles; “No Winner in Textile Trade War”, and “Retailers Sue to Keep Textile Imports” talk about the year 2004 and what was going on in the world of Textiles. The Chinese the world’s biggest textile producer, consumer, and exporter imposed export tariffs on hundreds of categories of textile products after the textile quotas were lifted at the beginning of 2004. Basically the Chinese were trying to create a win-win or a monopoly situation since they were already a powerhouse of textiles.
-US trade officials quickly acted by re-imposing quotas on seven varieties of textile and clothing products made in China; trousers, underwear, and shirts. This made it a lot harder for Chinese to monopolize creating a war on trading textiles between the US and China.
-In the US a group representing about 200 retailers filed a lawsuit to try to stop the Bush administration from putting restrictions on the Chinese textiles. The companies suing were those such as Liz Claiborne and J.C. Penny.
-The main textile used in 2004 was linen. Linen was in a range of different colors, fabric, weights, and textures. They used linen combined with Lycra was used to give denim a boost and was expected to be a familiar demand with consumers. Lycra combined with linen was said to create a smoother fit and aid crease recovery, which was an important factor that deters some consumers from buying.
-Other specialties in linen in 2004 are double-faced fabric, printed and textured linens, linen mixed with Lurex (to create more shine in pastel colored fabrics), and natural more rustic and distressed finishes in linen. A trendy new fiber from 2004 was Ingeo. Ingeo is a renewable non-flammable fiber made from the sugars found in vegetables such as corn. It is very appealing to the eco-friendly environment.
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Color: 2004
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-The 2004 colors go from bright colors to more neutral colors. With a mix of vivid coral, canary yellow, apple green, powder pink and lavender, these colors help create a very beautiful sea-wash look.
-The colors of Spring 2004 into Fall are made up of white and cream with black, burnt orange, pink tones, dusty berry reds, yellow and more yellows, spice tones, chartreuse, lime, khaki, kingfisher, sapphire, blue, powder blue grays, fruit shades and brown tones. Colors that previously wouldn’t have been acceptable to consumers are more acceptable because of different fabric weaves and new fabrications. Many of the colors of 2004 are burnt and very natural looking shades of the environment. The colors are very earthy, for fashion, lifestyle, and housing.
-The main point of the article is portraying the colors from the year 2004. The articles all depicted the colors of 2004 being really bland, burnt colors. The idea for the colors was sort of a sea-like, nature like color to it. Throughout fashion and home décor to even the colors of cars, we see a calmer year of 2004 when it comes to color.
Trends: 2004
-Another trend from 2004 was the Equestrian style. This trend was seen in many trousers, with pocket flaps, traditional cowboy boots, Hermes (red) style scarf fabrics, and metallic chains emulating horse bit and ring snaffle on handbags and any other type of hardware they could use on bags.
-Another trend from 2004 was designers using masculine touches to their feminine garments. These masculine touches included pinstriped fabrics, tweeds, and traditional Fair Isle patterning on knits. These elements are all traditionally seen in masculine tailored looks.
-Another trend from 2004 was modern romance. This trend was all about pretty bows, traditionally tied bows, and corset style bodices. It was Marie Antoinette look with bows, and lace on everything.
Accessories: 2004
-Accessories in 2004 are all about handbags of different varieties. Crocodile, lizard, and alligator leather for the shoes and bags. These bags will include shoulder and hand purses. Also colored bags are popular too to match with every outfit. Also in 2004 bags will have more designs on the outsides, including straps, butterflies, beads, brooches, and rope. Mobile phones will first come into the construction of the bags, mostly placed on the outside of the bags for easy access. The biggest emergence in bags for 2004 is large traveling bags made to look fashionable. Never before h
ave we seen traveling bags made to look in style and in season.
-More accessories of 2004 include different styles of gloves, and umbrellas with a number of different designs and colors made as an accessory over actually protecting one from the rain. Scarves printed with circus and cartoon print, made for the head rather than the elongated scarves of the past years. Shoes as always, are an important accessory in every season. The shoes from 2004 include shoes of every hue designed rather to look sexy, rather than for comfort, distance and durability. An important shoe coming into style in 2004 is the round-toed flat.
Technologies: 2004
-The present and newly developed technologies of 2004 were all very computer based. Computer based storage on a Mac and PC upgraded because of the demand of MP3 players. Jawbone headsets instead of microphones were a new technology and highly demanded. Digital cameras were developed with higher mega pixels than ever for clearer shots. Satellite radio was a new technology that grew quite popular in 2004. Fingertip toothbrushes were a new demand for after lunch brushing. Also Livestrong Bracelets were a huge popularity for Lance Armstrong’s raising money for cancer. Hybrid cars were introduced in an effort to create an environmentally friendly way to drive.
Designers: 2004
There were many US influential designers of 2004:
-Tommy Hilfiger used bright colors to create bomber jackets and extra wide pants.
-Ralph Lauren used strong pastels and had a fresh young look to his designs
-Marc Jacobs used 1920’s and 1970’s inspiration to use flowery tea colored dresses using ruffles and velvet.
-Caroline Herrera used masculine pinstripes to create women's wear and evening dresses.
-Proenza Schouler designed shoulder cropped jackets, swing coats, and piped tops, using bright yellow colors giving a zeitgeist effect.
-Michael Kors designed summertime sundresses and evening wear popular during the 2004 times.
Sources:
Cox, James. "Retailers Sue to Keep up Textile Imports." USA TODAY 2 Dec. 2004.
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