(1355,14,'2011-11-17 02:46:16','2011-11-17 02:46:16','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\n\nNot just any country.\n\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\n\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\n\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" />\n\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\n\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\n\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\n\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\n\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\n\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\n\nFinal thoughts:\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\n\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\n\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\n\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\n\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\n\nBrand USA tells me that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding, I don\'t pay taxes.','Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-revision-24','','','2011-11-17 02:46:16','2011-11-17 02:46:16','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),(1356,14,'2011-11-17 02:47:12','2011-11-17 02:47:12','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\r\n\r\nNot just any country.\r\n\r\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\r\n\r\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\r\n\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" />\r\n\r\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\r\n\r\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\r\n\r\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\r\n\r\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\r\n\r\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\r\n\r\nFinal thoughts:\r\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\r\n\r\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\r\n\r\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\r\n\r\nBrand USA tells us that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding...I don\'t pay taxes.','Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-revision-25','','','2011-11-17 02:47:12','2011-11-17 02:47:12','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(1357,14,'2011-11-17 02:47:16','2011-11-17 02:47:16','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\r\n\r\nNot just any country.\r\n\r\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\r\n\r\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\r\n\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" />\r\n\r\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\r\n\r\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\r\n\r\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\r\n\r\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\r\n\r\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\r\n\r\nFinal thoughts:\r\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\r\n\r\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\r\n\r\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\r\n\r\nBrand USA tells us that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding...I don\'t pay taxes.','Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-revision-26','','','2011-11-17 02:47:16','2011-11-17 02:47:16','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(1510,1,'2012-01-19 00:22:29','2012-01-19 00:22:29','Submissions for the March/April Newsletter are due by Friday, January 20.\r\n\r\n[gravityform id=\"2\" name=\"DAC Newsletter Submission Form\"]','DAC Newsletter Submission Form','','inherit','closed','open','','1196-revision-8','','','2012-01-19 00:22:29','2012-01-19 00:22:29','',1196,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1196-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1358,1,'2011-11-09 21:34:19','2011-11-09 21:34:19','[gravityform id=2 name=DACNewsletter Submission Form title=false]','DAC Newsletter Submission Form','','inherit','closed','open','','1196-revision-5','','','2011-11-09 21:34:19','2011-11-09 21:34:19','',1196,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1196-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1359,1,'2011-11-22 15:57:30','2011-11-22 15:57:30','The forms for the January/February Newsletter have now been closed. If you have any questions, please contact <a href=\"mailto:LFrogge@denverathleticclub.org\">Linda Frogge</a>.\r\n\r\n<!-- [gravityform id=2 name=DACNewsletter Submission Form title=false] -->','DAC Newsletter Submission Form','','inherit','closed','open','','1196-revision-6','','','2011-11-22 15:57:30','2011-11-22 15:57:30','',1196,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1196-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1362,2,'2011-11-22 22:46:03','2011-11-22 22:46:03','','Black Friday Craze','','inherit','closed','open','','black-friday-electronics1','','','2011-11-22 22:46:03','2011-11-22 22:46:03','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1363,2,'2011-11-22 22:46:04','2011-11-22 22:46:04','','Black-Friday Weekend','','inherit','closed','open','','black-friday-2010-poster1-300x281','','','2011-11-22 22:46:04','2011-11-22 22:46:04','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1408,1,'2011-11-28 17:41:36','2011-11-28 17:41:36','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\n\nNot just any country.\n\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\" target=\"_blank\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\n\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" /></p>\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\" target=\"_blank\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\n\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\n\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\n\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\n\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\n\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\n\nFinal thoughts:\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\n\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\n\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\n\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\n\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\n\nBrand USA tells us that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding...I don\'t pay taxes.\n\n<strong><em>Kaitlyn – Brand Manager</em></strong>\n\nComing up with content and messaging around why people should come to America is by no means an easy task. In fact, I might almost say it’s impossible to describe who we are, all that we’ve got to offer, and why we are appealing in a way that grabs people from all around the world. And not to mention in a way that makes them get out their checkbooks and actually book a trip.\n\nSo does “The United States of Awesome Possibilities” do the trick? I have to say, the word <em>awesome</em> sort of threw me off at first. But then I thought about what other options I could stick in there: Inspiring? Wonderful? Stunning? None of those seem to do the trick either. In fact, I think we are kind of <em>awesome</em>, and awesome is a new way to say all the other words I could come up with anyways. But what I’m not sure about is how well this will resonate with the target of this campaign – our international travel friends. Will they understand how we take “awesome”? And does that word translate for them?  I think that will be the true test for how well this slogan backs the new campaign.\n\n<strong><em>Abbey – Brand Manager</em></strong>\n\nThe Brand Union shared that this new identity is designed to capture the spirit of our homeland - a place that is supposedly: Authentic. Optimistic. Unexpected. Inclusive. Endless Possibilities. Yet, I\'ve always been a believer in branding that is consistent with realistic perceptions of the company, or at very least, branding that is reflective of a mission that the company is able to truly manifest. In America\'s case, my guess is you\'d be hard-pressed to find very many international visitors who would describe our country using any of these terms other than perhaps, \'Unexpected.\' \'Authentic\' certainly doesn\'t speak to a place that has long been referred to as \'a melting pot.\' And it doesn\'t help that the agency launched this new identity at a time when the biggest trend here is occupying.  I can\'t be the only one with a raised brow as to who The Brand Union went to as the source for our collective so-called \'spirit.\'\n\nBefore too much more opinion about the new brand, let\'s give it time to gain some traction. We\'ll see if the investment behind Brand USA translates into campaigns that actually engage the international audience, and if they actually embrace the brand - enough so to come on over.','Candid Thoughts: Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-autosave','','','2011-11-28 17:41:36','2011-11-28 17:41:36','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1364,2,'2011-11-22 22:52:17','2011-11-22 22:52:17','','amazon-blackfriday','','inherit','closed','open','','amazon-blackfriday','','','2011-11-22 22:52:17','2011-11-22 22:52:17','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/amazon-blackfriday.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1365,2,'2011-11-22 22:54:34','2011-11-22 22:54:34','','AMAZON','','inherit','closed','open','','amazon','','','2011-11-22 22:54:34','2011-11-22 22:54:34','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0);
INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (1366,2,'2011-11-22 22:58:41','2011-11-22 22:58:41','<p style=\"text-align: left\"><strong>                                               Hot Deals! </strong></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1363\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a><strong><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: 12px;line-height: 18px\">SALE, SALE, SALE! </span></strong></p>\n\n<div style=\"text-align: center\"> <strong>Lowest Prices of the Year!</strong></div>\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\nBlack Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\n\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\n\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\n\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\n\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\n\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\n\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\n\n&nbsp;','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision','','','2011-11-22 22:58:41','2011-11-22 22:58:41','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1369,2,'2011-11-22 23:07:15','2011-11-22 23:07:15','<p style=\"text-align: center\"><strong>Hot Deals! </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1363\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a><strong><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: 12px;line-height: 18px\">SALE, SALE, SALE! </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center\"> <strong>Lowest Prices of the Year!</strong></div>\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\nBlack Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-3','','','2011-11-22 23:07:15','2011-11-22 23:07:15','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1367,2,'2011-11-28 17:31:49','2011-11-28 17:31:49','<img class=\"size-full wp-image-1363 alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"281\" /><strong>Hot DEALS! SALE, SALE, SALE!!!!!!</strong>\n\n<strong>LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR!!!!!!</strong>\n\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\n<div>\n<div>\n\n        Black Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!\n\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\n\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\n\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\" target=\"_blank\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\n\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\n\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1365 alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\n\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\n\n-Kaitlyn Anderson\n\n</div>\n</div>','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-autosave','','','2011-11-28 17:31:49','2011-11-28 17:31:49','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1372,2,'2011-11-22 23:10:27','2011-11-22 23:10:27','<p style=\"text-align: center\"></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Hot Deals! </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>SALE, SALE, SALE! </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Lowest Prices of the Year!</strong></p>\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1363\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" />in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\nBlack Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-6','','','2011-11-22 23:10:27','2011-11-22 23:10:27','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1368,2,'2011-11-22 22:59:21','2011-11-22 22:59:21','<p style=\"text-align: left\"><strong>                                               Hot Deals! </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1363\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a><strong><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: 12px;line-height: 18px\">SALE, SALE, SALE! </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center\"> <strong>Lowest Prices of the Year!</strong></div>\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\nBlack Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-2','','','2011-11-22 22:59:21','2011-11-22 22:59:21','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1371,2,'2011-11-22 23:09:28','2011-11-22 23:09:28','<p style=\"text-align: center\"><strong>Hot Deals! </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><strong><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: 12px;line-height: 18px\">SALE, SALE, SALE! </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center\"><strong>Lowest Prices of the Year!</strong></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1363\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" />in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\nBlack Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-5','','','2011-11-22 23:09:28','2011-11-22 23:09:28','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1370,2,'2011-11-22 23:07:47','2011-11-22 23:07:47','<p style=\"text-align: left\"><strong>                                                 Hot Deals! </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1363\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a><strong><span class=\"Apple-style-span\" style=\"font-size: 12px;line-height: 18px\">SALE, SALE, SALE! </span></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<div style=\"text-align: center\"> <strong>Lowest Prices of the Year!</strong></div>\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\nBlack Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-4','','','2011-11-22 23:07:47','2011-11-22 23:07:47','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1407,2,'2011-11-23 22:10:13','2011-11-23 22:10:13','<img class=\"size-full wp-image-1363 alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"281\" /><strong>Hot DEALS! SALE, SALE, SALE!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n        Black Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\" target=\"_blank\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1365 alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-10','','','2011-11-23 22:10:13','2011-11-23 22:10:13','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1421,8,'2011-12-09 23:19:17','2011-12-09 23:19:17','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','publish','closed','open','','the-mile-highs-tebowing','','','2011-12-12 16:40:22','2011-12-12 16:40:22','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1421',0,'post','',0),(1374,1,'2011-11-23 00:28:03','2011-11-23 00:28:03','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\n\nNot just any country.\n\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\n\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\n\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" />\n\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\n\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\n\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\n\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\n\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\n\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\n\nFinal thoughts:\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\n\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\n\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\n\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\n\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\n\nBrand USA tells us that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding...I don\'t pay taxes.\n\n<strong><em>Kaitlyn – Brand Manager</em></strong>\n\nComing up with content and messaging around why people should come to America is by no means an easy task. In fact, I might almost say it’s impossible to describe who we are, all that we’ve got to offer, and why we are appealing in a way that grabs people from all around the world. And not to mention in a way that makes them get out their checkbooks and actually book a trip.\n\nSo does “The United States of Awesome Possibilities” do the trick? I have to say, the word <em>awesome</em> sort of threw me off at first. But then I thought about what other options I could stick in there: Inspiring? Wonderful? Stunning? None of those seem to do the trick either. In fact, I think we are kind of <em>awesome</em>, and awesome is a new way to say all the other words I could come up with anyways. But what I’m not sure about is how well this will resonate with the target of this campaign – our international travel friends. Will they understand how we take “awesome”? And does that word translate for them?  I think that will be the true test for how well this slogan backs the new campaign. <strong></strong>','Candid Thoughts: Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-revision-27','','','2011-11-23 00:28:03','2011-11-23 00:28:03','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(1375,1,'2011-11-23 21:24:46','2011-11-23 21:24:46','','strategy 2','','publish','closed','open','','strategy-2','','','2011-11-23 21:26:52','2011-11-23 21:26:52','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?page_id=1375',0,'page','',0),(1376,1,'2011-11-23 18:46:43','2011-11-23 18:46:43','','Auto Draft','','inherit','closed','open','','1375-revision','','','2011-11-23 18:46:43','2011-11-23 18:46:43','',1375,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1375-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1475,1,'2011-10-19 23:12:37','2011-10-19 23:12:37','Food?','Beastly','','inherit','closed','open','','126-revision-7','','','2011-10-19 23:12:37','2011-10-19 23:12:37','',126,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/126-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1524,1,'2012-02-02 23:07:02','2012-02-02 23:07:02','','DSC_2874-crop','','inherit','closed','open','','dsc_2874-crop','','','2012-02-02 23:07:02','2012-02-02 23:07:02','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_2874-crop.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(2766,1,'2011-03-19 16:12:45','2011-03-19 16:12:45','As a former Buff, Erica incorporates her expansive marketing experience from several industries to be the go-to girl for social media and special events. Don’t let the last name fool you; she is a 1<sup>st</sup> generation Chinese gal, who loves to search for the hidden gems of Denver’s Asian food scene. If she finds any free time these days, she spends it taking photos of her baby girl, playing fetch with her dog, or striking a pose at the yoga studio.','Erica Roberto','','publish','open','open','','erica-roberto','','','2013-08-21 17:10:32','2013-08-21 17:10:32','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=2766',0,'post','',0),(2767,1,'2013-04-15 15:10:47','2013-04-15 15:10:47','','ER','','inherit','open','open','','er','','','2013-04-15 15:10:47','2013-04-15 15:10:47','',2766,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ER.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(2768,1,'2013-04-15 15:11:46','2013-04-15 15:11:46','Bio coming soon','Erica Roberto','','inherit','open','open','','2766-revision','','','2013-04-15 15:11:46','2013-04-15 15:11:46','',2766,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2766-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1385,1,'2011-11-23 18:47:05','2011-11-23 18:47:05','','strategy 2','','inherit','closed','open','','1375-revision-2','','','2011-11-23 18:47:05','2011-11-23 18:47:05','',1375,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1375-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1386,1,'2011-11-23 21:13:23','2011-11-23 21:13:23','','strategy 2','','inherit','closed','open','','1375-revision-3','','','2011-11-23 21:13:23','2011-11-23 21:13:23','',1375,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1375-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1387,1,'2011-11-23 21:26:50','2011-11-23 21:26:50','','strategy 2','','inherit','closed','open','','1375-autosave','','','2011-11-23 21:26:50','2011-11-23 21:26:50','',1375,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1375-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1388,1,'2011-11-23 21:24:46','2011-11-23 21:24:46','<div class=\"7steptop\"></div>','strategy 2','','inherit','closed','open','','1375-revision-4','','','2011-11-23 21:24:46','2011-11-23 21:24:46','',1375,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1375-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1490,1,'2012-01-14 00:01:42','2012-01-14 00:01:42','','phototocome','','inherit','closed','open','','phototocome','','','2012-01-14 00:01:42','2012-01-14 00:01:42','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/phototocome.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1393,1,'2011-11-22 23:13:26','2011-11-22 23:13:26','<p style=\"text-align: left\" align=\"center\"></p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1363\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"281\" /></a><strong>Hot DEALS! SALE, SALE, SALE!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n        Black Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial;border-color: initial\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-7','','','2011-11-22 23:13:26','2011-11-22 23:13:26','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1395,1,'2011-11-23 21:51:00','2011-11-23 21:51:00','<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1363\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"281\" /><strong>Hot DEALS! SALE, SALE, SALE!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n        Black Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial;\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial;\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-8','','','2011-11-23 21:51:00','2011-11-23 21:51:00','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1397,1,'2011-11-23 22:02:43','2011-11-23 22:02:43','<img class=\"size-full wp-image-1363 alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Black-Friday-2010-Poster1-300x281.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"281\" /><strong>Hot DEALS! SALE, SALE, SALE!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR!!!!!!</strong>\r\n\r\nIt’s nearly impossible to escape the Black Friday promotions this time of year, and undoubtedly you’re bombarded with messages from Macy’s, Best Buy, Target, and the like.  It seems these days it’s no longer about the one small window of opportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n        Black Friday advertisers start advertising well before we’ve had a chance to collect our Halloween candy these days. If you ask me, these extended sales have diluted the power behind the all-mighty Black Friday connotation. I know I no longer feel an even semi-urge to set my alarm to take advantage of an opportunity to come home with a sweet deal on this years hottest electronic. Who I am I kidding, I never got that urge, but I certainly know people who have!pportunity for deals that you can’t find on any other day to shop, that are so awesome you’d be willing to wake up at some un-godly hour and stand in a line with other people only hoping you’ve made it in time to get that once-a-year sale deal. Instead, it’s become an entire weekend or even week of “hot deals” and “low prices”.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1362\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial;\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/black-friday-electronics1-300x202.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" />\r\n\r\nGetting up at 2am and waiting outside a Target for that small window of opportunity to get the latest gadget at 50% off sort of loses some appeal when it’s counterparts like Amazon and Kmart provide Black Friday pricing for 2 or 3 days in stores, and online, where you can get the same gift from the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, at a normal hour of the day.\r\n\r\nSo is Black Friday becoming a more-or-less “Gray Friday” in the minds of shoppers? I think somewhat. On one hand, it’s become easier to still get deals, without getting up and waiting in lines. However, in this new style of Black Friday pushes, marketers have become more creative in the ways they lure Black Friday shoppers in. Check out these apps made just for Black Friday: <a href=\"http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/\">http://gigaom.com/apple/7-apps-for-conquering-black-friday/</a>. There are also a slew of early bird specials and limited offers which are still used to bring in the die-hards.\r\n\r\nYesterday I saw on the news that a family has been camped outside a Best Buy since last Tuesday (read the story here <a href=\"http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance\">http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/286949/71/Black-Friday-shoppers-camp-out-one-week-in-advance</a>). So while some may be doing their shopping at a more normal hour this year, I think stories like this are evidence that Black Friday is here to stay.  I don’t foresee shoppers giving up on the lure of Black Friday\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1365\" style=\"border-style: initial; border-color: initial;\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/AMAZON-e1322002524213-300x140.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"140\" />\r\n\r\nanytime soon; it is after all the World Cup of shopping days. I do however see marketers continue to be forced to get more creative and more outrageous to compete for shoppers business. So what will they come up with next? We can only wait and see…\r\n\r\n-Kaitlyn Anderson\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Is Gray the New Black? – A Look at Black Friday Marketing ','','inherit','closed','open','','1361-revision-9','','','2011-11-23 22:02:43','2011-11-23 22:02:43','',1361,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1361-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(2929,1,'2013-06-17 17:39:10','2013-06-17 17:39:10','Blog Entry: #Facebook\r\n\r\nFacebook is now using hashtags just like Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Tumblr in order to search for content and photos. The Silicon Valley social media conglomerate announced Wednesday that they have rolled out the hash tag function.\r\n\r\nThe hashtag is a tool that allows users to add the # symbol to signify a specific topic or buzz word discussed in a post, status, or photo. Using the hashtag allows the content to become searchable in an organized and categorized format.\r\n\r\nThe hashtag is useful because it brings specific conversations to the surface and can create trending information about public events, people, and topics.  Additionally, users can use the hashtag to control their audience and topic for their posts. Facebook has created these functionalities for the hashtag:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>Search for a specific hashtag from your search bar. For Example, #NBAFinals</li>\r\n	<li>Click on hashtags that originate on other services, such as Instagram.</li>\r\n	<li>Compose posts directly from the hashtag feed and search results.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nFacebook has added that they will continue to release more features that help people discover more conversations around the world.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2903\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2903\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-2903\" title=\"NBA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/NBA-300x150.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUtilizing hashtags can be an effective marketing and branding tactic; by categorizing a topic with a hashtag it is then associated with that content. Therefore you can associate specific searchable words with your business or products with the possibility of a viral response.\r\n\r\nCheck out the Facebook press release here:\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://newsroom.fb.com/News/633/Public-Conversations-on-Facebook\" target=\"_blank\">http://newsroom.fb.com/News/633/Public-Conversations-on-Facebook</a>','','','inherit','open','open','','2901-revision-26','','','2013-06-17 17:39:10','2013-06-17 17:39:10','',2901,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2901-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(2905,1,'2013-06-17 17:35:36','2013-06-17 17:35:36','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2902\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2902\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-2902 alignleft\" title=\"FB\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/FB-300x174.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"174\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBlog Entry: #Facebook\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFacebook is now using hashtags just like Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Tumblr in order to search for content and photos. The Silicon Valley social media conglomerate announced Wednesday that they have rolled out the hash tag function.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe hashtag is a tool that allows users to add the # symbol to signify a specific topic or buzz word discussed in a post, status, or photo. Using the hashtag allows the content to become searchable in an organized and categorized format.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe hashtag is useful because it brings specific conversations to the surface and can create trending information about public events, people, and topics.  Additionally, users can use the hashtag to control their audience and topic for their posts. Facebook has created these functionalities for the hashtag:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>Search for a specific hashtag from your search bar. For Example, #NBAFinals</li>\r\n	<li>Click on hashtags that originate on other services, such as Instagram.</li>\r\n	<li>Compose posts directly from the hashtag feed and search results.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFacebook has added that they will continue to release more features that help people discover more conversations around the world.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2903\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2903\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-2903\" title=\"NBA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/NBA-300x150.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUtilizing hashtags can be an effective marketing and branding tactic; by categorizing a topic with a hashtag it is then associated with that content. Therefore you can associate specific searchable words with your business or products with the possibility of a viral response.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCheck out the Facebook press release here:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nhttp://newsroom.fb.com/News/633/Public-Conversations-on-Facebook','','','inherit','open','open','','2901-revision-2','','','2013-06-17 17:35:36','2013-06-17 17:35:36','',2901,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2901-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1485,1,'2011-10-03 22:22:25','2011-10-03 22:22:25','Kaitlyn’s “go-getter” attitude for managing brands makes her an integral and exuberant part of the Brand Management team. Although she holds the record for messiest office, you’d be hard pressed to walk in without being greeted by her pearly whites. Whether she’s writing web copy, creating a Power Point presentation or choosing paper for business cards, you can catch this Colorado girl working away to the tunes of her favorite country songs.','Kaitlyn Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','144-revision-4','','','2011-10-03 22:22:25','2011-10-03 22:22:25','',144,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/144-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1415,1,'2011-11-07 21:53:35','2011-11-07 21:53:35','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n<strong>Forging Brands</strong>\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Circle the Wagons</strong> – To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n<strong>Scouting the Landscape</strong> – We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n<strong>Separating Yourself from the Herd</strong> – Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n<strong>BrandForging</strong> – Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</li>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<strong>Driving Revenue</strong>\r\n<ol start=\"5\">\r\n	<li><strong>Revenue Round-Up</strong> – With a new or refreshed look in place, let’s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Drive to Bonanza</strong> – Let’s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Running the Ranch</strong> – Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</div>\r\n</ol>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-8','','','2011-11-07 21:53:35','2011-11-07 21:53:35','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1483,1,'2011-10-03 18:29:45','2011-10-03 18:29:45','Jim’s role in the growth and evolution of Brand Iron is focused on building overall operational efficiencies and ensuring the agency delivers a positive client service experience. He also leads the public relations efforts for Brand Iron’s clients and serves as a member of the agency’s executive leadership teams. Jim’s biggest contribution, however, is identifying hysterical, “must-see” (in his mind) YouTube video’s during staff meetings.','Jim Miller','','inherit','closed','open','','147-revision-4','','','2011-10-03 18:29:45','2011-10-03 18:29:45','',147,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/147-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1482,1,'2011-10-03 18:42:11','2011-10-03 18:42:11','As Founder and CEO, Michael serves as the key component in linking all three points of Brand Iron’s holistic triangle: Sales/Marketing/Operations. Michael’s holistic ideology blends well with the rest of the team’s ability to bring vision to reality. As a result, every aspect of management and client services that delivers results. Known as a “whirlwind” -- both on his bicycle and in the office – Michael passionately follows every one of his projects to the very end of the trail.','Michael Doyle','','inherit','closed','open','','148-revision-5','','','2011-10-03 18:42:11','2011-10-03 18:42:11','',148,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/148-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1406,14,'2011-11-23 23:41:10','2011-11-23 23:41:10','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\n\nNot just any country.\n\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\n\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\n\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" />\n\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\n\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\n\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\n\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\n\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\n\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\n\nFinal thoughts:\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\n\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\n\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\n\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\n\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\n\nBrand USA tells us that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding...I don\'t pay taxes.\n\n<strong><em>Kaitlyn – Brand Manager</em></strong>\n\nComing up with content and messaging around why people should come to America is by no means an easy task. In fact, I might almost say it’s impossible to describe who we are, all that we’ve got to offer, and why we are appealing in a way that grabs people from all around the world. And not to mention in a way that makes them get out their checkbooks and actually book a trip.\n\nSo does “The United States of Awesome Possibilities” do the trick? I have to say, the word <em>awesome</em> sort of threw me off at first. But then I thought about what other options I could stick in there: Inspiring? Wonderful? Stunning? None of those seem to do the trick either. In fact, I think we are kind of <em>awesome</em>, and awesome is a new way to say all the other words I could come up with anyways. But what I’m not sure about is how well this will resonate with the target of this campaign – our international travel friends. Will they understand how we take “awesome”? And does that word translate for them?  I think that will be the true test for how well this slogan backs the new campaign.\n\n<strong><em>Abbey – Brand Manager</em></strong>\n\nThe Brand Union shared that this new identity is designed to capture the spirit of our homeland - a place that is supposedly: Authentic. Optimistic. Unexpected. Inclusive. Endless Possibilities. Yet, I\'ve always been a believer in branding that is consistent with realistic perceptions of the company, or at very least, branding that is reflective of a mission that the company is able to truly manifest. In America\'s case, my guess is you\'d be hard-pressed to find very many international visitors who would describe our country using any of these terms other than perhaps, \'Unexpected.\' \'Authentic\' certainly doesn\'t speak to a place that has long been referred to as \'a melting pot.\' And it doesn\'t help that the agency launched this new identity at a time when the biggest trend here is occupying.  I can\'t be the only one with a raised brow as to who The Brand Union went to as the source for our collective so-called \'spirit.\'\n\nBefore too much more opinion about the new brand. let\'s give it\'s had time to gain some traction. Let\'s see if the investment behind Brand USA translates into campaigns that actually engage the international audience, and if they actually embrace the brand - enough so to come on over.','Candid Thoughts: Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-revision-28','','','2011-11-23 23:41:10','2011-11-23 23:41:10','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(1409,1,'2011-11-23 23:41:31','2011-11-23 23:41:31','The process of developing an identity and marketing plan for a company is no easy task. It involves delving into the very heart and soul of the company and creating an image that has to speak volumes - from its inner workings and intentions to its mission, value and promise to its potential customers. Taking this into consideration, how do you create a logo for an entire country?\r\n\r\nNot just any country.\r\n\r\nHow do you create a brand image and marketing strategy for the United States of America? Other countries (<a href=\"http://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/archives/perus_new_brand.php\">Peru</a> and <a href=\"http://www.visitmexico.com/\">Mexico</a>) have successfully developed identities giving homage to their centuries-old cultures. The United States is a noted melting pot of all cultures. How would you define that?\r\n\r\nThe Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP) was given this lovely task. Saddled with a not-so-modest marketing budget of upwards of $200 million* annually, CTP looked to create the first unified marketing strategy to promote tourism in the United States, aimed to reach international travelers. What they came up with was <a href=\"http://www.thebrandusa.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Brand USA, Inc.</a> and the tagline, “The United States of Awesome Possibilities.”\r\n\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329\" title=\"Brand USA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/USA_1720_vert_p5-300x157.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" />\r\n\r\nAccording to Brand USA’s website, the identity is meant to \"capture the American spirit and create a fresh new brand identity that welcomes the world to come experience the boundless possibilities in America.\" The first initiative of the marketing campaign is a consumer website, <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/\">DiscoverAmerica.com</a>, meant to offer a user-friendly experience of planning travel around the United States. It offers general guides for major cities, a deal finder (coming soon), and U.S. travel tips. The campaign, scheduled to launch in the spring of next year, ultimately looks to generate more American jobs through the bump it hopes to gain in international tourism.\r\n\r\n<em>*Rest assured taxpayers, no tax dollars were spent to fund the Brand USA campaign. As stated on the website, half of the budget will be funded by private investment and the rest from a $14 visitor fee for those traveling to the States from countries that do not require a visa, applied by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).</em>\r\n\r\n<strong>Thoughts From the BI Team</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Justin - Art Director</em></strong>\r\n\r\nI definitely have mixed feeling about the brand. At first sight, the logo left me unimpressed. It\'s just a bunch of dots, right? Hasn\'t this been played out by the telecom industry? However, after I stopped to think about the direction I would have taken, it started to make sense. Even though most people would agree that the logo is generic, doesn\'t it <em>have</em> to be? Due to the extreme diversity found in our country, this is probably one of the few cases where something as generic as this is actually a good solution. The best solution? Probably not. But with the strong concept, there is a lot of great possibility for the other marketing pieces. I even like the tagline. \"The United States of Awesome Possibilities\" is the new \"The Land of Opportunity\". Although new, the tagline feels like it has roots. <strong>+1</strong>.\r\n\r\nThe website, on the other hand, is undeniably - a disaster. Keep in mind that the budget is <em>200 million dollars a year.</em> Aesthetically, it\'s embarrassing. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/\" target=\"_blank\">landing page</a> looks like a bad knock-off of a <a href=\"http://livingsocial.com/escapes\" target=\"_blank\">flash sale site</a>. The <a href=\"http://www.discoveramerica.com/ca/home.html\" target=\"_blank\">homepage</a> is busy. The background photo ends abruptly at the bottom of the page, yet scales to fill the browser window horizontally — a half-assed attempt at a common technique. If <a href=\"http://ringvemedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">China</a> can do it, we can do it...can\'t we? It\'s not like they couldn\'t afford a decent developer — the <a href=\"http://b.oss.im//3a/hlhetaxy2ookk.png\" target=\"_blank\">border</a> around the content area isn\'t even aligned properly for crying out loud. Is the strategy to barrage the viewer with photos? They get it, there\'s a lot of variety, there\'s no need to let it govern the design. I\'ll stop there — but, really? It\'s unwelcoming, unprofessional and it isn\'t representative of what we as a country can produce. For <em>200 million dollars a year</em>, I want to see design equivalent of a 3-D video music montage of me and the Statue of Liberty performing a choreographed dance through the top tourist destinations of America. Instead, we get what looks like an outdated and broken template that they grabbed off the internet, for free.\r\n\r\nFinal thoughts:\r\nInstead of taking the obvious direction using any combination of red/white/blue/stars/stripes/guns, they\'ve come up with a good concept with some great potential. As far execution goes — <a href=\"http://www.thebrandunion.com/\" target=\"_blank\">The Brand Union</a> either completely missed the mark, lost a brutal battle against design-by-committee, or saw this as their chance to fulfill everyone\'s childhood dream of throwing a <a href=\"http://www.lindsaybrothers.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/scrooge-mcduck.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Scrooge-McDuck-style pool party</a>.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Leilani - Graphic Designer</strong></em>\r\n\r\nMy first impression was, \"It looks like a boring corporation.\" Upon further investigation of the marketing materials beyond the logo, my impression was, \"It looks like a semi-boring corporation.\" The logo feels predictably generic, even in the multiple color variations. The dotted logos have been a trend for several years now and lack longevity. It\'s already outdated. Though I commend the CTP for finding a solution without the use of the blaring stars, stripes, and red, white and blue color palette. The concept behind the logo is quite compelling, however, the execution leaves something to be desired. If their aim was to create a brand to \"capture the American spirit\" and invite global visitors to \"experience the boundless possibilities in America,\" then America seems like it would bore me to tears, and try to sell me insurance, or Tupperware® from a suitcase.\r\n\r\nThe opening page of the website is interesting in design, <em>almost</em> successful with large modern typography and lovely photographs. Except, this page is unnecessary and makes me work for my information instead of welcoming me with open arms. The overall design would be a good attempt, if you were a first-year design student showing an interest in pursuing the profession of web design - eight years ago. The design tries to be hip and modern, but instead is confusing and as outdated as the new logo. The photographs are pretty, but you can\'t rely on a good photograph to carry an entire design. Their solution? Place a ton of large photographs all over the site. The interior page content is dense and made difficult to read through lack of attention to typographic styling, (particularly the leading). One of my biggest problems with the site is the language issue. Currently, it can only be viewed in five languages. For a marketing strategy that is meant to reach people across the globe, this seems a bit limiting. For this size of budget, the site should be able to translate content into Klingon if one so wishes! I could nitpick this site to death but the bottom line comes down to one thing - with a budget of $200 million PER YEAR, there are no excuses for poor design or lack of options.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Ben - Design Intern/Lackey</strong></em>\r\n\r\nBrand USA tells us that part of their astronomical marketing budget for Discover America comes from the \"nominal $14 fee paid by visitors from visa-waiver countries,\" and that “No U.S. taxpayer dollars” were used.  At the end of the day, at least I didn\'t pay for it. Who am I kidding...I don\'t pay taxes.\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Kaitlyn – Brand Manager</em></strong>\r\n\r\nComing up with content and messaging around why people should come to America is by no means an easy task. In fact, I might almost say it’s impossible to describe who we are, all that we’ve got to offer, and why we are appealing in a way that grabs people from all around the world. And not to mention in a way that makes them get out their checkbooks and actually book a trip.\r\n\r\nSo does “The United States of Awesome Possibilities” do the trick? I have to say, the word <em>awesome</em> sort of threw me off at first. But then I thought about what other options I could stick in there: Inspiring? Wonderful? Stunning? None of those seem to do the trick either. In fact, I think we are kind of <em>awesome</em>, and awesome is a new way to say all the other words I could come up with anyways. But what I’m not sure about is how well this will resonate with the target of this campaign – our international travel friends. Will they understand how we take “awesome”? And does that word translate for them?  I think that will be the true test for how well this slogan backs the new campaign.\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Abbey – Brand Manager</em></strong>\r\n\r\nThe Brand Union shared that this new identity is designed to capture the spirit of our homeland - a place that is supposedly: Authentic. Optimistic. Unexpected. Inclusive. Endless Possibilities. Yet, I\'ve always been a believer in branding that is consistent with realistic perceptions of the company, or at very least, branding that is reflective of a mission that the company is able to truly manifest. In America\'s case, my guess is you\'d be hard-pressed to find very many international visitors who would describe our country using any of these terms other than perhaps, \'Unexpected.\' \'Authentic\' certainly doesn\'t speak to a place that has long been referred to as \'a melting pot.\' And it doesn\'t help that the agency launched this new identity at a time when the biggest trend here is occupying.  I can\'t be the only one with a raised brow as to who The Brand Union went to as the source for our collective so-called \'spirit.\'\r\n\r\nBefore too much more opinion about the new brand, let\'s give it time to gain some traction. We\'ll see if the investment behind Brand USA translates into campaigns that actually engage the international audience, and if they actually embrace the brand - enough so to come on over.','Candid Thoughts: Marketing for America','','inherit','closed','open','','1328-revision-29','','','2011-11-23 23:41:31','2011-11-23 23:41:31','',1328,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1328-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),(1692,1,'2012-05-01 15:20:55','2012-05-01 15:20:55','','kevinsystrom-instagram','','inherit','closed','open','','kevinsystrom-instagram','','','2012-05-01 15:20:55','2012-05-01 15:20:55','',1691,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/kevinsystrom-instagram.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1693,1,'2012-05-01 15:20:24','2012-05-01 15:20:24','Kevin Systrom of Instagram- Instagram Co-founder and CEO Kevin Systrom has taken the mobile software industry by storm. The free photo sharing program has changed the way that we snap, edit, and share the photographs taken on our mobile devices. Facebook has taken notice as well, recently purchasing Instagram for a cool $1 billion. Know of a Brand Champion in your company, or want to know what it takes to become a brand champ, visit our nationally recognized site: <a href=\"http://brandchampion100.com/\">http://brandchampion100.com/</a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Announcing April\'s Brand Champion','','inherit','closed','open','','1691-revision','','','2012-05-01 15:20:24','2012-05-01 15:20:24','',1691,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1691-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1501,1,'2012-01-21 00:11:21','2012-01-21 00:11:21','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-15','','','2012-01-21 00:11:21','2012-01-21 00:11:21','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(1417,1,'2011-12-07 16:47:52','2011-12-07 16:47:52','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n		<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step one\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n			<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step two\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n			<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step three\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n			<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step four\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>\r\n			<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n		<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step five\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</div>\r\n			<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step six\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>\r\n			<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>\r\n			<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-10','','','2011-12-07 16:47:52','2011-12-07 16:47:52','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1416,1,'2011-12-07 00:06:56','2011-12-07 00:06:56','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n						\r\n						\r\n						<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n							<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n								<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step one\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n								<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step two\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n								<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step three\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n								<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step four\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</div>\r\n								<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n							\r\n						<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n                        <div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n                        <div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n						<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n                       			\r\n							<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n								<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step five\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</div>\r\n								<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step six\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</div>\r\n								<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</div>\r\n								<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n					</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-9','','','2011-12-07 00:06:56','2011-12-07 00:06:56','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1420,1,'2011-12-07 16:50:02','2011-12-07 16:50:02','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n		<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step one\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n			<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step two\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n			<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step three\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n			<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step four\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>\r\n			<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n		<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step five\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>\r\n			<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step six\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>\r\n			<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>\r\n			<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-13','','','2011-12-07 16:50:02','2011-12-07 16:50:02','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(1418,1,'2011-12-07 16:48:31','2011-12-07 16:48:31','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n						\r\n						\r\n						<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n							<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n								<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step one\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n								<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step two\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n								<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step three\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n								<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step four\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</div>\r\n								<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n							\r\n						<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n                        <div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n                        <div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n						<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n                       			\r\n							<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n								<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step five\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</div>\r\n								<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step six\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</div>\r\n								<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</div>\r\n								<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n					</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-11','','','2011-12-07 16:48:31','2011-12-07 16:48:31','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1419,1,'2011-12-07 16:48:36','2011-12-07 16:48:36','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n						\r\n						\r\n						<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n							<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n								<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step one\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n								<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step two\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n								<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step three\">\r\n								<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n								<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step four\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</div>\r\n								<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n							\r\n						<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n                        <div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n                        <div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n						<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n                       			\r\n							<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n								<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step five\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</div>\r\n								<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step six\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</div>\r\n								<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n							<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n								<div class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</div>\r\n								<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n					</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-12','','','2011-12-07 16:48:36','2011-12-07 16:48:36','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(1422,1,'2011-12-09 21:41:26','2011-12-09 21:41:26','','Tebow','','inherit','closed','open','','tebow','','','2011-12-09 21:41:26','2011-12-09 21:41:26','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tebow.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1423,1,'2011-12-09 21:43:20','2011-12-09 21:43:20','','Real Tebow','','inherit','closed','open','','real-tebow','','','2011-12-09 21:43:20','2011-12-09 21:43:20','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1424,1,'2011-12-09 23:09:33','2011-12-09 23:09:33','','I Love Tebow Picture','','inherit','closed','open','','i-love-tebow-picture','','','2011-12-09 23:09:33','2011-12-09 23:09:33','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1425,1,'2011-12-09 23:11:02','2011-12-09 23:11:02','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\n\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\n\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\n\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\n\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision','','','2011-12-09 23:11:02','2011-12-09 23:11:02','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1426,1,'2011-12-09 23:14:56','2011-12-09 23:14:56','','I Love Tebow Picture','','inherit','closed','open','','i-love-tebow-picture-2','','','2011-12-09 23:14:56','2011-12-09 23:14:56','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture1.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1427,1,'2011-12-09 23:12:48','2011-12-09 23:12:48','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-2','','','2011-12-09 23:12:48','2011-12-09 23:12:48','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1428,1,'2011-12-09 23:15:35','2011-12-09 23:15:35','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.\r\n\r\n-Michael Doyle','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-3','','','2011-12-09 23:15:35','2011-12-09 23:15:35','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1429,1,'2011-12-09 23:17:27','2011-12-09 23:17:27','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.\r\n\r\n-Michael Doyle','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-4','','','2011-12-09 23:17:27','2011-12-09 23:17:27','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1430,1,'2011-12-09 23:17:53','2011-12-09 23:17:53','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.\r\n\r\n-Michael Doyle','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-5','','','2011-12-09 23:17:53','2011-12-09 23:17:53','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1431,1,'2011-12-09 23:17:56','2011-12-09 23:17:56','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.\r\n\r\n-Michael Doyle','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-6','','','2011-12-09 23:17:56','2011-12-09 23:17:56','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1432,1,'2011-12-12 16:41:25','2011-12-12 16:41:25','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\n\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\n\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\n\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\n\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-autosave','','','2011-12-12 16:41:25','2011-12-12 16:41:25','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(2891,1,'2011-05-30 16:13:11','2011-05-30 16:13:11','Born and raised in Colorado, and recent MSU Denver graduate, Danielle brings a fresh eye for design to the office. When this Intern is not flipping for great design, she is coaching gymnastics, trying new gluten free food, and keeping up with her yoga practice.\r\n<div></div>','Danielle Danchetz','','publish','open','open','','danielle-danchetz','','','2013-08-21 17:10:09','2013-08-21 17:10:09','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=2891',0,'post','',0),(2892,1,'2013-06-24 20:56:49','2013-06-24 20:56:49','As a Colorado native and Miami Hurricane, Caitlin blends her very diverse background experiences to offer a fresh perspective. She enjoys fine-tuning the strategies of a marketing campaign and figuring out how to spice up her copywriting—the Thesaurus is her Bible. Enamored by the Rocky Mountains, Caitlin likes to take on new hiking adventures on the weekends. She also loves cheering on the Broncos, Nuggets and Rockies… and won’t accept anything less than a Super Bowl XLVIII conquest.','Caitlin Good','','inherit','open','open','','2802-autosave','','','2013-06-24 20:56:49','2013-06-24 20:56:49','',2802,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2802-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(2893,1,'2013-06-07 21:08:12','2013-06-07 21:08:12','Bio coming soon.','Danielle Danchetz','','inherit','open','open','','2891-revision','','','2013-06-07 21:08:12','2013-06-07 21:08:12','',2891,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2891-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1434,1,'2011-12-09 23:19:17','2011-12-09 23:19:17','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.\r\n\r\n-Michael Doyle','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-7','','','2011-12-09 23:19:17','2011-12-09 23:19:17','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1435,1,'2011-12-12 16:39:56','2011-12-12 16:39:56','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1423\" title=\"Real Tebow\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Real-Tebow-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>If you haven\'t heard Tim Tebow is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, and he has taken the league by storm. He is getting an immense amount of media coverage in the process, and has achieved moving the Broncos from last to first in the AFC West. In addition to these accomplishments, he is a Heisman Trophy winner and formerly lead the University of Florida to a national championship.\r\n\r\nHis media coverage in not solely surrounding his amazing football ability, but also his focus on Jesus Christ as his savior and inspiration for his performance. This has been viewed as controversial to many including Kurt Warner, saying it could have a repelling effect. Whether you endorse his religious outspokenness or shun it, one thing is certain, he has sparked the team.\r\n\r\nBefore Tim Tebow joined the team, the Denver Broncos were lifeless and facing a long and hopeless season. Tebow came in with not only a belief in Christ, but in himself and his ability to lead the team back to contention. His teammates are on board to work hard toward producing unheard of and frankly unbelievable results. Champions not only perform well on the field or at work, but they inspire others to perform well around them. They share a vision and drive that motivates themselves as well as others around them to win and achieve great results. Brand Champions win not only because of their talent, but because they have faith and believe they can and will win. Brand Champions have faith in themselves and believe they can and will achieve greatness. Tim Tebow is a champion, and a great Brand Champion for himself, the Denver Bronco\'s and the Lord, regardless of what happens.\r\n\r\nOne of Tebow\'s teammates stated earlier this year, that a player either has a stellar<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1424\" title=\"I Love Tebow Picture\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/I-Love-Tebow-Picture-114x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"114\" height=\"300\" /></a> presence on the field or an outstanding effect in the locker room, but usually not both. This same teammate stated that Tebow is the lifeblood of both the locker room and the field, and has been the driving force in changing the course of the team from last to first.\r\nThe remainder of the season should be fun to watch, making winter around here much more palatable, and giving everyone in Denver something to cheer about.\r\n\r\nIs Tim Tebow for real? The jury is still out, but as far as this year is concerned, he has energized and lead the team as not only the starting quarterback, but as the inspiration, leader and Brand Champion of the Denver Broncos. Tebow\'s brand stands for Christ, winning, and being one of sports\' good guys.\r\n\r\n-Michael Doyle','The Mile High\'s Tebowing','','inherit','closed','open','','1421-revision-8','','','2011-12-12 16:39:56','2011-12-12 16:39:56','',1421,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1421-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1436,1,'2011-10-18 19:44:18','2011-10-18 19:44:18','[gravityform id=5 name=BrandstormQuestionnaire (CEO) title=false]','Brandstorm Questionnaire','','inherit','closed','open','','1190-revision-4','','','2011-10-18 19:44:18','2011-10-18 19:44:18','',1190,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1190-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1437,1,'2011-12-15 18:52:21','2011-12-15 18:52:21','[gravityform id=\"4\" name=\"BrandStorm Questionnaire\" title=\"false\" ajax=\"true\"]','Brandstorm Questionnaire','','inherit','closed','open','','1194-autosave','','','2011-12-15 18:52:21','2011-12-15 18:52:21','',1194,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1194-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1438,1,'2011-12-15 18:49:58','2011-12-15 18:49:58','[gravityform id=\"5\" name=\"Brandstorm Questionnaire (CEO)\" title=\"false\" ajax=\"true\"]','Brandstorm Questionnaire','','inherit','closed','open','','1190-autosave','','','2011-12-15 18:49:58','2011-12-15 18:49:58','',1190,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1190-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1439,1,'2011-10-18 19:52:28','2011-10-18 19:52:28','[gravityform id=4 name=BrandstormQuestionnaire title=false]','Brandstorm Questionnaire','','inherit','closed','open','','1194-revision-2','','','2011-10-18 19:52:28','2011-10-18 19:52:28','',1194,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1194-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1466,15,'2012-01-04 18:22:11','2012-01-04 18:22:11','Hello fellow Brand Champions and Happy New Year!  As Brand Iron’s newest Brand Manager, I look forward to working with our diverse client base in driving revenue and brand development.  In starting my second week, I am excited to work with and contribute to the amazing team we have here at Brand Iron.  <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n<img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558-211x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"211\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWith a background in both the corporate and agency marketing setting, I’ve worked with growing brands on both ends of the spectrum.  Most recently I come from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, where the launching of new branding initiatives contributed to a 30% growth in 2011 YOY resale division revenue (during a down market).\r\n\r\nAs an Evergreen, Colorado native and graduate of the University of Denver, I’ve worked with growing some of Colorado’s top local brands.  I am a soccer fanatic who frequents the local British pubs in the wee hours of the morning to catch the latest European soccer matches and spends all my disposable income on adult soccer leagues throughout Denver.  I hope to one day travel across the pond and catch a game of my favorite team, Liverpool Football Club.\r\n\r\nI am thrilled to join such a great team and excited to work with our extensive client base. I look forward to working with you all!\r\n\r\n-Scott Anderson<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n</a>','Welcome your newest Brand Manager: Scott Anderson','','publish','closed','open','','welcome-your-newest-brand-manager-scott-anderson','','','2012-01-04 18:22:11','2012-01-04 18:22:11','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1466',0,'post','',0),(1443,2,'2011-12-23 16:59:40','2011-12-23 16:59:40','','Brand Iron Celebrating the Holidays','Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa ','inherit','closed','open','','michael-and-kassie-with-santa','','','2011-12-23 16:59:40','2011-12-23 16:59:40','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1601,1,'2012-03-15 23:18:06','2012-03-15 23:18:06','A Company’s greatest asset is its brand. But without a true Brand Champion emanating your brand, brand success can be elusive. Brand Iron just launched Brand Champion 100 (www.brandchampion100.com) identifying the Top 100 Brand Champions of 2011, including Brand Champions, Rising Stars, Legends and Brand Chumps. The BC 100 list is comprised of individuals who truly understand and embrace the power of a brand (the Brand Chumps list is comprised of those who clearly don’t.) This list features such people as: Steve Jobs (Legend), Tiger Woods (Brand Chump), Aaron Patzer, the founder of Mynt (Rising Star), and Daniel Hesse, the CEO of Sprint(Brand Champion). Whether leaders of an organization or individuals managing their personal brand, they take responsibility for developing a brand that effectively communicates who they are.\r\n\r\nDo you have an effective Brand Champion in your organization? If so, submit them to our site by clicking <a href=\"http://brandchampion100.com\">here</a>, and they could be recognized on our list of top Brand Champions.  To learn more about developing your brand and your internal brand champions, please give Brand Iron a call.','Do you effectively champion your brand?','','publish','closed','open','','do-you-effectively-champion-your-brand','','','2012-03-20 20:52:37','2012-03-20 20:52:37','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1601',0,'post','',0),(1511,1,'2012-01-23 22:45:52','2012-01-23 22:45:52','Submissions for the March/April Newsletter are now closed. Please contact <a href=\"mailto:lfrogge@denverathleticclub.org\">Linda Frogge </a>with any questions.','DAC Newsletter Submission Form','','inherit','closed','open','','1196-revision-9','','','2012-01-23 22:45:52','2012-01-23 22:45:52','',1196,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1196-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1582,1,'2012-03-14 16:41:50','2012-03-14 16:41:50','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nKnown for our signature BrandStorm session, we understand the importance of starting every relationship off right. We kick off each relationship with a 50,000-foot view of your business, designed specifically to get a complete understanding of your sales, marketing and operational processes. The half-day strategy session allows us to assess your business and develop a strategic road map for the future. With full participation from your key executives, we will identify your competitive position and immerse ourselves into your business.We will ask you and your executive team to complete a detailed questionnaire to ascertain your overall goals and objectives. We will ask that you provide an analysis of your company’s strengths and weaknesses. We will conduct preliminary research to investigate your current company position as it compares to others in the industry.\r\n\r\nA clear outcome of the BrandStorm session is building consensus from the executives in the room. From there, we’ll work together to develop a roadmap to forge the brand and elevate the company to the next level.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n\r\nFollowing the session, we will develop an initial Key Messaging Document (KMD) containing the most relevant and significant messages that must be consistently communicated about your business. The KMD will include your most important brand attributes and provide a source of communication differentiation related to your business, products, and services. Although the KMD will continue to evolve as we further research your industry and competitors, it will serve as the foundational roadmap from which all messaging for marketing and branding efforts will emanate.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, we will generate a list of tasks to turn recommendations into action and assign responsibilities and determine the level of support necessary for completing each task.\r\n\r\n</div>','BrandStorm Session','','inherit','closed','open','','362-revision-11','','','2012-03-14 16:41:50','2012-03-14 16:41:50','',362,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/362-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1532,1,'2012-02-02 23:16:30','2012-02-02 23:16:30','','DSC_2434-crop','','inherit','closed','open','','dsc_2434-crop','','','2012-02-02 23:16:30','2012-02-02 23:16:30','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_2434-crop.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1533,1,'2012-02-02 23:16:48','2012-02-02 23:16:48','','DSC_2434-crop','','inherit','closed','open','','dsc_2434-crop-2','','','2012-02-02 23:16:48','2012-02-02 23:16:48','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_2434-crop1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1509,1,'2012-01-21 00:28:19','2012-01-21 00:28:19','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n		<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step one\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n			<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step two\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n			<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step three\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n			<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step four\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>\r\n			<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n		<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step five\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>\r\n			<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step six\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>\r\n			<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>\r\n			<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-23','','','2012-01-21 00:28:19','2012-01-21 00:28:19','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),(1451,2,'2011-12-23 17:56:14','2011-12-23 17:56:14','<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1443\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"640\" caption=\"Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa.jpg\"><img class=\"size-large wp-image-1443\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"426\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<dl><dt></dt><dd>Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa in Austin, TX</dd></dl></div>','Brand Iron Celebrating the Holidays with Santa','','publish','closed','open','','brand-iron-celebrating-the-holidays-with-santa-2','','','2011-12-23 17:58:54','2011-12-23 17:58:54','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1451',0,'post','',0),(1452,2,'2011-12-23 17:55:30','2011-12-23 17:55:30','','Auto Draft','','inherit','closed','open','','1451-revision','','','2011-12-23 17:55:30','2011-12-23 17:55:30','',1451,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1451-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1453,2,'2011-12-23 17:59:57','2011-12-23 17:59:57','<div class=\"mceTemp\">\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1443\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"640\" caption=\"Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa.jpg\"><img class=\"size-large wp-image-1443\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"426\" /></a>[/caption]\n\n<dl><dt></dt><dd>Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa in Austin, TX</dd></dl></div>','Brand Iron Celebrating the Holidays with Santa','','inherit','closed','open','','1451-autosave','','','2011-12-23 17:59:57','2011-12-23 17:59:57','',1451,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1451-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1454,2,'2011-12-23 17:56:14','2011-12-23 17:56:14','[caption id=\"attachment_1443\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1600\" caption=\"Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa in Austin, TX\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1443\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1066\" /></a>[/caption]','Brand Iron Celebrating the Holidays with Santa','','inherit','closed','open','','1451-revision-2','','','2011-12-23 17:56:14','2011-12-23 17:56:14','',1451,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1451-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1455,2,'2011-12-23 17:57:40','2011-12-23 17:57:40','<div class=\"mceTemp\">\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1443\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"640\" caption=\"Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa.jpg\"><img class=\"size-large wp-image-1443\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Michael-and-Kassie-with-Santa-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"426\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n<dl><dt></dt><dd>Brand Manager, Kassandre Linstroth, and CEO, Michael Doyle get cozy with Santa in Austin, TX</dd></dl></div>','Brand Iron Celebrating the Holidays with Santa','','inherit','closed','open','','1451-revision-3','','','2011-12-23 17:57:40','2011-12-23 17:57:40','',1451,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1451-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1459,1,'2011-12-29 23:50:17','2011-12-29 23:50:17','Hard economic times put pressure on corporations all over the nation, especially with the hope of increased revenue in the future. These expectations are not backed by the guarantee of an improved economy, so branding correctly is crucial to U.S. organizations. Through crisis, clients and the public must keep a positive outlook on the values, missions, and ideals of any company or defeat is their final potential.\r\n\r\nThis may be old school, but Johnson &amp; Johnson is still the golden example of branding through disaster. In 1982, the then CEO of Johnson &amp; Johnson, James E. Burke, was faced with death on his watch. Seven people died after digesting Tylenol extra-strength capsules laced with Cyanide. Burke knew that it wasn’t the company’s error, but by recalling 31 million bottles of Tylenol and building a PR campaign to show that Tylenol mourned for those lost is what has kept Johnson &amp; Johnson high in the corporate rankings.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1460\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Tony Hayward- Former CEO of BP\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1460\" title=\"Tony Hayward\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward-300x180.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"180\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nNow back into this day and age, BP Oil’s then CEO, Tony Hayward, is the prime example of what not to do in a branding/Public Relations crisis. Inconsistent in his statements and blaming others for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Hayward quickly tarnished his own reputation and brought BP Oil down with him. His resignation in 2010 brought hope for a new start, but it will take more than a new face, or Brand Champion, to trust BP Oil in their safety decisions and every day operation tactics. Their next step is to find their new Brand Champion, someone who lives and breathes BP Oil; someone willing to take on the task of rebuilding a status. Through careful selection, BP Oil can hope to join the rankings of oil companies again. Their newest ad campaign focused on the progress the gulf has made since the spill, has had very mixed reviews. Watch the ad for yourself, and tell us your thoughts.\r\n\r\nhttp://youtu.be/hoOfIR4Vk1o\r\n\r\nThrough our definition, a Brand Champion is someone who is visionary and creative, someone who demonstrates leadership and inspires others to ride for the brand, someone who delivers their promises and creates a brand culture and experience. BP Oil is not the only company looking for this champion, but it illustrates the importance to companies that a champion is their number one defense against shocking media and industry exposure. Look for our Brand Champion 100 list coming in 2012.\r\n\r\n- Kelly McDonald','Branding During Crisis','','publish','closed','open','','branding-during-crisis','','','2011-12-29 23:50:17','2011-12-29 23:50:17','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1459',0,'post','',0),(1460,1,'2011-12-29 23:45:17','2011-12-29 23:45:17','','Tony Hayward','Tony Hayward- Former CEO of BP ','inherit','closed','open','','tony-hayward','','','2011-12-29 23:45:17','2011-12-29 23:45:17','',1459,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1461,1,'2011-12-29 23:44:35','2011-12-29 23:44:35','','Branding During Crisis','','inherit','closed','open','','1459-revision','','','2011-12-29 23:44:35','2011-12-29 23:44:35','',1459,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1459-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1463,1,'2011-12-29 23:49:32','2011-12-29 23:49:32','Hard economic times put pressure on corporations all over the nation, especially with the hope of increased revenue in the future. These expectations are not backed by the guarantee of an improved economy, so branding correctly is crucial to U.S. organizations. Through crisis, clients and the public must keep a positive outlook on the values, missions, and ideals of any company or defeat is their final potential.\r\n\r\nThis may be old school, but Johnson &amp; Johnson is still the golden example of branding through disaster. In 1982, the then CEO of Johnson &amp; Johnson, James E. Burke, was faced with death on his watch. Seven people died after digesting Tylenol extra-strength capsules laced with Cyanide. Burke knew that it wasn’t the company’s error, but by recalling 31 million bottles of Tylenol and building a PR campaign to show that Tylenol mourned for those lost is what has kept Johnson &amp; Johnson high in the corporate rankings.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1460\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Tony Hayward- Former CEO of BP\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1460\" title=\"Tony Hayward\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward-300x180.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"180\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nNow back into this day and age, BP Oil’s then CEO, Tony Hayward, is the prime example of what not to do in a branding/Public Relations crisis. Inconsistent in his statements and blaming others for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Hayward quickly tarnished his own reputation and brought BP Oil down with him. His resignation in 2010 brought hope for a new start, but it will take more than a new face, or Brand Champion, to trust BP Oil in their safety decisions and every day operation tactics. Their next step is to find their new Brand Champion, someone who lives and breathes BP Oil; someone willing to take on the task of rebuilding a status. Through careful selection, BP Oil can hope to join the rankings of oil companies again. Their newest ad campaign focused on the progress the gulf has made since the spill, has had very mixed reviews. Watch the ad for yourself, and tell us your thoughts.\r\n\r\nhttp://youtu.be/hoOfIR4Vk1o\r\n\r\nThrough our definition, a Brand Champion is someone who is visionary and creative, someone who demonstrates leadership and inspires others to ride for the brand, someone who delivers their promises and creates a brand culture and experience. BP Oil is not the only company looking for this champion, but it illustrates the importance to companies that a champion is their number one defense against shocking media and industry exposure. Look for our Brand Champion 100 list coming in 2012.','Branding During Crisis','','inherit','closed','open','','1459-revision-3','','','2011-12-29 23:49:32','2011-12-29 23:49:32','',1459,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1459-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1462,1,'2011-12-29 23:47:27','2011-12-29 23:47:27','Hard economic times put pressure on corporations all over the nation, especially with the hope of increased revenue in the future. These expectations are not backed by the guarantee of an improved economy, so branding correctly is crucial to U.S. organizations. Through crisis, clients and the public must keep a positive outlook on the values, missions, and ideals of any company or defeat is their final potential.\n\nThis may be old school, but Johnson &amp; Johnson is still the golden example of branding through disaster. In 1982, the then CEO of Johnson &amp; Johnson, James E. Burke, was faced with death on his watch. Seven people died after digesting Tylenol extra-strength capsules laced with Cyanide. Burke knew that it wasn’t the company’s error, but by recalling 31 million bottles of Tylenol and building a PR campaign to show that Tylenol mourned for those lost is what has kept Johnson &amp; Johnson high in the corporate rankings.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1460\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Tony Hayward- Former CEO of BP\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1460\" title=\"Tony Hayward\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward-300x180.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"180\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nNow back into this day and age, BP Oil’s then CEO, Tony Hayward, is the prime example of what not to do in a branding/Public Relations crisis. Inconsistent in his statements and blaming others for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Hayward quickly tarnished his own reputation and brought BP Oil down with him. His resignation in 2010 brought hope for a new start, but it will take more than a new face, or Brand Champion, to trust BP Oil in their safety decisions and every day operation tactics. Their next step is to find their new Brand Champion, someone who lives and breathes BP Oil; someone willing to take on the task of rebuilding a status. Through careful selection, BP Oil can hope to join the rankings of oil companies again. Their newest ad campaign focused on the progress the gulf has made since the spill, has had very mixed reviews. Watch the ad for yourself, and tell us your thoughts.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&amp;v=hoOfIR4Vk1o\">http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&amp;v=hoOfIR4Vk1o</a>\n\nThrough our definition, a Brand Champion is someone who is visionary and creative, someone who demonstrates leadership and inspires others to ride for the brand, someone who delivers their promises and creates a brand culture and experience. BP Oil is not the only company looking for this champion, but it illustrates the importance to companies that a champion is their number one defense against shocking media and industry exposure. Look for our Brand Champion 100 list coming in 2012.','Branding During Crisis','','inherit','closed','open','','1459-revision-2','','','2011-12-29 23:47:27','2011-12-29 23:47:27','',1459,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1459-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1464,1,'2011-12-29 23:51:21','2011-12-29 23:51:21','Hard economic times put pressure on corporations all over the nation, especially with the hope of increased revenue in the future. These expectations are not backed by the guarantee of an improved economy, so branding correctly is crucial to U.S. organizations. Through crisis, clients and the public must keep a positive outlook on the values, missions, and ideals of any company or defeat is their final potential.\n\nThis may be old school, but Johnson &amp; Johnson is still the golden example of branding through disaster. In 1982, the then CEO of Johnson &amp; Johnson, James E. Burke, was faced with death on his watch. Seven people died after digesting Tylenol extra-strength capsules laced with Cyanide. Burke knew that it wasn’t the company’s error, but by recalling 31 million bottles of Tylenol and building a PR campaign to show that Tylenol mourned for those lost is what has kept Johnson &amp; Johnson high in the corporate rankings.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_1460\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Tony Hayward- Former CEO of BP\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1460\" title=\"Tony Hayward\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Tony-Hayward-300x180.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"180\" /></a>[/caption]\n\nNow back into this day and age, BP Oil’s then CEO, Tony Hayward, is the prime example of what not to do in a branding/Public Relations crisis. Inconsistent in his statements and blaming others for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Hayward quickly tarnished his own reputation and brought BP Oil down with him. His resignation in 2010 brought hope for a new start, but it will take more than a new face, or Brand Champion, to trust BP Oil in their safety decisions and every day operation tactics. Their next step is to find their new Brand Champion, someone who lives and breathes BP Oil; someone willing to take on the task of rebuilding a status. Through careful selection, BP Oil can hope to join the rankings of oil companies again. Their newest ad campaign focused on the progress the gulf has made since the spill, has had very mixed reviews. Watch the ad for yourself, and tell us your thoughts.\n\nhttp://youtu.be/hoOfIR4Vk1o\n\nThrough our definition, a Brand Champion is someone who is visionary and creative, someone who demonstrates leadership and inspires others to ride for the brand, someone who delivers their promises and creates a brand culture and experience. BP Oil is not the only company looking for this champion, but it illustrates the importance to companies that a champion is their number one defense against shocking media and industry exposure. Look for our Brand Champion 100 list coming in 2012.\n\n- Kelly McDonald','Branding During Crisis','','inherit','closed','open','','1459-autosave','','','2011-12-29 23:51:21','2011-12-29 23:51:21','',1459,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1459-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1467,15,'2012-01-04 18:13:18','2012-01-04 18:13:18','','n20201534_32790293_7611558','','inherit','closed','open','','n20201534_32790293_7611558','','','2012-01-04 18:13:18','2012-01-04 18:13:18','',1466,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1468,15,'2012-01-04 18:14:58','2012-01-04 18:14:58','','n20201534_32790293_7611558','','inherit','closed','open','','n20201534_32790293_7611558-2','','','2012-01-04 18:14:58','2012-01-04 18:14:58','',1466,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_76115581.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1469,15,'2012-01-04 18:15:52','2012-01-04 18:15:52','Hello fellow Brand Champions and Happy New Year!  As Brand Iron’s newest Brand Manager, I look forward to working with our diverse client base in driving revenue and brand development.  In starting my second week, I am excited to work with and contribute to the amazing team we have here at Brand Iron.  <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\n<img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558-211x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"211\" height=\"300\" /></a>\n\nWith a background in both the corporate and agency marketing setting, I’ve worked with growing brands on both ends of the spectrum.  Most recently I come from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, where the launching of new branding initiatives contributed to a 30% growth in 2011 YOY resale division revenue (during a down market).\n\nAs an Evergreen, Colorado native and graduate of the University of Denver, I’ve worked with growing some of Colorado’s top local brands.  I am a soccer fanatic who frequents the local British pubs in the wee hours of the morning to catch the latest European soccer matches and spends all my disposable income on adult soccer leagues throughout Denver.  I hope to one day travel across the pond and catch a game of my favorite team, Liverpool Football Club.\n\nI am thrilled to join such a great team and excited to work with our extensive client base. I look forward to working with you all!\n\n-Scott Anderson<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\n</a>','Welcome your newest Brand Manager: Scott Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','1466-revision','','','2012-01-04 18:15:52','2012-01-04 18:15:52','',1466,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1466-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1470,15,'2012-01-04 18:17:35','2012-01-04 18:17:35','Hello fellow Brand Champions and Happy New Year!  As Brand Iron’s newest Brand Manager, I look forward to working with our diverse client base in driving revenue and brand development.  In starting my second week, I am excited to work with and contribute to the amazing team we have here at Brand Iron.  <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n<img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558-211x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"211\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWith a background in both the corporate and agency marketing setting, I’ve worked with growing brands on both ends of the spectrum.  Most recently I come from  2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, where the launching of new branding initiatives contributed to a 30% growth in 2011 YOY resale division revenue (during a down market).\r\n\r\nAs an Evergreen, Colorado native and graduate of the University of Denver, I’ve worked with growing some of Colorado’s top local brands.  I am a soccer fanatic who frequents the local British pubs in the wee hours of the morning to catch the latest European soccer matches and spends all my disposable income on adult soccer leagues throughout Denver.  I hope to one day travel across the pond and catch a game of my favorite team, Liverpool Football Club.\r\n\r\nI am thrilled to join such a great team and excited to work with our extensive client base. I look forward to working with you all!\r\n\r\n-Scott Anderson<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n</a>','Welcome your newest Brand Manager: Scott Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','1466-revision-2','','','2012-01-04 18:17:35','2012-01-04 18:17:35','',1466,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1466-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1471,15,'2012-01-04 18:17:52','2012-01-04 18:17:52','Hello fellow Brand Champions and Happy New Year!  As Brand Iron’s newest Brand Manager, I look forward to working with our diverse client base in driving revenue and brand development.  In starting my second week, I am excited to work with and contribute to the amazing team we have here at Brand Iron.  <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n<img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558-211x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"211\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWith a background in both the corporate and agency marketing setting, I’ve worked with growing brands on both ends of the spectrum.  Most recently I come from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, where the launching of new branding initiatives contributed to a 30% growth in 2011 YOY resale division revenue (during a down market).\r\n\r\nAs an Evergreen, Colorado native and graduate of the University of Denver, I’ve worked with growing some of Colorado’s top local brands.  I am a soccer fanatic who frequents the local British pubs in the wee hours of the morning to catch the latest European soccer matches and spends all my disposable income on adult soccer leagues throughout Denver.  I hope to one day travel across the pond and catch a game of my favorite team, Liverpool Football Club.\r\n\r\nI am thrilled to join such a great team and excited to work with our extensive client base. I look forward to working with you all!\r\n\r\n-Scott Anderson<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n</a>','Welcome your newest Brand Manager: Scott Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','1466-revision-3','','','2012-01-04 18:17:52','2012-01-04 18:17:52','',1466,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1466-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1472,15,'2012-01-04 18:21:57','2012-01-04 18:21:57','Hello fellow Brand Champions and Happy New Year!  As Brand Iron’s newest Brand Manager, I look forward to working with our diverse client base in driving revenue and brand development.  In starting my second week, I am excited to work with and contribute to the amazing team we have here at Brand Iron.  <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n<img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558-211x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"211\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWith a background in both the corporate and agency marketing setting, I’ve worked with growing brands on both ends of the spectrum.  Most recently I come from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, where the launching of new branding initiatives contributed to a 30% growth in 2011 YOY resale division revenue (during a down market).\r\n\r\nAs an Evergreen, Colorado native and graduate of the University of Denver, I’ve worked with growing some of Colorado’s top local brands.  I am a soccer fanatic who frequents the local British pubs in the wee hours of the morning to catch the latest European soccer matches and spends all my disposable income on adult soccer leagues throughout Denver.  I hope to one day travel across the pond and catch a game of my favorite team, Liverpool Football Club.\r\n\r\nI am thrilled to join such a great team and excited to work with our extensive client base. I look forward to working with you all!\r\n\r\n-Scott Anderson<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/n20201534_32790293_7611558.jpg\">\r\n</a>','Welcome your newest Brand Manager: Scott Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','1466-revision-4','','','2012-01-04 18:21:57','2012-01-04 18:21:57','',1466,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1466-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1473,1,'2011-10-14 17:33:54','2011-10-14 17:33:54','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nOur philosophy is based on inspiration and innovation. We encourage companies to think beyond a marketing-only approach, and instead, challenge them to \"own their space\" in the marketplace. We define a brand by identifying its unique position and arm our clients with strategies that make the competition irrelevant.\r\n\r\nWe believe that brand equity is an asset that holds supreme value. The brand affects a company’s ability to attract clients and prospects, grow market share and increase revenue. We help business owners think holistically. The brand must account for every aspect of the organization: sales, marketing and operations. The brand is the whole package - it must effectively reach and attract customers, communicate differentiation of services and products, and deliver on promises made about those differentiating points\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n\r\nWe start the process by diving deep into the competitive landscape of any client to explore the challenges and opportunities that exist. Beyond defining the brand and identifying the “marketplace position” that will allow for the company to capitalize on the greatest opportunity, we work to create focused marketing strategies, designed to enable organizations to achieve tangible results.\r\n\r\nWe use a <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/dev/strategy/#7-step-process\">7-step process</a> to “Forge Brands, Drive Revenue.”  Along the way we establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure we are gaining the necessary traction to accomplish goals. This innovative approach resonates well with the accountability to produce positive results. We forge brands that drive revenue!\r\n\r\n</div>','Approach','','inherit','closed','open','','48-revision-11','','','2011-10-14 17:33:54','2011-10-14 17:33:54','',48,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/48-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1495,1,'2012-01-14 00:09:00','2012-01-14 00:09:00','','phototocome','','inherit','closed','open','','phototocome-2','','','2012-01-14 00:09:00','2012-01-14 00:09:00','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/phototocome.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(2764,1,'2013-04-15 15:07:22','2013-04-15 15:07:22','Joseph has a passion for problem solving which is fueled by a never-ending supply of caffeine and cravings for sushi. Joe is a master at Network Engineering and has extensive LAMP stack knowledge. When he\'s not riding his bike into work or watching hockey you can find him focused on tailoring code for a client\'s website or content management system.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','open','open','','1647-revision-15','','','2013-04-15 15:07:22','2013-04-15 15:07:22','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(2751,1,'2013-04-15 15:01:15','2013-04-15 15:01:15','','BF','','inherit','open','open','','bf','','','2013-04-15 15:01:15','2013-04-15 15:01:15','',2663,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/BF.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(2752,1,'2013-02-14 15:52:12','2013-02-14 15:52:12','After spending much of the last eight years developing strategic partnerships for professional sports teams, Brendan traded his spikes for spurs and joined the team at Brand Iron.  Drawing upon a diverse background in law, financial services, marketing and advertising, he blends that corporate experience with an entrepreneurial spirit to help his clients reach the next level of business success. In his spare time, he chases his three young children around the homestead.','Brendan Falvey','','inherit','open','open','','2663-revision-8','','','2013-02-14 15:52:12','2013-02-14 15:52:12','',2663,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2663-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1499,1,'2011-11-22 15:59:24','2011-11-22 15:59:24','The forms for the January/February Newsletter have now been closed. If you have any questions, please contact <a href=\"mailto:LFrogge@denverathleticclub.org\">Linda Frogge</a>.\r\n\r\n','DAC Newsletter Submission Form','','inherit','closed','open','','1196-revision-7','','','2011-11-22 15:59:24','2011-11-22 15:59:24','',1196,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1196-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1500,1,'2011-12-07 16:56:56','2011-12-07 16:56:56','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n		<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step one\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n			<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step two\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n			<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step three\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n			<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step four\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>\r\n			<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n		<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step five\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>\r\n			<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step six\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>\r\n			<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>\r\n			<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-14','','','2011-12-07 16:56:56','2011-12-07 16:56:56','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(1502,1,'2012-01-21 00:11:49','2012-01-21 00:11:49','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-16','','','2012-01-21 00:11:49','2012-01-21 00:11:49','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(1503,1,'2012-01-21 00:12:55','2012-01-21 00:12:55','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-17','','','2012-01-21 00:12:55','2012-01-21 00:12:55','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(1505,1,'2012-01-21 00:22:04','2012-01-21 00:22:04','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-19','','','2012-01-21 00:22:04','2012-01-21 00:22:04','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(1504,1,'2012-01-21 00:14:41','2012-01-21 00:14:41','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n		<div class=\"forgingbrands\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step one\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>\r\n			<p>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step two\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>\r\n			<p>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step three\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>\r\n			<p>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step four\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>\r\n			<p>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n\r\n	<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n			\r\n	<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n		<div class=\"drivingrevenue\">\r\n			<span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step five\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>\r\n			<p>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step six\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>\r\n			<p>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n		<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n			<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>\r\n			<p>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.</p>\r\n		</div>\r\n	</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-18','','','2012-01-21 00:14:41','2012-01-21 00:14:41','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(1506,1,'2012-01-21 00:22:48','2012-01-21 00:22:48','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-20','','','2012-01-21 00:22:48','2012-01-21 00:22:48','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(1507,1,'2012-01-21 00:26:48','2012-01-21 00:26:48','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-21','','','2012-01-21 00:26:48','2012-01-21 00:26:48','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(1508,1,'2012-01-21 00:27:28','2012-01-21 00:27:28','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where your greatest opportunity lies\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the industry\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship, we will commit to each other to work together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course correction lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-22','','','2012-01-21 00:27:28','2012-01-21 00:27:28','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),(1537,2,'2012-02-03 19:48:16','2012-02-03 19:48:16','','kim blog','','inherit','closed','open','','kim-blog','','','2012-02-03 19:48:16','2012-02-03 19:48:16','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/kim-blog.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1581,1,'2011-10-03 23:13:36','2011-10-03 23:13:36','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nWe are entrepreneurial in nature so regardless of the challenge, we are creative in finding ways to overcome it. Regardless of your business lifecycle stage, we are prepared to create a strategy to support you. We integrate brand development and marketing with a creative flair designed to make a noticeable difference. Each of our services plays a role in a larger, holistic branding program. Here are just some of the things that we can do for you:\r\n\r\n<strong>Branding, Marketing and Positioning</strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Strategic Brand Development</li>\r\n	<li>Brand Champion Consulting</li>\r\n	<li>Strategic Messaging</li>\r\n	<li>Competitive research</li>\r\n	<li>Business Development/Lead Generation Strategies</li>\r\n	<li>Marketing Communications</li>\r\n	<li>Direct and E-mail Campaigns</li>\r\n	<li>Events and Promotions</li>\r\n	<li>Trade Show Support</li>\r\n	<li>Sales, Marketing and Operations process mapping</li>\r\n	<li>Results Tracking</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<strong>Creative</strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Graphic Design</li>\r\n	<li>Corporate Identity Development</li>\r\n	<li>Sales Collateral</li>\r\n	<li>Presentation Decks</li>\r\n	<li>Business Plans/Annual Reports</li>\r\n	<li>Advertising</li>\r\n	<li>Direct Mail</li>\r\n	<li>Copywriting</li>\r\n	<li>Packaging</li>\r\n	<li>Tradeshow Booths</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n\r\n<strong>Online</strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Web development</li>\r\n	<li>Search Engine Optimization (SEO)</li>\r\n	<li>Organic Search Optimization</li>\r\n	<li>Social Media Campaign Development and Integration</li>\r\n	<li>Mobile Web Development</li>\r\n	<li>Website Architecture Planning and Mapping,</li>\r\n	<li>Paid searches strategy and implementation (i.e., Google Adwords)</li>\r\n	<li>Back-end Google Analytics</li>\r\n	<li>Blog Development</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<strong>Transaction Branding</strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Executive Summary Creation</li>\r\n	<li>Business Plan Development</li>\r\n	<li>Investor Presentations</li>\r\n	<li>Stakeholder Communications</li>\r\n	<li>Annual Reports</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<strong>Public Relations</strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Strategic Messaging</li>\r\n	<li>Reputation Management</li>\r\n	<li>Crisis Communications</li>\r\n	<li>Media Relations</li>\r\n	<li>Article and White Paper Development</li>\r\n	<li>Media Training</li>\r\n	<li>Speakers Bureau</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>','Services','','inherit','closed','open','','348-revision-3','','','2011-10-03 23:13:36','2011-10-03 23:13:36','',348,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/348-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1580,1,'2013-08-29 20:36:25','2013-08-29 20:36:25','<div class=\"about-left\">\n\nWe are entrepreneurial in nature so regardless of the challenge, we are creative in finding ways to overcome it. Regardless of your business\'s lifecycle stage, we are prepared to create a strategy that supports you. We integrate brand development and marketing with a creative flair designed to make a noticeable difference. Each of our services play a role in a larger, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Holistic Branding</span> program. Here are just a few of the things that we can do for you:\n<ul>\n	<li><strong class=\"boldGold\">Branding, Marketing, and Positioning</strong>\n<ul>\n	<li>Strategic Brand Development</li>\n	<li>Brand Champion Consulting</li>\n	<li>Strategic Messaging</li>\n	<li>Competitive Research</li>\n	<li>Business Development/Lead Generation Strategies</li>\n	<li>Marketing Communications</li>\n	<li>Direct and E-mail Campaigns</li>\n	<li>Events and Promotions</li>\n	<li>Trade Show Support</li>\n	<li>Sales, Marketing and Operations process mapping</li>\n	<li>Results Tracking</li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n	<li><strong class=\"boldGold\">Creative</strong>\n<ul>\n	<li>Graphic Design</li>\n	<li>Corporate Identity Development</li>\n	<li>Sales Collateral</li>\n	<li>Presentation Decks</li>\n	<li>Business Plans/Annual Reports</li>\n	<li>Advertising</li>\n	<li>Direct Mail</li>\n	<li>Copywriting</li>\n	<li>Packaging</li>\n	<li>Tradeshow Booths</li>\n	<li>Graphic Standards</li>\n	<li>Signage</li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"about-right\">\n<ul>\n	<li><strong class=\"boldGold\">Online</strong>\n<ul>\n	<li>Web Development</li>\n	<li>Search Engine Optimization (SEO)</li>\n	<li>Organic Search Optimization</li>\n	<li>Social Media Campaign Development and Integration</li>\n	<li>Mobile Web Development</li>\n	<li>Website Architecture Planning and Mapping</li>\n	<li>Paid Search Strategy and Implementation (i.e., Google Adwords)</li>\n	<li>Back-end Google Analytics</li>\n	<li>Blog Development</li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n	<li><strong class=\"boldGold\">Transaction Branding</strong>\n<ul>\n	<li>Executive Summary Creation</li>\n	<li>Business Plan Development</li>\n	<li>Investor Presentations</li>\n	<li>Stakeholder Communications</li>\n	<li>Annual Reports</li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n	<li><strong class=\"boldGold\">Public Relations</strong>\n<ul>\n	<li>Strategic Messaging</li>\n	<li>Reputation Management</li>\n	<li>Crisis Communications</li>\n	<li>Media Relations</li>\n	<li>Bylines and White Papers</li>\n	<li>Media Training</li>\n	<li>Speakers Bureau</li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>','Services','','inherit','closed','open','','348-autosave','','','2013-08-29 20:36:25','2013-08-29 20:36:25','',348,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/348-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1579,1,'2012-03-14 16:49:17','2012-03-14 16:49:17','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span></br></br>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span></br>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where lie your greatest opportunities\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span></br>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the marketplace\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span></br>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span></br>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span></br>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion, implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span></br>Part of every client relationship,we will commit to each other tow ork together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course corrections lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Proprietary 7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-27','','','2012-03-14 16:49:17','2012-03-14 16:49:17','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),(1578,1,'2012-03-14 16:48:40','2012-03-14 16:48:40','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span></br>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where lie your greatest opportunities\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the marketplace\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion, implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship,we will commit to each other tow ork together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course corrections lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Proprietary 7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-26','','','2012-03-14 16:48:40','2012-03-14 16:48:40','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),(1577,1,'2012-03-14 16:47:03','2012-03-14 16:47:03','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\"><span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\"><span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where lie your greatest opportunities\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\"><span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the marketplace\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\"><span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\"><span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\"><span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion, implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\"><span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span>Part of every client relationship,we will commit to each other tow ork together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course corrections lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Proprietary 7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-25','','','2012-03-14 16:47:03','2012-03-14 16:47:03','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),(1547,1,'2012-02-03 20:06:38','2012-02-03 20:06:38','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/kim-blog.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1537\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/kim-blog.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"155\" height=\"256\" /></a>Hello!  My name is Kim Moss and I have recently joined the team  as the Director of Strategic Growth, to help Brand Iron Forge Brands and Drive Revenue!  I am excited to blend my business development and sales background to identify companies where we can make a difference.  I have more than 15 years of experience in both Marketing and Sales, with a wide variety of industries.  I welcome the opportunity  to leverage this experience - It is exciting to think that we can help businesses of ALL shapes and sizes to forge their brands and drive their revenue.\r\n\r\nI am also a Colorado native, but have had some other stints around the country and most recently took my three kids on Semester at Sea, where we traveled around the world on a ship with 900 college students!  I received my B.S. and MBA from the University of Colorado and I still bleed black and gold.  I spend most Saturdays in the Fall at Folsom Field and usually travel to a couple of road games a year.\r\n\r\nStarting my third week, I already know that this is where I belong – the environment and the people are a perfect match! Brand Iron has a very tight knit team, that I am thrilled to now be a part of.','Another New Addition to the Brand Iron Team- Meet Kim','','publish','closed','open','','tester','','','2012-02-03 20:08:26','2012-02-03 20:08:26','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1547',0,'post','',0),(1548,1,'2012-02-03 20:06:27','2012-02-03 20:06:27','','tester','','inherit','closed','open','','1547-revision','','','2012-02-03 20:06:27','2012-02-03 20:06:27','',1547,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1547-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1549,1,'2012-02-03 20:06:38','2012-02-03 20:06:38','FRIDAY!','tester','','inherit','closed','open','','1547-revision-2','','','2012-02-03 20:06:38','2012-02-03 20:06:38','',1547,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1547-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1587,1,'2012-03-14 17:00:27','2012-03-14 17:00:27','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-38','','','2012-03-14 17:00:27','2012-03-14 17:00:27','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-38/',0,'revision','',0),(1551,1,'2012-02-03 20:07:30','2012-02-03 20:07:30','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/kim-blog.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-1537\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/kim-blog.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"155\" height=\"256\" /></a>Hello!  My name is Kim Moss and I have recently joined the team  as the Director of Strategic Growth, to help Brand Iron Forge Brands and Drive Revenue!  I am excited to blend my business development and sales background to identify companies where we can make a difference.  I have more than 15 years of experience in both Marketing and Sales, with a wide variety of industries.  I welcome the opportunity  to leverage this experience - It is exciting to think that we can help businesses of ALL shapes and sizes to forge their brands and drive their revenue.\r\n\r\nI am also a Colorado native, but have had some other stints around the country and most recently took my three kids on Semester at Sea, where we traveled around the world on a ship with 900 college students!  I received my B.S. and MBA from the University of Colorado and I still bleed black and gold.  I spend most Saturdays in the Fall at Folsom Field and usually travel to a couple of road games a year.\r\n\r\nStarting my third week, I already know that this is where I belong – the environment and the people are a perfect match! Brand Iron has a very tight knit team, that I am thrilled to now be a part of.','Another New Addition to the Brand Iron Team- Meet Kim','','inherit','closed','open','','1547-revision-3','','','2012-02-03 20:07:30','2012-02-03 20:07:30','',1547,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1547-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1572,1,'2011-10-03 22:37:00','2011-10-03 22:37:00','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nKnown for our signature BrandStorm session, we understand the importance of starting every relationship off right. We kick off each relationship with a 50,000-foot view of your business, designed specifically to get a complete understanding of your sales, marketing and operational processes. The half-day strategy session allows us to assess your business and develop a strategic road map for the future. With full participation from your key executives, we will identify your competitive position and immerse ourselves into your business.We will ask you and your executive team to complete a detailed questionnaire to ascertain your overall goals and objectives. We will ask that provide an analysis of your company’s strengths and weaknesses. We will conduct preliminary research to investigate your current company position as it compares to others in the industry.\r\n\r\nA clear outcome of the BrandStorm session is building consensus from the executives in the room. From there, we’ll work together to develop a roadmap to forge the brand and elevate the company to the next level.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n\r\nFollowing the session, we will develop an initial Key Messaging Document (KMD) containing the most relevant and significant messages that must be consistently communicated about your business. The KMD will include your most important brand attributes and provide a source of communication differentiation related to your business, its products, and its services. Although the KMD will continue to evolve as we further research your industry and competitors, it will serve as the foundational roadmap from which all messaging for marketing and branding efforts will emanate.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, we will generate a list of tasks to turn recommendations into action and assign responsibilities and determine the level of support necessary for completing each task.\r\n\r\n</div>','BrandStorm Session','','inherit','closed','open','','362-revision-9','','','2011-10-03 22:37:00','2011-10-03 22:37:00','',362,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/362-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1553,2,'2012-02-03 20:27:01','2012-02-03 20:27:01','','Sales Kits1','','inherit','closed','open','','sales-kits1','','','2012-02-03 20:27:01','2012-02-03 20:27:01','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1554,2,'2012-02-03 20:28:47','2012-02-03 20:28:47','','SalesKits2','','inherit','closed','open','','saleskits2','','','2012-02-03 20:28:47','2012-02-03 20:28:47','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1555,2,'2012-02-03 20:28:51','2012-02-03 20:28:51','','SalesKits3','','inherit','closed','open','','saleskits3','','','2012-02-03 20:28:51','2012-02-03 20:28:51','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits3.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1574,1,'2012-02-15 18:46:34','2012-02-15 18:46:34','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-33','','','2012-02-15 18:46:34','2012-02-15 18:46:34','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-33/',0,'revision','',0),(1573,1,'2012-03-14 16:41:28','2012-03-14 16:41:28','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nKnown for our signature BrandStorm session, we understand the importance of starting every relationship off right. We kick off each relationship with a 50,000-foot view of your business, designed specifically to get a complete understanding of your sales, marketing and operational processes. The half-day strategy session allows us to assess your business and develop a strategic road map for the future. With full participation from your key executives, we will identify your competitive position and immerse ourselves into your business.We will ask you and your executive team to complete a detailed questionnaire to ascertain your overall goals and objectives. We will ask that you provide an analysis of your company’s strengths and weaknesses. We will conduct preliminary research to investigate your current company position as it compares to others in the industry.\r\n\r\nA clear outcome of the BrandStorm session is building consensus from the executives in the room. From there, we’ll work together to develop a roadmap to forge the brand and elevate the company to the next level.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n\r\nFollowing the session, we will develop an initial Key Messaging Document (KMD) containing the most relevant and significant messages that must be consistently communicated about your business. The KMD will include your most important brand attributes and provide a source of communication differentiation related to your business, its products, and its services. Although the KMD will continue to evolve as we further research your industry and competitors, it will serve as the foundational roadmap from which all messaging for marketing and branding efforts will emanate.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, we will generate a list of tasks to turn recommendations into action and assign responsibilities and determine the level of support necessary for completing each task.\r\n\r\n</div>','BrandStorm Session','','inherit','closed','open','','362-revision-10','','','2012-03-14 16:41:28','2012-03-14 16:41:28','',362,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/362-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1562,1,'2012-02-03 22:42:50','2012-02-03 22:42:50','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\">\r\n</a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1563\" title=\"Sales Kits1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"477\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1564\" title=\"SalesKits2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"477\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\">\r\n</a>','Practice What You Preach- Check Out Our New Marketing Materials','','publish','closed','open','','practice-what-you-preach-check-out-our-new-marketing-materials-2','','','2012-02-03 22:45:38','2012-02-03 22:45:38','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1562',0,'post','',0),(1563,1,'2012-02-03 22:42:07','2012-02-03 22:42:07','','Sales Kits1','','inherit','closed','open','','sales-kits1-2','','','2012-02-03 22:42:07','2012-02-03 22:42:07','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1564,1,'2012-02-03 22:42:11','2012-02-03 22:42:11','','SalesKits2','','inherit','closed','open','','saleskits2-2','','','2012-02-03 22:42:11','2012-02-03 22:42:11','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1565,1,'2012-02-03 22:42:16','2012-02-03 22:42:16','','SalesKits3','','inherit','closed','open','','saleskits3-2','','','2012-02-03 22:42:16','2012-02-03 22:42:16','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits31.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1566,1,'2012-02-03 22:41:35','2012-02-03 22:41:35','','Auto Draft','','inherit','closed','open','','1562-revision','','','2012-02-03 22:41:35','2012-02-03 22:41:35','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1562-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1567,1,'2012-02-03 22:46:41','2012-02-03 22:46:41','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\">\n</a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1563\" title=\"Sales Kits1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"477\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1564\" title=\"SalesKits2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"477\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\">\n</a>','Practice What You Preach- Check Out Our New Marketing Materials','','inherit','closed','open','','1562-autosave','','','2012-02-03 22:46:41','2012-02-03 22:46:41','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1562-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1568,1,'2012-02-03 22:42:50','2012-02-03 22:42:50','[gallery order=\"DESC\"]','Practice What You Preach- Check Out Our New Marketing Materials','','inherit','closed','open','','1562-revision-2','','','2012-02-03 22:42:50','2012-02-03 22:42:50','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1562-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1569,1,'2012-02-03 22:44:16','2012-02-03 22:44:16','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits31.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1565\" title=\"SalesKits3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits31-764x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"857\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1563\" title=\"Sales Kits1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sales-Kits11-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"477\" /></a><a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-large wp-image-1564\" title=\"SalesKits2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SalesKits21-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"640\" height=\"477\" /></a>','Practice What You Preach- Check Out Our New Marketing Materials','','inherit','closed','open','','1562-revision-3','','','2012-02-03 22:44:16','2012-02-03 22:44:16','',1562,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1562-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1571,1,'2012-04-06 17:13:42','2012-04-06 17:13:42','[gravityform id=3 name=DACMarketing Request Form title=false]','DAC Marketing Request Form','','inherit','closed','open','','1028-autosave','','','2012-04-06 17:13:42','2012-04-06 17:13:42','',1028,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1028-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1583,1,'2012-03-14 16:43:15','2012-03-14 16:43:15','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and onto the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration</em>, <em>Introduction</em>, <em>Expansion</em>, <em>Transaction</em>, and <em>Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-34','','','2012-03-14 16:43:15','2012-03-14 16:43:15','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-34/',0,'revision','',0),(1588,1,'2012-03-14 17:01:38','2012-03-14 17:01:38','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-39','','','2012-03-14 17:01:38','2012-03-14 17:01:38','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-39/',0,'revision','',0),(1586,1,'2012-03-14 16:59:26','2012-03-14 16:59:26','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and onto the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration</em>, <em>Introduction</em>, <em>Expansion</em>, <em>Transaction</em>, and <em>Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-37','','','2012-03-14 16:59:26','2012-03-14 16:59:26','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-37/',0,'revision','',0),(1584,1,'2012-03-14 16:56:26','2012-03-14 16:56:26','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and onto the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration</em>, <em>Introduction</em>, <em>Expansion</em>, <em>Transaction</em>, and <em>Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-35','','','2012-03-14 16:56:26','2012-03-14 16:56:26','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-35/',0,'revision','',0),(1585,1,'2012-03-14 16:58:24','2012-03-14 16:58:24','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and onto the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration</em>, <em>Introduction</em>, <em>Expansion</em>, <em>Transaction</em>, and <em>Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n&copy; 2012 Brand Iron Process, Stages, Names\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-36','','','2012-03-14 16:58:24','2012-03-14 16:58:24','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-36/',0,'revision','',0),(1590,1,'2012-03-14 17:03:59','2012-03-14 17:03:59','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-41','','','2012-03-14 17:03:59','2012-03-14 17:03:59','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-41/',0,'revision','',0),(1589,1,'2012-03-14 17:03:21','2012-03-14 17:03:21','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n&copy; Brand Iron Process, Stages, Names','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-40','','','2012-03-14 17:03:21','2012-03-14 17:03:21','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-40/',0,'revision','',0),(1592,1,'2012-03-14 17:04:32','2012-03-14 17:04:32','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-43','','','2012-03-14 17:04:32','2012-03-14 17:04:32','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-43/',0,'revision','',0),(1591,1,'2012-03-14 17:04:15','2012-03-14 17:04:15','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, and Revitalization. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-42','','','2012-03-14 17:04:15','2012-03-14 17:04:15','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-42/',0,'revision','',0),(1593,1,'2012-03-14 17:05:10','2012-03-14 17:05:10','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, </em>and<em> Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-44','','','2012-03-14 17:05:10','2012-03-14 17:05:10','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-44/',0,'revision','',0),(1594,1,'2012-03-14 17:05:49','2012-03-14 17:05:49','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, </em>and<em> Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n©\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-45','','','2012-03-14 17:05:49','2012-03-14 17:05:49','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-45/',0,'revision','',0),(1595,1,'2012-03-14 17:06:27','2012-03-14 17:06:27','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, </em>and<em> Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n© 2012 Brand Iron Process, Stages, Names\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-46','','','2012-03-14 17:06:27','2012-03-14 17:06:27','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-46/',0,'revision','',0),(1597,1,'2012-03-14 17:06:59','2012-03-14 17:06:59','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, </em>and<em> Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n©\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-48','','','2012-03-14 17:06:59','2012-03-14 17:06:59','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-48/',0,'revision','',0),(1596,1,'2012-03-14 17:06:38','2012-03-14 17:06:38','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, </em>and<em> Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n© 2012 Brand Iron Process, Stages, Names\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-47','','','2012-03-14 17:06:38','2012-03-14 17:06:38','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-47/',0,'revision','',0),(1598,1,'2012-03-14 17:07:17','2012-03-14 17:07:17','<div class=\"about-left\">\r\n\r\nEvery business evolves. As yours does, we’re here to support you, and the brand, every step of the way. From concepts in start-up, to businesses preparing for a transaction, to owners looking to exit, we know what it takes to get you through your current stage and into the next. Based on the experience we’ve had with multiple businesses in multiple stages of business, we have defined the five most common and most critical business lifecycles. They include: <em>Inspiration, Introduction, Expansion, Transaction, </em>and<em> Revitalization</em>. By understanding your place in the lifecycle, we can help define the best and most appropriate branding strategies. As a business matures and begins to cycle into a new phase, this evolution dictates the shift in marketing and branding strategy. From our first meeting, we begin to determine the stage in which your brand is currently growing, and are pre-equipped with the tools you’ll need to overcome the obstacles associated with where you stand in your business evolution. We’ve worked with brands at every point in the lifecycle. In fact, much of our passion is fueled by the results our clients achieve as we help them move through these phases of business. Regardless of your place in the business lifecycle stage, we have experience and knowledge to help.\r\n\r\n© 2012 Brand Iron Process, Stages, Names\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"about-right\">\r\n<div class=\"inspiration\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspiration</strong> – The concept of a new business idea is in place and the need is to create awareness is of the utmost importance. It may be a spinoff opportunity, it may be an emerging technology, or it may be a radical idea.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"introduction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Introduction</strong> – It’s time to introduce the product or service to the marketplace through differentiation. The concept is off the ground and has viability.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"expansion\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Expansion</strong> – Businesses in this stage are seeking and possibly already on the verge rapid growth and creating sustainability through customer expansion and retention. They seek to increase valuation through a “self-revival.” Ask yourself: Are we staying true to the core brand?</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"transaction\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Transaction</strong> – Owners in this stage have identified the next major milestone to maximizing value through a once-in-a-business-lifetime opportunity. Considering a merger, a sale or acquisition falls in this category. Companies preparing to go public are also in this stage. The business is on a mission to rapidly expand through increased scalability and significantly increase market share.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"revitalization\">\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong></strong><strong>Revitalization</strong> – The business has come full circle and the torch is about to be passed. The initiative in this lifecycle stage is to fortify the business to maximize value. A sale or leadership transition is in the offing as original ownership prepares to transition out of the business. Revitalization efforts play an important role both before and after the transition.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Business LifeCycle Branding','','inherit','closed','open','','357-revision-49','','','2012-03-14 17:07:17','2012-03-14 17:07:17','',357,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/357-revision-49/',0,'revision','',0),(1599,1,'2012-03-14 16:49:42','2012-03-14 16:49:42','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span></br></br>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span></br></br>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where lie your greatest opportunities\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span></br></br>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the marketplace\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span></br></br>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span></br></br>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span></br></br>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion, implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span></br></br>Part of every client relationship,we will commit to each other tow ork together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course corrections lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','Proprietary 7-Step Process','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-28','','','2012-03-14 16:49:42','2012-03-14 16:49:42','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),(1600,1,'2012-03-14 17:10:06','2012-03-14 17:10:06','<div id=\"sevenstepchart\">\r\n<div class=\"sevensteptop\">\r\n<div class=\"forgingbrands\"><span class=\"row-title\">FORGING BRANDS</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step one\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Circle the Wagons</span></br></br>To better define your brand, we will review and evaluate your goals, corporate practices and overall business landscape\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step two\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Scout the Landscape</span></br></br>We will take an in depth look at the competitive landscape to determine where lie your greatest opportunities\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step three\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Separate Yourself from the Herd</span></br></br>Here we incorporate all knowledge about your business and the competitive landscape to create a message platform that clearly identifies your unique position in the marketplace\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step four\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">BrandForging</span></br></br>Using a strategic yet fresh approach we start to define and forge your brand so there is clarity and distance between you and your competitors\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevensteparrow\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"sevenstepbottom\">\r\n<div class=\"drivingrevenue\"><span class=\"row-title\">DRIVING REVENUE</span></div>\r\n<div class=\"step five\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Revenue Round-Up</span></br></br>With a new or refreshed look in place, let\'s work together to maximize sales efforts to positively impact your bottom line.\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step six\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Drive to Bonanza</span></br></br>Let\'s set the strategic plan in motion, implementing creative ideas to position you for long-term success\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"step seven\">\r\n\r\n<span class=\"step-title\">Running the Ranch</span></br></br>Part of every client relationship,we will commit to each other tow ork together and ensure that the program is carried out to reach your goals. Accountability and any necessary course corrections lead to success!\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n&copy; 2012 Brand Iron Process, Diagram, Names','Proprietary 7-Step Process&copy;','','inherit','closed','open','','350-revision-29','','','2012-03-14 17:10:06','2012-03-14 17:10:06','',350,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/350-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),(1603,1,'2012-03-15 23:17:49','2012-03-15 23:17:49','A Company’s greatest asset is its brand. But without a true Brand Champion emanating your brand, brand success can be elusive. Brand Iron just launched Brand Champion 100 (www.brandchampion100.com) identifying the Top 100 Brand Champions of 2011, including Brand Champions, Rising Stars, Legends and Brand Chumps. The BC 100 list is comprised of individuals who truly understand and embrace the power of a brand (the Brand Chumps list is comprised of those who clearly don’t.) Whether leaders of an organization or individuals managing their personal brand, they take responsibility for developing a brand that effectively communicates who they are.\n\nDo you have an effective Brand Champion in your organization? If so, submit them to our site by clicking <a href=\"http://brancdchampion100.com\">here</a>, and they could be rocgnized on our list of top Brand Champions.  To learn more about developing your brand and your internal brand champions, please give Brand Iron a cal','Do you effectively champion your brand?','','inherit','closed','open','','1601-revision-2','','','2012-03-15 23:17:49','2012-03-15 23:17:49','',1601,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1601-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1604,1,'2012-03-15 23:30:27','2012-03-15 23:30:27','A Company’s greatest asset is its brand. But without a true Brand Champion emanating your brand, brand success can be elusive. Brand Iron just launched Brand Champion 100 (www.brandchampion100.com) identifying the Top 100 Brand Champions of 2011, including Brand Champions, Rising Stars, Legends and Brand Chumps. The BC 100 list is comprised of individuals who truly understand and embrace the power of a brand (the Brand Chumps list is comprised of those who clearly don’t.) This list features such people as: Steve Jobs (Legend), Tiger Woods (Brand Chump), Aaron Patzer, the founder of Mynt (Rising Star), and Daniel Hesse, the CEO of Sprint(Brand Champion). Whether leaders of an organization or individuals managing their personal brand, they take responsibility for developing a brand that effectively communicates who they are.\n\nDo you have an effective Brand Champion in your organization? If so, submit them to our site by clicking <a href=\"http://brancdchampion100.com\">here</a>, and they could be rocgnized on our list of top Brand Champions.  To learn more about developing your brand and your internal brand champions, please give Brand Iron a call.','Do you effectively champion your brand?','','inherit','closed','open','','1601-autosave','','','2012-03-15 23:30:27','2012-03-15 23:30:27','',1601,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1601-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1605,1,'2012-03-15 23:18:06','2012-03-15 23:18:06','A Company’s greatest asset is its brand. But without a true Brand Champion emanating your brand, brand success can be elusive. Brand Iron just launched Brand Champion 100 (www.brandchampion100.com) identifying the Top 100 Brand Champions of 2011, including Brand Champions, Rising Stars, Legends and Brand Chumps. The BC 100 list is comprised of individuals who truly understand and embrace the power of a brand (the Brand Chumps list is comprised of those who clearly don’t.) Whether leaders of an organization or individuals managing their personal brand, they take responsibility for developing a brand that effectively communicates who they are.\r\n\r\nDo you have an effective Brand Champion in your organization? If so, submit them to our site by clicking <a href=\"http://brancdchampion100.com\">here</a>, and they could be rocgnized on our list of top Brand Champions.  To learn more about developing your brand and your internal brand champions, please give Brand Iron a call.','Do you effectively champion your brand?','','inherit','closed','open','','1601-revision-3','','','2012-03-15 23:18:06','2012-03-15 23:18:06','',1601,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1601-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1623,2,'2012-03-30 21:58:45','2012-03-30 21:58:45','What are we to make of Facebook’s Timeline? Ever since its inception in 2004, Facebook has routinely introduced new changes, some which have been well received, some which received criticism, but most of which were eventually accepted by the general social networking community and eventually forgotten. Timeline, on the other hand, seems to have shaken up the online community in a more profound way than ever before.\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1625\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know-300x220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"220\" /></a>Facebook Timeline, for those of you who are not familiar, is a revolutionary new user interface which Mark Zuckerberg introduced in September, 2011. Timeline aims to “Tell your life story with a new kind of profile”. Just as before, Facebook’s new creation essentially seeks to share your stories, and highlight your most memorable posts, photos, and life events, the difference being that now, all of that content is neatly arranged by chronological order, making it easy and convenient for you to see what exactly you had to say to the social networking community in, say, June, 2008, or any other time for that matter. You may be thinking, “that sounds great!”, and initially many people did, and still do. The main concern is that this new method of delivery included an entirely new method of presentation, which didn’t sit well with a significant portion of Facebook’s users.  In other words, to some people, it just didn’t look or feel the same.\r\n\r\nWhile it is to be expected that any change which affects an estimated 845 million people will be met with at least some level of initial resistance, the drastic shift to Facebook Timeline really seemed to rub some people the wrong way, resulting with some users threatening to part ways with the online giant, and many other actually following through.\r\nMost users, however, complained for a day or two, and then moved on with their lives, and many have now come to prefer Timeline to some of the older formats. As one user said, “At first I didn’t really care for Timeline, but once I got used to it on my personal profile I switched the business page over and have adapted to it quickly.\" Hopefully, more users will come around as time goes on, because Facebook currently has no plans to switch back to its older format and it appears that Timeline is here to stay.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1624\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>What does this mean for marketers and businesses using Facebook to communicate to their customer base?</strong>\r\n\r\nMany people wonder will this layout transition be more of a Myspace trap or will it increase business engagement? The switch to a graphic focused page may take away from the clean, streamlined look that many users have become accustomed too. Consistent feedback on Timeline for businesses sites that it feels more \"pushy\" and like users are being bombarded by the brand instead of interacting with the information. It will be interesting to see how businesses and users receive the switch after it becomes mandatory for all businesses this coming week.','The Switch to Facebook Timeline, For Better or Worse','','publish','closed','open','','the-switch-to-facebook-timeline-for-better-or-worse','','','2012-04-03 15:23:23','2012-04-03 15:23:23','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1623',0,'post','',0),(1609,1,'2012-03-15 23:31:53','2012-03-15 23:31:53','A Company’s greatest asset is its brand. But without a true Brand Champion emanating your brand, brand success can be elusive. Brand Iron just launched Brand Champion 100 (www.brandchampion100.com) identifying the Top 100 Brand Champions of 2011, including Brand Champions, Rising Stars, Legends and Brand Chumps. The BC 100 list is comprised of individuals who truly understand and embrace the power of a brand (the Brand Chumps list is comprised of those who clearly don’t.) This list features such people as: Steve Jobs (Legend), Tiger Woods (Brand Chump), Aaron Patzer, the founder of Mynt (Rising Star), and Daniel Hesse, the CEO of Sprint(Brand Champion). Whether leaders of an organization or individuals managing their personal brand, they take responsibility for developing a brand that effectively communicates who they are.\r\n\r\nDo you have an effective Brand Champion in your organization? If so, submit them to our site by clicking <a href=\"http://brancdchampion100.com\">here</a>, and they could be rocgnized on our list of top Brand Champions.  To learn more about developing your brand and your internal brand champions, please give Brand Iron a call.','Do you effectively champion your brand?','','inherit','closed','open','','1601-revision-4','','','2012-03-15 23:31:53','2012-03-15 23:31:53','',1601,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1601-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1610,1,'2012-03-20 20:48:07','2012-03-20 20:48:07','A Company’s greatest asset is its brand. But without a true Brand Champion emanating your brand, brand success can be elusive. Brand Iron just launched Brand Champion 100 (www.brandchampion100.com) identifying the Top 100 Brand Champions of 2011, including Brand Champions, Rising Stars, Legends and Brand Chumps. The BC 100 list is comprised of individuals who truly understand and embrace the power of a brand (the Brand Chumps list is comprised of those who clearly don’t.) This list features such people as: Steve Jobs (Legend), Tiger Woods (Brand Chump), Aaron Patzer, the founder of Mynt (Rising Star), and Daniel Hesse, the CEO of Sprint(Brand Champion). Whether leaders of an organization or individuals managing their personal brand, they take responsibility for developing a brand that effectively communicates who they are.\r\n\r\nDo you have an effective Brand Champion in your organization? If so, submit them to our site by clicking <a href=\"http://brandchampion100.com\">here</a>, and they could be rocgnized on our list of top Brand Champions.  To learn more about developing your brand and your internal brand champions, please give Brand Iron a call.','Do you effectively champion your brand?','','inherit','closed','open','','1601-revision-5','','','2012-03-20 20:48:07','2012-03-20 20:48:07','',1601,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1601-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1612,1,'2011-09-13 06:59:04','2011-09-13 06:59:04','As the Creative Director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development including the designing of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','publish','closed','open','','marcus-fitzgibbons','','','2013-04-15 15:07:52','2013-04-15 15:07:52','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1612',0,'post','',0),(1613,1,'2012-03-23 15:15:33','2012-03-23 15:15:33','','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision','','','2012-03-23 15:15:33','2012-03-23 15:15:33','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1614,1,'2012-03-23 15:17:04','2012-03-23 15:17:04','Coming Soon','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-2','','','2012-03-23 15:17:04','2012-03-23 15:17:04','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1615,1,'2012-11-09 18:45:49','2012-11-09 18:45:49','As the Creative Director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development including the designing of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-autosave','','','2012-11-09 18:45:49','2012-11-09 18:45:49','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1616,1,'2012-03-23 15:17:18','2012-03-23 15:17:18','Coming Soon','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-3','','','2012-03-23 15:17:18','2012-03-23 15:17:18','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1620,1,'2012-03-23 15:18:42','2012-03-23 15:18:42','Coming Soon','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-4','','','2012-03-23 15:18:42','2012-03-23 15:18:42','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1621,1,'2012-03-23 15:23:21','2012-03-23 15:23:21','As an art director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development, including the design of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owing a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-5','','','2012-03-23 15:23:21','2012-03-23 15:23:21','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1622,1,'2012-03-23 15:24:18','2012-03-23 15:24:18','As an art director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development, including the design of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-6','','','2012-03-23 15:24:18','2012-03-23 15:24:18','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1624,2,'2012-03-30 21:48:51','2012-03-30 21:48:51','','facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds','','inherit','closed','open','','facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds','','','2012-03-30 21:48:51','2012-03-30 21:48:51','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1625,2,'2012-03-30 21:48:52','2012-03-30 21:48:52','','Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know','','inherit','closed','open','','facebook-timeline-what-marketers-need-to-know','','','2012-03-30 21:48:52','2012-03-30 21:48:52','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1626,2,'2012-03-30 21:57:56','2012-03-30 21:57:56','What are we to make of Facebook’s Timeline? Ever since its inception in 2004, Facebook has routinely introduced new changes, some which have been well received, some which received criticism, but most of which were eventually accepted by the general social networking community and eventually forgotten. Timeline, on the other hand, seems to have shaken up the online community in a more profound way than ever before.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1624\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"300\" /></a>Facebook Timeline, for those of you who are not familiar, is a revolutionary new user interface which Mark Zuckerberg introduced in September, 2011. Timeline aims to “Tell your life story with a new kind of profile”. Just as before, Facebook’s new creation essentially seeks to share your stories, and highlight your most memorable posts, photos, and life events, the difference being that now, all of that content is neatly arranged by chronological order, making it easy and convenient for you to see what exactly you had to say to the social networking community in, say, June, 2008, or any other time for that matter. You may be thinking, “that sounds great!”, and initially many people did, and still do. The main concern is that this new method of delivery included an entirely new method of presentation, which didn’t sit well with a significant portion of Facebook’s users.  In other words, to some people, it just didn’t look or feel the same.\n\nWhile it is to be expected that any change which affects an estimated 845 million people will be met with at least some level of initial resistance, the drastic shift to Facebook Timeline really seemed to rub some people the wrong way, resulting with some users threatening to part ways with the online giant, and many other actually following through. <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1625\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know-300x220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"220\" /></a>Most users, however, complained for a day or two, and then moved on with their lives, and many have now come to prefer Timeline to some of the older formats. As one user said, “At first I didn’t really care for Timeline, but once I got used to it on my personal profile I switched the business page over and have adapted to it quickly.\" Hopefully, more users will come around as time goes on, because Facebook currently has no plans to switch back to its older format and it appears that Timeline is here to stay.\n\nWhat does this mean for marketers and businesses using Facebook to communicate to their customer base? Many people wonder will this layout transition be more of a Myspace trap or will it increase business engagement? The switch to a graphic focused page may take away from the clean, streamlined look that many users have become accustomed too. Consistent feedback on Timeline for businesses sites that it feels more \"pushy\" and like users are being bombarded by the brand instead of interacting with the information. It will be interesting to see how businesses and users receive the switch after it becomes mandatory for all businesses this co','The Switch to Facebook Timeline, For Better or Worse','','inherit','closed','open','','1623-revision','','','2012-03-30 21:57:56','2012-03-30 21:57:56','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1623-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1627,2,'2012-03-30 21:58:45','2012-03-30 21:58:45','What are we to make of Facebook’s Timeline? Ever since its inception in 2004, Facebook has routinely introduced new changes, some which have been well received, some which received criticism, but most of which were eventually accepted by the general social networking community and eventually forgotten. Timeline, on the other hand, seems to have shaken up the online community in a more profound way than ever before.\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1625\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know-300x220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"220\" /></a>Facebook Timeline, for those of you who are not familiar, is a revolutionary new user interface which Mark Zuckerberg introduced in September, 2011. Timeline aims to “Tell your life story with a new kind of profile”. Just as before, Facebook’s new creation essentially seeks to share your stories, and highlight your most memorable posts, photos, and life events, the difference being that now, all of that content is neatly arranged by chronological order, making it easy and convenient for you to see what exactly you had to say to the social networking community in, say, June, 2008, or any other time for that matter. You may be thinking, “that sounds great!”, and initially many people did, and still do. The main concern is that this new method of delivery included an entirely new method of presentation, which didn’t sit well with a significant portion of Facebook’s users.  In other words, to some people, it just didn’t look or feel the same.\r\n\r\nWhile it is to be expected that any change which affects an estimated 845 million people will be met with at least some level of initial resistance, the drastic shift to Facebook Timeline really seemed to rub some people the wrong way, resulting with some users threatening to part ways with the online giant, and many other actually following through.\r\nMost users, however, complained for a day or two, and then moved on with their lives, and many have now come to prefer Timeline to some of the older formats. As one user said, “At first I didn’t really care for Timeline, but once I got used to it on my personal profile I switched the business page over and have adapted to it quickly.\" Hopefully, more users will come around as time goes on, because Facebook currently has no plans to switch back to its older format and it appears that Timeline is here to stay.\r\n\r\nWhat does this mean for marketers and businesses using Facebook to communicate to <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1624\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"300\" /></a>their customer base? Many people wonder will this layout transition be more of a Myspace trap or will it increase business engagement? The switch to a graphic focused page may take away from the clean, streamlined look that many users have become accustomed too. Consistent feedback on Timeline for businesses sites that it feels more \"pushy\" and like users are being bombarded by the brand instead of interacting with the information. It will be interesting to see how businesses and users receive the switch after it becomes mandatory for all businesses this coming week.','The Switch to Facebook Timeline, For Better or Worse','','inherit','closed','open','','1623-revision-2','','','2012-03-30 21:58:45','2012-03-30 21:58:45','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1623-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1628,2,'2012-03-30 21:59:50','2012-03-30 21:59:50','What are we to make of Facebook’s Timeline? Ever since its inception in 2004, Facebook has routinely introduced new changes, some which have been well received, some which received criticism, but most of which were eventually accepted by the general social networking community and eventually forgotten. Timeline, on the other hand, seems to have shaken up the online community in a more profound way than ever before.\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1625\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know-300x220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"220\" /></a>Facebook Timeline, for those of you who are not familiar, is a revolutionary new user interface which Mark Zuckerberg introduced in September, 2011. Timeline aims to “Tell your life story with a new kind of profile”. Just as before, Facebook’s new creation essentially seeks to share your stories, and highlight your most memorable posts, photos, and life events, the difference being that now, all of that content is neatly arranged by chronological order, making it easy and convenient for you to see what exactly you had to say to the social networking community in, say, June, 2008, or any other time for that matter. You may be thinking, “that sounds great!”, and initially many people did, and still do. The main concern is that this new method of delivery included an entirely new method of presentation, which didn’t sit well with a significant portion of Facebook’s users.  In other words, to some people, it just didn’t look or feel the same.\r\n\r\nWhile it is to be expected that any change which affects an estimated 845 million people will be met with at least some level of initial resistance, the drastic shift to Facebook Timeline really seemed to rub some people the wrong way, resulting with some users threatening to part ways with the online giant, and many other actually following through.\r\nMost users, however, complained for a day or two, and then moved on with their lives, and many have now come to prefer Timeline to some of the older formats. As one user said, “At first I didn’t really care for Timeline, but once I got used to it on my personal profile I switched the business page over and have adapted to it quickly.\" Hopefully, more users will come around as time goes on, because Facebook currently has no plans to switch back to its older format and it appears that Timeline is here to stay.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1624\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWhat does this mean for marketers and businesses using Facebook to communicate to\r\ntheir customer base? Many people wonder will this layout transition be more of a Myspace trap or will it increase business engagement? The switch to a graphic focused page may take away from the clean, streamlined look that many users have become accustomed too. Consistent feedback on Timeline for businesses sites that it feels more \"pushy\" and like users are being bombarded by the brand instead of interacting with the information. It will be interesting to see how businesses and users receive the switch after it becomes mandatory for all businesses this coming week.','The Switch to Facebook Timeline, For Better or Worse','','inherit','closed','open','','1623-revision-3','','','2012-03-30 21:59:50','2012-03-30 21:59:50','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1623-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(2904,1,'2013-06-17 17:35:35','2013-06-17 17:35:35','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2902\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2902\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-2902 alignleft\" title=\"FB\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/FB-300x174.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"174\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nBlog Entry: #Facebook\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFacebook is now using hashtags just like Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Tumblr in order to search for content and photos. The Silicon Valley social media conglomerate announced Wednesday that they have rolled out the hash tag function.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe hashtag is a tool that allows users to add the # symbol to signify a specific topic or buzz word discussed in a post, status, or photo. Using the hashtag allows the content to become searchable in an organized and categorized format.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe hashtag is useful because it brings specific conversations to the surface and can create trending information about public events, people, and topics.  Additionally, users can use the hashtag to control their audience and topic for their posts. Facebook has created these functionalities for the hashtag:\n\n&nbsp;\n<ol>\n	<li>Search for a specific hashtag from your search bar. For Example, #NBAFinals</li>\n	<li>Click on hashtags that originate on other services, such as Instagram.</li>\n	<li>Compose posts directly from the hashtag feed and search results.</li>\n</ol>\n&nbsp;\n\nFacebook has added that they will continue to release more features that help people discover more conversations around the world.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2903\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2903\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-2903\" title=\"NBA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/NBA-300x150.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"150\" /></a>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nUtilizing hashtags can be an effective marketing and branding tactic; by categorizing a topic with a hashtag it is then associated with that content. Therefore you can associate specific searchable words with your business or products with the possibility of a viral response.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nCheck out the Facebook press release here:\n\n&nbsp;\n\nhttp://newsroom.fb.com/News/633/Public-Conversations-on-Facebook','','','inherit','open','open','','2901-revision','','','2013-06-17 17:35:35','2013-06-17 17:35:35','',2901,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2901-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1631,1,'2012-04-03 15:22:49','2012-04-03 15:22:49','What are we to make of Facebook’s Timeline? Ever since its inception in 2004, Facebook has routinely introduced new changes, some which have been well received, some which received criticism, but most of which were eventually accepted by the general social networking community and eventually forgotten. Timeline, on the other hand, seems to have shaken up the online community in a more profound way than ever before.\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1625\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know-300x220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"220\" /></a>Facebook Timeline, for those of you who are not familiar, is a revolutionary new user interface which Mark Zuckerberg introduced in September, 2011. Timeline aims to “Tell your life story with a new kind of profile”. Just as before, Facebook’s new creation essentially seeks to share your stories, and highlight your most memorable posts, photos, and life events, the difference being that now, all of that content is neatly arranged by chronological order, making it easy and convenient for you to see what exactly you had to say to the social networking community in, say, June, 2008, or any other time for that matter. You may be thinking, “that sounds great!”, and initially many people did, and still do. The main concern is that this new method of delivery included an entirely new method of presentation, which didn’t sit well with a significant portion of Facebook’s users.  In other words, to some people, it just didn’t look or feel the same.\n\nWhile it is to be expected that any change which affects an estimated 845 million people will be met with at least some level of initial resistance, the drastic shift to Facebook Timeline really seemed to rub some people the wrong way, resulting with some users threatening to part ways with the online giant, and many other actually following through.\nMost users, however, complained for a day or two, and then moved on with their lives, and many have now come to prefer Timeline to some of the older formats. As one user said, “At first I didn’t really care for Timeline, but once I got used to it on my personal profile I switched the business page over and have adapted to it quickly.\" Hopefully, more users will come around as time goes on, because Facebook currently has no plans to switch back to its older format and it appears that Timeline is here to stay.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1624\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"300\" /></a>\n\n<strong>What does this mean for marketers and businesses using Facebook to communicate to their customer base?</strong>\n\nMany people wonder will this layout transition be more of a Myspace trap or will it increase business engagement? The switch to a graphic focused page may take away from the clean, streamlined look that many users have become accustomed too. Consistent feedback on Timeline for businesses sites that it feels more \"pushy\" and like users are being bombarded by the brand instead of interacting with the information. It will be interesting to see how businesses and users receive the switch after it becomes mandatory for all businesses this coming week.','The Switch to Facebook Timeline, For Better or Worse','','inherit','closed','open','','1623-autosave','','','2012-04-03 15:22:49','2012-04-03 15:22:49','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1623-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1648,1,'2012-04-19 03:35:07','2012-04-19 03:35:07','','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision','','','2012-04-19 03:35:07','2012-04-19 03:35:07','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1633,1,'2012-03-30 22:00:31','2012-03-30 22:00:31','What are we to make of Facebook’s Timeline? Ever since its inception in 2004, Facebook has routinely introduced new changes, some which have been well received, some which received criticism, but most of which were eventually accepted by the general social networking community and eventually forgotten. Timeline, on the other hand, seems to have shaken up the online community in a more profound way than ever before.\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1625\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Facebook-Timeline-What-Marketers-Need-to-Know-300x220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"220\" /></a>Facebook Timeline, for those of you who are not familiar, is a revolutionary new user interface which Mark Zuckerberg introduced in September, 2011. Timeline aims to “Tell your life story with a new kind of profile”. Just as before, Facebook’s new creation essentially seeks to share your stories, and highlight your most memorable posts, photos, and life events, the difference being that now, all of that content is neatly arranged by chronological order, making it easy and convenient for you to see what exactly you had to say to the social networking community in, say, June, 2008, or any other time for that matter. You may be thinking, “that sounds great!”, and initially many people did, and still do. The main concern is that this new method of delivery included an entirely new method of presentation, which didn’t sit well with a significant portion of Facebook’s users.  In other words, to some people, it just didn’t look or feel the same.\r\n\r\nWhile it is to be expected that any change which affects an estimated 845 million people will be met with at least some level of initial resistance, the drastic shift to Facebook Timeline really seemed to rub some people the wrong way, resulting with some users threatening to part ways with the online giant, and many other actually following through.\r\nMost users, however, complained for a day or two, and then moved on with their lives, and many have now come to prefer Timeline to some of the older formats. As one user said, “At first I didn’t really care for Timeline, but once I got used to it on my personal profile I switched the business page over and have adapted to it quickly.\" Hopefully, more users will come around as time goes on, because Facebook currently has no plans to switch back to its older format and it appears that Timeline is here to stay.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1624\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/facebook-timeline-fc3b6retag_mcds-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"240\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<strong>What does this mean for marketers and businesses using Facebook to communicate to their customer base?</strong>\r\n\r\nMany people wonder will this layout transition be more of a Myspace trap or will it increase business engagement? The switch to a graphic focused page may take away from the clean, streamlined look that many users have become accustomed too. Consistent feedback on Timeline for businesses sites that it feels more \"pushy\" and like users are being bombarded by the brand instead of interacting with the information. It will be interesting to see how businesses and users receive the switch after it becomes mandatory for all businesses this coming week.','The Switch to Facebook Timeline, For Better or Worse','','inherit','closed','open','','1623-revision-4','','','2012-03-30 22:00:31','2012-03-30 22:00:31','',1623,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1623-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1634,1,'2012-04-03 19:21:34','2012-04-03 19:21:34','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters</a>- \"Branding agency recognizes top brand champions in business, politics, sports and entertainment\"\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\">Bloomberg Businessweek</a>- \"Brand Iron Launches \'Brand Champion 100\' List\"\r\n\r\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\r\n\r\n<a style=\"line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','publish','closed','open','','brandchampion100-makes-big-headlines','','','2012-04-03 19:31:52','2012-04-03 19:31:52','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1634',0,'post','',0),(1635,1,'2012-04-03 19:20:41','2012-04-03 19:20:41','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters </a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\n\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\n\n<a href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\">Bloomberg Businessweek </a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','inherit','closed','open','','1634-revision','','','2012-04-03 19:20:41','2012-04-03 19:20:41','',1634,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1634-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1636,1,'2012-04-03 19:29:31','2012-04-03 19:29:31','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters</a>- \"Branding agency recognizes top brand champions in business, politics, sports and entertainment\"\n\n<a style=\"color: #ff4b33; line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\">Bloomberg Businessweek</a>- \"Brand Iron Launches \'Brand Champion 100\' List\"\n\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\n\n<a style=\"line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','inherit','closed','open','','1634-autosave','','','2012-04-03 19:29:31','2012-04-03 19:29:31','',1634,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1634-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1637,1,'2012-04-03 19:21:34','2012-04-03 19:21:34','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\">Bloomberg Businessweek </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','inherit','closed','open','','1634-revision-2','','','2012-04-03 19:21:34','2012-04-03 19:21:34','',1634,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1634-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1638,1,'2012-04-03 19:29:46','2012-04-03 19:29:46','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters</a>- \"Branding agency recognizes top brand champions in business, politics, sports and entertainment\"\r\n\r\n<a style=\"color: #ff4b33; line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\">Bloomberg Businessweek</a>- \"Brand Iron Launches \'Brand Champion 100\' List\"\r\n\r\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\r\n\r\n<a style=\"line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','inherit','closed','open','','1634-revision-3','','','2012-04-03 19:29:46','2012-04-03 19:29:46','',1634,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1634-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1639,1,'2012-04-03 19:30:17','2012-04-03 19:30:17','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters</a>- \"Branding agency recognizes top brand champions in business, politics, sports and entertainment\"\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #ff4b33; line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\"><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\">Bloomberg Businessweek</span></a></span>- \"Brand Iron Launches \'Brand Champion 100\' List\"\r\n\r\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\r\n\r\n<a style=\"line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','inherit','closed','open','','1634-revision-4','','','2012-04-03 19:30:17','2012-04-03 19:30:17','',1634,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1634-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1640,1,'2012-04-03 19:30:29','2012-04-03 19:30:29','<a href=\"http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/19/idUS213782+19-Mar-2012+PRN20120319\">Reuters</a>- \"Branding agency recognizes top brand champions in business, politics, sports and entertainment\"\r\n\r\n<span style=\"color: #000000;\"><a style=\"color: #ff4b33; line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://tinyurl.com/86eeygf\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Bloomberg Businessweek</span></a></span>- \"Brand Iron Launches \'Brand Champion 100\' List\"\r\n\r\n<a href=\" http://www.businessreviewusa.com/press_releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list\">Business Review USA</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-2012-03-19\">MarketWatch </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/prnewswire/press_releases/Colorado/2012/03/19/LA72868\">Denver Business Journal </a>\r\n\r\n<a style=\"line-height: 24px;\" href=\"http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list-143391346.html\">PR Newswire </a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.thestreet.com/story/11461728/2/brand-iron-launches-brand-champion-100-list.html\">The Street </a>','BrandChampion100 Makes Big Headlines!! ','','inherit','closed','open','','1634-revision-5','','','2012-04-03 19:30:29','2012-04-03 19:30:29','',1634,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1634-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1647,1,'2011-09-13 06:58:55','2011-09-13 06:58:55','Joseph has a passion for problem solving which is fueled by a never-ending supply of caffeine and cravings for sushi. Joe is a master at Network Engineering and has extensive LAMP stack knowledge. When he\'s not riding his bike into work or watching hockey you can find him focused on tailoring code for a client\'s website or content management system.','Joseph Rajewski','','publish','closed','open','','joseph-rajewski','','','2013-08-21 17:11:04','2013-08-21 17:11:04','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1647',0,'post','',0),(1643,1,'2012-04-06 21:32:00','2012-04-06 21:32:00','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Brand-Champs.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1644\" title=\"Brand Champs\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Brand-Champs.jpg\" alt=\"\" /></a>','Are You Championing Your Brand?','','publish','closed','open','','are-you-championing-your-brand','','','2012-04-06 21:32:00','2012-04-06 21:32:00','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1643',0,'post','',0),(1644,1,'2012-04-06 21:30:47','2012-04-06 21:30:47','','Brand Champs','Forging Brands and Driving Revenue','inherit','closed','open','','brand-champs','','','2012-04-06 21:30:47','2012-04-06 21:30:47','',1643,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Brand-Champs.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1645,1,'2012-04-06 21:30:18','2012-04-06 21:30:18','','Are You Championing Your Brand?','','inherit','closed','open','','1643-revision','','','2012-04-06 21:30:18','2012-04-06 21:30:18','',1643,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1643-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1646,1,'2012-04-19 03:30:32','2012-04-19 03:30:32','','MF Head Shot','','inherit','closed','open','','mf-head-shot','','','2012-04-19 03:30:32','2012-04-19 03:30:32','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/MF-Head-Shot.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1649,1,'2012-04-19 03:35:13','2012-04-19 03:35:13','','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-2','','','2012-04-19 03:35:13','2012-04-19 03:35:13','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1650,1,'2012-04-19 03:39:03','2012-04-19 03:39:03','','JR Head Shot','','inherit','closed','open','','jr-head-shot','','','2012-04-19 03:39:03','2012-04-19 03:39:03','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/JR-Head-Shot.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1651,1,'2012-04-19 03:35:18','2012-04-19 03:35:18','','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-3','','','2012-04-19 03:35:18','2012-04-19 03:35:18','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1652,1,'2012-04-19 03:39:25','2012-04-19 03:39:25','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-4','','','2012-04-19 03:39:25','2012-04-19 03:39:25','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1653,1,'2012-04-19 03:40:44','2012-04-19 03:40:44','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-5','','','2012-04-19 03:40:44','2012-04-19 03:40:44','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1691,1,'2012-05-01 15:22:12','2012-05-01 15:22:12','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/kevinsystrom-instagram.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1692\" title=\"kevinsystrom-instagram\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/kevinsystrom-instagram-213x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"213\" height=\"300\" /></a>Kevin Systrom of Instagram- Instagram Co-founder and CEO Kevin Systrom has taken the mobile software industry by storm. The free photo sharing program has changed the way that we snap, edit, and share the photographs taken on our mobile devices. Facebook has taken notice as well, recently purchasing Instagram for a cool $1 billion. Know of a Brand Champion in your company, or want to know what it takes to become a brand champ? Visit our nationally recognized site: <a href=\"http://brandchampion100.com/\">http://brandchampion100.com/</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Announcing April\'s Brand Champion','','publish','closed','open','','announcing-aprils-brand-champion','','','2012-05-01 15:22:33','2012-05-01 15:22:33','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1691',0,'post','',0),(1655,1,'2012-04-19 03:40:55','2012-04-19 03:40:55','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-6','','','2012-04-19 03:40:55','2012-04-19 03:40:55','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1656,1,'2012-04-19 03:56:52','2012-04-19 03:56:52','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-7','','','2012-04-19 03:56:52','2012-04-19 03:56:52','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1659,1,'2013-02-11 17:06:56','2013-02-11 17:06:56','As the official Brand Iron mascot, Patches works tirelessly to maintain the agency’s high level of morale and team spirit. She high-fives for quality design concepts and flips for creative brand strategy, (as long as we keep the treats coming.) When she isn’t running laps around the office, you can find her taking turns with her second in command, Beastly the boxer, keeping a keen watch of the front door.','Patches','','inherit','closed','open','','1261-autosave','','','2013-02-11 17:06:56','2013-02-11 17:06:56','',1261,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1261-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(2907,1,'2013-06-17 17:35:41','2013-06-17 17:35:41','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2902\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2902\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-2902 alignleft\" title=\"FB\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/FB-300x174.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"174\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nBlog Entry: #Facebook\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFacebook is now using hashtags just like Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Tumblr in order to search for content and photos. The Silicon Valley social media conglomerate announced Wednesday that they have rolled out the hash tag function.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe hashtag is a tool that allows users to add the # symbol to signify a specific topic or buzz word discussed in a post, status, or photo. Using the hashtag allows the content to become searchable in an organized and categorized format.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe hashtag is useful because it brings specific conversations to the surface and can create trending information about public events, people, and topics.  Additionally, users can use the hashtag to control their audience and topic for their posts. Facebook has created these functionalities for the hashtag:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>Search for a specific hashtag from your search bar. For Example, #NBAFinals</li>\r\n	<li>Click on hashtags that originate on other services, such as Instagram.</li>\r\n	<li>Compose posts directly from the hashtag feed and search results.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFacebook has added that they will continue to release more features that help people discover more conversations around the world.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/?attachment_id=2903\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-2903\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-2903\" title=\"NBA\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/NBA-300x150.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nUtilizing hashtags can be an effective marketing and branding tactic; by categorizing a topic with a hashtag it is then associated with that content. Therefore you can associate specific searchable words with your business or products with the possibility of a viral response.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nCheck out the Facebook press release here:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nhttp://newsroom.fb.com/News/633/Public-Conversations-on-Facebook','','','inherit','open','open','','2901-revision-4','','','2013-06-17 17:35:41','2013-06-17 17:35:41','',2901,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2901-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1968,2,'2012-07-12 19:15:22','2012-07-12 19:15:22','brand dilution, brand stretching, brand extension, Virgin Records, Virgin Airlines','virgin_brand_stretching','','inherit','closed','open','','virgin_brand_stretching','','','2012-07-12 19:15:22','2012-07-12 19:15:22','',1965,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/virgin_brand_stretching.gif',0,'attachment','image/gif',0),(1969,2,'2012-07-12 19:13:34','2012-07-12 19:13:34','Every company, in every industry, should consistently revisit the architecture of their brand. What parts of your brand are driving revenue for your company and which aren’t??We looked at 5 situations where bad branding practices occurred and explained what you can learn from each of them.\n<ol>\n	<li>The Spandex Rule of Branding- This is definitely one of our personal favorite rules of Branding: just because you can, doesn’t mean you should! We have seen this done poorly with companies like Special K, whose name appears on everything from bottled water and protein shakes to cereal bars. We have also seen this dilution with the Virgin brand, extending themselves every industry without discrimination from casinos and airline to healthcare service. One size does not always fit all, sometimes smacking your logo on everything under the sun only adds to brand dilution.</li>\n	<li>Shut a Window to Open a Door- Are you still arguing with your kids on whether your father’s Oldsmobile is still cool? Products have lifecycles and some brands deserve to die. It can be a very emotional decision to retire a brand, but sometimes that is the best move to free up resources for a new, more promising brand.</li>\n	<li>Less is More- Have you ever been flipping through a magazine and come across an article with a company name, brand name, parent brand, partner or subpartner name and a new product flavor all crammed onto one page? Be clear and concise so your target market knows what message you are trying to convey. A “TM” doesn’t need to be placed after every product feature, unless you have the next Heavenly Bed or Beats Headphones.</li>\n	<li>iMarketing, iBranding, iEverything- Even Apple has to think carefully about their product names to avoid brand proliferation. Apple started using the product name of “i” to separate the iPod from their product line of computers that had the preceding word “Mac”. The iPod could have easily been named the MacPod (and been far less successful), but Apple very strategically created distance from its computer business by renaming the product line proving to be one of the most successful ideas in product history.</li>\n	<li>Transaction Branding, what to do when a merger or acquisition happens- When two entities combine, sometimes one or both names must be dropped to avoid redundancy. Examples of this are Sprint and Nextel, going to just Sprint in 2007, or AT&amp;T and Cingular going to just AT&amp;T in 2005. However, in some cases both Brands’ names have such strong Brand equity that dropping a name would hurt the overall entity. We saw this with Whirlpool-Maytag.</li>\n</ol>','5 Reasons Why You Should Revisit Your Brand Architecture','','inherit','closed','open','','1965-revision','','','2012-07-12 19:13:34','2012-07-12 19:13:34','',1965,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1965-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(2763,1,'2013-04-15 15:06:48','2013-04-15 15:06:48','As the Creative Director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development including the designing of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','open','open','','1612-revision-11','','','2013-04-15 15:06:48','2013-04-15 15:06:48','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1666,1,'2012-01-13 01:33:53','2012-01-13 01:33:53','Kaitlyn’s “go-getter” attitude for managing brands makes her an integral and exuberant part of the Brand Management team. Although she holds the record for messiest office, you’d be hard pressed to walk in without being greeted by her pearly whites. Whether she’s writing web copy, creating a Power Point presentation or choosing paper for business cards, you can catch this Colorado girl working away to the tunes of her favorite country songs.','Kaitlyn Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','144-revision-5','','','2012-01-13 01:33:53','2012-01-13 01:33:53','',144,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/144-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1668,1,'2012-01-13 01:33:34','2012-01-13 01:33:34','As Founder and CEO, Michael serves as the key component in linking all three points of Brand Iron’s holistic triangle: Sales/Marketing/Operations. Michael’s holistic ideology blends well with the rest of the team’s ability to bring vision to reality. As a result, every aspect of management and client services that delivers results. Known as a “whirlwind” -- both on his bicycle and in the office – Michael passionately follows every one of his projects to the very end of the trail.','Michael Doyle','','inherit','closed','open','','148-revision-6','','','2012-01-13 01:33:34','2012-01-13 01:33:34','',148,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/148-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1669,1,'2012-04-19 14:09:25','2012-04-19 14:09:25','As Founder and CEO, Michael serves as the key component in linking all three points of Brand Iron’s holistic triangle: Sales/Marketing/Operations. Michael’s holistic ideology blends well with the rest of the team’s ability to bring vision to reality. As a result, every aspect of management and client services that delivers results. Known as a “whirlwind” -- both on his bicycle and in the office – Michael passionately follows every one of his projects to the very end of the trail.','Michael Doyle','','inherit','closed','open','','148-revision-7','','','2012-04-19 14:09:25','2012-04-19 14:09:25','',148,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/148-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1670,1,'2012-01-13 01:33:41','2012-01-13 01:33:41','Jim’s role in the growth and evolution of Brand Iron is focused on building overall operational efficiencies and ensuring the agency delivers a positive client service experience. He also leads the public relations efforts for Brand Iron’s clients and serves as a member of the agency’s executive leadership teams. Jim’s biggest contribution, however, is identifying hysterical, “must-see” (in his mind) YouTube video’s during staff meetings.','Jim Miller','','inherit','closed','open','','147-revision-5','','','2012-01-13 01:33:41','2012-01-13 01:33:41','',147,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/147-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(2762,1,'2012-06-07 19:22:22','2012-06-07 19:22:22','Joseph has a passion for problem solving which is fueled by a never-ending supply of caffeine and cravings for sushi. Joe is a master at Network Engineering and has extensive LAMP stack knowledge. When he\'s not riding his bike into work or watching hockey you can find him focused on tailoring code for a client\'s website or content management system.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','open','open','','1647-revision-14','','','2012-06-07 19:22:22','2012-06-07 19:22:22','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(2761,1,'2012-11-09 18:46:25','2012-11-09 18:46:25','As the Creative Director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development including the designing of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','open','open','','1612-revision-10','','','2012-11-09 18:46:25','2012-11-09 18:46:25','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1966,2,'2012-07-12 19:15:20','2012-07-12 19:15:20','','special k','','inherit','closed','open','','special-k','','','2012-07-12 19:15:20','2012-07-12 19:15:20','',1965,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/special-k.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1967,2,'2012-07-12 19:15:21','2012-07-12 19:15:21','Transaction branding, sprint, nextel, JPMorgan Chase, FedEx Kinko\'s, mergers and acquisitions, M&amp;A','sprint-nextel-01','','inherit','closed','open','','sprint-nextel-01','','','2012-07-12 19:15:21','2012-07-12 19:15:21','',1965,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/sprint-nextel-01.gif',0,'attachment','image/gif',0),(1676,1,'2012-04-19 14:06:05','2012-04-19 14:06:05','Kaitlyn’s “go-getter” attitude for managing brands makes her an integral and exuberant part of the Brand Management team. Although she holds the record for messiest office, you’d be hard pressed to walk in without being greeted by her pearly whites. Whether she’s writing web copy, creating a Power Point presentation or choosing paper for business cards, you can catch this Colorado girl working away to the tunes of her favorite country songs.','Kaitlyn Anderson','','inherit','closed','open','','144-revision-6','','','2012-04-19 14:06:05','2012-04-19 14:06:05','',144,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/144-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(2900,1,'2013-07-30 16:40:01','2013-07-30 16:40:01','As a native Texan and Auburn University grad, Alyssa brings with her a passion for marketing and a thirst for adventure. After spending several years honing her skills in the hustle and bustle of New York City, she is happily settling into the laid back Colorado lifestyle. When she’s not busy writing copy or working alongside the creative team, you can find her riding her cruiser around town, hiking the beautiful Colorado Mountains and testing out the latest and greatest fitness trends. War Eagle!','Alyssa Anderson','','inherit','open','open','','2798-autosave','','','2013-07-30 16:40:01','2013-07-30 16:40:01','',2798,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2798-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1679,1,'2012-03-23 15:26:28','2012-03-23 15:26:28','As the Art Director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development including the designing of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-7','','','2012-03-23 15:26:28','2012-03-23 15:26:28','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1680,1,'2012-04-19 14:16:13','2012-04-19 14:16:13','As the Art Director, Marcus is involved in all aspects of creative development including the designing of comprehensive branding programs, the planning and development of all high visibility design and advertising applications, and the development and documentation of corporate identity standards. Owning a black belt in Judo and one in Karate, Marcus channels his inner “Bruce Lee” to whip projects into shape on a daily basis.','Marcus Fitzgibbons','','inherit','closed','open','','1612-revision-8','','','2012-04-19 14:16:13','2012-04-19 14:16:13','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1612-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1681,1,'2012-04-19 04:02:55','2012-04-19 04:02:55','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-8','','','2012-04-19 04:02:55','2012-04-19 04:02:55','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1682,1,'2012-04-19 14:17:07','2012-04-19 14:17:07','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-9','','','2012-04-19 14:17:07','2012-04-19 14:17:07','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1683,1,'2012-04-19 14:19:44','2012-04-19 14:19:44','','MF-Head-Shot-216x198','','inherit','closed','open','','mf-head-shot-216x198','','','2012-04-19 14:19:44','2012-04-19 14:19:44','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/MF-Head-Shot-216x1981.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1684,1,'2012-04-19 14:20:44','2012-04-19 14:20:44','','MF Head Shot','','inherit','closed','open','','mf-head-shot-2','','','2012-04-19 14:20:44','2012-04-19 14:20:44','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/MF-Head-Shot1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1685,1,'2012-04-19 14:27:43','2012-04-19 14:27:43','','MF Head Shot','','inherit','closed','open','','mf-head-shot-3','','','2012-04-19 14:27:43','2012-04-19 14:27:43','',1612,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/MF-Head-Shot2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1686,1,'2012-04-19 14:17:29','2012-04-19 14:17:29','Bio coming soon.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-10','','','2012-04-19 14:17:29','2012-04-19 14:17:29','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1687,1,'2012-04-19 16:10:41','2012-04-19 16:10:41','Joseph has a passion for problem solving which is fueled by a never-ending supply of caffeine and cravings for sushi.  Joe is a master at Network Engineering and has extensive LAMP stack knowledge.  When he\'s not riding his bike into work or watching hockey you can find him focused on tailoring code for a client\'s website or content management system.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-autosave','','','2012-04-19 16:10:41','2012-04-19 16:10:41','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1688,1,'2012-04-19 16:06:19','2012-04-19 16:06:19','Joseph has a passion for problem solving which is fueled by a never-ending supply of caffiene and cravings for sushi.  Joe is a master at Network Engineering and has extensive LAMP stack knowledge.  When he\'s not riding his bike into work or watching hockey you can find him focused on tailoring code for a client\'s website or content management system.','Joseph Rajewski','','inherit','closed','open','','1647-revision-11','','','2012-04-19 16:06:19','2012-04-19 16:06:19','',1647,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1647-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1740,8,'2012-05-14 21:45:35','2012-05-14 21:45:35','[caption id=\"attachment_1741\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Customer is Always King\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nWho knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\nI guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste in a ridiculous line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for the Grocery Store Customer','','publish','closed','open','','battle-for-grocery-store-customer','','','2012-05-14 21:51:51','2012-05-14 21:51:51','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1740',0,'post','',0),(1698,16,'2012-05-04 16:44:36','2012-05-04 16:44:36','','Water lilies','','inherit','closed','open','','water-lilies','','','2012-05-04 16:44:36','2012-05-04 16:44:36','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Water-lilies.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1699,16,'2012-05-04 16:45:34','2012-05-04 16:45:34','','Winter','','inherit','closed','open','','winter','','','2012-05-04 16:45:34','2012-05-04 16:45:34','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Winter.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1771,15,'2012-05-24 21:57:47','2012-05-24 21:57:47','If you’re engaging in social media with your brand, go look at your posts. No, seriously go do it. What percentage of the posts talk about you, your company, and how awesome your products are? Then, what percentage of your social media strategy is designed to build relationships and engage your current and prospective clients?<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/percentage-of-marketers-who-curate-content-curata.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1772\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/percentage-of-marketers-who-curate-content-curata-300x227.jpg\" alt=\"Pie chart of how many people are posting content that is not solely about themselves\" width=\"300\" height=\"227\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe most effective way to execute any social media marketing strategy is to provide selfless, thoughtful content 80% of the time. When you post something, put yourself in your customer’s shoes and ask yourself if you would care. If you successfully build relationships 80% of the time, the 20% you spend selling and promoting your brand will avoid the clutter and produce results.\r\n\r\nThink of social media as an afterhours networking event. There is always “that guy” who pushes the hard sell to anyone who will listen. Don’t be this person; no one is going to “like” you. Instead, have an open and honest dialogue that shows your expertise.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pushy-sales-guy-1.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1773\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pushy-sales-guy-1-300x267.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"267\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWith this approach, you will build relationships that turn to increased business. Don’t get antsy; a commitment to relationship building will yield result.\r\n\r\n…and remember social media marketing is like butter, not just because its cheap, but because its great with other things and terrible by itself. To start getting the full impact of social media marketing, it must be paired with a larger integrated marketing program.','The 80-20 Rule: The Secret to Social Media Marketing','','publish','closed','open','','the-80-20-rule-the-secret-to-social-media-marketing','','','2012-05-24 22:05:54','2012-05-24 22:05:54','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1771',0,'post','',0),(1701,16,'2012-05-04 17:44:00','2012-05-04 17:44:00','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"32\" height=\"48\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating a marketing model that is bringing brands into the picture as well.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boom?','','publish','closed','open','','1701','','','2012-05-04 21:38:14','2012-05-04 21:38:14','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1701',0,'post','',0),(1702,16,'2012-05-04 17:03:47','2012-05-04 17:03:47','','pic 1','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-1','','','2012-05-04 17:03:47','2012-05-04 17:03:47','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1703,16,'2012-05-04 17:07:53','2012-05-04 17:07:53','','pic 2','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-2','','','2012-05-04 17:07:53','2012-05-04 17:07:53','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1704,16,'2012-05-04 17:08:27','2012-05-04 17:08:27','','pic 2','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-2-2','','','2012-05-04 17:08:27','2012-05-04 17:08:27','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1705,16,'2012-05-04 17:12:50','2012-05-04 17:12:50','','pic 3','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-3','','','2012-05-04 17:12:50','2012-05-04 17:12:50','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-3.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1706,16,'2012-05-04 17:13:39','2012-05-04 17:13:39','','pic 3','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-3-2','','','2012-05-04 17:13:39','2012-05-04 17:13:39','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-31.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1707,16,'2012-05-04 17:14:02','2012-05-04 17:14:02','','pic 3','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-3-3','','','2012-05-04 17:14:02','2012-05-04 17:14:02','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1708,16,'2012-05-04 17:20:11','2012-05-04 17:20:11','','pic 4','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-4','','','2012-05-04 17:20:11','2012-05-04 17:20:11','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-4.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1709,16,'2012-05-04 17:21:17','2012-05-04 17:21:17','','pic 4','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-4-2','','','2012-05-04 17:21:17','2012-05-04 17:21:17','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-41.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1710,16,'2012-05-04 17:22:01','2012-05-04 17:22:01','If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1704\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"180\" height=\"270\" /></a>For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\n\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\n\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\n\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\n\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-41.png\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1709\" title=\"pic 4\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-41-300x224.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Could it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\n\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision','','','2012-05-04 17:22:01','2012-05-04 17:22:01','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1711,16,'2012-05-04 17:43:51','2012-05-04 17:43:51','','pic 4','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-4-3','','','2012-05-04 17:43:51','2012-05-04 17:43:51','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-42.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(1712,16,'2012-05-04 17:42:57','2012-05-04 17:42:57','If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1704\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"180\" height=\"270\" /></a>For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-41.png\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1709\" title=\"pic 4\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-41-300x224.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Could it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-2','','','2012-05-04 17:42:57','2012-05-04 17:42:57','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1716,16,'2012-05-04 17:49:38','2012-05-04 17:49:38','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"93\" height=\"139\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-4','','','2012-05-04 17:49:38','2012-05-04 17:49:38','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1713,16,'2012-05-04 21:38:20','2012-05-04 21:38:20','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"32\" height=\"48\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating a marketing model that is bringing brands into the picture as well.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boom?','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-autosave','','','2012-05-04 21:38:20','2012-05-04 21:38:20','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1714,16,'2012-05-04 17:46:16','2012-05-04 17:46:16','','pic 2','','inherit','closed','open','','pic-2-3','','','2012-05-04 17:46:16','2012-05-04 17:46:16','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1715,16,'2012-05-04 17:44:00','2012-05-04 17:44:00','If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. <a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1704\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-21-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"180\" height=\"270\" /></a>For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-42.png\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1711\" title=\"pic 4\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-42-300x224.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"224\" /></a>Could it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-3','','','2012-05-04 17:44:00','2012-05-04 17:44:00','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1717,16,'2012-05-04 17:49:54','2012-05-04 17:49:54','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"93\" height=\"139\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boon?','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-5','','','2012-05-04 17:49:54','2012-05-04 17:49:54','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1718,16,'2012-05-04 17:52:24','2012-05-04 17:52:24','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"65\" height=\"97\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boon?','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-6','','','2012-05-04 17:52:24','2012-05-04 17:52:24','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1719,16,'2012-05-04 17:54:13','2012-05-04 17:54:13','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"32\" height=\"48\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boon?','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-7','','','2012-05-04 17:54:13','2012-05-04 17:54:13','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1720,16,'2012-05-04 17:56:17','2012-05-04 17:56:17','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"32\" height=\"48\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating an advertising model that is bringing brands into the picture as well.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boon?','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-8','','','2012-05-04 17:56:17','2012-05-04 17:56:17','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1721,16,'2012-05-04 17:57:21','2012-05-04 17:57:21','<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-1714\" title=\"pic 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-22-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"32\" height=\"48\" /></a>If you’re like most people who a.) own a smartphone or b.) follow technological trends, then you have probably become aware of a popular mobile application called Draw Something. For those of you who are not familiar, Draw Something, which was recently acquired by social-game giant Zynga, is a Pictionary-like game where players pick a word from a list of three, and then create a drawing depicting that word so that a Facebook friend can try to guess the word and award you points.\r\n\r\nSeeing how Draw Something has managed to amass 50 million downloads in five months, it is clear that Zynga has already figured out a successful formula to draw in users, and now they are incorporating a marketing model that is bringing brands into the picture as well.\r\n\r\nWith the Stanley Cup playoffs underway, the NHL decided to take advantage of this opportune time and become one of the first advertisers to buy terms related to their brand, terms such as puck, hat trick, and slap shot.\r\n\r\nIt initially appeared that players of the game welcomed<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32.png\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1707\" title=\"pic 3\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pic-32-225x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> the insertion of brand terms. After testing recognizable brands like KFC and Doritos, it appeared as though “people loved to draw the Colonel and bags of Doritos,” according to Dan Porter, Zynga’s VP of Mobile Operations.\r\n\r\nHowever, as more brands come aboard, it seems as though more users of the mobile app are being turned off. According to App Data, Draw Something’s monthly active users have declined in recent weeks, and daily users have dropped by an estimated 4 million in the last month alone.\r\n\r\nCould it be that the inclusion of these brands into Draw Something is actually leading to its demise? Some people certainly seem to think so. A recent online discussion on the social news website Digg included posts by Facebook users complaining that the once renegade social networking site, founded by a college kid in a dorm room, has become a giant, corporate marketing tool. One user writes that Facebook is becoming uncool because the people in charge are too stupid to realize that the online community doesn’t want to be “lied, sold, and marketed to, everywhere they go.”\r\n\r\nIt will be interesting to see if the minds behind Draw Something buy into this rhetoric. After all, since going public late last year, Zynga has reported that 9% of its $311.2 million fourth-quarter revenue came from advertising, and they have announced plans to introduce a system where brands will underwrite rewards for advancement within their games.\r\n\r\nWhile it might be too early to tell whether or not brands are killing the cool-factor of social technology, what is certain is that the wheels of social branding have already been set in motion.','Branding in Social Technology: Bust or Boon?','','inherit','closed','open','','1701-revision-9','','','2012-05-04 17:57:21','2012-05-04 17:57:21','',1701,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1701-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1723,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:51','2012-05-10 18:46:51','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 am </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at   <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','publish','closed','open','','brand-iron-to-host-upcoming-seminar','','','2012-05-10 19:11:18','2012-05-10 19:11:18','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1723',0,'post','',0),(1724,16,'2012-05-10 18:44:11','2012-05-10 18:44:11','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\n\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\n\nThe panelists include:\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\n\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the Glenmoor Country Club, which is located at <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision','','','2012-05-10 18:44:11','2012-05-10 18:44:11','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1725,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:12','2012-05-10 18:45:12','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\n\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\n\nThe panelists include:\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\n\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-2','','','2012-05-10 18:45:12','2012-05-10 18:45:12','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1726,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:18','2012-05-10 18:45:18','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-3','','','2012-05-10 18:45:18','2012-05-10 18:45:18','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1727,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:23','2012-05-10 18:45:23','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-4','','','2012-05-10 18:45:23','2012-05-10 18:45:23','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1728,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:26','2012-05-10 18:45:26','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-5','','','2012-05-10 18:45:26','2012-05-10 18:45:26','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1729,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:31','2012-05-10 18:45:31','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-6','','','2012-05-10 18:45:31','2012-05-10 18:45:31','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(1730,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:36','2012-05-10 18:45:36','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-7','','','2012-05-10 18:45:36','2012-05-10 18:45:36','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(1731,16,'2012-05-10 18:45:53','2012-05-10 18:45:53','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-8','','','2012-05-10 18:45:53','2012-05-10 18:45:53','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(1732,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:02','2012-05-10 18:46:02','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at       <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-9','','','2012-05-10 18:46:02','2012-05-10 18:46:02','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(1733,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:12','2012-05-10 18:46:12','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at      <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-10','','','2012-05-10 18:46:12','2012-05-10 18:46:12','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(1734,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:19','2012-05-10 18:46:19','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at     <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-11','','','2012-05-10 18:46:19','2012-05-10 18:46:19','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(1735,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:27','2012-05-10 18:46:27','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at    <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-12','','','2012-05-10 18:46:27','2012-05-10 18:46:27','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(1736,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:35','2012-05-10 18:46:35','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at   <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-13','','','2012-05-10 18:46:35','2012-05-10 18:46:35','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(1737,16,'2012-05-10 19:11:32','2012-05-10 19:11:32','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 am </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at   <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-autosave','','','2012-05-10 19:11:32','2012-05-10 19:11:32','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1738,16,'2012-05-10 18:46:51','2012-05-10 18:46:51','Tickets are on sale now for Brand Iron\'s upcoming \"Accelerating Growth Through Technology and Branding\" seminar at:  <a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fevent%2F3396152985&amp;h=EAQEcVFfB\" rel=\"nofollow nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.eventbrite.com/<wbr>event/3396152985</wbr></a>\r\n\r\nDon’t miss this seminar on how to utilize technology to champion your brand. You will leave knowing more about how to turn technology from a barrier to a catalyst of growth. Learn how to capitalize on the renaissance of the technology industry, including cloud computing, CRM systems and social media. This seminar will teach you how to use your brand and technology to get your business to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe panelists include:\r\n• Michael Doyle- CEO of the top-national branding firm, Brand Iron\r\n• Jon Hokama- Principal and Founder of Jon Hokama and Associates, LLC\r\n• Jonathan Senger- Business Technology Strategist at JTS Consulting\r\n\r\nThe seminar will be held on <strong>Tuesday, June 12, 2012</strong> at <strong>7:30 pm </strong>at the <strong>Glenmoor Country Club</strong>, which is located at   <strong>110 Glenmoor Drive, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113</strong>','Brand Iron to Host Upcoming Seminar','','inherit','closed','open','','1723-revision-14','','','2012-05-10 18:46:51','2012-05-10 18:46:51','',1723,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1723-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(1741,8,'2012-05-14 21:43:20','2012-05-14 21:43:20','','no bagger','Customer is Always King','inherit','closed','open','','no-bagger','','','2012-05-14 21:43:20','2012-05-14 21:43:20','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1742,8,'2012-05-14 21:43:44','2012-05-14 21:43:44','Who knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\n\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\n\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\n\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste In a stupid line.\n\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your Company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-revision','','','2012-05-14 21:43:44','2012-05-14 21:43:44','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1743,8,'2012-05-14 21:43:45','2012-05-14 21:43:45','Who knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste In a stupid line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your Company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-revision-2','','','2012-05-14 21:43:45','2012-05-14 21:43:45','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1744,8,'2012-05-14 21:45:35','2012-05-14 21:45:35','Who knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste in a ridiculous line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-revision-3','','','2012-05-14 21:45:35','2012-05-14 21:45:35','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1745,8,'2012-05-14 21:51:55','2012-05-14 21:51:55','[caption id=\"attachment_1741\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Customer is Always King\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nWho knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\nI guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste in a ridiculous line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for the Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-autosave','','','2012-05-14 21:51:55','2012-05-14 21:51:55','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(1746,8,'2012-05-14 21:46:04','2012-05-14 21:46:04','Who knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste in a ridiculous line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for the Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-revision-4','','','2012-05-14 21:46:04','2012-05-14 21:46:04','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1747,8,'2012-05-14 21:50:50','2012-05-14 21:50:50','Who knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste in a ridiculous line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for the Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-revision-5','','','2012-05-14 21:50:50','2012-05-14 21:50:50','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1748,8,'2012-05-14 21:51:20','2012-05-14 21:51:20','[caption id=\"attachment_1741\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"300\" caption=\"Customer is Always King\"]<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nWho knew that the battle for the everyday grocery store customer would come down to the amount of time it takes to get through checkout and whether you have to bag your own groceries or not?\r\n\r\nHaving shopped at Safeway for years, I had become accustomed to their stores and liked them. However, as time progressed their checking service have become slower and slower. In addition, it used to be that having a bagger to help you out of the store was par for the course, now getting bagging help has become like winning the lottery, it never happens.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1741\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/no-bagger-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" /></a>I guess grocery stores think that location is the only thing that matters, but in my opinion, they are wrong.\r\n\r\nMuch like how SouthWest Airlines began letting bags fly free in response to the backlash people had regarding paying for bag checking, King Soopers has now focused their entire ad campaign on how they offer faster checking and bagging. King Soopers understood that people don\'t have time or desire to wait in line to get out of the grocery store, nor do they have any interest in bagging their own groceries. It sounds pretty simple doesn\'t it?\r\n\r\nYes it is simple, but in my opinion very affective. My last couple of times getting out of Safeway had become a nightmare, and one that I honestly dreaded. My wait just to get through checking had averaged 15-20 minutes, which seems absolutely absurd to me. No wonder King Soopers went after Safeway\'s loyal following. With Safeway asking every customer to wait and waste a ridiculous amount of time just to pay for their groceries, there was a huge opportunity for King Soopers. It was time to take it to the competition and position themselves as the leader to a customer base who was dying to be served. Way to stand out King Soopers! Way to show that service still does matter, especially to those customers who don\'t have time to waste in a ridiculous line.\r\n\r\nThis is a perfect example of branding yourself so that your competition doesn’t do it for you. Don’t let your company be the next Safeway, instead champion your brand and be the King Soopers of your space.','Battle for the Grocery Store Customer','','inherit','closed','open','','1740-revision-6','','','2012-05-14 21:51:20','2012-05-14 21:51:20','',1740,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1740-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(2683,1,'2011-03-18 23:10:09','2011-03-18 23:10:09','Bio coming soon','Genna Gallegos','','publish','closed','open','','genna-gallegos','','','2013-02-11 17:07:04','2013-02-11 17:07:04','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=2683',0,'post','',0),(2684,1,'2013-02-11 17:05:38','2013-02-11 17:05:38','Bio coming soon','Genna Gallegos','','inherit','closed','open','','2683-revision','','','2013-02-11 17:05:38','2013-02-11 17:05:38','',2683,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2683-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(2685,1,'2013-02-11 17:06:09','2013-02-11 17:06:09','Bio coming soon','Genna Gallegos','','inherit','closed','open','','2683-revision-2','','','2013-02-11 17:06:09','2013-02-11 17:06:09','',2683,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/2683-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1862,16,'2012-06-06 20:39:15','2012-06-06 20:39:15','Here at Brand Iron, we are always looking to extend our reach, and never shy away from a little friendly competition, so naturally we jumped at the opportunity to participate in Social Madness. What is Social Madness, you ask? It’s a contest which measures a company’s social media growth within a predetermined time frame.\r\n\r\nHere are some of the details:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>As a business with &lt;100 employees, Brand Iron is competing within the \"Small Companies\" catagory.</li>\r\n	<li>Companies are awarded points in 2 different ways:</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>  For votes received on the Denver <a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/exclusives/socialmadness\">Social Madness</a> page</li>\r\n	<li>  For Likes and Follows received on <a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brand-Iron/96599404252\">Facebook</a>, <a href=\"https://twitter.com/#!/BrandIron\">Twitter</a>, and<a href=\"http://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-iron\"> LinkedIn</a></li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The first round of voting takes place through June 18<sup>th</sup>. At this time, the top eight\r\nColorado companies in each size category will move on to the local bracket\r\ncompetition, with weekly eliminations, tournament style.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<strong>Please help support us in one, or all, or the following ways:</strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Vote for us on the <a href=\"http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/exclusives/socialmadness\">Social Madness</a> page</li>\r\n	<li>Like us on <a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brand-Iron/96599404252\">Facebook</a></li>\r\n	<li>Follow us on <a href=\"https://twitter.com/#!/BrandIron\">Twitter</a> and <a href=\"http://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-iron\">LinkedIn</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\nOn behalf of all of Brand Iron, we truly appreciate your support!\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/i_voted_sticker3.jpg\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1872\" title=\"i_voted_sticker\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/i_voted_sticker3.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" /></a>','Vote for Brand Iron!','','publish','closed','open','','vote-for-brand-iron','','','2012-06-22 16:16:46','2012-06-22 16:16:46','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1862',0,'post','',0),(1752,16,'2012-05-17 21:09:45','2012-05-17 21:09:45','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1756\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>Sweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\r\n\r\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1762\" title=\"sweet frog 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"197\" /></a> While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\r\n\r\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','publish','closed','open','','sweet-frog-makes-a-splash-in-the-frozen-yogurt-pond','','','2012-05-18 18:06:32','2012-05-18 18:06:32','',0,'http://www.brandiron.net/?p=1752',0,'post','',0),(1753,16,'2012-05-17 20:54:24','2012-05-17 20:54:24','','sweet frog 1','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-1','','','2012-05-17 20:54:24','2012-05-17 20:54:24','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1754,16,'2012-05-17 20:55:31','2012-05-17 20:55:31','','sweet frog 1','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-1-2','','','2012-05-17 20:55:31','2012-05-17 20:55:31','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-11.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1755,16,'2012-05-17 20:56:41','2012-05-17 20:56:41','','sweet frog 1','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-1-3','','','2012-05-17 20:56:41','2012-05-17 20:56:41','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-12.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1756,16,'2012-05-17 20:57:01','2012-05-17 20:57:01','','sweet frog 1','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-1-4','','','2012-05-17 20:57:01','2012-05-17 20:57:01','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1757,16,'2012-05-17 20:54:36','2012-05-17 20:54:36','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\n\nSweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\n\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast. While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\n\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1753\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-1-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','inherit','closed','open','','1752-revision','','','2012-05-17 20:54:36','2012-05-17 20:54:36','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1752-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(1758,16,'2012-05-17 21:07:49','2012-05-17 21:07:49','','sweet frog 2','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-2','','','2012-05-17 21:07:49','2012-05-17 21:07:49','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1759,16,'2012-05-17 20:57:36','2012-05-17 20:57:36','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1756\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>Sweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\n\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast. While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\n\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','inherit','closed','open','','1752-revision-2','','','2012-05-17 20:57:36','2012-05-17 20:57:36','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1752-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(1760,16,'2012-05-17 21:08:09','2012-05-17 21:08:09','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1756\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>Sweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\r\n\r\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-2.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1758\" title=\"sweet frog 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"197\" /></a> While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\r\n\r\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','inherit','closed','open','','1752-revision-3','','','2012-05-17 21:08:09','2012-05-17 21:08:09','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1752-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(1761,16,'2012-05-17 21:08:40','2012-05-17 21:08:40','','sweet frog 2','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-2-2','','','2012-05-17 21:08:40','2012-05-17 21:08:40','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-21.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1762,16,'2012-05-17 21:09:08','2012-05-17 21:09:08','','sweet frog 2','','inherit','closed','open','','sweet-frog-2-3','','','2012-05-17 21:09:08','2012-05-17 21:09:08','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1763,16,'2012-05-17 21:08:15','2012-05-17 21:08:15','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1756\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>Sweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\r\n\r\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-2.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1758\" title=\"sweet frog 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"197\" /></a> While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\r\n\r\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','inherit','closed','open','','1752-revision-4','','','2012-05-17 21:08:15','2012-05-17 21:08:15','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1752-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(1764,16,'2012-05-17 21:09:18','2012-05-17 21:09:18','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1756\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>Sweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\r\n\r\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1762\" title=\"sweet frog 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"197\" /></a> While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\r\n\r\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','inherit','closed','open','','1752-revision-5','','','2012-05-17 21:09:18','2012-05-17 21:09:18','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1752-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(1765,16,'2012-05-18 17:50:50','2012-05-18 17:50:50','When you think of frozen yogurt it is likely that stores such as traditionally established TCBY, or hip, metro-focused Pink Berry and Red Mango come to mind. Enter Sweet Frog: a relatively new addition to the suburban fro-yo submarket, where it is making a splash and putting itself on the fast track to the top of your list.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-1756\" title=\"sweet frog 1\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-13-300x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"254\" /></a>Sweet Frog differs from other players in the frozen yogurt game in several ways. At the most basic level, all yogurt products at Sweet Frog are self-serve, which means that the customers dispense their own yogurt from of a typical selection of 16-18 flavors, and add their own toppings from a communal set of choices, many of which are often locally procured. For instance, one of their stores is located near a strawberry farm, and not only does Sweet Frog buy the local farm’s produce, but they actively promote each other as well, providing for a deep level of community engagement and participation not seen with its competition.\n\nSweet Frog’s success is part of a larger trend of growth and increased popularity within the fro-yo market. Frozen yogurt shops are springing up all over the country, from Orange Leaf in the Midwest, to Yogurtini in the Southwest and Yogurt Mountain in the Southeast.<a href=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1762\" title=\"sweet frog 2\" src=\"http://www.brandiron.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sweet-frog-22.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"197\" /></a> While competition is fierce, it is Sweet Frog’s cheerful, family-oriented atmosphere which really makes it stand out. With its bright colors, cute mascot, and store environment reminiscent of a child’s bedroom, Sweet Frog has positioned itself to provide a counterbalance to the more trendy chains. And seeing how plans are in the concept phase for both a Sweet Frog themed TV show and entertainment complex, it’s likely that the fun won’t stop with frozen treats.\n\nThrough their commitment to providing a family environment, Sweet Frog has been able to cater to a relatively underexploited suburban niche in a category that has increasingly been characterized by more upscale, urban yogurt shops marketed towards adults. For founder Derek Cha, it’s paid off, with over 60 stores being opened in just the past three years alone, and plans to raise that number to over 200 by the year’s end. So regardless of whether or not a kid-friendly, self-serve shop is your cup of yogurt, one thing is certain, Sweet Frogs are swarming suburbia.','Sweet Frog Makes a Splash in the Frozen Yogurt Pond','','inherit','closed','open','','1752-autosave','','','2012-05-18 17:50:50','2012-05-18 17:50:50','',1752,'http://www.brandiron.net/general/1752-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),