Consumer Centric + Design Thinking is a mandate

I’m a huge fan of Marketing magazine, so clicking on a Twitter link to a piece on the London 2012 Paralympics, I expected to see the article in full (on my Iphone).  I don’t object to paywalls – but how about this for design/choice complexity! 

The inclusion of sister publications (PR Week, Campaign), and a multi-choice maze doesn’t work well on a smart phone.  I have to admit to becoming a regular  ‘consumer’  and was left feeling overwhelmed, confused and frustrated – and  compelled to CLOSE the page.   

Its another reminder that consumer-centric design thinking must be enshrined through each and every brand touchpoint.  P.s. here's a link to the official games website.

Once Is Chance, Twice is Coincidence, Third Time Is A Trend

I can't help but notice that the square is making a slow comeback, as the Microsoft blog announced their new logo today. 

Despite a mix of cynicism, and support this instantly elegant  logo evokes very few alternative brands, as only FLOR,  Weber Shandwick and JCP come to mind. To prove my point even Square - the mobile payment brand uses rounded edges in their logo! 

So, could a humble sharp edge be a case of simple, yet relevant differentiation? Will the geometrically 2D square edge become the 'new' round(ed) ? Might Square, or Apple embrace straight lines.....? 

Is your brand a follower or a leader ? It's been said that once is chance, twice is coincidence, and third is enemy action a trend!

STOP PRESS: 

Microsoft's timing is impeccable! With the August 24th announcement of Apple's patent victory vs Samsung, perhaps brands will adopt the 2D square edge much quicker than envisioned.