DigiChat with Andrea: Pricing Models

[Andrea Mitchell] In the first of what promises to be a series of exciting discussions and ensuing debates, we tackle what has been a contentious issue in digital media for some time, and that is pricing models. Andrea chatted to various agencies, brands and publishers...

The pros and cons of crowdsourcing translation

[Ian Henderson] Crowdsourcing translation services - what an intriguing, even shocking concept! Subscribing to the philosophy of grassroots movements such as open source software, Wikipedia and even popular revolts like the Arab Spring, crowdsourcing seriously calls the value of traditional expert translation into question.

Communication vital in retaining customers

[Derek Buchanan] "Miscommunication is endless," said JP Rattie. No, I'd never heard of him either, but he has described, in three words, what happens when words and messages are miscommunicated.

[2014 trends] The cash-strapped consumer

[Mike Taberner] I believe this will be one of the biggest trends to shape the marketing landscape in 2014...

[2014 trends] The discipline of brand building

[Dr Carla Enslin] It may not have been that obvious to begin with, but now it seems inescapable fact: the discipline of brand building is establishing itself solidly and firmly.

[2014 trends] The rise of radio

[Matona Sakupwanya] One of the most significant developments that is set to take place within the South African media and marketing sector this year is the launch of radio's new trade positioning.

[2014 trends] The changing landscape of design

[Dave Nemeth] One big paradigm shift in the design arena over the next few years, will be what I refer to as the 'corporate designer'. This is a designer that has a clear understanding of both business, as well as more than one design principle. (video)

[2014 trends] Marketing 'trends', challenges, observations

[Thomas Oosthuizen] In this piece, I highlight a few key issues in marketing that we need to take advantage of to become more successful and profitable in the next years. By doing that, we will succeed, regardless of the short-term trends.

[2014 trends] Trends affecting social media content

[Daniel Pinch] With everyone from makers of fizzy drink brands to NASA competing for attention online the need for great content is critical.

[2014 trends] 12 broad (but cherry-picked) trends

[Dion Chang and Raleen Bagg] Our selection of trends is broad - but cherry-picked - to give you a sense of what the trends are, across a wide variety of industries.

Dear marketer... Are you failing at social media?

[Keanan Reis] As corporate South Africa wakes up to the benefits that social media can deliver, the landscape is fast becoming flooded with brand activity. Here is a list of the most common pitfalls, and how to avoid them.

Five ways CX CRMs revolutionise your sales machine

[Aneesh Reddy] Any business looking to scale needs business processes. Good business processes take your company to the next level by automating functions that previously required management in the form of human capital.

Social media... Brands, you're missing the point!

[Felix Kessel] I find it strange that with all the hype and bluster surrounding the billion or so Facebook users, the half billion twits and the tacked together Pinterest users, the moment brands decide to participate in "new media" they are arrogant enough to believe that they can bring their rules to our common practice of being social.

[2014 trends] Mobile moves: Key trends to watch in 2014

[Dr Pieter Streicher] As with almost every other sector under the 'technology' banner, the mobile industry is evolving at a rapid pace, and is constantly iterating to meet the demands of an increasingly large and sophisticated market.

[2014 trends] The convergence of media, marketing and technology

[Michal Wronski] As technology becomes more prolific and embedded in our lives, it provides for newfound ways in which we connect with each other and the brands we love.

[2014 trends] Trends SA - La Vida Loca

[Gavin Mills] As we grit our teeth and surge into the wide open spaces of a brand new year, it wouldn't hurt to have a last glance back - and indeed, the past year will influence the way living and life play out in 2014 and beyond...

The disturbing silence of the FXI lambs

[Ed Herbst] 'MMA has viewed the headline news bulletins from SABC1, SABC2 and SABC3 and can confirm that no mention of the booing incident was made in any of the bulletins.'

Are you a square peg in a round hole?

[John French] My first training assignment for 2014 was to train a new marketing manager in sales skills and strategy. The directors he was working for were less than happy with his sales performance and they were especially worried about his communication skills and Emotional Intelligence when it came to dealing with their valued customers.