Philip Finkelstein's Blog

@bradenfong

I read the article “Official calls for review of essay writing companies,” addressed in Braden Fong’s blog. I first have to say that it seems unreasonable such companies even exist in Vancouver. I agree with Braden’s point on ethics. This is unethical on two levels. Companies should not be offering such a service because it is encouraging cheating, in the respect that the work being handed in is not their own. And students who choose to take this approach are breaking school expectations for academic honesty. In other words this is plagiarism and should not be viewed as an acceptable way of completing your homework. Universities certainly do not appreciate such companies, “university professors asked the provincial government to provide some kind of legal framework to make the process illegal. While universities are able to discipline the student, they’re powerless against companies that operate off campus.”

As Rob Gordon stated, “They’re ripping off the system.” I couldn’t agree more. These companies are encouraging cheating and undermining education, while making a profit of about 200 dollars per essay. Companies suspected or known of offering “Essay Expert” services should be closely reviewed and reprimanded accordingly.

http://bc.ctvnews.ca/official-calls-for-review-of-essay-writing-companies-1.953771

@davidbrown

I took a look at the article, “Toilet Paper Ads in a Bathroom Near You?” on CNBC, originally posted by David Brown. The advertising strategy referred to in the article is quite bold as David stated, which I think has great opportunity. Similar to television commercials, the success is due in part to the fact there’s nothing else to do, but listen. The Silverman brothers have come across a unique way of marketing. Toilet paper ads would give the washroom goer something to read, while advertising different brands and products, all while saving paper, on what would otherwise be blank sheets of TP. As addressed in David’s Blog, unconventional marketing techniques seem to fizzle out over time, but some ideas are just meant for success. I strongly support this strategy, as my analysis shows, it would save companies money and would allow for a great new way to advertise. Companies should jump on the opportunity of having their brand advertised in public restrooms, like restaurants, stadiums, and colleges because theres no avoiding the ads; it’s that simple, which makes it a smart, cheap and memorable way of advertising. Compared to a television commercial, the amount of money it would cost to advertise is substantially less and unlike TV or radio, the consumer can not just skip to another channel. People are subjected to advertisements almost everywhere, but the bathroom is an untapped market waiting to be exploited.

CNBC Article:

http://www.cnbc.com/id/49061996/Toilet_Paper_Ads_in_a_Bathroom_Near_You

Thumbs Up is the leading brand of cola in the Indian Industry, at nearly 42% of the market share. Coca-Cola India Pvt and Owner of the Thumbs Up brand recently made an endorsement agreement with Salman Khan, who they hope will further benefit the brand with his association. Salman is a current megastar in India, and with his popularity after his last two hits, the CEO of Coca-Cola India hopes, “the brand’s core values of masculinity, adventure, thrill and excitement will further be amplified by Salman’s association and will help us take the brand to the next level.” As the brand ambassador, Salman will be able to bring in even more consumers because of his vast amount of followers and support. Not only this, but Coca-Cola also signed an agreement with The Salman Khan Foundation, Being Human. The association between these two organization will be mutually beneficial; Coca-Cola and Being Human will work together to give back and build strong communities, which in turn will lead to greater respect and support. Coca-Cola is helping their brand image by associating with Being Human and similar foundations and as result should see more success in the future.

Original Article:

http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/coca-cola-signs-salman-khan-as-thums-up-ambassador/1/188859.html