The Biz

“Sound bites” are the news teasers of the airwaves. Lightening-speed information demands that we express ourselves in a snappy way much of the time. This new paradigm is what gives rise to slang, abbreviation (aka “text speak”) and sometimes, just plain poor English. While this may sound like the beginning of the end for our linguistic heritage, there is a ray of hope. Parents can teach their children the skills necessary to communicate succinctly and efficiently, in a style known as “talk less, say more”. Publishing house Little Snail Series encourages this type of heightened communication.

Modular products appeal to a broad audience because they continuously offer a challenge. Kids come back to them time and time again, getting engaged in fresh ways with each new play experience. This is part of the reason that Knock-Knock Co.’s head honcho Jen Bilik immediately saw the enormous potential in Max Knecht’s hand-sewn cuddly wonder, the Clump-o-Lump. Max Knecht has had an eye on creating fun, functional products ever since he was 13, but it wasn’t until a fateful meeting with Jen Bilik that his lovable prototype toy became a star.

As a consultant with a focus in marketing, I have to admit I struggle with the topic of this article. Ultimately though, success comes to those companies who have of all of their business functions performing at optimal levels. With the advent of the Internet and social media, consumers are now much more savvy, and some are skeptical of marketers. That’s why I say, “You can’t hang your hat on marketing alone to drive growth.” The other functions — product development, finance and leadership — are equally important to the success of a business.

Even after a toddler is comfortable using the toilet, accidents happen. Remember that potty training is a complex skill in which a youngster has to both make and understand connections between their body and that big, porcelain throne. We have found that items from vendors, including Intelligent Potty, Clouds and Stars, Earth Friendly Products and Tots on Mars all help make toilet training a little easier. Parents appreciate having a range of helpful merchandise available to smooth the road to freedom from diapers.