Implications - The personalization of goods offers a superlative novelty factor as it adds profound relevance to individual consumers. Adding a custom touch, particularly with products that have become popular or widely used, can make items more covetable than those offered by the competition by offering a feeling of augmented ownership. [More]

Implications - Young adults joining the workforce were raised to value individualism. As they join the professional world, they shake up traditional environments with more laissez-faire, be-yourself attitudes. They celebrate diversity of interest, style, learning techniques, and are thus revamping traditional work cultures. [More]

Implications - Storybook sentiment has gotten hold of consumers looking to escape their stresses and to find a temporary refuge from adult responsibilities. Nostalgia marketing holds great appeal in times of uncertainty as it allows consumers to reminisce, bringing them back to simpler, more carefree times. [More]

Implications - The recession has caused an influx of temporary housing options. The reasons for urban nomadism range from being in a stage of transition, such as living in a temporary abode instead of permanent downsizing, to a desire to pursue more travel opportunities with increased time away from work. [More]

Implications - With public health care continuing to be an issue in society, consumers are looking for ways to ensure their own physical wellness without the need for a medical professional. Independent health products that assist people in taking care of themselves empower people to take their health into their own hands. [More]

Implications - Companies are involving the customer in the marketing process. When consumers have an input on a product and feel they have contributed to the advertising process, they feel a kinship with the brand; crowdsourcing fuels brand loyalty. [More]

Implications - With the bombardment of creative advertisements, the populace is seeking visual clarity. This desire has spurred the rise of simplicity, such as literal packaging, for a more direct approach to branding which increases product recognition, thereby boosting shopping efficiency. [More]

Implications - The web is redefining celebrity; to maintain a following, some stars are pushing to appear more real to fans by exposing embarrassing moments or releasing un-retouched photos. As curiosity increases, voluntarily exposing yourself leaves you in control and prevents fans (or customers) from taking the initiative to reveal your weaknesses themselves. [More]

Implications - Cost-conscious consumers have moved toward multitasking appliances that increase the user’s convenience. Accordingly, multifunctional designs that are aesthetically pleasing, energy-efficient and good for the environment combine for an irresistible deal that wins over nearly any buyer. [More]

Implications - With growing technological advances and the increasing number of digital social outlets, it’s easy to fear losing human emotional ties. Scientists and techies alike are exploring the world of emotion and how it can be applied to technology. Sacrificing human emotion will not be an issue if these experiments are kept up. [More]