I’m a PC and I’m four-and-a-half

It was this time last year that I stubbornly placed myself in the Page 6 spot for Graphic Arts Magazine as the new associate editor. As I look back at the issue, I remember the enthusiasm and excitement I felt writing that column. You would think that by now I would have calmed down a bit!

Before we get into the meat and potatoes of this issue, I thought I would solicit some opinions from you. I would like to know what you think about the latest trend for attack advertising? As a Mac user, I’m a big fan of the “I’m a Mac, and I’m a PC” commercials. Because they’re so amusing, they seem to be relatively harmless and in line with the happy-go-lucky image of Apple. Interestingly, I did not quite feel the same watching a similar battle between Canada’s own Rogers and Bell. Rogers has been quite clever in designing campaigns that use unique URLs and third-party companies that are meant to prove the value of their services. However, with only one large (blue) competitor in town, they have quite clearly singled out Bell as the lesser service. To be honest, I thought this was a bit crass but clever, especially given the unique URL — that’s one for Rogers. My thoughts on it jumbled up completely when I saw Bell’s response. This is certainly not the same company that showcased friendly-talking beavers for years (as an aside, don’t you think that the beavers and the M&Ms should meet?)

Bell responded with a “back at you” attitude — and now when I see the couch ad I think of Bell every time. Now, this feud has gotten ugly and expensive, with lawsuits involved. However, from a customer perspective, I’m not sure what to think. Perhaps, the cleverest of them all is the small company who calls it “Clash of the Titans” and pokes fun at them both — though sadly their name escapes me.

So now I’m undecided, and want to know what you think. I will throw one wrench into the mix as you think about it — Microsoft’s new campaign said nothing about Macs, though they do target the core message of simplicity by having the cutest little four-and-a-half-year-old send a picture of a fish and call herself a PC.

Back to this month’s issue though – September is a special time for our magazine. It is usually the time when we look at the past year, and start planning an exciting new series of topics and articles for you. In a very serendipitous way, a lot of this issue reflects that organizing sort of month. Professor Lisi takes a look at data asset management (DAM) — helping you understand how to manage and organize your files to add value. His article gives a great overall picture of what DAM is as well as possible solutions for different entry levels. We also help you organize for Chicago’s myPrint, manage your email communication better, maintain your automated workflow and manage your fonts – all in time for back to school!

Wishing you a happy return to PBJ lunch duty early in the morning.