Creative Ideas "Creativity at your service"

Creative Ideas Casebook:

 

CASE 1: A Job Interview, advice on innovation Email: M.	CASE 2: The Homecoming Problem Email: G.	CASE 3: Small Company Seeks Ideas. Email: P.	CASE 4: Museum of Creativity and Invention, South Korea. Email: K.
CASE 5: An individual inventor is assisted. Email: S.	CASE 6: Advice on a Museum for the KIA. Email: K.	CASE 7: Professional Mentoring	CASE 8: A Young Inventor assisted Email: A.L.
CASE 9: Questions of Life and Livlihood Email: L.	CASE 10: Petfinders Assisted, Startup Company Email: H.	CASE 11: Windy Austin & The Hothouse Tomato Boys, Musicians Email: W.A.	CASE 12: Design Ideas for a Float Email: R.M.
CASE 13: Some One Else's Ideas! Email: S.C.	CASE 14: A Graduate Students Research Project Email: R.M.	CASE 15: The Advertising World	CASE 16: Assisting an Inventor Email: V.R.

More Recent Cases

CASE 17: Contractor/Inventor: getting it to market. Email: R.	CASE 18: Trade Business Show advisements Email: S.	CASE 19: Advertisement and Promotions Email: M.	CASE 20: Indian Reservation, business ideas Email: F.
CASE 21: New Options, recovery from being laid off. Email: F.	CASE 22: Consulting with Korea Email: E.J.A. or Email:S.T.K	CASE 23: School District Work Email: L.S.	CASE 24: Entrepreneur in Israel, ideas for limited capital Email: S. G-A.
CASE 25: Ancient Artwork, Lines of inquiry Email:F

A special case: The Community of Light This is a cooperative venture of more than 60 persons. We are seeking a place to found our community. We are seeking a large parcel of land where we can build our homes and live in peace. We wish to be near a town of perhaps less than 15,000 persons. We want to work in harmony as we do our best to lead the best of lives and assist others where and how we can. If you would like to know more look to this page: Community of Light

 

****************************************************** CASE 1: An individual's Job Interview ****************************************************** Summary: I was asked, as the first letter indicates to assist an individual in her quest to succeed in an unusual job interview process. What is recorded here are only the letters that I received. I did not think to record my responses, but as you will see the individual was quite happy with the results in the course of exchanging three short letters. back to the top Subject: need an idea, quick!!! Date: Tue, 25 Aug 1998 11:27:56 EDT From: KSUbear@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com I am interviewing for a position as a trainer for a corporation. I will have to do a demonstration in which I am training persons on a topic of my choice. I am having the most difficult time trying to find something to train!!!! It can be ANYTHING! It has to be 20 minutes long, and I will be training about 8-10 of the managers. Basically, they only want to see how I do as a trainer. They actually don't want it to do with what I would be training if I get the job. Creativity is a must! I was told that one girl had a degree in music and taught the managers how to play a Mozart piece. I am running out of time, and when I saw your web site, I jumped out of my skin! It would be great to hear back from you as soon as possible. I have a feeling that they will be calling me in for an interview within the next couple of days. Thanks for your help. Mandy Subject: Re: Any news? Just asking Date: Fri, 28 Aug 1998 12:39:20 EDT From: KSUbear@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Thanks for your ideas. They were helpful. I actually thought about the origami folding. Still a thought. I'm waiting for that idea that just really grabs me. I feel I've thought of just about everything too. My latest is an etiquette lesson. I thought palm reading would be fun, but my friends said that may not be a good idea depending on the executive's personal beliefs. Who knows. I'm still open for more thoughts and ideas. Send 'em my way! :) Again, thanks for your ideas and checking in on my progress. Basically, all is the same! Mandy Subject: Re: Any news? Just asking Date: Mon, 31 Aug 1998 12:15:05 EDT From: KSUbear@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Hi Dan, Thanks for your interest in my well-being and your ideas and feedback. I still haven't narrowed and idea down. Nothing has really grabbed me yet! As for my hobbies and talents, I'm beginning to think I have none! I'm a great shopper, eater, and sleeper!:) Actually, I have recently completed my masters degree in Counseling (Psychology). During my education at Kent State, I was a graduate assistant for nearly 3 years, working with the under- graduate students. I taught a course, University Orientation, and received an award for Outstanding Orientation Faculty Instructor. Also, as a counseling major, I've have experience facilitating support groups and psychology educational groups. Of course, since I'm a new graduate, I'm still working on improving my techniques as a counselor and facilitator. The position I am interviewing for is with a company that sells payroll software. The actual position is a Client Trainer. I would be training the employees of the different corporations that purchase our software in its use. No, I don't have to know the software, nor do I have to be a computer guru. They will train me. What they want to see is how I actually train. They want to see something creative and interesting. That is where I have been wracking my brain for something simple yet fun for them. Of course, the better I know the topic, the better I will train. Hence, the purpose in writing you. Does that give you a better grasp on the subject? I thank you again for your interest in how I'm doing. Talk to you soon, Mandy Subject: Re: Any news? Just asking Date: Mon, 28 Sep 1998 13:31:38 EDT From: KSUbear@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com I got the job!!!!!!!! I did my training demonstration on How to Sew on a Button. It went fabulously. And I geared it toward business-people. Had overheads of step by step how to's, and packets of materials for everyone so that we could do it as we learned. Went great. I was told I had outstanding training skills. Very poised. I Had to let you know since you were such a big help. Thank you so much, Dan. Your web site is such a good "idea". I'll let everyone know about it. Thanks again for your thoughts and interest in my success. Take care, Mandy back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 2: The homecoming problem, a personal choice. ****************************************************** Summary: This is the case of another individual who was trying to figure out how to cap off a special homecoming celebration with some friends. Although this is not a normal purview, we went ahead just to see what we could do and as the person himself states: "They were so irritatingly simple and practical that I didn't think of them on my own." And that is exactly one of our points, we find those ideas that you may already have and bring them out. Sometimes it is just that simple. Again I did not think it was needful to record my responses, for I viewed this case as kind of trial case to see how I could assist this person with their unusual request. back to the top   Subject: Re: homecoming Date: Sat, 3 Oct 1998 20:14:41 EDT From: Goon777@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Hi. I'm in a bit of a bind. I go to a private school and we do not have a dance for homecoming. Instead we have a dinner banquet. However, these are quite boring. My girlfriend and I are doubling with another couple and I have run out of creative ideas from past events and prom. If you could offer some help before Thursday Oct. 8, I would appreciate it. I consider myself pretty creative, but I'm running low right now. Oh, one more thing, I live in Rockford, IL, so options are few. I am open to suggestions involving suburbs of Chicago. Thanks very much. Subject: Re: homecoming Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 16:25:54 EDT From: Goon777@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com OK. I attend Christian Life High School. My problem isn't coming up with ideas FOR the banquet, but AFTER the banquet. The banquet is headed by someone else. What I am looking for is some kind of activity to do afterwards. Keep in mind that Rockford is considered a relatively boring city when it comes to things to do. Also, the weather here has not been very good, and will not be satisfactory for to many things to be done outside. Also, the couple that we're doubling with are not dating or romantically involved, they are just friends, so this deletes almost any attempt of a romantic engagement. If you can think of something, I would appreciate your insight, otherwise, don't lose any sleep over it. Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. I really appreciate it. Goon Subject: Re: homecoming Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 16:46:28 EDT From: Goon777@aol.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Thanks for your further suggestions. They were so irritatingly simple and practical that I didn't think of them on my own. I really do appreciate it. We do know the other couple very well. We're all really great friends. So, we don't have to worry about impressing or entertaining. If you happen to conjure up some other thoughts, go ahead and send them to me. Otherwise, I think these will help to start the ball rolling in my own head. I'll be sure to let you know how it turns out if you like. Especially if we use your ideas. Thanks so much., jon back to the top   *************************************************** CASE 3: A small company seeking ideas. *************************************************** Summary: This is a sample of a small company seeking out ideas for new products and perhaps marketing ideas. Although we have not completed work with this case. I have not received word on our last set of ideas (which included searching out used furniture from estate and garage sales, and refurbishing them so that the his business would essentially become a value added enterprise) I include these letters so that you can see something of what we can offer a small business. back to the top   Subject: ? Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998 21:42:00 -0800 From: "paul volkman" Reply-To: To: Hi I'm Paul Volkman with an 8000 sq. ft. wood shop in Chula Vista California looking for someone with great ideas what to manufacture. we do well now but always looking for the 3 b's and more money I like your page. I'm new to the net, bye now. Subject: Response to Paul V Date: Tue, 27 Oct 1998 19:58:57 -0800 From: Dan Brady Reply-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Organization: Creative Ideas To: phvcabinets@worldnet.att.net Paul V. Creative Ideas helps people. What we do is discuss ideas with you and try until we hit paydirt. All we ask in compensation is an enthusiastic and willing reference. Now, to the request, first, some questions. What do you currently work on? Are you the only operator? What is your overhead in this operation month to month? I would like some concept of your skill level, a notion of what you would enjoy making if you did not have to worry about making ends meet. Now, here is some food for thought: For some reason you went into woodworking, what drew you to it? Is there an interest in sculptured furnishings, such as a CD rack that is designed like a statue with the shelves for it spiraling around it. Keeping the wood natural, and vibrantly finished. A combination of function and aesthetics. Specialty finished wooden boxes, for keepsakes and the like, here I imagine inlays of different woods in patterns or pictures made for jewelry, gifts, or small keepsakes. What of making "hope chests" These are large trunk sized containers that are bought by brides to be for storing their precious wedding dress, and other important memorabilia of their life. These can be quite impressive, deeply carved, or inlaid, using nice woods carefully finished. A friend of mine used to make quite a nice bit of money building electric guitar bodies and necks, repairing same and the like. Creating decorative shelving for rooms, the built in kind. Building airtight bookshelves that preserve rare books for book collectors, though this would require some knowledge of the physics of creating a good seal and the like. Building gazebos, for private gardens. These could even be made in the format of a kit. The advantage to this is that all you have to do is make one each of them, keep records so you can duplicate the making of the pieces, photograph the samples of completed models, and create a catalogue. Let me know how these first suggestions strike you, Thanks, Dan   back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 4: The museum of Creativity and Invention in South Korea ****************************************************** Summary: I was asked to assist a company in Korea to provide them with ideas as to how they could go about creating a museum dedicated to promoting creativity and inventiveness in the nation of South Korea. This has been particularly successful. This Case Record does not include all the letters that went back and forth, I had to edit some of them out for brevity's sake. A quote: "We have had many ideas from your comments. Especially, it was very important to give us the concept of history of invention in Korea." Or another: "Thanks to you and your assistance, I got this project without failure." Here again, one would think that the ideas provided them would have been thought of by them already, but all to often it is the simplicity of our work that is fascinating to our clients and ourselves as well. back to the top   From: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" To: Subject: additional information Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 22:41:20 +0900 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Priority: 3 X-Mailer: Microsoft Internet Mail 4.70.1155 MIME-Version: 1.0 X-UIDL: 6c4a67cb94305321d2ecead21a181886 Sorry for my not giving enough information. My intention is to seek find a museum related to 'Creativity' and 'Invention'. - My company-TST has specialized in designing the museum. Now, we have certain project in which we have plan to build 'the exhibit' of 'Creativity' and 'Invention. - If you have any information of them, we will contact the company and museum and 'd like to receive the consultation on this matter. Thanks for your cooperation. Subject: The Museum Date: Fri, 16 Oct 1998 23:23:01 -0800 From: Dan Brady Reply-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Organization: Creative Ideas To: =?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?= STKim, I realized, after we hung up that there might have been some unclarity in what we discussed. To redress that now I will just write what I realized I should have made clear. Creative Ideas is willing to help for the sole consideration of a willing and enthusiastic recommendation upon successful rendering of assistance. You have expressed your thanks on the phone, but an email or letter would be nice. Here are my thoughts based on the information that you have sent me so far. You will have three areas of the museum, the history of inventions by Koreans, the nature and process of the patent procedures, and a section on creativity, invention, and brainstorming. The purpose is to spur creativity on all levels. You should expect to have families, children, mature students, professionals and the like. Here are some thoughts: For the history portion of the museum I would have several authentic examples of the most important civilizing inventions that you know of. I am talking about the basics here, the invention of your writing system, developments in materials science pottery and glazing for example, also metal working, boat building, farming techniques, tools and so forth. This section should contain life sized models, authentically recreated, as accurately as possible, go for authenticity. Each of these should be in a display with a multi media component so that persons can view the working of the devices and or understand their importance. I would say that you should include in each of these media briefs, some mention of why the invention was invented, in other words how did the invention solve a particular problem. This is a key to making the ancient invention "real" to modern visitors who may not understand otherwise. These displays should, to some extent be touchable, or even usable. What I am thinking about here is inventions such as the making of paper, for example. One could have as part of the display the chance to make paper, or weave a mat or basket. The inventions displayed should span the history of Korea, and reflect some theme, such as self sufficiency, or ingenuity, or productivity. These themes could be strongly implied so that a visitor goes away with the idea that Korea has been, and is a place of inventive people. There should be books available about Korean history that are related to the exhibits, or the inventions or inventions in general. Of course the place should have a "shop" where such books and other miniature models, products, or memorabilia and the could be bought. The area on patents could be a dry and boring place, but if you have several current inventions that the people may have seen, then it becomes an alive place. I imaging a large display that shows, in three dimensional formats, like a large diorama, how an inventor goes through the whole process of patenting an item. Have forms on display, video or audio presentations with the participation of actual inventors voices or images. Remember, keep it simple, direct, and informative. Keep in mind that you will want each part of the museum to be interesting to all ages. That is why the video and audio presentations will be vital. The last portion is the most difficult to do. But then again this could be the most enjoyable part of the museum. Definitely have activities where in the visitors make things that they will take home with them. The theme here will be problem solving, and creating of new devices. Here are the suggestions for this. If at all possible have people "reinvent" the inventions of the past or use working models of them. for example paper making would be a natural for this, or working with clay forms or carving soft block forms for printing letters and the like. Also you have teachers in Korea, many of them, no doubt have thinking skills games or activities, or have taught exactly what you would like to have your visitors do, so, reach out to them. Ask them. Have a lesson plan contest and offer a whole bunch of prizes. You will get ideas that you would not probably think of, especially if you say, you want ideas to inspire creativity, or model some of the famous inventions created in Korea, during its history. Also, you can do what is done over here. I do not know where it is, but the idea is simple. Have an invention contest. For children, young adults, and different categories of persons and the like. Offer a prizes for the most clever or useful inventions created. And guess what the prize is? Nothing less that assistance for patenting the most valuable or clever ideas. Thus you also have annual events built into the museum, connections with all the schools, publicity that is free, and you do get inventions and new ideas by the bucket full. This was an enjoyable exercise, let me know if these ideas work for you, and, please, let me know if I can assist more. Dan Brady From: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" To: Subject: Additional information Date: Thu, 24 Sep 1998 09:27:53 +0900 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Priority: 3 X-Mailer: Microsoft Internet Mail 4.70.1155 MIME-Version: 1.0 X-UIDL: 132b677be2ae6445f0bac7ffd488c257 As for your lasting e-mail, I'd like to thank you for your kind assistance. We have had many ideas from your comments. Especially, it was very important to give us the concept of using the history of invention in Korea. Again, thanks for your assistance. I'd like to get some ideas from you. We have designed to build the 'KIA Museum'. This is planed by Korean Intelligence Agency (In USA, CIA). After last year, there have been some changes in the Korean Political Situation. The KIA'd like to change their identity because of the changing situation around the world they would like to concentrate on industrial intelligence. Until now, they have only concentrated on the intelligence of North Korea. With this change, they 'd like to demonstrate their new identity through a ' KIA Museum' to the People. So, if you have any ideas, concepts and sample of museum in USA, please give us the information by E-mail. How can I compensate for your assistance? From: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" To: Subject: 1st response for your E-mail dtd. 10.28'98 Date: Wed, 28 Oct 1998 22:56:54 +0900 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Priority: 3 X-Mailer: Microsoft Internet Mail 4.70.1155 MIME-Version: 1.0 X-UIDL: fe47a00c76429040003081e66cc4f607 It 's too so late(at 11 o'clock). Further to your E-mail dtd 10.28.98, at first, I 'd like to reply as follows. 1. I will be waiting for your information of 'the needed stories' about the tales between the historical leader and espionage in foreign countries. 2. I am sorry for my not enough expressing enough about Kim Koo. He is a hero in Korea because he established the 'secret patriots' and led them. 3. Invention Museum The basic drawing was already made and submitted to our client. Next week I will make a presentation to them. Probably, we will have success in this project. I will inform you of detailed process in the future. From: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" To: Subject: KIA Project Date: Thu, 26 Nov 1998 14:03:36 +0900 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Priority: 3 X-Mailer: Microsoft Internet Mail 4.70.1155 MIME-Version: 1.0 X-UIDL: b7ec607f454c57e98eb6710ebe2bc45e Again, thanks for your kind cooperation. Without failure, thanks to you and your assistance, I got this project. I hope you would help me continually in the future. As for the KIA project, I will inform you of detailed process. back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 5: An individual inventor is assisted. ****************************************************** Summary: Inspired by his two year old child this creative individual has come up with a wonderful idea. I thought that it was good and was inspired to think up several additions to his original idea as well as encourage him to proceed to having his invention "play tested" in different locations and with different toddlers. Since Mike is creative our letters range a bit as we both discuss our various projects. Here the Case Record uses an interleaved format with the longer letters.   back to the top   Subject: I am a problem solver also Date: Thu, 22 Oct 1998 14:27:43 -0500 From: Mike Strickland Reply-To: strickland@bitstreet.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com   Hi I'm Mike Strickland from Abilene, TX. I am a nurse going on 20 years now and I used to own four retail pet stores. Currently I am working at a state school working with MHMR kids I also work part time as a TV repair tech. I have been researching my creative spirit and putting together ideas. After reading your web site I believe we may be able to help each other. Contact me if you would like to see a few of my ideas. Thanks Mike strickland@bitstreet.com Subject: Re: I am a problem solver also Date: Sat, 24 Oct 1998 00:02:49 -0500 From: Mike Strickland Reply-To: strickland@bitstreet.com To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Dan Brady wrote: Mike, Hello, I got your message and am responding to see what you might have to say. Please write. Dan Thanks for replying, I am working on several projects: 1) a vacuum cleaner that you plug in and then in does all the work by itself totally auto. with built in sensor's to locate objects in its path. 2) I am working on a children's book using a bee to show and tell about flowers. But I would like to know more about the games that you are working onto see If my input will be rewarding or not. Can we exchange ideas? Subject: Re: I am a problem solver also Date: Tue, 27 Oct 1998 19:34:06 -0800 From: Dan Brady Reply-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Organization: Creative Ideas To: strickland@bitstreet.com CC: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Mike wrote: The game sounds like fun and you are right going into software with it will beat a board game 100 to 1, but depends on how any players are playing, its hard to get four people on a computer at the same time. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan wrote: When I first conceived this game it was to allow teams of persons to be a "single" player. This allowed for an aspect of the game to include such variables as governmental forms, for instance a single person, playing a role in the game would be a dictator, while a group of persons discussing all manner of decisions would be a "democracy". There are other modeling for Kingdoms, and socialism and the like. Also, with the computer there are already multi-party games that have many, many players. My game, ideally, would be no different. Via the internet, and on-line connections it would be possible to have dozens of players. ------------------------------------------------------------- Mike: Well last night, as I was playing with my 2 year son, I noticed he kept playing with toys that turn, push open etc. and I recalled all the times that he wanted me to pick him up and carry him to light switches etc. for him to play with. So I got out my note pad and waited. Ideas just started coming. Now that I have it on paper. Monday we, my son and I, are going to build it. Its a front door that he will have his own key to unlock, a handle to turn so he can open the door, a doorbell he can push, and a battery operated light switch which will turn off and on his own door light with. It will be about 3 to 4 foot high and only 6-8 inches deep. The tasks it will give him are turning, pushing, opening, flipping, and pushing the same as he's done now, when I help him. I hope it works. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: This sounds good, because it is simple, fun and easy to build. You should add a mail slot, a buzzer, a light, put on an address, have a simple key and even a bolt on the inside, also a peep hole, and a chain so that the door can be opened a little bit. All these things can make it quite exciting. ------------------------------------------------------------- Mike: Thanks for the advise on patents. If there is one they must be holding it because there are no automatic vacuums for sale. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: If that is the case then a working model is a must, as well as some preliminary patent searches or work. In sum you want to create the invention, you don't want to duplicate what someone is already done or doing, and you don't want to do a lot of work only to find you have been beaten to the punch. It sounds like a quite clever idea. There has been some research along lines that can be useful to you. I recall reading about a small robot that was designed to find power outlets and recharge itself, when its batteries went low, however all it did was exactly that. So what I am saying is that there are some like minds out there and some research that would be helpful to you but they are without your sense of applying it. ------------------------------------------------------------- Mike: Now that's said. Your game is it like a spy game or an battle field. As you know there no rules in war, only to win and take all of someone else's power: STRATEGY, STRATEGY, STRATEGY. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: The game is one of tactics and strategy. It is a war game, and it models the simultaneity of real strategic and tactical planning. I have kept it simple there being only four kinds of pieces and only two of them move. Despite this it is, I feel, challenging yet simple to learn. Subject: Re: I am a problem solver also /save Date: Fri, 30 Oct 1998 19:27:10 -0800 From: Dan Brady Reply-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Organization: Creative Ideas To: strickland@bitstreet.com References: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 Mike, Yes, I would like to see pictures of the "Door" when it is done. You could lighten the thing up by making the frame out of aluminum, but the door itself should, I think, be wood. I have another notion, and that is a welcome mat on the "outside" and a doormat on the "inside" This is a perfect toy for the toddler age, so you should not have things that can be swallowed, and the thing will have to stand well. This may be a problem, unless you build small wall/wings that swing out and lock in place, thus adding "windows" to the menu of "in and out" activities. I am thinking you will have to have it stable so that it won't fall on a child's head. My computer game is on hold, until I can find a programmer that is willing to work with me on it. I do not envision having the time to learn programming, do the programming and debug it all. So a partner is in order. I have not gone and searched for one as of yet. For now the book that I am working on and the slow and steady improving of my site are the top priorities for the little free time that I have. That game is not the only one, there are some others, that may be simpler but the problem of programming remains... we shall see.... Keep in touch... Also, if I have helped, would you be willing to be a reference? I ask because I have enjoyed the fascinating considerations of the "Door is More" or the "More than a Door" These could be names for the product, what do you think? Dan Subject: Response Date: Sun, 01 Nov 1998 20:38:41 -0800 From: Dan Brady Reply-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Organization: Creative Ideas To: strickland@bitstreet.com Mike: Mike wrote: I studied computer in the 70's starting with digital computer operations on main frames that would fill a warehouse. and then COBOL and FORTRAN. But I could never get a good paying job in those days. But now everyone has a computer and I wish that I would have stayed with it. Even though the computer language has changed some, the basic still remains as FORTRAN. I have looked at the new books on C and C+ but they are so large that I don't think I could relearn it all again. If I could get one of those government grants, I bet I could learn it. The door, Yes I believe that aluminum frame is the correct choice, shape into a triangle to make it steady. Will have to build the door myself because of the size that I want. Windows can be bought because they are make small enough to fit anywhere today. The name: This has never crossed my mind. Will have to thing about it, and get back to you. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: Yes, through a catalog will have an instant idea of what it is. Also, you should start, perhaps, investigating toy companies and how they or if they take inventor made toys and the like. This could be a gateway for something fairly lucrative, being that you have an inventive mind. If you are able to sell a toy company on your door, then there will be other ideas and what the heck you could be self employed or at least have a nice sideline... This aspect is a matter of a few phone calls, letters and the like. I would also investigate the likelihood of patenting the device, talk with your friend about that. This one will probably be far easier in as much as all of the technology is in your hands, quite literally. ------------------------------------------------------------- Mike: Reference: Yes, you have helped with your ideas. And yes you can use me as a reference. I am still thinking about your choices "Door is more" or the "More than a door". I will look at it when I have it closer to completion, and introduce it to my friend for their 2 year old son's approval and think about it from a seller's view point and then from a marketing view point. Maybe after you see a picture of it you may also come up with something new to name it, let's wait and see. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: Thank your for the kind words. I am making a page on my web site for references, and though I will include this one, I am not sure about the advisability of including the persons email, what do you think about that, would you mind? I have to ask you as a co-professional. Also, you are considering what people in the industry call: "play testing" this is vital to refining your design. A friend of mine, who is an engineer, has told me that you will find our more from having the "typical user" use your device than from your planning and the like. I would have several play testers go through it and take comments from the parents, you could also take it to a pre-school and see how it fares in a real "war zone". All the while you should be taking comments and making plans to refine your second edition. I also suggest lots of bright colors, and paint that is washable. ------------------------------------------------------------- Mike: Well, its 6 am Sunday Nov 1 today, Oct just went by so fast, hopefully will have more free time in Nov. Ha! Thanks for writing back. We'll close for now. Thanks for more input, Mike   back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 6: A museum for the South Korean Intelligence Agency. ****************************************************** Summary: I have been invited to assist the same company that had been hired to work on the museum of creativity and invention to assist with ideas about a museum for the KIA. This is a more difficult problem because several "natural" ideas that one would expect to make for success in the stated goal of the museum, which is to improve the public's perception of the agency, are ideas that are disallowed because of the secretive policies of the agency. None the less I am still in contact with the company and several ideas have been taken, although both they and I feel that the agency will be the main factor limiting the museums successful completion of its mission.   back to the top   From: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" To: Subject: Additional information Date: Thu, 24 Sep 1998 09:27:53 +0900 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Priority: 3 X-Mailer: Microsoft Internet Mail 4.70.1155 MIME-Version: 1.0 X-UIDL: 132b677be2ae6445f0bac7ffd488c257 As for your lasting e-mail, I 'd like to thank for your kind assistance. We have had many ideas from your comments. Especially, it was very important to give us the concept of history of invention in Korea. Again, thanks for your assistance. I'd like to get some ideas from your another comments. We have designed to build the 'KIA Museum' planed by Korean Intelligence Agency(In USA, CIA). After last year, there are some changes in Korean political situation. The KIA would like to change their identity because the situation around the world concentrates on industrial intelligence. Until now, they have only concentrated on the intelligence of North Korea. With this change, they 'd like to demonstrate their identity through a ' KIA Museum' to the people. So, if you have any ideas, concepts and sample of museum in USA, please give us the information by E-mail. How can I compensate for your assistance? From: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" To: Subject: Willing and enthusiastic reply Date: Thu, 24 Sep 1998 23:46:15 +0900 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Priority: 3 X-Mailer: Microsoft Internet Mail 4.70.1155 MIME-Version: 1.0 X-UIDL: 100438a973c082a856108c4762e2619a It 's at 11/pm on Friday. I am thankful for your reply. I will do my best to communicate with you. If you have any requirements from me, I will assist you willingly. My name is Seung Tae, Kim. My job is planner in museum and science center. And I'd like to know the details of your job. As for your question of KIA, I 'd like to reply as follows. KIA was established in 1962, after Mr. Park, the previous President seized power with his coup d'tat overthrowing the government. Probably, KIA was originally built as keeper of his government. Of course, the KIA said their purpose was to keep South Korea safe from North Korea. Until now, their image has not been positive. Mr. Kim, the new president, would like to change their image and role, which is to seek industrial information and forward the renunciation of the Korean peninsula. The viewers are to be only a special class, which is the leadership group in Korea. Because the museum will be located in KIA the KIA is not allowing the public to enter. This is problem, but KIA will keep this rule, so as not to uncover their secrets. I think, gradually, KIA will open their museum to public and press. As for the press coverage, I do not understand your question. But their museum is not easily open to public. They 'd like to create their image as follows: - Positive - They have truly worked hard for the Nation, though the people have not thought like that. - From now on, they will work hard for the nation' s prosperity and reunification, for which they will gather industrial information about North Korea. - They want to be like the Mosad in Israel. - I will inform you continually, if possible. Korean public want KIA to be their role as giver of important information and industrial information to people and enterprise. Their museum's goal is to demonstrate their new image, not negative image through Museum. Again, thanks for your assistance. To: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" From: dbrady@sfusd.k12.ca.us (Dan Brady) Subject: Cc: Bcc: X-Attachments: My concerns on this project is the difference between publicity and secrets. They want KIA 's general image to be good, but they can allow only a special class to enter into their museum. That is an irony, key point and difficulties to build the concept. Of course, they will allow public to enter into gradually. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: They want the public's attitude changed, without the public seeing the museum? If that is the case then they, the public, will not have a chance to change their attitude. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: So, we have plan to build this museum, in which the exhibitors recover the exhibits or cannot recover the exhibit because of secret. In another words, the exhibits will be divided into 2-3 kinds, according to class of exhibitors. As indicated by you, it is necessary to contact the exhibits from outside through computer networking (in my opinion). ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: Hands on cannot be beat. There should be something that can be touched held and seen with no barriers. This is important for communicating honesty. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: The reason why they 'd like to build museum is the lack of their legitimacy. With public relationship as it is, they 'd like to get their legitimacy in Korean society. So, they are seeking the importance of agency and intelligence in Korean history (during 2000 years). ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: See my other letter with regard to your ancient rulers. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: Till now, press coverage is mostly that they arrested a spy from North Korea or they tortured the democratic people or that they, the KIA, maneuvered behind the scenes for the dictatorship. So, people have accepted their being there for security from North Korea but still regarded KIA as negative. The public have thought of the KIA as 'torturers', 'hijacking' and that they 'maneuver behind the scenes'. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: This is where only public housecleaning of the agency will cure their image problems. If your KIA is anything like our CIA, then it is unlikely they will do this on their own. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: After election of President in last year, New Regime tried to change KIA's Image. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: I believe he can achieve this, by using the public's opinion to place him in a powerful position over the agency, but of course, this is, again, beyond my purview. Take care, Dan From: dbrady@sfusd.k12.ca.us (Dan Brady) Subject: Re: Specifics 2 Cc: Bcc: X-Attachments: The following are specifics for exhibits: STKim: Legitimacy 1) the King : Kwanggaeto Great King, who expanded our land to China and is symbol of 'prosperity of Korea. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: I think that if there are any tales of spies and the like from this time period that would be good to excellent to include. The reason being is that the people respect their great historical leaders and if it could be shown that they also engaged in espionage it would make the KIA's task a mite easier. (The same should be said for the museum project, the older and more venerable the invention the better, a whole introductory section could be devoted to these items, in fact, they should be the first things seen...) I would find some historical experts, scholars and have them find the needed stories, and it would be a simple matter to make large as life scenes wherein these ancients act out their historical tales. One could have a small stage area wherein "plays" could be performed as part of the museums displays. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: 2) the patriot : Kim Koo, who was the most famous and had struggled with Japanese during Japan's invasion to Korea. Because he taken a action in a shady spot to Japan, KIA regarded him as 'Typical patriot and spy. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: I do not understand, are you saying he is famous because he betrayed Korea during the war? By the way, World War Two, a great period to talk about your resistance to the occupation, and how the resistance was organized. This is espionage as well, and, if any of the current or past KIA leadership had a role during this period, it would be worth the display space to commemorate that person(s) experience during that terrible period. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: - Against North Korea 1) Spoils from north Korean spy 2) Pamphlets to North Korea and from North Korea 3) Materials of the escapee from North Korea 4) Necessities of North Korean 5) North Korea's counterfeit bank notes 6) Narcotics. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: As far as the above is concerned: For number one I feel that this material would be good if it would be clearly evidence of some specific plan or case. Not just an old uniform or a collection of foreign arms. I think that a display using these items must be related to a particular case so that the display could include a description of the evidence, brief description of the trial, and thus a justification of the KIA's existence. If reconciliation is a goal I do not know that pamphlets from North Korea would be a good idea, unless they are prominently communist. I feel that the idea of the museum legitimizing the KIA, and having as part of its goal reunification of Korea, can best do so if it focuses on communism as the cause for the division, not differences between the people. Thus the focus on Communism as the divisive factor would allow reunification psychologically, as soon as communism in the north fades away. All the things (one through five) can just as easily lead people to have an attitude favorable to continued division if you bring out how much the North has done, however you could get around this by emphasizing the communist element in all that they have done, so that visitors might be led to think that communism is the problem, not the people and rulers of the North. For items three four and five in specific, again cases, photos of the persons and how the cases were built. All of this stressing the fairness of the procedure, the overwhelming evidence, do not rely on confessions here, they won't wash, and again, how it was a communist scheme, not something that the North would have done on its own, so to speak. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: Against International offender 1) Foreigner's Spurious bank note 2) Narcotics 3) International Gangster 4) Information of arms and explosives ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: For things in this area, you have a more general capacity to create a favorable image of the KIA, but again, there must be pictures of the criminals, evidence of how evil they are, and some clear way that the people visiting the exhibits can see that they have a stake in getting such persons in jail. For narcotics that can be quite easy, drug use cause pain, and suffering. But the displays or artifacts must speak louder than any words. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: - About KIA's Spy 1) All of Victims after establishment of KIA 2) Positive Image to overcome the negative image of being a 'symbol' for torture ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: As I have already thought this area will not be well addressed by a museum visited only by a select class of people. The nature of this problem could best be solved by a public "housecleaning" of the agency having a few high profile cases prosecuted, so that the "bad apples" can tossed out, and punished. This aspect of your case is beyond my purview. The purer the agency can be made the more rapid its progress can be made. It is probably unlikely that this will occur in a fair and honest fashion and so you will have trouble succeeding as quickly and as easily as you will with the Creativity and Invention museum. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: - About the future 1) Protection of Cyber terror 2) Office without Paper 3) The importance of industrial information 4) Two important mission : Reunification and Prosperity 5) The role as giver of information to public ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: This area is the most promising. The visitor should see how the office without paper will make the agency more efficient, capable and fair. Cyber terror will have to be explained, but I do not think that it is very important, though you could have a display, or short video presentation that repeats during the operating hours of the museum, which shows how the KIA is working on that problem and even display evidence of a case that they solved long ago. Simply stating the agency's new goal of Reunification and prosperity is not enough, these two items would have to be a theme that is evidenced in every display, every explanation. If the KIA wants to change its public image I would add to Prosperity and Reunification the pursuit of justice. Again that is beyond my purview, thought I would be remiss in my duty to avoid saying this. ------------------------------------------------------------- Let me know what you think Dan To: "=?EUC-KR?B?seggvcLFwg==?=" From: dbrady@sfusd.k12.ca.us (Dan Brady) Subject: Re: 1st response for your E-mail dtd. 10.28'98 Cc: Bcc: X-Attachments: STKim: Further to your E-mail dtd 10.28'98, at first, I 'd like to reply as follows. 1) I will be waiting for your information of 'the needed stories' about the tales between the historical leader and espionage in foreign countries. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: For number one above, I do not know your history well enough to find such stories, but I assume that some of your own historians can easily find such legends and important occurrences in history. This should provide a connection for the common people, who may well know some of these stories or parts of them, and the reason for the KIA to exist. However, the KIA would do better to do a wholesale housecleaning, and public upgrade. Like I say the government can do this, there are ways, with the people behind it, of course. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: 2. Sorry for my not enough express about Kim Koo. He is hero in Korea, because he established the 'secret patriots' and led them. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: Number two, this is a good start, is he a WW2 hero? That would be the best, for you had then an evil occupying force that did unspeakable criminal acts upon your people. Did he become part of the KIA? That would also be a plus... You want to find well known persons that the people would like, and connect them to the KIA. ------------------------------------------------------------- STKim: 3. Invention Museum The basic drawing was already made and submitted to our client. Next week I will make a presentation to them. Probably, we will success in this projects. I will inform you of detailed process in future. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan: Let me know what you know when you know, this is exciting.... DB back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 7: Professional Mentoring. ****************************************************** Summary: This is a circumstance where I was in the role of a mentor. The issues that I dealt with in this case were varied and provided an interesting challenge. I have honored the person's trust in me by keeping the specifics confidential. But the results speak for themselves. For more information please see: Creative Ideas for Mentoring back to the top   From dbrady@muse.sfusd.k12.ca.us Sun Nov 15 22:01:57 1998 Received: from [156.1.240.40] by hotmail.com (1.0) with SMTP id MHotMail308864891729035065324932617372712113940; Sun Nov15 22:01:57 1998 Received: from [156.1.236.11] ([156.1.236.11]) by muse.sfusd.edu (8.9.0/8.9.0) with SMTP id XAA07199 for; Sun, 15 Nov 1998 23:04:07 -0800 Message-Id: <199811160704.XAA07199@muse.sfusd.edu> Mime-Version: 1. Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Date: Sun, 15 Nov 1998 22:04:56 -0800 To: "R. L." From: dbrady@muse.sfusd.k12.ca.us (Dan Brady) Subject: Re: Your last letter RL, Yes, the flower shop idea would be a good one. It can be a goal that you work toward which makes the day to day trials worthwhile. You can research this easily while you are earning and saving. During the summers you can work temporarily at some and find out how you really like it, and, florists can do quite well, but you must have a good location, and be hooked up with organizations like FTD wherein someone somewhere orders flowers and you, being the closest FTD florist to that location, get the order and fill it. Then there is advertising, marketing, specialty flowers and the like. You should go for what you truly would like. All these jobs and things are just a means to an end, don't forget that. You want a happy life, one that is what you like. I too have friends who, no surprise, out earn me massively. I mean this one guy I went to high school has been a doctor for the last 20 years and you can guess what his net worth is, and then my best friend, the engineer, well he and his wife each earn more than Wendy and I combined, they have houses, note the plural, and a portfolio, also two lovely children, however he measures his free time in minutes per day, literally. So who is better off? Now here is the thing: using my high school class as a group, I am better off than many though certainly not all of them, maybe not even most. I know how to save and invest while many of them did not undertake such. There were some that made poor choices, ruined their lives, others are single parents, some have died. Which brings us to a point: I enjoy a good deal of my life. I write, and I love that, I play music and love that, singing is wonderful as is art. I know that life is more than the physical vehicle that you are in, meaning your body. Happiness is the thing. A person that has enough food and shelter, medical insurance and happiness will live decades longer than someone who is regularly stressed out, and over busied with possessions, and working long hours at a pricey job. What is a year's life worth? You won't really know the answer to that until you see someone dying even as they're regretting all the things that they did not "have time for" If you could make a success out of a shop and enjoy it, find satisfaction, and contentment as well as a long life, then that would be success. A friend of mine and I once talked about what "made life worth it". We came to the conclusion that basic comforts such as room and board, simple pleasures such as interests and friends, and then, growth, learning new things and changing with the times. These, we decided were three basics of life and living that are overlooked. I mean, what is one of the first things you ask someone at a party when you try to strike up a conversation, among men its, "What do you do?" Quickly followed by: "What do you make?" Implying that your worth is based solely on one factor in your life. Try an experiment go to two parties at one dress casual, and when asked by strangers, reply with a low skill, low paying job, and then at another dressed the same way, and report that you are in the six figure range. See how differently you are treated. College focuses us all on that, productivity, high paying jobs, and professionalism. But ask the dying person knowing his hours are numbered if there is more to life than a fat paycheck, and would he or she not trade most anything for a few years of health, or a decade. This means that finding a balance between living, and is vital to the good life. I ramble on...I may ask you for a reference to use on my web site, because if I have helped you with ideas then I could do that...if you didn't mind... Dan X-Originating-IP: [208.25.61.19] From: "R.L." To: dbrady@muse.sfusd.k12.ca.us Subject: Re: Your last letter MIME-Version: 1.0 Date: Sat, 21 Nov 1998 12:36:33 PST X-UIDL: e07b5d1bc9a201e742f4e6346a6332a1 Dan, You are right. This person will probably never be a friend. I am not proud of that. But I am going to stay and finish my year off. IF anything else happens, I can always substitute. Dan, you have done so much for me. It is an honor to return the favor! The reference follows. R. L. X-Originating-IP: [208.25.61.16] From: "R.L." To: dbrady@muse.sfusd.k12.ca.us Subject: Re: Your last letter MIME-Version: 1.0 Date: Fri, 20 Nov 1998 17:47:37 PST X-UIDL: cecc89c2240977a0a61a91d7b7b3c017 To whom this may concern, Dan Brady has helped me a great deal in my professional life. When I was beginning my career, my discussions with him helped me see my circumstances more clearly. His insights and reflections gave me a new perspective on problems I was facing in such a way as to make my options stand out in contrast to one another, making my choices easier to understand in terms of their long term effects. I was able to make good choices after our talks, and discussions. He has a remarkable way of bringing humor into the most distressing of circumstances to lighten the burden of discussing them. He can converse well, listen, and hear what I have to say. He is quite creative. Our talks were originally concerned with my professional development as a teacher in the San Francisco Unified School District, however, our discussions ranged from that concern to others that were also important to me. R. L. back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 8: A Young Inventor ****************************************************** Summary: This is a case where I was asked to assist a young inventor about creating a marketable game. Since this is an interest I share, I told him some of the basics that I know of. I encouraged him to work on the game with conventional means rather than wait until he has the programming skills to create the game of his dreams.   back to the top   Hi Dan, This is Alisa, mom of Dustin, who wrote you concerning the game. Sorry for not responding sooner- Your response was great, although Dustin was shocked at what he had to do. But, he is going to try and take a programming class next year Re: the letter below: I am not sure that games need to be patented, you may be able to copyright them since they are not inventions per se. This kind of questions is best answered by some friend of yours in your legal department, or that person may be able to direct you to places where you could find out. This is one place to start: http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/ This is the government office of copyright. You may be able to get some informational packets from them. I have a copyright and it only cost 25.00 to file, this of course was for a manuscript that I wanted to protect before I sent it around to publishers. Currently I am rewriting it and this is taking much time, even though I enjoy it. In the mean time you do not need computer programming skills to design much of the game, write the rules, draw the appearance of characters, or draw out imaginary lands, territories, and the like. Set the nature of characters, powers, properties of various items in the game. Most computer games are heavy in the graphics realm so you can do a lot in the meantime. The main advantage of undertaking this activity is that all you need are pencils, paper, crayons and the like to do all this ground work. Make no mistake, is it difficult, challenging, fun and the like. I have a couple of board games that I have developed but have other projects that have taken precedence over them. The large game I have is completed but it did take a few hundred hours over the course of a couple of years to work it up to its current state. I have no programming skills and so I will have to find a programmer who would be willing to be a partner in that venture. Then there is study, looking at the competition this includes studying other games, and talking with friends about what is good or not good about them. All the foregoing comes under the heading of information gathering and can help you alter your plans. In fact the more that this kind of activity is done, the clearer will the concept of the game become and the easier will be the programming once you start it. As far as keeping the idea secure, the less you say the better. The more complete your "paper" idea the better, and the more you know about copyright the better. You could be ripped off still, but it would be harder. If the idea is a good one, once the game is finished, have others test play it and make adjustments, trouble shoot it. Let me know how this information assists.   back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 9:Questions of Life, and livlihood ****************************************************** Summary: This began as a problem solving situation determining the advisability of moving. As it turned out there was more to the whole case than that. We pursued ideas, examined perspectives, and assumptions. We have assisted here and feel good about the work done so far.   back to the top Now that I am concentrating on myself, everything else seems to fall into place. I cannot, will not, be involved in other people's problems. It is enough to just take care of me. I cannot thank you enough. Elizabeth gwg63@aol.com Dan, You probably are an exceptional person and teacher. Not all teachers are so wonderful...I wish that all teachers were as caring as you. You should be a master teacher teaching teachers how to behave in the classroom and with parents. Sincerely, Liz back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 10: Petfinders Assisted ****************************************************** Summary: This case involved assisting with business ideas, and assisting with advice about setting up a Web Site. The discussions ranged through these and other areas. I was glad to assist a worthwhile effort. You can look at their site: < HREF="http://www.petfindusa.com/"> Pet Find, USA, to find out what they are all about.   back to the top   Subj: Re: Web Stuff. Date: 12/20/98 7:18:13 PM Eastern Standard Time From: Holly65584 To: dbrady@muse.sfusd.k12.ca.us Dan Thank you so much for writing - it was a God send. I have my domain name registered at www.petfindusa.com. Currently it is hosted by Primehost which is AOL's hosting branch. It's very expensive and I never intended to leave it there for so long. I'm very excited that I'm at the end of this very long production and I can't wait to get it up and running. The phone calls are still coming in - I need to get in business quick! Any help or suggestions you can offer would be so, so, so appreciated! I wrote back with more suggestions: Here is one, and this is a long term one. I know, just what you need, more work, but once you hear about the idea it will be worth it. There are others who are in your business think of them as your allies, not as you or other ordinary business types might have you think, as only your competition. What I propose to you is that you find other internet pet finding businesses, and communicate with them so that you could, in theory, link up with them and thus, if you network with many of them, extend your service area to cover the nation and beyond. Think of it as a military campaign to extend your coverage. It could be as simple as working out a system that allows searchers access to all the allied sites from each site. This would not be hard to do, it could be as simple as each allied member adding a brief page of text and graphical links to their own sites. This could be a real good move. One promise to make to them is to allow them to link to your site and you put links on to theirs. This can be as simple as creating a graphic link, a logo, if you will, that identifies you. I can do simple graphics, but you will have to have almost complete control over this graphic, because it is your business. Dear Dan, Wow! This is a lot to digest - thank you - and I will be happy to provide you with all the references you want or need, and I will be more than happy to link your site to mine as well. For now, I am going to save this and print it, and then review it in detail. Thank you for all your input and knowledge. I'm very good at giving, but I'm trying diligently to work on "receiving" as well to complete the universal circle. So I appreciate your assistance and I'm more than willing to receive what you offer and then pass it on in whatever form is next. I believe "we're all in this together," and we have to learn that. Therefore, I LOVED your "spin" on contacting other companies as allies, rather than competitors - this is fantastic! The "pet people" are SO open to help and give without compensation or recognition, which was one of the things that kept drawing me into this field. Also, thank you for the backup reminder. I KNOW that, but I keep forgetting, so thanks for the reminder. Hi Dan, Thanks for your help and input. I knew about that link problem and didn't know how to fix it.   back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 11: Windy Austin & The Hothouse Tomato Boys ****************************************************** Summary: This is a case where our involvement became technical. We assisted Windy Austin with his Web Site. We went in and fixed a link, added META codes, and adjusted some language on the home page. Windy reports getting good results. We explored and enjoyed finding a workable outcome. Here is a link to the site for: Windy Austin and the Hot House Tomato Boys.   back to the top   Dan: I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. We've been on an extended tour. We've experienced about a ten or twenty percent increase due to your help. Over the next week I'm going to attempt to edit the site myself as Annawatt has three new products and several new services to offer. Please save the information you have on our site because I'm sure I'll screw it up. I can't thank you enough for your generous help and you'll probably be hearing from me sometime next week. There's a lot of us musician cats who are going on line and don't have a clue. Believe me I'm spreading your address around. Thank You again & stay in touch, Windy Austin & The Hot House Tomato Boys ANNAWATT RECORDS back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 12: Design Ideas for a Float ****************************************************** Summary: This is a case where a good idea was needed for a float in a local celebration. The solution was quick and this is what the person had to say: "I am willing to put your web site address on with our sponsors, not much, but as a way of thanking you..." Then later, "I am talking with my builder guys, thanks!"   back to the top   Creative Ideas: I don't know if you are willing to help but I need some creative thinking and I am not the person to do that. I have asked others I know for help with this problem but everybody looks at me and says "that's your problem" My husband and I are in charge of building a float for a parade the end of July. Getting the float built is not a problem, I have several builders lined out. What I NEED is an IDEA of what to do. The parade theme is "End of a Century". We are rather limited in our budget and that requires even more creativity. We live in a rural Idaho town with quite conservative values and it is a church sponsored parade but it doesn't have to center around that. We would like a prize winning float. Motion on the float seems to really attract the judges. Can you give some ideas? I would appreciate anything. I can also give more information if needed!! I have thought of things like "In the Spirit of the Future" but have no idea what would represent that on the float. The Y2K bug is often mentioned but how do you incorporate that into a float and not have it be dumb and still go along with the theme? I also thought of a birthday cake and something like "Happy New Millennium" Thanks MARGO MT, I may be able to assist here. Please advise of some specifics: deadline of project, number of persons available to assist, funds available, supply list that you think you might want, what you have on hand that you intend to use, and any other specifics you feel would be pertinent to what your project entails. From: "Margo Thompson" To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Subject: Re: Creative Float Ideas Date: Thu, Apr 8, 1999, 11:09 AM Great! Thanks, Dan **The parade is July 24. **Theme: The End of a Century. **We have about $1000. (not much, I know) **I have three builders for mechanical and such. **And probably the same number of people to help with finishing. **I would like something with movement, either that rotates or moves back and forth and I believe my builders can do that if they have the idea. (my part!) **We have a trailer (wood) I think the size is 10 wide x 24 long **There is some materials that has been left over from other years like float paper, festooning, letters, etc. We could use some of that but would need to purchase mostly new I think. **We also could do music with it, I have a sound person, we had great music last year and the same person could do it again. Floats that have looked good in the past and been winners were quite flashy (metallic) color and had movement. Also with not too many people but a few. They also like you to follow the theme pretty close. I believe one large focal point would work best and not try to go with a lot of things that have represented the last century. Some of my ideas that I haven't really liked but maybe with some development (don't laugh): 1. A rocket or maybe spaceship and the float reads "Blast off to the 21st Century" but how do I make the rocket move? And I really don't like the idea all that well. What else would I use on the float besides the rocket? Little green men? 2. A birthday cake, candles, gifts and it says "Wishing you a Happy Millennium or Century" Maybe the cake could turn in the center of the float. And if a naked lady jumped out I am sure all of the guys would like that. Not that great for a family parade though. Okay, that is all of the ideas I have had, see why I am desperate! I have felt the idea could be humorous or serious in nature, I tend to enjoy things on a less serious scale or that have a thoughtful twist. I like the phrase "In the Spirit of the Future", too. I appreciate your response and willingness to brainstorm an idea. I am willing to put your web site address on with our sponsors, not much, but as a way of thanking you. Thanks again, MARGO MT, Here is my idea: Your float would be "Plans for the Future in Space" The center piece for the float could be a substantially sized model of the space station that is currently under construction. This could be a large detailed model, built to scale, with all sorts of small motorized parts that could make antenna change position, signal dishes turn, the solar paneling change. You could have lights blinking on the thing, signal and docking lights. Around the base of the thing can be models of the rockets that supply building materials, models of the space shuttle, and for music, any track that has to do with space. Everything from Telstar by the Ventures to 2001 theme: Also Sprach Zarathustra. You could, if you could manage it, rent/borrow a big screen TV that would be showing footage of the space station, as well as clips of the lunar landing, astronauts, and other related footage. This would be a multimedia float. I had thought of the idea of the history of space exploration in which you could have a scale model of some of the famous items from history, a model of Sputnik, very easy. and then models of a Gemini Capsule, and so forth, but, being as the theme is the end of the century, I just think that your float could be "The end of the Century: In Space Exploration." The thousand dollars would go quite far in this vein. You should contact any hobby shops, or persons with model making skills, they would be vital to this project, but for the most part the simple shapes comprising the space station would make this a possible idea for you to consider. Certainly hobby shops might consider the value of getting exposure if their logo or name could be put on the thing, but I don't know if there would be a rule against that. Let me know if this idea is worth pursuing, or if it does not suit you. From: "Margo Thompson" To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Subject: Re: Creative Float Ideas Date: Mon, Apr 12, 1999, 10:46 AM I am talking with my builder guys, thanks! And if you think of anything else let me know MARGO MT, Well, I am glad things are moving forward. Many photos and drawings can be found on the internet, and I imagine that if you contacted NASA, telling them you were wanting to build a model of the space station for display, they might send you some interesting facts and things. This information could be put on placards or smaller displays of printed information. Dan @ CI back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 13: Some One Else's Ideas! ****************************************************** Summary: This is a case where another creative person had ideas to share. after a few emails, I set up a page for his ideas on my site to see if anyone likes those new ideas of his. If you want to cut to the chase, click: here.   back to the top   Dear Sir, I read your web site and I was wondering if I could be of assistance. I am a creative individual with ideas but no place to go with them. I am a graduate mechanical engineer with 25 years experience in the Petroleum industry. I am looking for some part time work which I can do from my home in Colorado. I can provide advise or ideas on how to improve an existing product or come with some new ones which have not been invented yet. Is there any room for this type of service in your company ? Sincerely Yours, Steve Cassinis SC, The way I am working things now, I receive requests for assistance and offer it as long as I am assured of receiving a willing and enthusiastic reference that I can post on my site. I do not currently charge for services, I am more interested in seeing how and who I can help. Between you and I, I could have a description of what you offer, who you are and the like, add it to one of my pages, Co-Ventures, and, perhaps, send appropriate requests to you, as long as you are clear to me and the potential client about what and how you offer your service. This is my first thoughts, let me know what you think of this kind of idea. Dear Dan, Yes, your summary of what I am suggesting is correct. So, do I start giving you my list of ideas? Your web site on Co-Ventures looks like the ideal place. I also want to confirm that this will be done without any fees? What do you expect from me in return? Best Regards, Steve Cassinis A summary of a few intervening letters: I told him that I do not charge fees at this time. I am exploring how I can assist others with ideas via the internet. Dear Dan, Thanks for writing back. I have been preparing my work station in the basement so I can start my home business center. I like what you said in your email and your web page about finding a place where you can submit your ideas for new products and services. I feel the reward of finding a place for my ideas is reward in itself. I also would like to contribute to improving existing products. I remember seeing a man on TV who had a business consulting for manufacturers who wanted their product designs improved upon. I thought your web site was trying to achieve something similar. It would be a way to create a think tank with people located around the world. What I would be willing to give you now is some of my ideas for new products. Some will stink, some will already exist and some may not be so bad. I also can assist in improving existing products. I would offer my ideas and services for free. If it can lead someday to profits, so be it.   back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 14: A Graduate Students Research Project ****************************************************** Summary: This is a case where in I aided a graduate student in refining an MBA research topic   back to the top   From: "Ravi Moopen" To: Subject: Require research topic Date: Fri, Apr 2, 1999, 1:52 PM Dear Dan I have almost completed my studies for a MBA degree except for the last part which is a research project. I have three months to complete this project. Presently I am toying with many ideas that I could research. The topic should however, add substantial value to my future career. I am an entrepreneur and developed many successful businesses. I have the following idea for a possible project: "A case for Communal Manufacturing Industries". In South Africa, we have a large unskilled population who I believe can be made very productive if larger industries can out source the manufacturing of the various components to individuals or collective groups of individuals e.g.. the various parts that make up a shoe. The study could take the form of identifying a few local industries and communities. The value chain of event could be measured to show if quality and productivity has improved. I know that this is a reality in certain parts of the world. Is this too far fetched. I like your Ideas. Thank you Ravi Moopen RM, I work as a consultant, if you wish to work with me, I will set out my terms. You then tell me whether they are acceptable or not. Here are the terms: That if I successfully assist, via the internet, by applying creativity's focus to your concern, that you provide a willing and enthusiastic recommendation; I will then feel free to post excerpts from it or other positive comments from other letters, in order to provide a potential visitor to my site a means to judge the fitness of my services for them Dan Brady From: "Ravi Moopen" To: "Dan Brady" Subject: Re: Creative Ideas: 12/04/99 Date: Mon, Apr 19, 1999, 12:01 AM Dear Dan I will be very pleased to give you a reference especially if your idea works. I am seeking a research topic for my MBA project. The Wits MBA program is the number 1 MBA in RSA and Africa. The research report is the final part of the program. One is expected to put considerable effort into it. I am a veterinarian by profession, however I have spent the last six years setting up very successful small businesses. I love strategy and also developed a great interest in International business. The research topic I choose must contribute to my future career. It ideally, should translate into a new business. I am also very keen to set up a business venture in any dollar denominated country, preferably the USA (This I believe is my insurance against the poor Foreign Direct Investment into Africa, especially Southern Africa resulting in a neglected region globally). I hope you have some interesting ideas. Regards Ravi Moopen RM, I have copied into to this the letter that which I wrote to you after I received your first letter. This is just my initial effort. There may be some ideas in it that are worth while. Please be advised that my process is one that involves some exchange of information, meaning emailings. Let me know if I am in the ballpark, so to speak, with what is in the added on below the ********** line. In a few letters exchanged we should have some interesting ideas to choose from. For now take a look at my initial take on your request, and then get back to me so I can refine it, add to it, or completely change it around. ************************************************** I do have some ideas even as I read your passage. As there have been similar projects done in other parts of the world, it is not unlikely that you might be able to reasonably speculate as to the efficacy of following suit in studying how by dispersing an industrial task(s) a society might allow workers the aesthetic benefits of living and working in a lower density circumstance. The World Bank has a project with similar intent, and it is successful. What you propose differs from their project in that you are envisioning a cooperative venture of individuals working with companies. It is a form of investing in rural development. The World Bank's project targets potential individual entrepreneurs and provides them with loans to start businesses which in turn employ others. I do not see why your proposal wouldn't work. Perhaps the thought is to take the idea one step farther. Think of it as companies investing in rural development. It would have to be a win/win or else it will not work. The process would have to enhance the value of something already used/needed by the general population. In other words you will be making something already made but in a new way. You are proposing a village based assembly line. Where people live and work together on common tasks for common benefit. I liked the phrase you used: "value chain of event" I would change that to "value enhancing cascade" Because you envision a series of events where each group contributes to the whole of a larger group. The limitations of this sort of thing would be the nature of the business world, you would want to use a product with sustainable demand, like shoes, practical ultra-light manufacturing, furniture making, clothes making, dinnerware, dried foods, dry recipe mixes, and the like. The needs of such a system would mainly be in the transport department, but with the internet who knows what kind of mail order, or service delivery agency one could create. There is a farther aspect. When you think about it. What I mean is that with this "cascade effect" one can again live and work with one's neighbors on a common task, and have much immediate control over the task. It hearkens back to Yeomanry, defined as that group of individuals who were self sufficient through homestead based production even while living in a cooperative village. This project, if successful, and propagated, could reorganize the social fabric of society. To wit: reestablishing a unit consisting of 30 to 50 adults which would be the size of a common nomadic tribe. This would then have an effect on the human social system. It, as a form, would compete the cities, and could supplant them as being the dominant theme in the history of the evolution of the human social system. Perhaps the idea would be an attempt to design a living system that would be superior to the urban center. I do have some ideas even as I read your passage. As there have been similar projects done in other parts of the world, it is not unlikely that you might be able to reasonably speculate as to the efficacy of following suit in studying how by dispersing an industrial task(s) a society might allow workers the aesthetic benefits of living and working in a lower density circumstance. The World Bank has a project with similar intent, and it is successful. What you propose differs from their project in that you are envisioning a cooperative venture of individuals working with companies. It is a form of investing in rural development. The World Bank's project targets potential individual entrepreneurs and provides them with loans to start businesses which in turn employ others. I do not see why your proposal wouldn't work. Perhaps the thought is to take the idea one step farther. Think of it as companies investing in rural development. It would have to be a win/win or else it will not work. The process would have to enhance the value of something already used/needed by the general population. In other words you will be making something already made but in a new way. You are proposing a village based assembly line. Where people live and work together on common tasks for common benefit. I liked the phrase you used: "value chain of event" I would change that to "value enhancing cascade" Because you envision a series of events where each group contributes to the whole of a larger group. The limitations of this sort of thing would be the nature of the business world, you would want to use a product with sustainable demand, like shoes, practical ultra-light manufacturing, furniture making, clothes making, dinnerware, dried foods, dry recipe mixes, and the like. The needs of such a system would mainly be in the transport department, but with the internet who knows what kind of mail order, or service delivery agency one could create. There is a farther aspect. When you think about it. What I mean is that with this "cascade effect" one can again live and work with one's neighbors on a common task, and have much immediate control over the task. It hearkens back to Yeomanry, defined as that group of individuals who were self sufficient through homestead based production even while living in a cooperative village. This project, if successful, and propagated, could reorganize the social fabric of society. To wit: reestablishing a unit consisting of 30 to 50 adults which would be the size of a common nomadic tribe. This would then have an effect on the human social system. It, as a form, would compete the cities, and could supplant them as being the dominant theme in the history of the evolution of the human social system. Perhaps the idea would be an attempt to design a living system that would be superior to the urban center.   Dear Dan Thank you for your insights regards my MBA research topic. Due to time constraints,( the proposal must be complete before the 31 May 1999). I have decided to do a topic with which I am very familiar, which is, "An evaluation of the business skills of the Small. Medium and Micro Enterprise Sector in South Africa". This study is very applicable to the SA situation, were the SMME sector is still a fledgling and rapidly growing sector. I hope that we maintain contact. I will be very interested to exchange ideas with you from time to time. Thank you very much for your encouragement and insights. Regards Ravi Moopen back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 15: The Advertising World ****************************************************** Summary: This request involves assisting someone who works for an advertising agency. I was fascinated by this because I have had an interest in that kind of business. As you can see I found a way to the right idea at the right time and place. back to the top To whom this concerns, I work for a promotional company and have been "assigned" to put displays and carnivals together. The theme being Mardi Gras and or carnival. The product being Southern Comfort. I need to come up with different displays for in-store promotions. Something revolving around Mardi Gras and Soco. It has to be an eye catching display, so that when people see it they walk away saying WOW! Please HELP as I do not have much time and have become desperate! Many Thanks, Jewels ------------------------------------------------------------- After asking some questions I received this. Often times working via the net is like working in a totally dark room and so I have learned to ask even some basic questions to fill out a picture of what is required. ------------------------------------------------------------- Dan, I work for a promotional company in Johannesburg, South Africa and my client is Brown Forman, which is your SOUTHERN COMFORT (SOCO) brands. The sales force have got to come up with a creative Bottle Store display with the theme being Mardi Gras and Southern Comfort. There are major incentives for the reps and I need to help them with ideas. Budget is low and need to use creative skills on which the displays will be judged. Southern comfort is Mississippi and then Mardi Gras being carnival. Most Bottle stores this time of year do not have much space available for displays so space could also be a problem. My job is too come up with ideas for the sales force and then they all do there own merchandising and building. I have all the info I need for Southern Comfort. MY IDEAS: In South Africa we call it Polystyrene (that white stuff you can paint and cut to make displays with) I am not sure where you from and what term you call it there but I thought of using this and making a steam boat around the point of sales and then decorating it with streamers, balloons and confetti? The other idea is making a rocket and using this as a Year 2000 thing with Mardi Gras? My creative skills are not working at the moment but hope this helps you out, and you can help me out... Thanks for getting in touch with me. Jewels ------------------------------------------------------------- Once I had an understanding of some specifics I was able to make some suggestions, as you might see from this letter. J, In the US. we call them Liquor Stores, places that only sell alcoholic beverages. Although supermarkets have liquor sections as well. It seems that you have to come up with the display and you do not have to have copy, sayings, mottoes, or jingles (short happy, and snappy tunes that include the product name) Correct me if I am wrong in that. It seems that your task is to create the display itself, again correct me if I am wrong. I will proceed on both those assumptions then: Polystyrene is familiar to me. One has to decide on the dimensions of the display, is it a stand alone item meant to rest on the floor and still catch the eye of the customer. Is it going to support the weight of samples, that is to say bottles of Southern Comfort? Re: your idea: of the polystyrene riverboat. This thematic connection is valid. You would not want to have a display that would take up the counter space near the cash register which is what you might have to do if the steamboat was say less than 2ft long x 1.5ft wide x 1.5ft in hight for then it would be a counter or shelf item and those are not as welcome because counter space is harder to come by, and shelf space is better spent, in the stores perspective, on product. A floor mounted display seems to be a better bet. You could have a two part display. In the full sized version you could have the steamboat which would mount on a stand that would have pictures of the Mississippi river on it or just water, the Steamboat would cap it off. Now here is the touch of creativity, create the display so that the steamboat is detachable and a store could order just the boat or the stand with the boat. The store would have some flexibility. You would have to do some research as to what a store might or might not want. By research here, I mean call or visit several stores and see what an owner might have to say about displays. See what kind are out there. What is the use of creating a display that wins the contest, if no one in turn wants to use it? Now as to the steamboat, two ideas: first is that the famous ones all had two decks, with windows on each deck. So my thought was this: that each window could be a pocket for a mini bottle of SC. As if the bottles were "passengers" and looking out the windows. If you used cardboard or some such, you could set it up like a "pop up" card, the kind that when you unfold or open it up a 3-D scene appears. This way you bring in a flat set of cardboard pieces unfold it, place the little bottles in it and you have a nice display. It is easy to assemble, would look nice and add "sales space" at the same time. It would also be recyclable. Also some stores might use the thing for decoration long after the promotion. You could do the same thing with Styrofoam, but I think that that would cost more, cardboard is cheaper and that must be factor if your budget is tight. As to decorating it with balloons: they pop, they will have to be blown up, and the other stuff will be a nuisance, possibly to a store. For this reason you could avoid all that just by making the backing of the display show all that, say photos of balloons pasted on to a two dimensional surface cut to outline the shape of a balloon. The rocket idea would be simpler to some extent, but it would not get the idea of Mardis Gras across as well as a steamboat with images of the Mississippi river along with it. I take it you did not need any of the slogans or sayings that I sent? Let me know what you think of these ideas. There is more but, as you can see, your information assisted me in homing in on what you are doing, hopefully I am getting closer to the point. Dan   NOTE: Mardis Gras, is like carnival in some respects. To the casual eye they appear quite similar but Mardis Gras has a French influence, Carnival has a Portuguese influence and although both are related to Religious origins I don't know if those origins are the same. ------------------------------------------------------------- You are an absolute star! I thank you from the bottom of my heart and yes we on the same wave. Thank you Dan -----Original Message----- From: Dan Brady > To: Jewels > Date: 09 November 1999 10:05 Subject: Re: Creative help needed ------------------------------------------------------------ Dear Dan Thank you for your help, we are using the Mississippi steam ship and the rocket with a space scene, to the moon and back with Soco. I still need more ideas and have been surfing the net for info and ideas but have not mastered this technique yet, I seem to find everything else but what I am looking for. I will scan some photos of all the displays built and send them to you. You are a star and thank goodness for the internet. Many thanks Jewels -----Original Message----- From: Dan Brady > To: Jewels > Date: 10 November 1999 05:28 Subject: Re: Creative help needed ------------------------------------------------------------- J, Let me know if it is still ideas for displays or the like. I might assume that but then I don't want to spin my proverbial wheels. You know that part of the fare at Mardis Gras is the parade replete with fantastic costumes and even some who wear very tall stilts and costumes. An idea therefore would be to gather pictures of costumed individuals, and put them into a montage that forms the backing for the display, the display could be inordinately tall. You would want to take the photos and process them to the point where no real face is shown clearly or perhaps use your graphics program to alter the appearance of any face. Sparkle paint would be employed and the costumes color schemes would have to be changed. What about some kind of relatively inexpensive contest? Say a contest for a jingle, motto, or other phrase, saying or such like. The prize could be something that the SOCO folks might put up in exchange for the publicity it would generate. Another idea is a "Treasure Hunt" With clues that are given out over the internet, under bottle caps, or the like, the basic idea is that someone has to use the series of clues to figure out the name of some famous place in New Orleans, or it could be that a "starting place" is given and if one has the series of clues one then has to wander about finding the sequence of clues until the final destination is reached and the prize is delivered on the spot, it could be a car with a vacation package in the glove box and a bunch of money. Then there is the Pirate connection to the region. Even well into the 19th century there was an organized pirate community in Louisiana. This connection could be a further source of ideas for the displays or the promotion. I cannot recall the pirate's name, but he was real, was in history, and played a role in the development of Louisiana.   back to the top   ****************************************************** CASE 16: Assisting an Inventor ****************************************************** Summary: Over the course of a few months I worked with Valerie Rudenco, Phd to refine how he might present his invention on the web. We discussed matters and I assisted him with creating a simple home page and arranged free web hosting. If you would like see more you can go to Valerie Rudenco's home page. back to the top   ------------------------------------------------------------- Mr. Dan Brady Creative Ideas has been very helpful to me. I am an inventor and with their help I have created a web site and have learned how to do some simple promotions for it. I feel more confident that I will be able to get attention for my inventions. I am intimately grateful. I hope for further cooperation. Valery Rudenco, Ph.D Honored Inventor   back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 17: A Contractor and Inventor ****************************************************** Summary: Mr. Sisson has a very practical idea for building contractors who are putting up lap siding. It is a simple device that he now has in Patent Pending. I assisted with ideas for promotion and marketing. back to the top   Hello, My name is Ray Sisson, and I am in search of help with marketing a hand tool I invented for applying lap siding of all kinds. I am at a stand still as to where to go with it from here. The here I refer to is the tool is patent pending status, the proto type made and improved and 850 pcs. of the packaged tool with inserts/directions on hand. ready to go with no-where to go !! Can u help ?? I would appreciate Do you have any ideas on the possibilities at this point. Some marketing was done and showed a possible 10,000 pcs. minimum could be sold per state, but as I have stated I am at a loss or lack of knowledge of how to get it off the ground and on the shelf. Thanks for your time in reading this e-mail I look forward to hearing back from you at your earliest convenience. Sincerely, Raymond D. Sisson ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from imo28.mx.aol.com (imo28.mx.aol.com [152.163.225.72]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id FAA30752 for; Tue, 22 Feb 2000 05:08:30 -0800 From: SIDINHLPR@aol.com Received: from SIDINHLPR@aol.com by imo28.mx.aol.com (mail_out_v25.3.) id 2.2.11c275a (4510) for; Tue, 22 Feb 2000 08:12:00 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: <2.11c275a.25e3e51f@aol.com> Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2000 08:11:59 EST Subject: Re: Mailed Disclosure & Insert To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Mailer: AOL 5.0 for Windows sub 44 X-UIDL: 183ade276c2994c57de80cf9cc0f30d7 This is what Ray said after we had worked together:   Dan, sorry have been so busy I have not done anything with the tool recently. The job/help you have extended to me has been great. Use me as a reference anytime guy. Talk to you again soon, Ray ------------------------------------------------------------- X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express for Macintosh - 4.01 (295) Date: Wed, 29 Dec 1999 15:39:54 -0800 Subject: Re: Looking for help..... From: "Dan Brady" To: SIDINHLPR@aol.com Mime-version: 1.0 X-Priority: 3 Content-type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" Content-transfer-encoding: 7bit The following are excerpts from letters showing the kinds of exchanges that we engaged in to develop ideas.   Ray: I am assuming that the SCORE connection will be valuable. When you do get a hold of them make sure you get someone who has done something similar to what you are trying to do. You don't want a ex bank president, or the CEO of a food company for example. But some one who has experience with mail order, door to door, or business to business sales would be more the ticket. ********** Dan: Another good idea but there is not much lap siding being installed in Florida mostly vinyl. However while I was in Georgia I did some looking around and that seems to be the primary type of siding used there state wide. I will however start on this end of the state though for that very reason. OK, I understand, but the idea still can apply, using maps and the like target groups of persons, potential customers, in certain areas so that you are not driving all over the place for a couple of sales. Also hardware shops, run by persons who know what they are doing, not chain stores, necessarily, they might be a harder sell. Also, another thought: You might be able to find a data base of job sites by investigating county offices for permits. There might be a way of going to a county office, looking to see what building permits are being given where and for what, this might be a way of getting a "barnstorming" list. It could be a possibility. ********** Dan: I am not worried about talking with anyone. I am not sure this will really apply especially in the beginning as I will not really have any competitors to speak of they will either like my pitch and the product or they won't.......Comments on my opinion???   Ray: Yes, since your product is simple, easy to use, demonstrate and therefore has value, it may be the kind of thing that sells itself, but time is money in this case, and if you have a pitch, and actually practice it with someone in the trade who you tell to "think up any questions, problems, be a real jerk to me as I do my pitch" Then, if the person is a true friend and does think up weird questions, challenges and acts like a jerk, you will be all the better prepared to handle the silly situations and misunderstandings that will inevitably occur "in the field" *********** Dan: I will make contact with SCORE today if at all possible. Do you think they will be able to help me with the financial part of this deal. Can SCORE put you in touch with a venture capitalist? or show you how to get a business loan? The government might be a source of small business loans, there is the a department in most states and the federal government has programs for persons like you as well, that is probably worth a few phone calls and letters. Ray: I don't know what they can do in this regard, but you will only find out by asking. ------------------------------------------------------------- Ray: As far a web page goes it can be a good idea but only really in combination with you own marketing. There are books out on how to promote your web site, and they might make interesting reading. When it comes to coding I know a bit about that, so when you have a page ready perhaps I can take a look at it. ********** Dan: I have done quit a bit of research in the last few days I appreciate your helping me to get motivated with this project. In answer to your last letter I am in process of making a promotion package as you suggested, and compiling a mailing/phone contact list. Good idea! I had started one while in Oregon but never did anything with it so will comprise one for Georgia to start as the state is close enough for me to travel to from home to get things started. I did some research up there last month and found that lap siding is their primary type of siding used, and lots of it. ********** Ray: The only suggestion here is that you should start with a grand list, but send out the letters in groups of 10 or 20 and then plan follow up calls. Also keep the mailings local or within easy driving distance, so you can follow up the leads with a delivery, demonstration and sale. Be sure always to mention that the patent is pending, if that is legal to say so. I would discuss with your legal advisor just what can be said, and how well protected your hold on your device is. How is the packaging, does it look "professional and clean" That would tend to make the customers think you are well established but new. I say all this because I do not know the laws and legalities involved and you must to protect your interest. Also if you get a group of persons interested in a given geographical area then you can schedule a run, a series of appointments. Have a good set of maps all ready, and phone books too. A nice organized office space with everything in it from post its to paper clips. Have a nice sounding phone message machine. The message can contain a bit of a pitch also. ********** Ray: Not sure affixing a photo of the tool to the package is a real good idea until I can be sure of the legal aspects of showing it without the patient in place. Dan: I agree with that, you must do everything to keep you property intact. The tool is not a machine but a simple hand tool composed of 7 bends, and 2 cuts. Pretty simple and small enough to fit in your hand. This is the reason for my pricing plan of $ 5.95-7.95 to keep the price low enough that is really isn't worth their time and effort to copy it... Ray: I would worry about that. And if you start making quick sales, I would definitely worry that someone is going to think about making what you have. I just don't know how to give advice on the legal matters pertaining to patents. You have already begun the patenting process, and I have seen things advertised as "patent pending" perhaps that should be on each package too. I just don't want you to have the rug pulled out from under you. ********** Dan: 1-Your idea to have someone ( a professional ) use the tool has already crossed my mind, and although I am a professional as I explained I have 19+ years in the field and have been using this tool myself for a couple years now. Ray: This could still be a good idea, you need to see how others use it. When all they have is the device, the instructions it comes with, and their own skill. You want to make sure that the package you have is "battle tested" If you have to make changes in packaging or instructions, now is the time, not later when you start getting complaints or questions. Dan: Let me steal the idea as you put it to me and add that maybe on my next trip I will hand out a few on job sites there and take pictures with my digital camera of the tool in use. Question, what are the legalities of me doing this and using the pictures in advertising ? Should I make up a release form of some sort ? Thoughts? Ray: My intuition is that as long as you have the persons permission to use the photo, in writing, it should be OK. You can get around this somewhat by photographing their hands as they use, place, or adjust the thing. Or in more distant shots, take pictures when they are not facing you as they use it. Ray: This would be another lawyer type question, do you have a lawyer's hot line in your area? Some place have such a service where, for a set fee, 10 or 20 dollars you get a half hour or so of some lawyers time. Check and see, this resource could be a quick way to check such questions out. The sale pitch as you put it is not a problem with me as half of the construction business is that on a daily basis in order to stay in business. Ray: OK, I understand, but still practice, and develop a pitch, some phrases that will catch their attention, have facts and figures literally at your finger tips. Have discount plans set up for some one who wants to by 20 or 30 units. Dan: I will make contact with SCORE today if at all possible. Do you think they will be able to help me with the financial part of this deal. I would be a lot more aggressive if the patient was complete, but that requires money, not a lot but a few thousand dollars most likely. ********** Ray: I do not think they will help directly with the financing, but they may be able to assist you with creating a business plan that might be a prerequisite for any kind of loan or investor that might be interested in you and your business. The figure of a few thousand dollars is, from what I have heard, in the ball park. If you could get a loan for that it would be great, or an investor. I do have disclosure forms made up and feel comfortable with the wording of them as I had a lawyer friend help with layout. At some point in our business relations I will need you to sign one in order to be able to share the idea in written form, pictures, specifics, profits etc. with you. If you are willing to sign one please send me your address and phone number. In return I will send you a package with the tool in it so you would be more familiar with the product, packaging, letterhead, and the ideas I have had to this point for the tool you are helping me market. ********** Ray: OK I can accept a disclosure form, it will be good for me to see one. In what I do I have often told people that they will need one, and that a lawyer can assist them in creating one. You can always leave a message, my answering machine is always on. Do you still feel that SCORE is my best bet in attempting to get backing from some interested party? Or should I just take my chances and get it out there in Georgia and see how it goes first, and then worry about getting the patient completed once on the market as you state on page 3 of your last letter? ********** Ray: I would talk to SCORE and get as much advice as you can. My gut feeling is to have this practical little device protected. I feel it is the kind of thing you could see on TV, in quick 15 to 20 second commercials in between movies. The handy man's handy helper...you get the idea. Let me run this one by you: I think in dealing with the larger companies I can appeal to their past, current, and future problems of incorrect installation of their product and the warrantee problems they have had to deal with as this tool sets the required overlap to their exact specs, could even be included with x number of LF purchased ? ********** Dan: Yes this sounds like a good approach, but the hold back is protecting what you have, if it is as easy to make as you say, then some one might grab it, that is why SCORE or getting a loan to finish the patent are the first things to figure out. Know how protected you are already and if you can protect what you have. Patent Pending written in bold lettering may not do that, then again, it just may. I would expect that you'd want to be sure ********** Dan: The same principle would work with the users of the trade if I could get the manufacturers to say this tool is ( can't think of the word at the moment ) ------ by us. Know what I mean? ********** Ray: Patent pending? Is that what you mean? Yes, it may well work as I have alluded to above. As for number of tools on hand I have 850 packaged and ready for sale, and another 350 that could be packaged within a day. However I still feel that a one on one approach with the tool and some advertising material in hand will be the best approach ********** Dan: To start with, and with the kind of resources you have, it is a way to start. The task will not be easy however. Well that's it for now. Thanks for you help and ideas you have my mind going 100 mph now and I appreciate that. Take care, Ray back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 18: Trade and Business Show Ideas ****************************************************** Summary: Ms. Kundia was assigned to be the manager of a business show that involved networking and promoting the goods and services of participating businesses. I assisted with ideas, strategies, and somewhat unconventional notions that provided a good deal of food for thought. back to the top   Received: from smtp6.mindspring.com (smtp6.mindspring.com [207.69.200.110]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id MAA09053 for; Mon, 13 Dec 1999 12:30:51 -0800 Received: from ix.netcom.com ([205.184.239.245]) by smtp6.mindspring.com (8.9.3/8.8.5) with ESMTP id PAA12454 for; Mon, 13 Dec 1999 15:29:10 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: <38555768.D9D98271@ix.netcom.com> Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 15:30:33 -0500 From: Susan Kundla X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.04 [en] (Win95; U) MIME-Version: 1.0 To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com Subject: Event Planning Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Hi. I'm a show manager for a business show and my producer has decided to develop 3 networking events prior to the show. I have never planned anything like that before. We are sending out invitations to about 3000 people in the business community. I want this to be a fun event and not a bunch of people standing around at the "open" bar. My problem is that my producer asked me to develop a plan for these events and I can't find anything on the internet about itineraries or about the what happens at these events. HELP!!! SK, ------------------------------------------------------------- (This is my typical initialization letter, if you work with me this is part of the first letter that I send to you.) The terms of having us work with you is as follows: Creative Ideas Initializing Letter Creative Ideas assists individuals, companies, corporations, and non-profit organizations. We are willing to assist you at this time. We will work with you through an exchange of emailings in which we attempt to find an idea that serves your need well. Upon successful completion of that task all we ask for in consideration is a willing and enthusiastic reference that we might post on our site so that future clients can see more easily what we have to offer. If this arrangement is satisfactory please writing us and include this text at the start of your letter. We have placed your letter in our Active File until we hear from you. If you have not already done so you can visit our casebook to see how we have already provided assistance to others. Thank you for writing. Dan (Sometimes, along with the initialization letter, actually begin with questions or ideas.) If that is understandable and agreeable we can begin. First we have to have the terms clear. You are sending out 3,000 invitations to persons in the business community. They are being invited to a "networking" party. Correct me if I am wrong: The function of the networking party is to allow persons invited to meet new contacts, establish friendly relations, all with the idea that the meeting will ultimately be mutually beneficial. If that is so there are many questions: What is your budget. How far in advance is the time frame for the event? What is the purpose your boss is doing this? meaning: Does his company have an interest in establishing contact with the persons attending? Is there a theme to the kinds of professionals you are inviting meaning is this for real estate agents, computer types, what? Where are the events taking place, that is to say, how close are they in time and space? What kind of resources do you have at hand? That means, does your company have a site that could host the affairs? How many persons are working on this with you. Are you just supposed to come up with ideas and supervise the others as they work? I would need to know if the company has done something like this before? If so you might have some idea of what is expected. How extensive are the expectations, is this going to involve food, catering, music, speeches being given or organized fun and games? All of these questions assist me in coming up with ideas. If you expect 1000 or more persons to show that is one thing, if you expect less than 100 that is quite another. To give you some idea of what these affairs are about: Usually professionals of a given field are brought together to share professionally in an informal atmosphere. There are many purposes: The share experience, to find mentors, to organize for a purpose such as opposing a law or to form a professional organization, to receive and disseminate information on best practices and the like. If it is for mixed professionals then it is usually more social, or political and the gathering's draw or attraction is its social aspect, meeting others with common interests while the professional or political aspect may, for many, be secondary. Ideas for what you can/should do have to wait until I have a clearer picture of what you are trying to accomplish, and what kind of resources you have at hand. Let me know. ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from smtp6.mindspring.com (smtp6.mindspring.com [207.69.200.110]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id EAA11357 for; Tue, 14 Dec 1999 04:50:41 -0800 Received: from ix.netcom.com ([205.184.239.245]) by smtp6.mindspring.com (8.9.3/8.8.5) with ESMTP id HAA15550 for; Tue, 14 Dec 1999 07:49:02 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: <38563D17.3D72D853@ix.netcom.com> Date: Tue, 14 Dec 1999 07:50:32 -0500 From: Susan Kundla X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.04 [en] (Win95; U) MIME-Version: 1.0 To: Dan Brady Subject: Re: Event Planning References: <199912140209.SAA06991@muse.sfusd.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-UIDL: af5c98b17f78c78218afe005acac3470 Dan, I guess it would be best for me to tell you a little about my show. The Business Show is geared to bring business-to-business buyers and sellers together. Representatives from various businesses that want to showcase their products and services can do so in this mini-mall type setting. The types of businesses that are involved range from all aspects of office products and furniture, advertising and marketing through various media, financial planners, health and life insurance, telecommunications, caterers, florists, etc. The upcoming show is scheduled for May, 2000, which will be its tenth anniversary. It is held in conjunction with the world's largest invention show because area businesses have the opportunity to network internationally. I have been with the company for one year and have managed only one show so far. There are some problems. When the show was first developed, it was a huge success. As it grew with the company, the producer was not able to devote as much attention to the show and it suffered. People were hired on a project-only basis (6-month time period) to plan the show and then leave after the show was over. The show struggled as a result of this. I was hired as a full-time event coordinator for this show. The 1999 exhibition showed promise with quality exhibitors and an increase in attendees, but not enough to please all exhibitors. For the 2000 exhibition, I have acquired Franklin Covey and IBM at no cost to provide seminars for the business community. I have also obtained Florine Mark from Weight Watchers to host a networking event at the show. She will actually be on the show floor and will be available to the media for interviews. This also was at no cost to our company. The networking events, scheduled for February, March and April, are created to generate interest in The Business Show and help bring exhibitors together to network, which could assist in bringing up the attendance at the show. We are trying to get the business community excited about The Business Show (TBS) again. Your definition of the networking party is also correct. Our budget for these events is very limited...this is due to TBS recent failings at generating revenue. Fortunately, I have local country clubs and conference centers willing to sponsor the event at no cost to our company. The first event is scheduled for February at a public country club that wishes to generate interest and clients. The second and third are at downtown up-scale hotels. Invitations will be sent with our newsletter to representatives from diverse business backgrounds...computer industry, real estate, marketing, security, education, insurance, etc., virtually every industry that can be involved in day-to-day business functions. I am really the only person working on this project. There are 6 people in our department including the producer. All are required to attend so I would have assistance on-site. I wasn't sure about speeches. The event is only 2 hours, from 5-7 PM. There will be food and beverages. I was thinking about trying to get a local charity involved in the show/events. I attended a networking mixer awhile back and they had an entertainment company provide dancers who involved everyone with props. I thought it was great. I would love to do that but we don't have the budget to accommodate. A charity organization might have more luck getting an entertainment company to perform gratis. What are your thoughts? As far as numbers, gee, given TBS history, it would be hard to guess. The event is free so I'm sure at least my exhibitors will show. The invitations will be inside the newsletter. I can't guarantee that people will even open the newsletter at this point. I personally would like to do a separate mailing but since I am unable to mail the newsletter to everyone I would like to in the first place, a separate mailing would be out of the question. If I had to guess though, I would say between 100 - 150 people. One other thing I must tell you about the show, we have what we call a "strolling feast." All exhibitors bring an item(s) of food for a designated 2-hour time period. Attendees are therefore encouraged to walk the entire show floor for appetizers instead of congregating around the food table in a corner somewhere. The theme for our upcoming show is Monte Carlo. We are giving away a trip for 2 to he Monte Carlo hotel in Las Vegas at the end of the show. Again, the goal is to get people excited about TBS, increase attendance and increase exhibitors. I already have 60+ exhibitors signed on for May exhibition. The average is about 100. I had 132 last May. I realize this is a very, very long letter. I do appreciate your help and am very excited to work with you. I will give you all the references you want for your help. Look forward to hearing from you. Thanks again, Susan ------------------------------------------------------------- (This is an response, to some extent paraphrasing her questions or concerns and my responses to them.) S.K., I reread my letter to you to see how you answered the questions. I went through your letter looking for those answers. I begin my letter to you with restating my understanding of your situation. It is much clearer now. But I want to make sure I understand so I do not waste your time with idea that are not based in reality. First set of suggestions It seems we agree on what a networking party is all about, facilitating business person to meet others with the hope of establishing professional and or profitable connections between their respective businesses You say your budget is limited but you do not provide a figure. From this I assume it probably consists of your salary and some incidental expense allowances for printing up material, mailings, office material and the like. You do not have a promotional budget of any significant kind. It is good that it is in May that is five months away it allows for time and planning. You refer to TBS, this must mean "The Business Show". This is, in fact your company? And its sole purpose is to produce this show? Does it do other shows? I am assuming that this activity and or others like is the what the company does for its income. The theme is the business office, and so sellers and buyers of office furniture, products, services, supplies would be invited. You say that you also will invite financial planners, insurance agencies, caterers, florists and the like. In short any business that has anything to do with office products and services for businesses are potential invitees. If the business you want involved are all local then, here are some ideas. Every participant could create a coupon based upon a template model you create. These coupons should be the same size, color and shape with the logo of the TBS on it. What better way to see how well the TBS assists in establishing business networking? You should contact any and all businesses that have to do with the field of focus. Phone calling, internet, whatever it takes., but I would call them all, if possible. You could spend time each day selecting and calling. I would call any and all of the prior attendees first. I would call any of those who have already agreed and ask them the contact person if they know of anyone who might be interested. Use the personal touch, the data base you already have. Also the other six persons working with you should do the same, contact everyone they know and build contacts. I am still not sure where this main event is taking place, what city. This may be a clue that would jump-start some ideas in and of itself. Clarification is requested: You state that: "The event is only 2 hours, from 5-7" are you talking here about the preliminary events or the final event? Two hours seems short for a Trade Show kind of event. I am assuming that the big event will be a day long affair. If it isn't you should, perhaps, think of extending the time you are planning for. You mention that there will be three networking events leading up to the business show and these need to be organized as well. So there are four events in reality that we are talking about the three preliminary build up events and the event itself. I understand that you are the point person, and that you expect to have back up, say six persons. My comment here is that you are going to have to make darn sure that all of them are there, no flimsy excuses. If you have any hint that you will be short handed you will have to have back up plans in place, that means anything from do you have friends on call, to having some other professional on call ready to fill in. Apparently you are to come up with the ideas organize it and the other six are to assist on the day of the event. Do they assist with the smaller affairs that lead up to it? I should hope so. It is clear that you have models of prior events. You are poised to make a large "hit" with this event. Because you do have a track record. Your last event had "up numbers" from the prior year, that is good. In your presentations to the people attending the three pre- shows, and you should have a presentation ready, you should be armed with your facts, you are the person, you increased attendance, your expectations are high, you fear you will have to turn away applicants at the rate things are going. Be very positive. Also you want them to REMEMBER YOU to mark their calendars and the like. If you have a performing bone in your body you can ham it up. There may be a local comedian who would assist for the chance to hand out cards, hoping for a gig in an office party or other venue that might materialize. But the key here is getting a laugh, giving information and a real scale model preview of what they might expect. You could have a hand out detailing some of the companies that have signed up, the rationale for this being that companies might see that their competition is doing this and would figure that they should be there too. Do your bit to encourage this thinking. The smaller events will be a couple of hours long? You have locations and the events are free because they are being used to drum up attendance to the TBS the main event. Since, for the three prior events, you have allies that is to say businesses that have an interest in getting business people inside their doors some of the amenities should be taken care of, some food should be there, and a comfortable room. But after that you will have to make the magic happen, and connect that "good experience" with TBS, in other words make sure your logo is clear and present, that your company will be remembered, business cards, logos on napkins, a banner, and such like. In these smaller events you and your six will be very much on the front line. I would suggest contacting upscale vendors of coffee, snacks, and the like who would like the exposure they might get from "advertising" at your three events. Too much is not enough. If you have multi media experience you can prepare a good presentation and then have, if you can get them, attendees from the last TBS come in a give it a plug. Local business organizations seeking members might be interested in making a presentation. Local entertainers might be interested also if there is a chance of them getting some business thrown their way. Imagine the singing telegram companies, the Web page makers, Card and Stationary stores to create displays, things like that. You want variety and a "busy" appearance for the pre-shows. But for each of these pre events I would have some way of getting feedback, a form to fill out for suggestions from the participants. You want to do more of whatever is good, and less of whatever is bad. At the TBS you have a truly good idea inherited from previous events, the strolling feast as you call it, is good, keeps them moving. This idea has potential for expansion. What I mean here is that you could schedule special treats to be uncovered at different places with a bit of fanfare and a release of a few balloons or some other mapping indicator such as bringing in a set of balloons to mark the arrival of a new treat. This would get the visitors to circulate more energetically. There might be a connection here for any company that makes food, such as caterers, bakeries, deli's and the like to hand out coupons for discounts and have samples at the ready. It seems there will be seminars given, presentations, there will be booths and a fairly wide variety of attendees. Have you thought about contacting retired business person organizations to attend, assist you, be presenters, or the like? There are groups just like that and their input might be varied and valuable. Scheduling the presenters so that persons interested in both of the two big presenters you mentioned can see both. Do not let one cut into the other. Allow for this factor. You should allow for the meeting of singles inside the parameters of this event. I know that it is not the main purpose, being a matchmaker, but for the long term if you create an atmosphere where such can meet then you may have an interest that will continue over the years. In this regard you can have the persons at the door hand each entrant a card. On the card can be something like a treasure hunt list. The person is to, during the course of their visit, attempt to find persons that fit each of the professional categories on the card. Each card can be numbered so when two people find each other they sign and write in their number. There are, of course, prizes. There could be some one who runs a gym or a dancersize class who would be willing, in exchange for the exposure, to host series of aerobics or other low impact classes. You could have massage persons demonstrate simple tension relieving techniques for office workers, lower back, shoulders, neck and hands for example, and then show attendees how to "work on your co-workers. Let me know what you think of this ------------------------------------------------------------- S.K., Re: Some of the suggestions: Here are some web sites that you might check into regarding senior executives as being mentors for some one in your circumstances. Dan 100% Service Corps Of Retired Executives Get Email Counseling. Nearly 700 SCORE business advisors are available to you free, 24-hours-a-day, seven days-a-week to help you with your most... URL: www.score.org/rightframe.html 88% Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Snohomish County .. RSVP - A part of the National Senior Service Corp (425) 290-1270 8225 44th Ave West, Suite 'O', Mukilteo, 87% AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED PERSON 601 E. STREET NW. WASHINGTON DC 20049 202-434-227. URL: web.state.nm.us/LOBBY\AAORP.HTM 75% SCORE - Service Corps Of Retired Executives? URL: http://www.score.org/ Summary: A nonprofit association dedicated to encouraging the formation, growth, and success of small business nationwide through counseling and mentor programs. 67% SCORE Email counseling? URL: http://www.onlinewbc.org/Docs/counseling.html Summary: Learning About Business Running Your Business Information Exchange Online Women's Business Center ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from smtp10.atl.mindspring.net (smtp10.atl.mindspring.net [207.69.200.246]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id FAA24868 for; Wed, 15 Dec 1999 05:11:40 -0800 Received: from ix.netcom.com ([205.184.239.245]) by smtp10.atl.mindspring.net (8.9.3/8.8.5) with ESMTP id IAA23140 for; Wed, 15 Dec 1999 08:10:05 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: <3857938F.5C9B0CA7@ix.netcom.com> Date: Wed, 15 Dec 1999 08:11:44 -0500 From: Susan Kundla X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.04 [en] (Win95; U) MIME-Version: 1.0 To: Dan Brady Subject: Re: Event Planning References: <199912150602.WAA26150@muse.sfusd.edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-UIDL: 2e02360044d53f30a2d70c403b6750e1 Dan, I have to say that I am very excited to work with you. I have read your letter twice and highlighted your ideas (I'm actually beginning a file of our correspondence for reference purposes). You offer great advice that gets me thinking. I'm anxious to put into place your suggestions! I'm going to begin work on putting into place a plan for vendor coupons. I think it's a great idea. Usually vendors do some kind of show discount anyway but being able to get the TBS logo on the actual coupon would be very valuable. I'm thinking we could maybe get some printed before the networking events to use as handouts that must be validated at the show. I really like the comedian gig too. I really can't contact vendors to advertise their coffee or snacks at the networking events because that would interfere with the country club and hotels vending service. I like the idea though. It made me think of offering a discount to those types of vendors to participate in the strolling feast only, which is 5-7 PM on May 17. I've had companies offer to cater this event for me but my producer said that exhibitors get mad when those companies do not pay an exhibition fee for their presence at the show. It does make sense. They are still promoting themselves. I like the fanfare you mentioned for the strolling feast. This could work with the vendors that are participating in the strolling feast only with food/beverages. I'll need to work on that. I was thinking of identifying those companies already signed up for the show at the networking events too. A sign, handout, maybe distinguishing name badges. What do you think about having a large table(s) for the exhibitors to place any materials to promote their company? I like the treasure hunt idea too. We have a program called the hot spot, which is common in trade shows. Exhibitors pay an additional fee to be a hot spot participant (We have 40 available). These spots are strategically placed throughout the entire show floor to encourage traffic flow. Attendees must visit each hot spot location for validation. Completed cards are turned in to the registration area to be entered into a drawing for prizes. From these entries, we will draw the winner of the trip for two. If there was something that we could do within that program to facilitate a treasure hunt like you suggested, that would be great. OK, more answers to your questions. Budget for the networking events are basically nonexistent. I can afford to mail 3000 people as I indicated earlier. Most other items would need to be done by trade for the opportunity for self-promotion or for a booth at the show. As I mentioned in my previous email, this show has suffered in the past and currently is in the red. I'm working to get it in the black so we can do the things that will surely make this show a success. TBS is a division of a company which assists in promoting inventions/inventors. This company also owns a financing company, real estate company, printing office and deli. TBS is held once a year and yes, it's sole purpose is to produce this show. It is scheduled for May 17-18 and the hours are noon - 7 PM each day. The networking events are the ones that are 2 hours as is the strolling feast. As far as help, our staff of six is pretty reliable; however, I do have the assistance of personal friends and professional acquaintances for the networking events. Prior to the show, our staff works as a team to get things done. Our location is in Pittsburgh, PA. Thanks again for your insight!   ------------------------------------------------------------- This is an example of an interleaved response letter. Dan: I'm going to begin work on putting into place a plan for vendor coupons. I think it's a great idea. Usually vendors do some kind of show discount anyway but being able to get the TBS logo on the actual coupon would be very valuable. I'm thinking we could maybe get some printed before the networking events to use as handouts that must be validated at the show. I really like the comedian gig too. I really can't contact vendors to advertise their coffee or snacks at the networking events because that would interfere with the country club and hotels vending service. S.K: OK, I understand that, but there may be some things you could provide that the hosting company/hotel/ building does not. I would make sure they know this and that it is OK. Also you could have samples of things like stationary, pen sets, any kind of office supply service type of item all on display around the room. Like I was saying these events could be "models" of what they might expect to see at the real thing. I can't help but feel that "more is better" and that you would want your guests to go away thinking, "Gee, if I go there I bet I'll find something useful." or things like "I'll bet I could get some time for someone to go and attend, this company seems to know where to find nice items..." Dan: I like the idea though. It made me think of offering a discount to those types of vendors to participate in the strolling feast only, which is 5-7 PM on May 17. I've had companies offer to cater this event for me but my producer said that exhibitors get mad when those companies do not pay an exhibition fee for their presence at the show. It does make sense. They are still promoting themselves. I like the fanfare you mentioned for the strolling feast. This could work with the vendors that are participating in the strolling feast only with food/beverages. I'll need to work on that. S.K: You know, who has to tell them that they are not paying a fee? Do you have to tell them that? You could squirm by but then honesty is the best policy in all business. You could tell the exhibitors, that the caterers are paying in kind, that is to say you could have each caterer present you with a bill of value, a document which details the value of the time, service, and materials given during the show. I mean if you have a catering business, and you send 200, dollars worth of product over and have three persons working a couple of days time, what is that worth? What would it cost you? I will tell you, at minimum wage three persons working two days 3 X 8 hrs X 5.50/hr comes to 132 dollars, add in the 200 dollars for the product and you have 332 dollars. But that is the barest minimum. It would probably be two or three times that if you have a crowd of 300 or 500. It could easily be expensed at 1000 dollars with the kind of crowd your are talking about. You could create some form of document that would outline that and that would assist the caterer because they could write part of that off as a business expense such as advertising or promotion etc. Dan: I was thinking of identifying those companies already signed up for the show at the networking events too. A sign, handout, maybe distinguishing name badges. What do you think about having a large table(s) for the exhibitors to place any materials to promote their company? S.K.: Sure! Companies already involved could send you a poster, or small display or sample of what they have to offer. It should emphasize something that they have that is new or "coming out soon." They should, if they want to be clever, mention updates or any other news. Dan: I like the treasure hunt idea too. We have a program called the hot spot, which is common in trade shows. Exhibitors pay an additional fee to be a hot spot participant (We have 40 available). These spots are strategically placed throughout the entire show floor to encourage traffic flow. Attendees must visit each hot spot location for validation. Completed cards are turned in to the registration area to be entered into a drawing for prizes. From these entries, we will draw the winner of the trip for two. If there was something that we could do within that program to facilitate a treasure hunt like you suggested, that would be great. S.K: Sure, smaller prizes that each participant could donate willingly. These prizes could be listed at the door in such a way as to motivate the attendees to complete their task. I think that the treasure hunt for the person(s) could be combined with the hunt that you are doing. It may be just a matter of creating a form with the right kind of questions. Dan: OK, more answers to your questions. Budget for the networking events are basically nonexistent. I can afford to mail 3000 people as I indicated earlier. Most other items would need to be done by trade for the opportunity for self-promotion or for a booth at the show. As I mentioned in my previous email, this show has suffered in the past and currently is in the red. I'm working to get it in the black so we can do the things that will surely make this show a success. TBS is a division of a company which assists in promoting inventions/inventors. This company also owns a financing company, real estate company, printing office and deli. TBS is held once a year and yes, it's sole purpose is to produce this show. It is scheduled for May 17-18 and the hours are noon - 7 PM each day. The networking events are the ones that are 2 hours as is the strolling feast. S.K.: Just to be sure that I am clear, the three preliminary events last two hours each. The large show on the 17th and 18th of May, is the one that has the strolling feast. If this is so the two hours preliminary shows have to have some punch. Have to be packed with some attention getting gimmicks. That is why I thought of the multi media presentation by some local web guru types, the comedian. Latest thought on that: You don't have to hire the person, but you could, if it is best and or works out that way. Another possibility is that you could have one write jokes for you and you or one of your cohorts could liven things up. The advantage is that they attendees will see you and, of course through implication, the company as being clever, hip, and thus the show in May as being something to attend. Dan: As far as help, our staff of six is pretty reliable; however, I do have the assistance of personal friends and professional acquaintances for the networking events. Prior to the show, our staff works as a team to get things done. S.K.: What about companies that produce office muzak? Companies that do interior design? How about showcasing several products or companies in a "model office" that incorporates many of the exhibitors in one mock up "future office" It could be a great way for some one to see just how all these great products might look in real use. Let me know what you think. It seems as thought the process is working. Ideas flow and I send them on. You accept, reject, change, ask for clarification, and we find our way to new concepts, ideas and the like. Creativity works... ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from fb02.eng00.mindspring.net (fb02.eng00.mindspring.net [207.69.229.20]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id DAA14139 for; Tue, 22 Feb 2000 03:56:57 -0800 Received: from ix.netcom.com ([205.184.239.42]) by fb02.eng00.mindspring.net (8.9.3/8.8.5) with ESMTP id HAA09095 for; Tue, 22 Feb 2000 07:00:31 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: <38B27ADF.F95FB3@ix.netcom.com> Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2000 07:02:40 -0500 From: Susan Kundla X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.04 [en] (Win95; U) MIME-Version: 1.0 To: Dan Brady Subject: Re: Event Planning References: Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-UIDL: cfbd45c978f76e0bfe6a11c415b9c4fa Hi Dan, Things have been going extremely well. Our first networking event was held Feb. 8 and despite that the location was difficult to find, we had a great turnout. Some exhibitors brought guests and those may very well turn out to be exhibitors. To be quite honest, it went so well that I really didn't have to do that much. I had a speaker there who is a master at networking, he does this professionally and teaches people how to expand their business. I thought I was going to have to rely on him to get things moving but actually had to tell him to keep it brief, no more than 10 minutes because everyone was talking. People called me the next day to thank me for the opportunity, some even got some business. The resort that sponsored the entire event with food and an open bar got a wedding out of it. We gave away door prizes and everyone really liked that. They were good prizes, things that people could use. We also offered exhibitors a chance to get a $50 rebate for referrals that signed up for the show. My next networking event is March 14. We're using a St. Patrick's Day theme and will be giving door prizes appropriately. So far I've purchased candy, gift certificates for restaurants and will probably have gift baskets made up so our table looks nice. As far as the show goes, we're giving every exhibitor visors, like the ones the casino workers wear for our Strolling Feast which is only a 2-hour time period and is themed Monte Carlo. Those exhibitors that paid extra to be a hot spot location will also get the red and white striped money vests to wear for this event. I have 92 exhibitors so far and this time last year we had 10. Franklin Covey is conducting 2 free seminars and I got their store to donate 2 palm pilots to be drawn for all seminar attendees for going out on the show floor and completing the hot spot program. This should increase my numbers for attendance because those palm pilots are worth $500 each. We are also using this is our promotions. I acquired the major television station here to be a sponsor of the event as well. So, The Business Show WILL finally have a TV commercial. I also got the main newspaper to co-sponsor this event so we'll get coverage there as well. Our other sponsors read by affluent business members in Pittsburgh, have been running ads monthly since January and will give up editorial space in the May issue. I have mailed, broadcast faxed and sent gummy feet in the mail to prospective clients with a label that states "Just wanted to get my foot in the door" which got a lot of attention. My first newsletter, different, much different from last year, was sent to 1000 prospective clients. The second newsletter will be sent to prospective attendees and will focus on why it is important to attend shows. Hmmm. I don't think I missed anything. Florine Mark of Weight Watchers is still coming to the show. I did get US Airways to sponsor her flight. Things are going great so far. I just need to focus on getting attendees. Any ideas on how I can do that on a limited budget? Thanks. We did, after this letter exchange a few more ideas for her last question but things worked out quite well for the large event later on that year. back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 19: Advertising and Promotion ****************************************************** Summary: This project involved a Student in Gahanna Ohio who was involved with a Marketing Education Program, Distributive Education Clubs of America, DECA. The project was to design a promotion for a store called "Everything but Water" Brainstorming and dialogue produced good results. back to the top   Received: from imo-d02.mx.aol.com (imo-d02.mx.aol.com [205.188.157.34]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id KAA01764 for; Sun, 23 Jan 2000 10:49:06 -0800 From: MaryR614@aol.com Received: from MaryR614@aol.com by imo-d02.mx.aol.com (mail_out_v24.6.) id 2.d.89bf10 (5739) for; Sun, 23 Jan 2000 13:04:56 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: Date: Sun, 23 Jan 2000 13:04:56 EST Subject: Everything But Water To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Mailer: Windows AOL sub 45 X-UIDL: f875fff078f0fc5068ef4bc0b82ec382 To whom it my concern- I am a high school senior in Gahanna, Ohio and am currently involved in a Marketing Education Program called DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America). Part of this class is to do a project somehow relating to Marketing. There are a list of categories, and the one of choice for me is Fashion Merchandising Promotion. For this project I must come up with a four week promotion plan for a local company. I have decided to do this promotion plan for a store called "Everything But Water," a swim wear company located in my hometown and also in 10 other states. I have decided to do a promotion targeted at men and women between the ages of 17-23 for Spring Break of 2000. The only problem is, I need some interesting, eye-catching ideas for advertising, and promotion, and I need possibly a catchy logo or theme. I am completely out of ideas. This project is just a simulation, but is used in a state and national competition against high school seniors around the nation. However, if the company likes my promotion enough, they may use it. Basically I want to win this competition and I need to add.... spice to the project to do so. I have looked at your web page and some of the cases and believe that you could be of great help to me. Thank you so much for your time and concern. Sincerely, Mary A. Ross ------------------------------------------------------------- I immediately sent off an initializing letter and the next note is her response back. ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from imo-d02.mx.aol.com (imo-d02.mx.aol.com [205.188.157.34]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id JAA23174 for; Mon, 24 Jan 2000 09:47:32 -0800 From: MaryR614@aol.com Received: from MaryR614@aol.com by imo-d02.mx.aol.com (mail_out_v24.6.) id 2.b.9121bf (4321) for; Mon, 24 Jan 2000 12:03:38 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: Date: Mon, 24 Jan 2000 12:03:38 EST Subject: Re: Everything But Water To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Mailer: Windows AOL sub 45 X-UIDL: 51eeb02f47c69719c15a7aa4c384dd34 Dear Dan, Thank you so much! I was not looking to have a response so quickly. I am quite anxious to hear your ideas, and am quite certain that they will greatly help me in my project. I appreciate so much your time and concern and cannot wait to hear from you again. Grateful, Mary A. Ross ------------------------------------------------------------- User-Agent: Microsoft Outlook Express Macintosh Edition - 5.01 (1630) Date: Mon, 24 Jan 2000 19:31:17 -0700 Subject: Re: Everything But Water From: Dan Brady To: Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Mime-version: 1.0 And these are the basics of the case, interesting enough, I'd say. Dan I am a high school senior in Gahanna, Ohio and am currently involved in a Marketing Education Program called DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America). Part of this class is to do a project somehow relating to Marketing. There are a list of categories, and the one of choice for me is Fashion Merchandising Promotion. For this project I must come up with a four week promotion plan for a local company. I have decided to do this promotion plan for a store called "Everything But Water," a swim wear company located in my hometown and also in 10 other states. I have decided to do a promotion targeted at men and women between the ages of 17-23 for Spring Break of 2000. The only problem is, I need some interesting, eye-catching ideas for advertising, and promotion, and I need possibly a catchy logo or theme. I am completely out of ideas. This project is just a simulation, but is used in a state and national competition against high school seniors around the nation. However, if the company likes my promotion enough, they may use it. Basically I want to win this competition and I need to add.... spice to the project to do so. I have looked at your web page and some of the cases and believe that you could be of great help to me. Thank you so much for your time and concern. Sincerely, Mary A. Ross ------------------------------------------------------------- MA, Just received your response to my letter, here are some ideas just to start you off. Let me know what you think. I assumed that you do not have to do the promotion, but design its elements. Hope all is well. MA, How about this: a take off of the "Got Milk" idea. In this vein you might envision a commercial showing things like a mom asking her child is he/she wants some Kool Aid, and the child is enthusiastic until looking into the glass he/she sees only the powder and asks/questions/cries about it saying, perhaps, "Mama, something missing?" to which the mom replies: "Oh, dear, you have EVERYTHING BUT WATER." In a like way: children obviously suited for a swim party converging by foot, van, car, bus etc... on a house that has banner with words to the effect: "Come and enjoy our pool". The scene has them all scampering across the lawn through the house, and into the back yard. Then the camera shows them pouring out of the sliding glass door and as a one coming to a halt. The camera does 180 degree turn and there is the pool, but empty of water. Then the host saying. "Well, its almost done, we have EVERYTHING BUT WATER" This could be done as well with college age people, also imagine a similar scene going to the beach which is nothing but sand. Or the following: A "beach scene" lots of college aged types partying, volleyball, radio, soft drinks, dancing. Then it focuses in on a couple and one is saying to the other, "Yes this beach is nice, it has everything, girls, volleyball, a great snack stand..." The other interjects, "...Yeah, it has everything, EVERYTHING BUT WATER." I assume that you see the idea. Then another with scenes of a desert, and then a ghost town with an old sign, saying population 15, 120 in, say, 1921. A mock documentary voice cuts in as if in the middle of a long description and says, yes Beardsville was an ideal town, it had everything back then, "EVERYTHING BUT WATER" As to a logo, how about a simple picture of a pool with all sorts of water toys, but the pool is empty. Another idea would be something that flows from the following: H20 + (picture of a swim suit) = FUN Or another: a commercial showing a rapid series of empty swim wear, deflated rafts, unused flippers, snorkels, and the like, and then the phrase "Just add water" is stated by an announcer, then the same items appear in a short film scene of a pool party. Then the voice over. "That's right we sell everything, EVERYTHING BUT WATER" ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from imo25.mx.aol.com ([152.163.225.69]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id OAA21356 for; Tue, 25 Jan 2000 14:03:08 -0800 From: MaryR614@aol.com Received: from MaryR614@aol.com by imo25.mx.aol.com (mail_out_v24.6.) id 2.6d.ad7734 (4358) for; Tue, 25 Jan 2000 16:19:14 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: <6d.ad7734.25bf6d51@aol.com> Date: Tue, 25 Jan 2000 16:19:13 EST Subject: Re: Everything But Water To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Mailer: Windows AOL sub 45 X-UIDL: 5b124e74431b70b6b59e0b5ee87f18b3 Dear Dan, I read your e-mail and am very happy with your ideas. I have since incorporated some of them into my project. You have helped me tremendously and I am very thankful. I have referred several friends of mine to your site, and hope that they will take the chance to look at it and possibly contact you. I do have one more question though.... As part of this promotion, I am doing a fashion show. That is all well and good, but is also very plain. Do you have any other creative, spicy ideas for another event or something that I can schedule to make this project different from the rest. I want them to remember this project, and you helped me greatly with the advertising part, I am sure you have a few ideas for this too. Thank you so very much. You are a very creative person and have a lot of talent. Hope to hear from you again. Thankfully yours, Mary A. Ross ------------------------------------------------------------- M.A.R., A fashion show? I assume that this is part of the project for the same company? As long as you do not have to do the real thing then budget is not a concern. I would think about the following: There are various charitable organizations in your area. All of them could use a fund-raiser. So idea would be to contact a number of them, solicit volunteers, especially if any of them have well known persons on their boards of directors, politicians would be a plus, anyone who could draw a crowd for a good cause or causes. The "Fashion Show" would have to be done at a place with a large pool. The idea would be to incorporate the pool into the show. This could be done by having the usual runway that models walk down replaced with something that goes across the pool, that way people who are "modeling" can hop in the water and show how the thing is to be used. People can vote on the "most original use" of a given item, or the most artistic dive in. They could also bid for the purchase of said item, or a lunch with the person, if they are attractive, famous, etc. There would, of course be food, soft drinks, and other concessions there to add to the fund raising melee. I would suggest a theme to the charities you select, something that would relate to "EVERYTHING BUT WATER' The Red Cross could be there, health organizations, say. But the idea of having a theme run through the charitable organizations that you group up for the fund-raiser might create a synergistic effect allowing for a greater draw from the community that those organizations serve. Let me know how these ideas strike you. DB This could also be done on a beach or at a river site, but then you would not be able to contain and frame the crowd into an area and you would have to deal with intruders, fencing, and the like. ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from imo-d05.mx.aol.com ([205.188.157.37]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id TAA13583 for; Tue, 25 Jan 2000 19:21:12 -0800 From: MaryR614@aol.com Received: from MaryR614@aol.com by imo-d05.mx.aol.com (mail_out_v24.6.) id 2.fb.15ee3c2 (5738) for; Tue, 25 Jan 2000 21:37:23 -0500 (EST) Message-ID: Date: Tue, 25 Jan 2000 21:37:23 EST Subject: Re: Everything But Water To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Mailer: Windows AOL sub 45 X-UIDL: e64feddc2ef7e930c6c4628196399d56 Dear Dan, Those all sound just great! Yes, this is all a simulation and until someone actually wants to do this...a budget is really of no concern. You have no idea how much this has helped me. I am forever grateful to you. I will keep you posted on what happens with my project. I'm sure they will remember this one. Thank you so much Dan. You're the best! Forever grateful, Mary A. Ross ------------------------------------------------------------- User-Agent: Microsoft Outlook Express Macintosh Edition - 5.01 (1630) Date: Sat, 18 Mar 2000 00:23:12 -0700 Subject: Re: Everything But Water From: Dan Brady To: Message-ID: In-Reply-To: <96.25153f9.2603cd41@aol.com> Mime-version: 1.0 Dan, Everything is wonderful! I went to my district competition with my promotional campaign (and of course a couple of your very creative ideas) and I made it to states. I have since competed in the state competition and have made it as a National qualifier and will be competing at the National level in late April. Thank you so much for you help and support. I couldn't have done it without you. I'll try to keep you posted as much as possible. I have just recently had surgery and am preparing to graduate, so my schedule is a little hectic, nut I will e-mail when I can. Thanks again Dan, you've been such a tremendous help. Forever grateful, Mary A. Ross back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 20: Retailing Ideas: HoChunk Nation ****************************************************** Summary: This case was most intriguing. I was asked by a member of the HoChunk Nation to problem solve to find ways to increase business at the various retail enterprises the tribe operates on its reservation. Many good ideas were taken and others were used as springboards to further ideas. In sum Creative Ideas assisted this nation in improving its marketing strategies and promotional ideas. back to the top Received: from ho-chunk.com (ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id IAA25313 for; Tue, 8 Feb 2000 08:52:19 -0800 Received: from gate.ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.20] by ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21] with SMTP (MDaemon.v2.84.R) for; Tue, 08 Feb 2000 10:52:55 -0600 Message-ID: <000701bf7265$f7decb60$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> From: "FWilliams" To: Subject: Request: Creativity and/or resources Date: Tue, 8 Feb 2000 10:54:42 -0800 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary="----=_NextPart_000_0004_01BF7222.E7719B60" X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.3612.1700 X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4.72.3612.1700 X-MDaemon-Deliver-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com X-Return-Path: FWilliams@ho-chunk.com X-UIDL: 962f173a1af1491b274523df0c498d40 Greetings. I am writing to request information that may assist in coming up with some creative ideas for our retail enterprises. I advertise for 5 c-stores, 2 lodging, 1 RV park & 3 gaming, gift shops. 3 of the c-stores are of a new, c-store chain/smoke shops. Each business is located in different locations throughout the state (WI). But, 2 of the c-stores & 1 lodging establishment are located next to our casinos. We have a range of promotions that we use from coupons, sign ups that include our casino and/or hotel packages to annual sales. The problem that I have is that I am trying to establish a calendar of events for our Non-Gaming enterprises that is, at least, a 6-9 mo. plan, but due to the lack of prior planning, there are promotions that are subject to change each month. Each enterprise may have different specials available at different times or at different months, but we try to keep our theme(s) as uniform as possible. Not only would I like to have an established calendar, at least 6 mo. in advance, but I would prefer to have the promotional ideas that would work for all c-stores. Other ideas we have used in the past are lunch specials, seasonal merchandise, free coffee, radio sponsorships, shopping show-discount certificates, product sales(phone cards, tobacco, vendors, etc.). We usually try to tie our promotions in on holidays, seasonal promotions and w/casinos, as much as possible. We have very limited budgets but, we are capable of making things work. Our managers are very cooperative. What I am interested in is assistance in asking the right kind of questions that could spark some creativity and maybe, some enthusiasm for myself, my peers, employees and our customers. (I do a lot of work w/script {see www.ho-chunk.com under Enterprises/Lodging or C-stores} & ad copy). I have been in this position for almost 2 yrs. and things were established (and some things were not) when I arrived. I have been able to make some changes; I would just like an objective opinion(s) on making some creative changes. Do you think you may be able to help? The requested information would not be coming out of a budget from work, so, I believe I would be limited to a hundred or two financially. Thank you for your consideration. ------------------------------------------------------------- An interleaved response to the letter above. User-Agent: Microsoft Outlook Express Macintosh Edition - 5.01 (1630) Date: Tue, 08 Feb 2000 20:44:11 -0700 Subject: Re: Request: Creativity and/or resources From: Dan Brady To: FWilliams Message-ID: In-Reply-To: <000701bf7265$f7decb60$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> Mime-version: 1.0 Dan, I am writing to request information that may assist in coming up with some creative ideas for our retail enterprises. I advertise for 5 c-stores, 2 lodging, 1 RV park & 3 gaming, gift shops. 3 of the c-stores are of a new, c-store chain/smoke shops. Each business is located in different locations throughout the state (WI). But, 2 of the c-stores & 1 lodging establishment are located next to our casinos. We have a range of promotions that we use from coupons, sign ups that include our casino and/or hotel packages to annual sales. F.W., Pending the answer to the few questions in the first two paragraphs below, I have looked over your letter and made a couple of small suggestions but I am limited by a need for specific information that I ask for. I hope that all is well. I have more ideas so let me know what you think. C-store stands for convenience store, I am assuming. You have five of these, three of them seem to specialize in smoker's needs, two lodging businesses, an RV park, three casinos, and some gift shops. I have to ask then if each of these enterprises are owned by different persons/companies and you are the advertising agent that they all have in common? Or are these businesses owned by you or a single company and you are seeking ideas that would promote them. I ask this because you say you are looking for creative ideas "for our retail enterprises" and that phrasing may mean that these businesses are owned by you or a single company and you, employed by that holding company, are seeking ideas for promoting. I ask because my thinking and perspective would be different for either of those cases. Dan, The problem that I have is that I am trying to establish a calendar of events for our Non-Gaming enterprises that is, at least, a 6-9 mo. plan, but due to the lack of prior planning, there are promotions that are subject to change each month. Each enterprise may have different specials available at different times or at different months, but we try to keep our theme(s) as uniform as possible. Not only would I like to have an established calendar, at least 6 mo. in advance, but I would prefer to have the promotional ideas that would work for all c-stores. F.W., My thought here is that the businesses are diverse and that promotions that link them will only be effective with the businesses that are physically proximate to each other, meaning convenient, all the more so if they both have complimentary services, such as a casino and lodging establishment may have if they were neighbors say or the gift shop and the RV park, if the gift shop handled tourist items that RV customers would be interested in. Dan, Other ideas we have used in the past are lunch specials, seasonal merchandise, free coffee, radio sponsorships, shopping show-discount certificates, product sales(phone cards, tobacco, vendors, etc.). We usually try to tie our promotions in on holidays, seasonal promotions and w/casinos, as much as possible. We have very limited budgets but, we are capable of making things work. Our managers are very cooperative. F.W., In this area you could try to support local public broadcast media during their membership drives, comparing the cost of the items offered to the value of having your product or services mentioned on the air. Working with other charities in a like fashion is a great way to introduce yourself to many people, especially if you have charming and energetic personnel on the scene where the charity function is going on. Dan, What I am interested in is assistance in asking the right kind of questions that could spark some creativity and maybe, some enthusiasm for myself, my peers, employees and our customers. (I do a lot of work w/script {see www.ho-chunk.com under Enterprises/Lodging or C-stores} & ad copy). I have been in this position for almost 2 yrs. and things were established (and some things were not) when I arrived. I have been able to make some changes; I would just like an objective opinion(s) on making some creative changes. Do you think you may be able to help? The requested information would not be coming out of a budget from work, so, I believe I would be limited to a hundred or two financially. Thank you for your consideration. F.W., I went to the site. I am surprised you did not mention that you are speaking on behalf of the Ho-Chunk Nation. This can be a mitzvah, a blessing for me, you, us. The home page has all the relevant information. If you want a critique of it I will offer what I can, you, I expect, will take what you want and leave the rest. 1) The lettering for the Ho-Chunk Nation, in yellow at the top would be better replaced by something that appears more natural. You are of the people, you site, though electronic, should have some of that nature feel to it. The yellow letters look bold, common, and not at all individualistic. I would think that you would want to have someone do calligraphy and write out that phrase so that you could scan it and then use it as your logo. I would also center that portion at the top that reads: Ho-Chunk Nation, people of the big voice. I would also bring out that People of the Big Voice, and make it nearly as big as the Ho-Chunk phrase. The buffalo picture is good, bigger might be better, again for the phrase "Welcome to the Official.....Nation" I would have calligraphy again, scan it, and load it up. I would also color the page slightly so that it is not just a flat white background. 2) For all the links: I would put them below where they are, but all to one side. I would use the open space created by this to put a graphic of a map, to show where you all are, and a brief history of your people and some interesting things about them. I believer that a home page should inform, entice, and educate all at once. These changes would do that. I did not go into the site but that might be done later. ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from ho-chunk.com (ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id PAA28054 for; Wed, 9 Feb 2000 15:06:44 -0800 Received: from gate.ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.20] by ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21] with SMTP (MDaemon.v2.84.R) for; Wed, 09 Feb 2000 17:05:14 -0600 Message-ID: <000f01bf7363$29a1f660$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> From: "FWilliams" To: "Dan Brady" Subject: Re: Request: Creativity and/or resources Date: Wed, 9 Feb 2000 17:07:11 -0800 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary="----=_NextPart_000_000C_01BF7320.1B1B87C0" X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.3612.1700 X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4.72.3612.1700 X-MDaemon-Deliver-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com X-Return-Path: FWilliams@ho-chunk.com X-UIDL: 84ab6f026ecb75e7c744368de2820ff5 Dan, Thank you for your response. I am Frank Williams, the Marketing Manager for the Ho-Chunk Nation Business Dept. Non-Gaming Enterprises/Retail. I am located in(central Wisconsin.) Black River Falls, (BRF)Wisconsin. I work in advertising tactics & don't have any assistants. I do get assistance from my co-workers, radio sales reps & casino marketing depts., but I feel that I personally have to make improvements on my creativity. I am responsible for the marketing, advertising & strategic planning for our non-gaming enterprises. I try to focus on, or produce, some common denominators that I can work with, but there are different factors that come into play for each individual enterprise. I will attempt to give you a run down of each enterprise & some brief information about each. I will start with the c-stores: (1) Whitetail Crossing (WTC)& Smoke shop/Phillips 66 (B.R.F. next to the Majestic Pines Casino Bingo/Hotel). (2) Whitetail Crossing & Smoke shop/Phillips 66 (Tomah, WI.- is 30 mi. south of BRF). (3) Ho-Chunk Mobil (Oakdale WI, 10 mi. south of Tomah). (4) Whitetail Crossing & Smoke shop/Phillips 66 (in Baraboo WI, next to the Ho-Chunk Casino, which is about 75 mi. south of BRF). (5) Ho-Chunk North/Amoco (in Wittenberg, WI, in northeast WI; which is a couple hundred miles away). Next, our Lodging establishments: (1) Majestic Pines Hotel (connected with the Majestic Pines Casino/Bingo, and located next to the WTC-BRF). (2) Ho-Chunk Lodge (Lake Delton, located 5 mi. from the Ho-Chunk Casino). (3) Crockett's Campground & RV Park (Lyndon Station, WI; located 6 mi. north of the Ho-Chunk Casino & WTC-Baraboo). *Crockett's has cabins available. Finally, we have the gift shops in two of our casinos & 1 bingo hall: (1) Ho-Chunk Casino (HCC) gift shop, (2) Rainbow Casino gift shop (Nekoosa, WI; 70 mi. east of BRF). (3) De Jope Bingo gift shop (Madison, WI; 45 mi. south of HCC). These are all of the NON-GAMING enterprises that I represent. I do get a lot of cooperation from the casinos & try to play off of the very profitable casinos as much as possible. I do have to admit that, until recently(last 3 mo.), there has been a separation between Gaming & Non-Gaming; separate budgets, separate plans, etc. The problem that I find myself in is coming up with more creative ideas to work with. There is an expectation that I should have new ideas every 6 mo., but I usually continue on with what worked in previous years. In the first email I mentioned a couple examples of some of the promotions that we use to attract business to our enterprises. If you would like more examples, I can come up with more. I guess, what would be ideal for me is to have themes that we could use for all of our c-stores, themes for all of our gift shops.....etc. Basically, the mind set has been limited to whatever will get and keep the customers coming into our c-stores; whether they are sign ups that include hotel stays, casino packages, a weekend at Crockett's campground, or affordable meal deals at our c-stores. I guess, I would like to come up with some ideas that would tie the c-stores in with the revenue making casinos. I'd also like to make improvements on the Lodging & c-stores sections of our web page. If there is anymore information that you would like, please let me know. Thanks again. ------------------------------------------------------------- User-Agent: Microsoft Outlook Express Macintosh Edition - 5.01 (1630) Date: Wed, 09 Feb 2000 19:06:32 -0700 Subject: Re: Request: Creativity and/or resources From: Dan Brady To: FWilliams Message-ID: In-Reply-To: <000f01bf7363$29a1f660$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> Mime-version: 1.0 FW, From what you said this is what I gather is the physical arrangement: You have a cluster of businesses at one site where the Whitetail Crossing (WTC)& Smoke shop/Phillips 66 next is to the Majestic Pines Casino and a Hotel. It seems like all the rest are at different locations throughout the Nation. What kind of customers do you mainly serve? That is an important consideration here. Possibly most of your customers at the c-stores and gas stations are people of the Nation, and those that frequent the casino and hotel are not. Is this correct? If this is so then the connection between both types of businesses would be more difficult to make in as much as those that frequent one do not frequent the other. That is why I asked what I did above. The casino's could start giving out non cash prizes, meaning: food at the convenience stores, gas at the pump, tune ups and all sorts of items that would be "loss leaders" that is to say give away's that the businesses would offer to the casinos as an way of bringing in customers. This would work if there were friendly competition between the various c-stores and gift shops, and awards that recognized them. In the opposite way the c-stores and gift shops could have a random way of selecting shoppers for gift certificates that would be redeemable in the casinos or at the hotel. Along those lines have the managers of the stores discuss how to boost sales with you. Some stores must be doing better than others and so begin with some research, find out why the good ones are doing well and the bad ones are not. It could be management style, product offerings, service, or something more intangible, but investigate that. There may be ideas just waiting to be found for the asking. Have the managers meet and discuss problems and strategies in a round table discussion, this way they can share and profit from the knowledge and professionalism of their peers. There are the youth of the Nation. I would bet that some of them have ideas. You can capture some of their creativity by contacting the middle and high schools. See if you can get them to create products, new ones that they would think would sell, have them become entrepreneurs who maybe get a section of the c-store to work or display space for their product, whatever it is. The high school economics teacher or some one at a regional college might be the one to contact. There are business groups that are interested in giving students a chance to find out about the business world. Do all of the businesses have the same logo? Perhaps you should consider that. Have you considered opening up other kinds of businesses? Restaurants can be very profitable, right next to a hotel/casino complex I am certain that it could be a money maker especially if you make it a theme restaurant serving "westernized" versions of traditional Ho-Chunk cuisine, or even if you do not do that. What kind of holidays do your people have? You must have some throughout the year. These are all things to bring in customers and or a source of boosting tourist numbers. If the businesses agreed to honor the traditional holidays with appropriate discounts, or products, or decorations, promotions or activities it may be a way to unify your advertising themes and create a kind of schedule. Then you'd have seasonal activities that the people of the Nation would "get used to" after a time and then grow to expect. Then there are still other businesses that you could think of, related to the calendar and your culture. You can imagine the kind of thing, a museum of culture, an historic village, near by the casino/hotel complex of course, but not to close. And a calendar of events that, because of their colorful nature, their historic import, and their entertainment value would attract, seasonally and occasionally, a larger number of tourists. I would consider creating a calligraphic style that is used on your storefronts, business letters, web site and all else. A font that is unique and particular to you. Please let me know if I am getting closer to what you want in the realm of ideas or not. What did you think of the suggestions for the home page? I believe that a good resource might be traditional items that would be useful for the home. Don't get me wrong, but since I do not know your culture I will suggest some things which may not be appropriate or seem like I am stereotyping you, but I am trying, without any knowledge to suggest a hand made crafts industry. What would be wrong with marketing hand made items. I am not talking about trinkets and charms, although they would do in the c-shops for tourists, but what of things like: saddle blankets, arrows, baskets, mortar and pestles, pottery. Things that could be sold over the internet. Quality value added items. This would be perfect for the student entrepreneurs, possibly. What do you think of what I have said so far. When I do this I am usually guessing, shooting in the dark, so to speak. So I would appreciate it if you would tell me when I have suggested something worthwhile or was completely off base, of course I would want to know why I was off base so that I could target my thinking better the next time. Pleased to be of help Hope that all is well, Blessings Pour.... ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from ho-chunk.com (ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id OAA04637 for; Mon, 14 Feb 2000 14:51:34 -0800 Received: from gate.ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.20] by ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21] with SMTP (MDaemon.v2.84.R) for; Mon, 14 Feb 2000 16:50:43 -0600 Message-ID: <000701bf774e$e25f15e0$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> From: "FWilliams" To: "Dan Brady" Subject: HCN Enterprises Date: Mon, 14 Feb 2000 16:52:04 -0800 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary="----=_NextPart_000_0004_01BF770B.D29096E0" X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.3612.1700 X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4.72.3612.1700 X-MDaemon-Deliver-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com X-Return-Path: FWilliams@ho-chunk.com X-UIDL: 4d45432d233d4f1bbe19727a57d35bc8 Dan, Thank you for your prompt responses. Yes, our enterprises are spread out throughout the HC Nation and Wisconsin. Then majority of customers that I deal with are the convenience store/smoke shop customers. At each, individual location, our customers tend to be: local & WI residents, 18-31 age group, come for tobacco products, majority females, and learn about us by word of mouth and radio ads. My guess, is that a lot of our customers are HCN tribal members and employees. And, of course, the convenience store/smoke shops that are close to the casinos have more customers than those that aren't near any casino. It is an assumption that the casino patrons would be willing to spend more money at our convenience stores, because of the tax advantage that we have, being that the casinos and the smoke shop/c-stores are on trust land. (gasoline, tobacco) It is obvious that the stores that are next to the casinos do better, that is a given. But, being that there are some, not so obvious reasons why some convenience stores are doing better than others. I'd like to get an idea of some of the different, possible, future promotions that we could utilize to recognize each customer, patron, employee and/or HCN tribal member. I guess, I'm thinking along the lines of things like: a special price on certain product(s), a promotion that would tie the gaming (casino/bingo) with the convenience store/smoke shop customers, new products or packages that would keep the customers/patrons coming into the convenience store/smoke shops and/or something that may entail mutual exchanges between gaming and non-gaming. I'd also like to have ideas that would make a statement of who the HCN is as a people; something that non-HCN members would recognize and remember. At one of our convenience stores/smoke shops, which is next to our largest casino, we have incorporated a chicken & pizza franchise, and that seems to be doing very well. So, that may be next on the agenda for our convenience store/smoke shop in Black River Falls. Why not center our 'holiday' promotions JUST on the predominant society's (non-Ho-Chunk Nations) holidays? The idea to use OUR holidays as a basis for a schedule or calendar is a good idea. I've already started on getting all the information. The suggestions about the home page made a lot of sense. And, I will refer your suggestions to the proper dept. Thanks. Your ideas have not been totally off, and have given me a broader prospective of my options. I just thought that I would try and mention a few, other things that may give you an idea of some of the things that we try to take advantage of and, also, some things that seem to be limitations. I appreciate the honesty of your suggestions and your willingness. If there is anything else that this email has brought to mind, please elaborate. Thanks again. Take care. ------------------------------------------------------------- User-Agent: Microsoft Outlook Express Macintosh Edition - 5.01 (1630) Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2000 22:40:44 -0700 Subject: Re: HCN Enterprises From: Dan Brady To: Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Mime-version: 1.0 on 2/17/00 12:54 PM, FWilliams at FWilliams@ho-chunk.com wrote: Dan, I just thought that I would make mention of something that I forgot to mention. That would be the web pages for the Enterprise, Lodging, and C-stores @ www.ho-chunk.com If you get a chance I'd like to get your opinion of these pages/logos/text.....etc. If you don't have the time, that is fine. Thank you for your consideration. -FW. F.W., Re: The letter above. I went to the site and found a couple of things on the home page that should be altered. A spelling error is the first thing I noticed that you should change. There is a link to the "Rainbow Casio" it should read "Rainbow Casino" The link works so it just has to have the visible text changed. I looked at the links that your home page has and all of them work. The thing I notice is that they are somewhat plain and very similar to each other. Some changes I would suggest: The link to the Majestic Pines Casino should have a picture of the Casino itself, people playing, smiles and business booming. Perhaps some pictures of the outside if the setting is worth it. The logo you have is good, nice, simple and colorful. The link to the Majestic Pines Casino does not mention the Hotel. No where on the home page is the hotel mentioned, perhaps it should have its own link and page just like the casino. It should have pictures of the Hotel its setting, views from the windows, of the lobby, and, of course, smiling hosts. Any amenities should be listed, prices given, and any other relevant information. Have your web persons search the web for hotels and see what others are doing and get some ideas for layout and presentation from them. I would suggest a page that has a map of the state and region that the Nation is located in, that way persons could plan and understand where everything you have is. On the page that you get when you pick the home page's link for the MPC, there are several links, one is for the buffet. The photos of the snack bar are somewhat dark and do not show detail of the interior, perhaps bigger photos, with more people. I would have close ups of the food, and persons smiling as they display it. Take a look at some cruise line photos to see what I mean about displaying your food. Have a chef or wait person in the photo, beaming with joy and giving a good impression. At this time I seem to be having trouble getting your pages to view. So I will close having said all of that, but I do have another idea. That is what about hosting a sweat? Doing it somewhere nearby, and having those interested walk to the "lodge". I don't know if that is a part of your culture, but even if it is not you could have some other tribe send "consultants" to oversee what and how it is done. This could be a whole "health" business for you, you could include the use of herbs and charms, all authentically made and blessed. This could be, as I said, nearby the Hotel or even in remote areas and be part of a "retreat" center that could be run for those who want to "unwind" and get away from all things electronic and civilized. You could also get into the healing arts as practiced by your people, there must be lore and or practitioners. What about capturing your legends on canvass or wood block prints, or even in books that would be published and sold over the internet or in presses? You could organize an art or art and craft festival. This would not have to be on the Nation's territory, it could be hosted by towns and cities near and far, depending on how much you want to push it. I guess I do go on. Let me know what you think I have gone into your home page and looked over the code there are some things that you might consider changing. Maybe a tech person could write back and I will explain what I have in mind to them. Blessings Pour Dan ------------------------------------------------------------- Received: from ho-chunk.com (ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21]) by mail1.netservers.net (8.9.3/8.9.3) with ESMTP id JAA05604 for; Thu, 24 Feb 2000 09:55:04 -0800 Received: from gate.ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.20] by ho-chunk.com [208.155.31.21] with SMTP (MDaemon.v2.84.R) for; Thu, 24 Feb 2000 11:58:08 -0600 Message-ID: <000701bf7f01$c6ed5280$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> From: "FWilliams" To: "Dan Brady" Subject: HCN Non-Gaming Enterprises Date: Thu, 24 Feb 2000 12:00:16 -0800 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary="----=_NextPart_000_0004_01BF7EBE.B70E0AA0" X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.3612.1700 X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4.72.3612.1700 X-MDaemon-Deliver-To: creative1@creativeideasforyou.com X-Return-Path: FWilliams@ho-chunk.com X-UIDL: e98ecf2a695f8b49d6a9a07bd831695f Dan, Yes, we deal in the marketing and the resale of tobacco products. And, we are one of the leading suppliers of a wide variety of tobacco products in Wisconsin. Yes, we have been looking into out-of-state, tribal manufacturers and do sell their "all natural" cigarettes. Thanks for the observation. We/I have also considered the idea of a "membership card". You did elaborate on some things that we didn't think about using the incentives and gaining support from the casino and/or bingo halls. Thanks. We were thinking that there would have to be a set limitation on the amount to start out with. We had questions like, should we limit the starting amount to HCN members, and/or employees, or just a certain numbered amount? I was considering doing a test promotion, for instance: in BRF w/MPCasino & the C-store/smoke shop, and see how it goes and if it is working and I am able to get the information, then, I would consider moving throughout our other establishments. I think there may be a food item(s) that we may be able to westernize. I don't know if you would call them totally western, but we do incorporate our fried bread into a lot of our gatherings, for instance, Indian tacos, blanket dogs (hot dogs!) & Indian burgers(squaw burgers). We may be able to incorporate some of our native delicacies in our menus or buffets & snack bars in our casinos. I was also wondering if you would mind looking at a couple pages that I mainly focus on.....they are: http://ho-chunk.com/enterprise_cstore_page.htm on the c-store pages, do you think it would be effective to use pictures? there is a current, yearly calendar that the casino is distributing., & http://ho-chunk.com/enterprise_lodging_page.htm I guess, I would just like to know what your first impression(s) might be? I am also, beginning to wonder if the "Enterprise" link is effective. I HAVE stated that I would like an opinion about the Enterprise/ Lodging & C-Store sections to you. It almost seems as if the Enterprise section, or link, at the top of our Home Page, isn't as obvious as we'd like to think. I was also wondering if you might have any ideas besides, merchandising, having printable coupon and paying for top, SEARCH ENGINE spots, that we could use to get customers to our ho-chunk.com site. I have found out that it isn't as easy to mention the web site on our radio commercials, because of the 'hyphen' or 'dash'. I hope that I'm not becoming too much of a nuisance with all of the questions. I do appreciate your feedback. Thank you. -FW. ------------------------------------------------------------- User-Agent: Microsoft Outlook Express Macintosh Edition - 5.01 (1630) Date: Fir, 25 Feb 2000 22:42:08 -0700 Subject: Re: HCN Non-Gaming Enterprises From: Dan Brady To: FWilliams Message-ID: In-Reply-To: <000701bf7f01$c6ed5280$141f9bd0@gate.ho-chunk.com> Mime-version: 1.0 Dan, Yes, we deal in the marketing and the resale of tobacco products. And, we are one of the leading suppliers of a wide variety of tobacco products in Wisconsin. Yes, we have been looking into out-of-state, tribal manufacturers and do sell their "all natural" cigarettes. Thanks for the observation. We/I have also considered the idea of a "membership card". You did elaborate on some things that we didn't think about, using the incentives and gaining support from the casino and/or bingo halls. Thanks. We were thinking that there would have to be a set limitation on the amount to start out with. We had questions like, should we limit the starting amount to HCN members, and/or employees, or just a certain numbered amount? I was considering doing a test promotion, for instance: in BRF w/MPCasino & the C-store/smoke shop, and see how it goes and if it is working and I am able to get the information, then, I would consider moving throughout our other establishments. F.W., Certainly testing it out and seeing how it might fly is a good idea, but also, recall that this does not have to be a plan that completely comes from you. The managers and others might have some good suggestions, and it would be good to research them. Dan, I think there may be a food item(s) that we may be able to westernize. I don't know if you would call them totally western, but we do incorporate our fried bread into a lot of our gatherings, for instance, Indian tacos, blanket dogs (hot dogs!) & Indian burgers(squaw burgers). We may be able to incorporate some of our native delicacies in our menus or buffets & snack bars in our casinos. F.W., I think that this is on the right track. Your people have a long history and probably there are recipes around that are tasty simple, and would, in a restaurant setting, be quite profitable. It is worth the investigation, have a recipe contest for authentic cuisine, host a cook off, with respected persons as the judges, as well a cooks, who do not enter, of course. The cook off could be an annual event that could be worked into your annual schedule of promotions, it could also be a draw for tourists. Dan, I was also wondering if you would look at a couple pages, they are: http://ho-chunk.com/enterprise_cstore_page.htm On the c-store pages, do you think it would be effective to use pictures? There is a current, yearly calendar that the casino is distributing at: http://ho-chunk.com/enterprise_lodging_page.htm I guess, I would just like to know what your first impression(s) might be? F.W., I think that it would be effective to have maps, and photos set up like links. Perhaps your home page could have a main map and maps would be included on the other pages that require them as well, this would/could be a design feature that is part of the "unity: of the pages For instance if the page you mention: ( http://ho-chunk.com/enterprise_cstore_page.htm) had the logo and links at the top, as it is now, and a larger map showing the locations of the various stations, each of the icons on the map page would be a miniature of the Yellow and black or blue and white sign that is now on the page and would be a link to the pages for each business, however, when you got to the page for each business there would be a photo of the place, a bit about the owner, a photo of the people working, a bit about the place, something that is unique or special, and, importantly, each should have something that sets them apart, not only from each other, but from gas stations in general. This may be hard to do, but it also could be simple: One could have home made ice cream, another could have a computer game room like an arcade, another horse rides or baked goods, you get the idea here. The second page you mention: (http://ho-chunk.com/enterprise_lodging_page.htm ) Seems simple which is good, but I think that each of the logos listed on that page should be accompanied by a nice photo, one that is clear and artistic and shows the business off in the best light, also it should have a brief, sentence or two about the place. This brief statement should be a "grabber" telling something unique or interesting about the place. I like the logos you have they are nice, even the ones for the gas stations, they are clear, simple and well designed. To the pages that the enterprise lodging page links to, each of them are what you want. I would put the map more at the top with the best photo right under the links at the top of the page. This way a person sees where it is, and what it is right away. The way you have the pages set up for Majestic Pines say is fine but the choice of photos might be reconsidered, for instance the picture of the pool seems dark and it is not easy to tell it is a pool, however, if the photo was brighter and had people in the pool playing it would be better, some close ups of action would be good. The same might be said for the casino. People are the thing most missing in the photos. If people see people having fun, then the impression is much stronger. Redoing the photos is not a big deal for your tech people, if they were able to put up this site it is a simple matter to change photos. I would not hesitate to stage photos, but make sure you have light and detail, clarity, and plenty of smiling happy people. F.W., I am also, beginning to wonder if the "Enterprise" link is effective. I HAVE stated that I would like an opinion about the Enterprise/ Lodging & C-Store sections to you. It almost seems as if the Enterprise section, or link, at the top of our Home Page, isn't as obvious as we'd like to think. Dan, The link is there and it works, but to a visitor to your home page would, in looking it over, overlook that link because the links on the bottom are more obvious to them. So because the word "enterprise" is not what a tourist will be thinking about when they are looking for fun, pools, hotels, gambling and the like they would tend not to choose that link. This is a matter of simply renaming that link to: "Accommodations and Activities" for example, though that would be to large a title for the frame that currently surrounds "enterprise" I went to the calendar page from a link on the Majestic Pines page and I notice that it only has the current month and the following month available. This should be changed. People plan vacations, sometimes months in advance, so you should have as much of your calendar up, with a caveat in large lettering stating that things may be added as inspiration leads, this way people know that what is on the calendar will happen, but also that if the time for their vacation is a time when nothing of interest seems to be going on they may well think to check back and find, to their surprise, that something they want to see is happening. F.W., I was also wondering if you might have any ideas besides, merchandising, having printable coupon and paying for top, SEARCH ENGINE spots, that we could use to get customers to our ho-chunk.com site. I have found out that it isn't as easy to mention the web site on our radio commercials, because of the 'hyphen' or 'dash'. Dan, A way to get around this is to ask people to "just search for us, Ho Chunk Nation" and you'll find us" I say this because that is most likely true, you are the only ones with that name. I just did a search using Sherlock, looking for: "Ho Chunk Nation". Sherlock is the multi search engine search software that comes with the newer Macs, it had no trouble finding your site. It seems to list well with several of the larger search engines already. It lists well because the name is unique. That may be a way around that hyphen problem. Of course the other way is to take out the hyphen and do considerable reworking, but that would be a considerable effort and looking at things in this light, possibly not necessary. To get listed on the top engines is a process that can be done by your tech people. I can assist, but it would be easier if I emailed them, as I do not know how much you know about HTML, the "language" used by web masters to create web pages. The process is fairly simple, but tedious and time consuming, but you can increase the number of hits on your site. Have your tech people contact me and we can work some suggestions out. Dan, I hope that I'm not becoming too much of a bother with the questions. I do appreciate your feedback. Thank you. -FW. F.W., Not at all, this is what I do, sometimes I do not have ideas for clients other times I do. So far it seems that you have found them useful, even if as points of departure to other ideas that they inspire in you. That is part of the process, and it is fine with me if you take what you like and leave the rest. As long as you are better off for having worked with us, and we secure a reference from you for our site, well that's the deal. We shall pray for success and prosperity   back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 21:Finding New Options! ****************************************************** Summary: This case inolves a person with talents and abilities. He had lost income and wanted to find ways to recoup those losses. We emailed back and forth came up with several ideas that got him enthused and on his way.   back to the top Hi Dan, I came by your site thru "DirectHit.com". I was trying to absorb your information because I am also full of ideas although I have not done anything with them. You could say i'm a budding entrepreneur looking for some PERFECT IDEA, that's wrapped up nicely with a low failure rate that can be started w/almost $0.00. At this time I am unemployed, for the majority of 1999 due to a layoff and difficulty securing a reasonable job in the environmental field (lack of bachelors degree) I don't know what I expect or need from you, so this email may be for not, but I need to try. I have been dreaming up ideas for a few years. I know some of these ideas are worth exploring although I am stumped if you've noticed that on the net-everybody has and idea for sale. I do have a problem with openly trusting people I have never met so pardon me if I seem a little distant. Well, Dan, a couple of ideas I've had for sm. biz startups are: 1. natural product e-site featuring everything from vitamins, lotions, foods, ?accessories/clothing and information 2. (??e-site) that markets items to businesses for promotions, incentives, activities, safety-products (i.e.. gift cert., logoed items, unique gifts, etc) 3. ?hobby/science e-site that markets projects that deal with hobbies, science and other projects and maybe even craft projects Well there are a few of my ideas. What to do next? Where do I find products? Maybe you can help. I am willing to have a partner or advisor but I do not have any money at this time. I hope you decide to correspond with me Dan, by the way my name is Martin and I live in California so......... I am pleased to meet you regards, Martin Aberl Martin, I have to say that whenever I do this I shoot, proverbially, in the dark for I don't know your preferences, the local region you are in, and the like. So what I do is take any idea that I get and write it down. I let you decide which is trash and which has some ghost of a chance. Your personality type may preclude some of the suggestions, for instance if you are incredibly shy then working in for local parks as a tour guide, say, would be a good suggestion perhaps, but one that would not suit you. If you have a good deal of talent with automotive work, that is to say you do most of your own or could, then you could do a sideline of taking in cars, fixing them up and reselling them. You would know how to pick them and only select ones that could be fixed by you, and fairly easily, at low cost and quickly, and then resold for a good value. Next to this comes doing garage work out of your garage. You would not have to be a know it all, but could do simple tune ups, tire rotations, part replacements and the like. But here is something else, perhaps much more viable: A service: You could offer your service as a person who checks out cars for someone who 1) does not know squat about cars, yet 2) has to buy one. You could provide a service to potential buyers of being willing to check out a car's basics. That is to say you would assist them in avoiding buying the obvious, to your eyes, lemon. With your computer skills you could also do word processing on the side as well. You could hire yourself, or your computer/office room to those who do not have the machines or time. A sort of "Rent my Office, please" This would take little or no capital, but would run into the mom/wife resistance factor depending on how it is done and what it might involve. There might be an insurance issue here as well. Then there is the easier suggestions such as starting a lawn and yard maintenance business, a house preparation service for landlords and real estate agents who are interested in renting or selling. Lastly, I know that you would prefer to stay with your area of expertise, and that should be your main goal and you should continue to pursue it, and that is why these suggestions are set up with the premise that they are all things that can be done: without a lot of capital requirements, can be done out of your house, can be given up at nearly a moments notice, can be done by you with the skills you either said you had or that I believe you possess, given what you have said about yourself. Re your ideas in the letter: This one: - "Stained Glass/wind chimes/patio: could be a internet site, catalog, store" this one may be possible in some form, that is to say the stained glass and wind chimes being made by you if you have the skill and the tools, but they would have to be competitive with what is out there already. In the stained glass area, I once saw an interesting idea. A woman at a street fair pressed flowers between small sheets of class that were leaded around the edge these were meant as hangings for the wall. That may be an idea you could try, it is still unique as far as I know. If you made them, photographed them well, and convinced some online store to sell them you could have something there. The other one that I thought had possibilities was "- Time Capsules: this is one my mom told me about 1 1/2 yrs ago but I let it sit on my note-pad, I didn't know where to seek a manufacture for this product, and now I see them around..........still think it'll do moderately well." How about personal time capsules? Ones that are made by you, and buried where the person directs, meaning on their property. This would have to be no more than a sealed metal container and some form of surface marker. You could maybe start something by working with families or the like. It is interesting in possibilities. Here is something else just out of the depths of my mind: A gravestone that has a solar power cell built into it. The cell recharges a battery system that in turn allows a visitor to view a recorded statement by the deceased, it could in its fancier states involve a audio video track with a little screen. All built into the headstone. Wild I guess, but interesting none the less. You could also investigate becoming a mail drop for persons wishing personal and private mailing addresses. Then you could offer not only the mail boxes but postage, faxing, internet access, mailing, copying and a message service. Though this would require permission, some sort of permit, probably, redesigning/rebuilding part of the house. Dan, Thanks for the insight. You have helped me redirect my focus on employment within the environmental arena. Currently I am working for a temp. agency in hopes of securing a long term job to get me back on my feet. I didn't mean to lay it all on you, just that I really had no-one to talk to and you leant an ear and pushed me forward and I thank you. I'm glad to see you revisiting or previous conversations, its refreshing to know that even in your probable busy life you have found time to write. I still plan on working for myself in the near future and will get back with you with some more ideas. I want to thank you again for your help. I do appreciate it a lot.....if I found them six lucky lotto numbers I'd give you a piece. hopefully we will stay in touch and maybe we'll come across an idea or three that will foster a profitable venture, we cant give up trying! your friend, Martin J. Aberl Environmental Field Technician Onsite Environmental back to the top ****************************************************** CASE 22: Consulting with a Korean Firm ****************************************************** Summary: This case grew out of previous cases where I consulted with a Korean firm involved with securing contracts to design public educational facilities. We have worked on a museum dedicated to inventions and the inventive process. I have helped them find models for making a museum dedicated to steel making and energy production.   back to the top   This is Ahn, assistant of Mr.Kim of TST company in Korea. I am sorry not having written you for so long. I am involved with many projects and have succeeded in all except one project - The Prehistorical Museum of this year. Of course, we already designed and built the Invention Museum on Sep.'99. Many children and middle school students like this museum. Many thanks for your assistance in initial and planning stage, again. This museum will help many students understand the importance and process of creativity and invention in our life. In the future, I'd like to keep in touch and communicate with you. Please inform me how to do this. I will concentrate for now on the planning of exhibits which are related to 'creativity' and ' invention. Thanks for your kind attention to me. I am very pleased to contact you again. Now, we have prepared the 'Energy Theme Park' with Energy Science Center. So, we need the example of Energy Theme Park in USA. The meaning of Energy Theme Park is as follows. - the big structure outside(or inside), to explain the principle of energy - the theme park for every energy - fire, coal, water, gas, wind, etc - the exhibits for energy inside of Science Center If you have any questions, please contact me without hesitation.  back to the top ****************************************************** Working with School Districts CASE 23: ****************************************************** Summary: This case involved a school district trying to implement a mentor teaching program. The persons heading the effort was having a difficult time getting veteran teachers to join in the program and new teachers were having a difficult time. I did not include the suggestions that I made, however, as a courtesy to the client.   back to the top   Hello, I recently was promoted to Supervisor of Human Resources and Instructional Improvement. My first task is to implement a state mandated mentoring program for teachers with 2 or less years of experience. My initial problem is getting volunteers to become mentors. Any suggestions? They will be paid $850 for a first year teacher and $450 for a second year teacher. I work in Piscataway NJ thanks, L.S. Hi, Dan I should have been more clear, my state has already set guidelines for the mentors to follow. The turnover we have is mostly in the school for the behaviorally disturbed because of the nature of the population. Overall there are only about 15 novice teachers to be mentored I have had to reach out to the building administrators to recruit mentors however, many veteran people lack the motivation. That is the only problem I am having. They'll receive stipends and hours toward professional development but are just not interested. There is a very big shortage of teachers in NJ and many people are seem to be putting out only the minimum to get by. Thanks L.S. Hi Dan, You have truly assisted me especially by giving me support during this overwhelming time. It seems much easier now especially since I have corresponded with you by all means post this, thanks! L.S.  back to the top ****************************************************** Entrepreneur in Israel CASE 24 ****************************************************** Summary: A life long business person needs to begin a new business. We exchanged a number of emailings and managed to find enough good ideas to send him in pursuit of a variation on one of the ideas I thought of. This is the way Creative Ideas works best, when we work with some one we often find a unique solution.   back to the top   Hi, After viewing your amazing site I wonder whether you can help me by suggesting some ideas for new business. My budget totals at U.S.$ 50,000 for the whole venture, until it will start to pay my living. I'm an economist and industrial engineer and have a long experience in managing firms (for others...). Is your service free? or does it charge? I would appreciate your response. Thanks, S. G-A. Thank you for your prompt response. (assuming that next information is going to remain private) there is some info about myself as mentioned in your message: 1. I am more than 50 years old, married & have three adult children. 2. Education: B.A. economics, M.Sc. industrial management. 3. Work experience has been as a finance executive in non profit institutions, a commercial manager for a small private company, an airline, a general manager for a tile manufacturer, a marketing executive, a managing director of a plastics company, and the manager of a mall complex. 4. I live in Israel. 5. I know how to build up a business, how to manage it and operate it, how to dill with the marketing, etc. etc. 6. My resource are quite limited: personal capital of around U.S.$ 50,000, and loan ability of some tens of thousands of dollars. As for now I can "survive" about a year before being coming to depend on income of extra $3000 per month from the new business. WHAT I don't have is the proper idea for a good new business(excluding stores, and businesses alike). I'm looking for a business with growing potential, uniqueness in the market, and involving capacity of gaining advantage from my education and vast work experience. I hope this is a sufficient background to establish some good creative ideas, although I asked you to keep this personal information private, I will be glad to put in your site a creditable reference with my name and location. Thanks again, S. G-A. Here is the problem I face in helping you. I could suggest a number of things such as: 1) beginning a non-profit organization related to the work you did in with the government earlier in your life, 2) you could start a small air taxi service, do hot air ballooning for tourists, helicopter service for businesses, or charter smaller airplanes 3) you could reinvolve yourself with ceramics but on a manufacturing level, making high quality dinner ware and household pieces dinner sets, services, all with unique qualities that could easily be worked out which would make excellent gifts, or retail in high end stores 4) you could do what "Tap Plastics" does in the my area of the U.S., that is to say make plastic items to order for home owners, interior designers, artists, crafts persons, hobbyists and the like 5) you could become a consultant who trains managers for companies - you and others could team up and do this. You see what I have done? Taken each of the jobs you have had in the past and extended them in to some new area. This is as much a set of suggestions as a direction in which you might want to take your thoughts. This is one of the suggestions that I made after we emailed a bit more. Here is the thought that I had. Organic, Biblical Herbs. What I mean is that you would grow them, farm them, as it were, using research you will be able to find the seed stock of the ancient plants that played a part in ancient Israel, the middle east, and more. You could grow a great deal of fruit or vegetables has to contend with. You could sell via mail order, directly to customers, restaurants, and to individuals. You could make quite an impression with culinary herbs that are now rare, and rich in history. The primary cost would be 5 to 10 acres of land with a supply of water. The land does not have to be prime agricultural land. Think of where herbs grow naturally, many thrive in poor soil. To make up this supposed lack, you could grow your plants in containers, planters, mounded earth. It would be a culturally important business. Eventually your product line would include herbs that are prepared, blended and sold in packets, jars, or other containers. One might also consider making dried, herbal, salad dressing mixes that are simply added to oil and water. You might imagine flavored vinegars. Good morning, Dan. Your suggested idea is quite unique and creative. It seems the whole idea has a good potential as a business. Unfortunately there are three major obstacles when it comes to me: 1.I am not young, as you know ,and such a venture, starting from scratch needs several years until it start to be counted on for living; 2. Water is very limited in Israel at all, and in the southern region especially. This means I have to go to joint venture with somebody who already own land and water quota. This will put me in an inferior position regarding my "partner"- which is not so favorable. 3. My knowledge in agriculture, especially in a desert conditions(as we have around) is "0"! I know this can be learned but I have to refer again to (1.). BUT ! I'm going to check retail angels of Biblical Herbs, meaning see if can find farmer/farmers who are ready to grow the herbs on contract basis, and start from this. In such case one might add more "nature" or "holistic" products to the retail business so to get wide enough grounds for it. Dear Dan, I came back from 3 days trip and was glad to see your message. I think the phrase "by exchanging ideas we caused other ideas to come to mind" is a proper one to describe our correspondence. You certainly have my approval to post a reference as a.m. one in your reference page and quote S. Govary (Israel). Ill appreciate not exposing any of my private and personal and professional details. Wish you all the best. S .G .A.  back to the top ****************************************************** Entrepreneur in Israel CASE 25 ****************************************************** Summary: An interesting case where in a professional is trying to find clues to the origin of some artifacts that he'd found. A little intuitional logic, as I like to call it and he had another direction to pursue to find the answer to his question.   back to the top   I am a detective with 40 years experience. 6 years ago I found and collected several rock artifacts. (They were all on the surface and there has been no to the legality of the artifacts.) Here is my problem. The pieces have been carved to depict ancient human faces/heads. They were all found in Calif. In the past 6 years I have been able to contact most of the archaeologists in CA and the US, including the most prominent. I cannot get them to examine/etc my finds. The main argument is that since they were on the surface, they have no value as they are impossible to find. I am frustrated. I am considering a different approach. IE. art does not have to be dated to be evaluated. The issue should be, are these artifacts truly art? and how good is the artwork? I have achieved a little. Currently, Dr. Alexander Marshack of Harvard (One of the most respected in field) is looking at photos I sent him. I am sure he will reject them. He advised me already that since they were found on surface, they have no significance. I could name other prominent scientists that have shown an interest, only to reject them as no date is obtainable. I need help. If you understand my point, art is art, to be identified, appreciated and preserved even without a date of origin, maybe you can provide me direction. Sincerely, chuck holt newport beach, ca To: C.H., I understand the issue that the scientists have with the artifacts For them the items cannot be dated and so they cannot determine when they were made and thus have some idea of who made them. However, I recall that Dr. Leakey found skeletal remains on the surface in Africa. He was able to date those fossils and they were important finds. The difference is that the fossils are organic and can be radio carbon dated, and he probably knew the approximate age of the sediment that it/they were found in. To have any geological clue to the origin of the artifacts you'd have to return to where they were found and try to determine the geological layer to which the pieces belonged. That solution would be difficult and does not seem worth while, over much. Some interesting points: accepting all that you said as truth: I would wonder if the artifacts were found in or near a recent erosive event, such as a hill slide, a seasonal flood, or was there roadwork, construction or some other event which overturned the soil to expose them? If there was evidence of this kind of activity it may be valuable information that would lead some scientists to reconsider what you have found and be curious enough to take a look at the pieces. You could also change your approach. Art collectors, those specializing in ancient or American Indian artifacts might be willing to look at the pieces. You know where they were found and so it would be a simple matter to find the research that exists for the tribes known to have inhabited the area where you made your find. There is probably some research already done on the tribe and its archaeological remains. If your items fit in with what they made then you have some kind of clue. The problem with that is that you'd also be faced with a tug of war over the ownership of the items. Dan Brady: Believe it or not I have done A LOT of work on this! Several of your suggestions are very interesting. I have contacted at least 400 archaeologists or anthropologists. Not one of them has ever suggested the idea of contacting a sculptor/geologist /mineralogist. The idea of determining the exact type of rock and mine location is certainly pertinent. I do not know if it will help my cause but I should have done that in beginning. I will be very interested in results. Several years ago I showed/gave them to a geologist that worked for the Flour Corp. (Free opinion). After a couple of days he said that they were rocks, very evasive otherwise. All of my finds are the result of erosion, from El Nino rains. I also have a strong opinion as to where they were buried. I have always made this clear to the scientists. In every contact the fact that I found them on the surface is grounds for an automatic rejection of any dating potential. I knew from the beginning a "white lie" would have gotten their attention! Aint my style! For 40 years I have always just presented the facts. If I don't get the response I want in near future, I would be interested in the possibility of selling the collection to a private collector or possibly at auction. Unless I am mistaken, an experienced collector of ancient art will recognize the significance and value or at least be interested enough to have a forensic specialist or some one else examine them. Curators of private, prominent, museums have shown some interest. However, the integrity of the work has always been my priority. Thank you for your time and input. I will e-mail you some j-pegs. C.Holt   back to the top Home Page Email me: DB @ CI