Category: MEDIA

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: Will the average Indian dad be cool with his daughter taking off to Lonavala without intimating?

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    It was late evening. The TV was on and I was using the ad breaks to make some calls, when out of the blue, my daughter asked me a simple question.

     

    Papa what would you have done?

    When?… I had no context to the subject.

    If I told you, I am going to my friend’s house for overnight study. Then, late at night, called to tell you that I was in Lonavala with friends.

    Preetica, what is this? I know, beta, you will never do that… (A doubt crept in) will you… but why would you do that … I was now getting worried not knowing where it was leading

    No, think if I really did.

     

    Ok… Parenting instinct kicked in… I would ask you to hold where you were… take the address… comes over to pick you… However, I know you would never do this. Right? (There was a father seeking confirmation)

     

    What if, I said I was feeling guilty having lied and hence was calling you to inform.

     

    I do not think there would be a change in my reaction. If you have to do something behind my back without informing me, then there is no trust. Or, say, the trust is broken. And it would not be the right thing, otherwise why would you do that. Not to encourage you, (Tolerate would have been wrong word) I would come and pick you up.

     

    Papa, I love you.

     

    Suddenly the Kinley TVC came on. I saw the interaction between an ultra cool unworried father and daughter. I realised what made my daughter pose that question. The communication was not right.

     

    My wife joined the discussion and this time I head another take. Do you advertising guys (I am still seen as one) truly believe that a father in current times would be ok and tell her go to sleep. WHAT KIND OF A DAD IS HE? I just hope you do not react like this. Trust is one thing and this is rather a serious breach of trust. It cannot be overlooked. And because you have 20-30 seconds, there is no check – where are you, who are the friends, do we know them, can I have alternate number, when would you be back, don’t do this again! Now, do not give me the argument that not everything can be shown. Consumers need to complete it in their head. And did Manmohan Desai show Jai and Viru reloading their revolvers every tine?

     

    I then talked to as many people I could and realised that they find the situation and the talk dumb. As dumb as ‘Sachaai Har Boond Mein’.

     

    My wife was not finished with the subject and in the morning she fired another salvo. What is the kind of an industry you work in, it raises a debate when boss (wife) lovingly cooks for her husband but is silent when a daughter lies to her father. Or all such things are well-timed PR for the industry. Good, now people hardly believe and they laugh or switch off (mentally) during the break.

     

    I did not tell her this was by O&M and what Piyush Pandey had to say for it. May be  ‘Paani  ki har boond mein sachaai’ in sometime will be as strong as ‘Fevicol matlab mazboot jod’. I personally doubt it.

     

    May be (that is all there to say) the TG which consumes mineral water has a differentially moral values and culturally so open that such behaviour is common and justified. May be their dads are not a worried lot. May be they expect that sometime daughters lie. To them her calling and letting him know is a victory. It is not important that the daughter had not only lied and gone out of town. OVERNIGHT. The representation did imply that dad was not calling from Khandala but from a nearby town like Mumbai. No question, no creasing of forehead. Absolutely calm. Totally in control. A dad that definitely does not represent Bharat.

     

    I read Piyush defending ‘It was all about picking instances from real life with two possibilities. Avoiding unpleasant by lying or taking the courageous path of being honest and facing the situation. And honesty brings an inner strength to face the results’. No issue with this thought, it is a strong one and that helps the brand move a bit more positively forward with the theme, but the situation sucks.

     

    People from UnMetro that I spoke had a simple reaction. Sautela Baap hoga. Kaisa baap hai kuch bhi tension nahi.. Beti ne toh bhata diya. Boli neend nahi aa rahi thi. Aab woh soyegi aur yeh jagega poori raat. (Must be her step-father. What kind of a dad is he? No tension? Now that she has told him, she will sleep and he will be awake the whole night).

     

    My friend’s grandmother with her wrinkled toothless smile had the best take. Hota hai beta, is umar mein hota hai. Aab kya mohalla uthayega. Prathana kar theek-thak wapas aa jaye chhori. Ghar aayegi tab dekhlenge phir kaisey khabhi pair rakhti hai baahar. (These things happen in this age. Now will you wake up the mohalla. Just pray she comes back safe. And then we will she how she steps out of the house ever.) I completely understand her point of view.

     

    Then someone said she has gone to Lonavala not Khandala that the dad should be worried. I think this is the only place where Piyush and team is right, picking the right reference avoiding ‘Aati kya kandala’ links.

     

    ……………………………………………………………………………………..

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst at INTRADIA and believes that the best way forward for an Organization is to enhance the potential of  internal teams instead of depending on external resources. He is a management- marketing-media consultant and also conducts specialised workshops in the area of ‘Harvesting and LiberatingIdeas’ and Innovation.  To contact email netkot@yahoo.com or tweet at s_kotnala visit www.intradia.in  www.sanjeevkotnala.com

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala’s ‘KOTMARTIAL’ appears on Wednesday. It couldn’t be carried yesterday due to a tech hitch.

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: Newspapers: Wanted One Good Reason…

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    Today, the 8th South Asia INMA Conference gets underway in Delhi. In this zone circulation and revenue in print continues to grow. But, the threat from  the global digital wave and mobile screens today is more real than ever before. No one is willing to bet on the Indian print industry’s readiness for the tipping point, that may not be  too far in future.

     

    INMA South Asia Conference opens to the theme; “Print: Transform Diversify Grow!”. The descriptor ‘How can the South Asia Newspaper industry grow grow grow in the current scenario? ‘ is hopefully more a statement of intent than of fear.

     

    For a reference check, let’s unwind to 2013. INMA forum resonated with  speakers propogating digital becoming a part of regular media plan. One can agrue that it’s not yet the situation, but it is tough to deny the way wind is blowing. One does not need data to support such statements. The  consumer experience and observation in metro is enough of an eye-opener. And honestly it would be surprising if more than 50 percent of the delegates would have read the newspaper today.

     

    Extrapolation of metro behaviour into Tier-II and Tier-III towns may not be statistically valid, but the new generation in markets after markets have adapted to Digital in more ways than one. We should be thankful that it is still centered around e-mail, Facebook, Whatsapp, e-retailing  and games, as digital fails to answer their hyperlocal needs. Digital after the tsumani of cheap smartphones is definitely more sexy, engrossing, involving and engaging than print.

     

    On the  other side, Indian publishers refuse to read the line.  Instead of fast adapting and experimentating with the ‘Print + Digital’ or  ‘New Print and/or New Digital’ format they been myopically resisting it. In India one is not worried about the newspaper format dying soon. It has its buisness viability and reader advertiser involvement is something that will be questionned at every stage.

     

    The changing environment is not really about ‘Digital Vs print’. It’s about service, need fit, utility and value add. The reader will continue to source and seek their newspaper, if there is something relevant in it readers that only newspapers can provide,  There is no direct and clear answer to it. Print anyway  has never been colloborative and we should not expect it to change. The biggies like The Times of India, Hindustan Times, Dainik Bhaskar, Dainik Jagran, Hindu, ABP, Amar Ujjala, Rajasthan Patrika will never come together to explore and lead such possibilities. If it’s not enough that they are as brotherly as Kauravas and Pandavas but there are enough Shakunis and Dristhrastras in this game.

     

    In INMA, you should be seeing the dominance of Sales, Marketing, Brand and  Circulation. Editorial as usual is expected to be sadly under represented*. Editorial is busy protecting its turf from demands and dictates of marketing  and management. That leaves very little time for rekindling enagagement and interest of readers. Very few resist the change, and very few lead the change.  Hyperlocalaisation is an old story.  Credibility as a rationale is dead. And there been nothing new in print space worth writing home. Success and future survival of titles is hinged to their content.  Edit (and industry) has failed the trust of readers in changing with the times (LOL). They have failed to create relevant content which could keep the romance on fire. In the new world, they have failed miserably in giving reader a reason to read. The world unfortunately is  changing. Now you do not hear ‘I can not live with out my newspaper’ but what echoes is nightmarish ‘Don’t know when I started not-missing my newspaper’.

     

    I want to share  an experiment conducted by a leading newspaper group. Readers form different zones were called to share their experience with senior management. What is imprinted in mind is the 15 minutes of spellbinding conversation with a  young reader from Indore.  He raised an issue which the industry better be focussing on. He said ‘The excitement which I used to feel when I picked up the newspaper is  dead, There is nothing you are adding to my lfe’. He was categorical and it jolted me when he said in his fearless voice  ‘You are doing no service to me, you are costing me time. Should I not be charging you for the obligation of reading , which keeps you in business’. He finished the evening with a question that did not get a answer ‘Give me a reason, one good reason to part with my 5-10 minutes of my daily time. Give me a sense of missing if I do not see you. Don’t be my Dadi (grandmother), keep the romance alive, Be my girlfriend’

     

    *Based on all earlier INMA  conferences.

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst at INTRADIA and believes that the best way forward for an Organization is to enhance the potential of  internal teams instead of depending on external resources. He is a management consultant and  conducts specialised workshops in the area of  Liberating Ideas and Innovation.  To contact e-mail netkot@yahoo.com or tweet at s_kotnala visit www.intradia.in  www.sanjeevkotnala.com. The views express here are his own.

     

     

     

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: 163 Days to Goafest 2015. 12 Suggestions

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    Why speak of Goafest 2015 so early? Most likely it will be held on April 9-10-11, 2015. The answer is simple. I Love Goafest. I have attended every edition and I will be there again. It is still THE INDIAN ADVERTISING & MARKETING FESTIVAL. It has the Abby, the most prestigious Indian awards in creative and media. It expanded to include Publishing & Broadcasting awards, which are yet to make an impact. Meanwhile we know Kyoorius has upped the benchmark.

     

    I also hate controversies linked with Goafest. Its brand equity has been taking a huge beating in the last few years. With this humble piece, I want to provoke the organising team to deliver a seamless smooth fest and set new benchmarks.

     

    Therefore, here are my suggestions:

    1. DEFINE THE ORGANISING BODY NOW

    Do not wait for Jan-Feb. 2015.

     

    2. LET MR SUNDAR SWAMY GUIDE AND ORCHESTRATE GOAFEST 2015.

    He did a phenomenal job in the short time available for Goafest 2014. Let him choose the team he wants and can depend on. As an experiment, let us keep fragile egos and side-nudges to minimum.

     

    3. DECLARE THE DATES.

    It not only helps planning but also helps in getting the right speakers. It will decrease dependence on supporting agencies and clients to prop up a few speakers and in process make the event more ‘Value for Money’ for the delegates. Let’s get whom we want and not whom we can!

     

    4. ENHANCE RELEVANCE TO AUDIENCE.

    Stop being futuristic zooming at 2020 and beyond. Leave that for boardrooms. It is irrelevant to most of the delegates who are young. Be realistic and zoom onto current imperatives for the industry. Stop being a Digital-plus event. In India, print, radio and TV are still a huge part of the ad investment.

     

    Get the right speakers. Reject recyclers. People who present two-year-old Cannes winners as insights or just do a brand sales pitch. The fest should ideally be delivering focused learnings, debate and healthy arguments.

     

    5. GET THE CLIENT SIDE INVOLVED.

    We cannot afford not to focus on it. It is critical for future and current success. There are no readymade solutions. I am hoping that the industry that claims to work wonders for brands based on consumer insights would not fail Goafest (the brand) in getting Clients (consumers) to its 2015 edition. Maybe like clients we could call for an idea pitch. In addition, there are brands to willingly sponsor such a contest.

     

    6. REVISIT THE AWARD PROCESS NOW.

    TASK #1. Get all who can constructively contribute to define the award and its process. Use crowdsourcing to publicly solicit suggestion and objections. After that, we should just roll with the new process and stop worrying about distractors.

     

    I support creating an unreleased/ not approved by client category. In addition, severely deal with scam in any category. Ban the individuals (client and agency) for a three-year period. Ban the brand/ organization for a year. Ban should be complete- they can no longer, be a delegate or a speaker.

     

    7. TAKE ACTION ON FEST SPOILERS.

    To participate or not is an internal decision and is respected. Positive criticism and suggestions are more than welcome. What is unacceptable is the publicly raising doubt on Goafest credibility. Bar the organizations engaging in such practices from being part of Jury panel or attending or speaking at the fest. Can we stop licking for the few that take the industry for granted. Do we have balls to take such a stance?

     

    8. HONOUR THE WINNERS PROPERLY.

    The blank plate on trophy is an insult to the winner. No name! No Category! The industry known for great execution skill failed on this front in Goafest 2014. Not again.

     

    Please do rationalize number of awards. Otherwise, dinner and late night parties become an event by ‘Mutual Admiration Society’. Everyone is a winner. It kills the excitement and pleasure of winning.

     

    Do not end up discriminating between award categories. Same treatment to metal winners is necessary. Unlike 2014, please do not call bronze winner of one category on stage and deny other bronze winners in some other category the pleasure to accept trophy on stage.

     

    9. GET SOME NON-MEDIA SPONSOR!

    This is a tough one and a tougher to manage. Media organizations have been sponsoring almost all industry events. Why are the advertisers and advertising agencies not sponsoring Goafest? Do we have a selling proposition?

     

    10. MAXIMIZE RETURNS FOR SPONSORS AND DELEGATES.

    The answer to above is here. Let delegates go back enlightened or with smile of having got something worth which is more than networking, backslapping, beer and raindance. Let the sponsor get more than mere logo presence and memento delivery. We have neglected this in past and are paying a price for it now.

     

    11. TAKE THE ‘TBL’ PAIN OUT.

    Internationally not done does not mean we should not do it. What about ‘travel inclusive’ or ‘Travel + stay inclusive’ tickets? Use the technology and firms specializing in it. What about an early morning flight to Goa and midnight return flights? Maybe lot many more will consider coming only for a day and the party that night.

     

    12. GET BACK TO OUTDOOR VENUE IF POSSIBLE.

    This is not the most important thing on agenda. Beach was fun and indoor does not have the same feel. Indoor is not really Goa. I understand the issues associated with outdoor but no harm in poking a bit more.

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst at INTRADIA and believes that the best way forward for an Organization is to enhance the potential of internal teams instead of depending on external resources. He is a management consultant and runs specialised workshops in the area of Liberating Ideas. To contact e-mail netkot@yahoo.com or tweet at s_kotnala

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: Is Innovation in Print Dead?

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    The passionate print guy in me waited through the Navratra for some surprise. I have not seen, heard or read about any Innovation in Print for sometime.

     

    Print has moved from Basic innovations: Size, Shape, Position, stapling, sticking and false cover etc., no longer innovations to Technology-based innovations: Gatefold, Double gat fold, Central gatefold, Outer fold, Inner fold, outer cut etc. soon these will lose the innovation tag. That leaves Exotic sensorial innovations: 3D, audio, smell, image treatments, Heat sensitive or soluble colour based etc. And this still is an unexploited territory.

     

    I know there is lot possible in print. In the Dainik Bhaskar Group I have been exposed to the spectrum of possibilities. I fear they will remain in files and not find a client sponsor to implement. This in my view will be most unfortunate.
    Today, more than ever before, print needs innovation to bring back some mystic and romance in the category. Lack of innovation during Navratra is not a good sign. I hope in the four days of Diwali we will see some print innovation.

     

    Some of the reasons cited for this are –

    1. Digital is the new attraction and focus with agencies and clients. Digital and TV create their own buzz. Print needs to shout.

     

    2. Print innovation is costly and geographically restricted. No one wants innovation beyond metros. And anyway there is no way to measure the change in impact from a simple ad to an innovation.

     

    3. Death of private equity where the cash cost of innovation was cushioned

     

    4. There is a lack of knowledge not only in client and agencies but also within the sales teams at publications of the possibilities that exist

     

    5. Print sales team are not aware of possibilities in other media (specially Digital) and hence can not think of ways to counter thrust

     

    6. Low return on time spent for media and creative teams. Print media is not given importance at client’s end. Print awards do not have the same oomph factor as TV and digital awards. And there is no print talent or talent wanting to work on print

     

    7. Across media the goalpost has been shifting but print seems to be tied to old school and is yet to grow out of Space Selling mold

     

    What the Print Industry Can Do? Sporadic individual efforts will not yield the result good enough to shift the inertia. It is time to invest or to sign the death warrant. The choice is open and clear.

     

    1. STOP SELLING SPACE AND INNOVATION. Print has failed to keep kept pace with the changing needs. Still selling space. They should have been investing in knowing the brand they service so as to provide right solutions. Not surprising that most newspaper sales teams do not see/know the ads released against the RO.

     

    2. STOP FOCUSING ON DIGITAL. Time to collectively find ways to sustain fast eroding Print equity. Stop industry forums to rehash the same futuristic discussions. Print + Digital is a model that will work best when Print retains its strength. Industry will do itself a favor by discussing ‘TODAY- NOW & HERE’ than talking of years down the road.

     

    3. CLIENT ENGAGEMENT. Maybe in INMA (November) discussion should centre on ideas and ways to create client engagement programme.

     

    4. SHOWCASE PRINT INNOVATION. What has INS done for the print industry in business domain? Nothing. The least it can do is create / maintain a print innovation reference site showcasing possibilities in print.

    Newspapers need to be open and frank in ideation. They are right now cocooned fearing someone else will ride on their ideas. Trust me, keeping the Innovation secret will never work. If not you, someone else will work with the client to do things you have been holding back.

     

    5. Subsidies innovation. It may sound horrendously non-business like but try it to bring excitement back.

     

    6. High incentive ‘Print Innovation Award’ created and promoted by INS. Make it really larger than life. So big that the creative and media teams find reason to resist digital pressure. There was an annual competition called THINK PRINT – publications need to rejuvenate that in somewhat contemporary way.

     

    7. CONNECT WITH CLIENTS. ASK FOR DIRECT BRIEFS. The trick lies in direct interaction with client’s marketing teams. Get the brief directly, interpret it and pitch with relevant and practical innovation. Media and creative agencies may not be your best friend in this battle. Remember you are not the preferred media or business partner. Also, don’t bank on your DTP operators for the creative. Invest in outside experts. Do whatever but DO NOT force fit a possible innovation or push just because that us what you have to sell.

     

    8. Focus on measurement matrix. If the need of the hour is to measure engagement and involvement, then MRUC must focus to find means to measure it, instead of concentrating measuring cross indices with TV and Digital in IRS. Publications must be vocal and fund / find matrices that can demonstrate / measure impact amplifier effect with innovation and even cross media communication

     

    9. Educate clients and agencies.

    Easy to say tough to do. I have seen Dainik Bhaskar push this agenda with limited success. Maybe at Industry level it may succeed. An event by INS or by the Top 5 groups that engages clients and agencies. Expose them to possibilities in print. If for gaining dedicated time you need to take members abroad, then just do it. Don’t wait.

     

    But if you believe that Innovations agenda is misplaced and nothing can enhance print excitement; just ignore what has been said above.

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst with P1P2Solutions. To connect mail at netkot@yahoo.com or tweet at S_Kotnala

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: Dear Election Commission: Who Is The Candidate From My Area

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    I am told there is election today in Mumbai and Rest of Maharashtra. And I would not have believed that but for the inked fingers on my Facebook timelines and the flurry of full pages in newspapers over the last two days.

     

    I am from an old school of Election frenzy. Having helped Sharad Yadav collect funds when he first stood for election from Jabalpur. I hope country forgives me for that mistake in judgment. Have stayed as late as till 2 am to listen to Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayeejee. And have listened to local orchestra filling up for a late-latif VIP. The current socially hyperactive intrinsically digital generation is unfortunately missing the fun.

     

    Earlier there were massive clues for you to know elections were on. People would go door-to-door canvasing. Every corner would become a rally point with crowds contributing towards a hugely chaotic traffic. Loudspeakers, posters, pamphlets and full-page print ads would keep you company.

     

    Blame it on the Election Commission for taking out the juice from elections. Restricting a ridiculous low piggybank amount as the spending limit. Coming down heavy on Paid News. Local administration added time and decibel limits. No late loud broadcast of a local meeting. EC minutely scrutinises use of flowery language by candidates. Elections now are seriously no fun.

     

    There are no ads in newspapers and I don’t mean the full pages. Print under the disguise of responsible media still grudgingly covers elections. It’s more of an optimist attitude refusing the death of a cash cow. The socially responsible  (LOL) debates in news channels are a blindspot. They anyway shout in this manner throughout the year.

     

    But, some media are benefiting from the EC’s low spending limit and really addressing the vote bank. Radio is on an overdrive. Congress, BJP, Shiv Sena and other are busy finding their voice in multiple languages. Shiv Sena spots in English and BJP in Marathi can be heard. Organized outdoor is sporadic again crumbling under the expense limit. Social media has been sort of keeping low.

     

    But what do you do when you are not aware of the candidates in your zone. You do have 3-4 choices. NOTA: most likely you will not use this as a meek protest and just a statistical item on news coverage. You are unlikely to vote for a candidate you do not know. Not voting is not an option. How will the Selfie happen? May be you will vote for a party and not a candidate. And that would be the failure of the Indian democratic process.

     

    Blame it squarely on the Election Commission. By capping the expenditure at a ludicrously low amount, EC has in fact done disservice to the nation. Indian elections were meant to be democratically challenging. Parties and candidates should have collectively decided your vote. Social media-dominated General elections have shown how damaging party-led voting can be. As unknown and even ill-famous candidates have taken advantage of party tsunami.

     

    EC limit is like the INR 35 poverty line. Absurd. How can a new candidate (mostly independent) be expected to reach out to the masses about qualification, achievement and challenges or just Why should public elect them. In one stroke this has ensured death of individual candidates.

     

    Mayb e when our RIGHT TO INFORMATION is being denied by this act of EC, it is time for government-sponsored neutral election communication.  Let EC use any media or medium but communicate in the local language and English. Just tell the voters about the candidates, their picture, achievement, assets and criminal record etc. For candidates seeking re-election add usage of last funds. May it would somewhat negate EC fault that is leading the country dangerously towards a full-blown silent soft party led elections.

     

    And while we are at it, ensure elections are held on weekend or Wednesdays to bring down incidence of weekend clubbing for holidays. And introduce compulsory voting.  If you do not vote without a valid reason, you should be a fined an Election Tax. Your right to question government or seek government jobs stands withdrawn.

     

    Above is a full-blown orgasmic fantasy: till then let me go and vote for a party and shout loud on the Social Media. I am a socially responsible citizen!

     

     

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: The ABC of the TOI-HT Battle

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    I am enjoying the TOI-HT fight for Delhi-NCR supermacy. Are you?

     

    You may love TOI for the action and pity HT for pathetic explanation or be completely neutral with ‘I don’t care -WTF’ attitude. The lines are drawn depending on ‘who you hate’ and ‘who you love to hate’. Trust me, you will enjoy this, when you pick your side to fight for.

     

    For me this is not about TOI-HT or ABC-MRUC or IRS. It is about anomalies in syndicated third party studies and audits. The truth is that the industry would really want to trust these surveys and report but they can’t. Net-net, the industry suffers.

     

    On the other side, it is adrenaline-seeping excitement injected in the inert print planning environment. May be the print industry needs such episodes at regular intervals. Like Dainik Bhaskar-Rajasthan Patrika, Dainik Jagran-Dainik Bhaskar- Punjab Kesari, Hindu-TOI, Divya Bhaskar-Gujarat Samachar, Divya Marathi- Lokmat to name a few.

     

    It’s about the state of affairs, where just like the Oscar Pistorius case, the IRS is served a unanimous verdict for its process and data robustness validity.

     

    In such a situation , all you have is your point of view. Which is the root cause of what is currently happening.

     

    TOI is known and respected for its synchronised all guns blazing attack.  It’s no different this time (case facts at the end). TOI has taken a leaf out of a Standard Operating Procedure  at Dainik Bhaskar and adapted the famed process of ‘let stakeholders see reality at ground zero’. TOI was smarting under the tainted IRS 2013 and ABC took its pain to next level. Result: TOI launched  ‘THE TOI CHALLENGE’. Trust me this frontal confidence and trick always works in B2B scenario.

     

    You would have seen the simple but brutal video with a super- ‘For Internal discussion / usage only not to be forwarded to anyone else other than the intended recipient’ video ( 24280 views !). No one believes that super but it saves some skin.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMGC53YlDz0 .

     

    Look at it differently. ABC stipulates that while reporting combined circulation data the constituent’s title/ edition detail is a must. For TOI to be correct, at least one of them –  HT /ABC / MRUC must be wrong. In that case, some communication is definitely misleading. ABC and ASCI please step-in.

     

    Technically speaking, if you have to depend on only one parameter for print media planning, it should be Readership and not Circulation. Circulation is somewhat outdated, over-manipulated, completely misunderstood and under-leveraged. Irrespective of the newspaper title, the circulation-readership ratio would move in a narrow band for a given market–language combination. Market forces like  circulation will course-correct it in case of a deviant picture. Circulation can play the role of initial benchmarking for print planning.

     

    In an era of media fragmentation, readership  through content consistency and quality reporting defines Circulation and not the other way round. In long term, neither pushing copies to gain readers nor buying/ hoarding/ burning works.

     

    But then above is a picture of idealistic world. The current IRS and ABC along with publications like  TOI, HT, Dainik Bhaskar, Dainik Jagran, Lokmat tell me just one thing:  ‘Believe at your own risk’. I am still learning.

     

    So, something must change and it must happen at the root of the process. The ABC must treat titles as independent allowing no combo-reporting / listing / communicating. The IRS in addition to improving its processes/ systems/ data robustness/ industry involvement / cross check/ high data security must differentiate within groups and subgroups of title if ownership is differentiated or the media space is bought and sold separately.

     

    But there is no messiah in sight to attempt to redefine an idealistic research envirounment.  So until that time, take a side you’d like to back and enjoy the next round!

     

    THE TOI- HT FILE.

    The TOI-HT Battle File:
    FACT   :

    • ABC JD 2013 – DELHI NCR- HT 10.6 TOI 10.4 lakh copies

    TOI CLAIM / ANALYTICS/ INFERENCES

     

    • HT 2 Minute is on 12-pager (average) priced much lower than HT MAIN and inserted with HINDI HINDUSTAN Monday to Friday.
    • 26% of 10.4 lakh (2.75 lakh) copies of HT’s circulation refer to ‘HT-2 Minutes’
    • HT 2 MINUTE carries only 30% of HT MAIN ads.
    • Maybe the advertiser is unaware that the ad is not exposed to this 26% HT 2 MINUTE reader
    • Even if the ad is carried in HT2MINUTE, it reaches an  unplanned first preference Hindi readers
    • ABC JD 2013. TOI’s fully loaded edition (regular copies: Listed in ABC as ‘single’ / ‘combo’) is 38% ahead of HT

    TOI CHALLENGE :

     

    • Seeing is Beleiving. Come and see for yourself.  We outsell HT in every Sales Point/ Depots. with this new campaign.

     

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst at P1P2SOLUTIONS and can be reached at netkot@yahoo.com. The views expressed here are his own.

     

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: Tell A Story to Deliver The Brand Message Right

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    India has three religions: Cricket, Cinema and Religion, not necessarily in that order. All of them are full of stories, characters and personalities. The viewers and followers (audience) fall in love with the story and the characters in them. Yet we have been more focused on the message than the story. Once we correct this anomaly, the brand message and brand cut-through will automatically happen in our communication.

     

    Look at Sholay, Kabhi Kabhie, Dabang and even Bheja Fry. Look at the last ball win and the tandav of an inning by Sehwag. Try understanding the matches you remember. Feel the engagement of blockbuster Mahabharata and the power of a dramatic message delivery in the Gita or the well-crafted real life characters in Ramayana. Look at your own first love and may be your last love. They are all characters brought alive with memories and impactful small stories (episodes). An integral part of our relationship with them and it logically should hold true for the ads we produce.

     

    The scenario is not so bad. Some brands do reflect a brilliant understanding of it. We smile with All Weather Voltas AC Murthy. We debate the Airtel; ‘Boss Can Cook’ and share a smile with Airtel ‘Soon to be Married’ TVC.

     

    Is there something special about them?

     

    And the answer is simple. They don’t overtly sell a brand proposition, message or benefit. It gets delivered silently and effectively. We don’t have to exert to relate to the situations. They bring smile to our face without intellectually challenging our thought process and social norms.

     

    They are a treat to watch. We savour the mood enhancement delivered by them and fall in love with the characters. We react violently if the future script fails our expectations. Remember the famous K serials and their art of reviving dead even after cementation.

     

    These story-centric TVCs give us a ringside view to the episode in the life of the character. Take the Murthy example. He is our next-door neighbour with a south Indian tone. He has been transferred many times over and every time his Voltas AC saves him from the weather and other elements including his father-in-law test. The stories are all about his experience and the advice is woven into it. He leaves the thought with us and waits for the BUY penny to drop. So much so, that few Non-Voltas AC owners can be expected to seek or recommend ‘Murthy wala’ or Voltas AC.

     

    We have been friends with Murthy for long. Slowly his wife and then his father-in-law made were introduced. We are slowly coming to know of this endearing family. Maybe later his sister-in-law, his mother-in-law, brother and sister will join. The south Indian pronunciation and slow dialogue delivery add trust to message delivery and comprehension in North India too. Hats off to the creative team, casting director, the scriptwriter and the client. There is a lot of juice still left in Murthy for creative to exploit. And on top of that Murthy and wife are a loving couple, who can lend themselves to newer roles.

     

    The simplest of the stories address the Smallest Consumer Unit (SCU) around which the life of the customer revolves. It is not an individual but a complex set of relationships defined as family. They are like the Kilo Bots. The individual mind, taste and experiences fighting, pleading, debating and trying to convince at the same time. Every SCU (family) member takes on roles as per the demand of the situation. They are the opinion-makers, influencers, customer, consumer, early/late adapters and the buzz creator. Our story and characters must be friends with them to go past their logical and emotional test.

     

    Life after all is a long story comprising many short episodes.

     

    Unfortunately, the creative process is usually trapped in discussion of under and over delivery of brand message(s), the pack shot, the flowing hair, the hold of soap, the revolving mobile and so on. It should give equal focus to the character, relationships, story and dialogues.

     

    Kurkurey, Maggi, ZooZoos and Jago Re do this brilliantly. Add the Airtel ‘couple ad’ to the list, where, we voyeuristically become part of their love talk. We smile when she with a perfect expression says ‘Hum Raat Bhar Baatey karengey’ or the doubt ‘Ha sahi kar rahey hai’ question at the nth hour. Such relationships are rich in language, cultural and even play with stereotypes allowing for a creative riot. Airtel brand has an opportunity to build on the story with episodic unveiling of their experiences. Show us the life progression as a story ( the soap of TVCs) while strongly delivering the desired message & experience. You tell the story right – to deliver the brand message right.

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst, P1P2Solutions. He can be reached at netkot@yahoo.com

     

  • Somewhat Seriously: Martin beats Arnab 7-4 in Shadow Boxing

     

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    Thank you IAA for making it possible. One can see why the IAA India Chapter won the most active IAA Chapter award recently.

     

    Sir Martin Sorrell (SMS) gave a basic course in TACKLING Arnab Goswami (AG). From the world GO, SMS opened with Cricket stating that it seems MSD seems to be a captain with fixed thinking. Then he fired His question. How have the elections been for you? An open-ended conversation that followed with: why was there a gap between the Rahul and Modi interviews?  It forced AG to go in a detailed explanation. It was half-way through his comment that AG realized it was he who was supposed to be asking the questions.

     

    The election discussion closed with SMS probing. When the Congress says the media is to blame for their debacle, were they referring to media as media or you? AG in self-congratulating mode pointed out the Rahul English media exposure was limited to Times Now.

     

    I wish that Indian politicians should not watch this show when it’s telecast or is on Youtube. They may learn how a tactfully well-prepared person, with smile and humour can enjoy the discussion. How to be precise in your answer, not allow AG to corner you or allow him to put words in your mouth. SMS seem to have taken the advice in yesterday’s post.

     

    AG started with -‘I am honoured to be interviewing you and I have great regards… ‘ Was turned by SMS into a class for politely being rude. SMS said ‘you can be sure it’s going to be tough one and dam sure if the guy says ‘Personally I have nothing against you’.

     

    AG – there is respect in your well-preparedness and being very focused in your approach and questions. You as always were well-prepared with your data, quote and historical references. But today, you did meet someone who betters in it.

     

    SMS ON MEDIA: There is a mismatch between, the amount of time the consumer devotes or by the way the consumer consumes media and the investment (read advertising revenues) by agencies and client in it. Pointed out that this will find its balance. Fragmented media is a challenge and it will get more challenging with time.

     

    SMS ON TAM:  AG half-volley  ‘Your comment on TAM’ was met with a nice cover drive ‘Nice Company’.  Keeping the Indian scenario out of discussion, SMS pointed out that in most  (I did hear him say all) of the companies there is only one TV audience measurement currency. Can there be 1-2 or 3 measurement currencies is something that the market will decide.  AG doosara on does TAM (read SMS) need to wait for government directive for enhancing TV Meter numbers was hit hard. SMS pointed out that additional meters means additional cost and it must be shared by the agencies, client and the channels must share the burden.  Reiterating that WPP is committed to provide the most accurate measurement, he made a point that it’s not meters alone but a willingness to shift measurement process with change in consumer habits is required. Giving an example he cited the use of C+3 and C+7 meters that track not only on-air but deferred viewing.

     

    SMS ON INDIA AND CHANGES: The Independence Week made AG continuously probe SMS outside the off-stump. Is India at the Vortex of change? Can India- made media be global?  SMS showed a straight bat. He was optimistic that the new strong leadership in government is coupled with strong commercial leadership, then India which has been in the wrong side of the history for so long would definitely see a change.  And that it is advisable for the businesses to first exhaust the local opportunities before looking out.

     

    SMS ON FURTHER INVESTMENT BUYOUTS IN INDIA: He rattled off that WWP business in India is about 499 Million. And growing @ 10%. Talking to Sam (Balsara), he said: ‘If there is a business opportunity that is 50 million worth, he would consider it and is willing to write a blank cheque.” SMS thinks that his competitors in recent past have made some ill-advised low-leveraged investments and that is starting to reflect in their figures.

     

    SAM AND SMS: Sam raised a probing question that in the Indian situation where TV and Print (the legacy media) dominants. The foreigners (like you) come and talk just digital-digital. Are you not missing the bus?  In SMS’s view: “This is true as of now but all businesses have to look future-ready. I am not sure when the tipping point will come and change the dynamics. But it will come surely, with the speed of change speeding up’.

     

    SMS ON THREAT.  The biggest threat is not competition but Complacency, Arrogance, Satisfaction and lack of energy. He said he is a disruption freak. All his life the growth has come from disruption.

     

    SMS ON BALANCE. He referred to his divorce as an example. His lawyers had two possible solution and they asked: what was more important – business or family.  Not surprising, the answer is both.  This was when AG tried creating a 2×2 matrix between King and God on one side and Data and Analysis on another. SMS went to the extent of drilling the point home in more ways then one. As per him, creative and data, science and art, gut feel and analysis are such a pair where balance is more important.  Balance is not something that’s 50-50, but the right mix. Whenever the pendulum would swing to one side creating a biased skew: correction will be needed.

     

    MY SPECIAL:  (1) SAM, can we raise the same question on legacy v/s new media for all the discussion that happens in Indian forums? And many such places you are one of the guiding force? (2) I am surprised at the limited attendance to the event. At any stage, there were not more than 120 people in hall set for 150-plus. IAA could start planned invitation push (even paid) public beyond their members for such an event.  (3) Liked SMS referring to AG as a fly buzzing. (2) Liked AG comparing SMS to a Smart Politician and we would know where that feeling was coming from.

     

    Disclaimer: The above personal interpretation of the discussion.

     

    Aside: In a fraternity meet like this, with most being media or IAA invitees or senior people- this long introduction of SMS and AG- was that required?  I personally felt it went too long.

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst, P1P2Solutions. The views expressed here are his own

     

  • In Jest | Sanjeev Kotnala: Sir Martin’s Secret 7 Steps for Encounter with Arnab

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    MARTIN Vs ARNAB promises to be an interesting Reality Shadow Boxing Show. Live today at 3:30pm at ITC Grand Central, Lower Parel. Mumbai.

     

    Sources in WPP and IAA requesting anonymity tell us: “A lot went into ensuring Sir Martin Sorrell (SMS) 69, CEO, WPP to agree to converse with Arnab Goswami (AG), the 9pm dude of Indian television. It’s a great combination and a must-watch for the audience. Hope AG does not tone down his usual theatrics.”

     

    AG the sport that he is was willing to grill SMS risking his future. You don’t know what Martin buys next. IAA convinced him that Martin is no Rakhi Sawant or Lalu and could not guarantee TRPs at 9pm. ‘Frankly Speaking with Arnab’ was out of question. Hence the 3:30pm slot with a live audience.

     

    It started with the head of one of the Martin’s many companies pushed by the polite tall gentleman of IAA approaching Martin for the Encounter. Who is this Arnab Goswami? Is he head of some media business that you guys want Martin to meet was a natural question raised by SMS’s secretary.

     

    Primary research over the Net revealed AG, born 1973, writer of missing-from-the-racks ‘Combating Terrorism’, is an Indian journalist + Editor-in-Chief + News anchor of ‘Times Now’ and primarily responsible for all the Noise at 9pm. He has 21K+ likes on his Facebook pages (FB does not count Hates). While ‘NATION WANTS TO KNOW’ is his pet verse, truth is AG already knows and decides what and how much the nation should know.

     

    This was insufficient information for SMS who believes in knowing the ememy. WPP India team was directed to provide a complete dossier incuding list of Youtube videos to watch. Due to conflicting views, SMS finally made his own assumptions. Child’s play, he uses the same technique for understanding any thing Indian, including the economy.

     

    For the last seven weeks, SMS been preparing for the Encounter wrongly named Conversations. And here is the exclusive step-by-step action of the 7-week preparation programme.

     

    Step I: Watch Youtube videos and track social media on AG. Avoid polarised performance vedios with Rahul Gandi and Modi.

     

    Step II: Practise raising voice. AG loves a fight. SMS went to the best, he has been coached by Thirumurugan Gandhi who holds the record for outshouting AG.

     

    Step III: Dodge questions on Economy, FDI and cross-media ownership.  Fighting AG is a waste of time. Polite conversations will be the best weapon. AG after all is ill experienced to handle politemess and logic.

     

    Step IV: Build immunity to shouting.  With no body to shout at him, this was identified as the weakest point. Now, SMS is expected to  allow AG to shout when he breaks down the discussion to few limmited  focussed points, without  bothering if he was stating things out of context. Right context. WPP Generals have informed him audience would love it.

     

    Step V: Carry no notes. Sit straight. No gestures. Head must always be held above AG line of vision this makes AG nervous. Only AG can hold paper and bang the table or raise his voice shouting ‘The Nation wants to know”.

     

    Step VI: Shuffle through recnet past. Read all your past comments. Articles- interviews and even the SMS and Whatsapp messages. AG is bound to bring something from your past that even you may not remember.

     

    Step VII: Minor details major impact. AG is known to wear suit with white shirt. SMS been advised to stick to light pastals. SMS expected to avoid Dark Red and sit facing North. AG is allergic to anything Red or South. If he reports in wearing just shirt and trousers, be on guard, this is his style of trapping you.

     

    The two parties agreed on a NO-DISCUSSION LIST.

     

    Point 1: Salary and Copensation. SMS Total calculated compensation 2013 was 2.98 crore GBP. SMS is staunch supporter of salary hikes for CEO and Board members.

     

    Point 2:The failed merger of Publicis Groupe and Omnicom Group. It is old news.

     

    Point 3: Need for media measurement. Both WPP bosses IAA and the publication houses has warned AG on it.

     

    The tall gentleman from IAA been extra-cautious. No playing ‘My Funny Valentine’ by Chet Baker and Gerry Mulligan, especially the trumpet. It is known to change SMS’s mood. Deva oh Deva or ‘mai doll hu peetal di‘ is not allowed as AG natural instincts get charged and errupt out of context, just like some of his debates.

     

    Media Punters taking bets on (1) How late will the programme start  (2) How long will Martin last (3) How many times will we hear ‘The Nation wants to know’ ( The audience wants to know would qulify) (4) How many non-planted questions will be asked. *Conditions apply.

     

    No bets are being taken decibel level beyond perisible limits. Punters do not take bets on facts – truth and near certainty.

     

    Disclaimer: Late update reveals that it’s going to be mellowed down AG taking in equally polite SMS. With no satellite beam and lack of people to switch and noute; Arnab is expected to show his other side that audience will hate to love.

     

    If you are on Twitter, just go ballastic at the conversation

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Head Catalyst, P1P2Solutions. The views expressed here are his own

     

  • Sanjeev Kotnala: Nothing wrong if the Boss cooks

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    Another point of view on The Innocent Simple TVC by Airtel.

     

    I am happy to note that the spot is still on air. It demonstrates that the client is not spooked by criticism. And I appreciate it.

     

    Media, creative expert and social science adventurers have not been able to see how progressive the TVC is. We must applaud   this progressiveness. Or the barbaric assault on creative will make many creative people chained to retro ideas.

     

    This has only increased viewing of a mediocre ad. Let’s not forget that the consumer of the brand has audience beyond metro and hence the creative expression cannot be judged by metro standards alone. Truly, the giant step of wife, as a boss, could only be accepted if the man was the boss at home, equating to wife cooking at home and waiting for him.  Let creative be analyzed for its creative and strategic intent.

     

    Bura Jo Dekhan Main Chala, Bura Naa Milya Koye

    Jo Munn Khoja Apnaa, To Mujhse Bura Naa Koye

    [I searched for the crooked man, met not a single one Then searched myself, “I” found the crooked one]

     

    It is probably the first brand in India bold enough to create WIFE-AS-THE-BOSS scenario outside the home. First to demonstrate the AMBITIOUS, NO-NONSENSE HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL SIDE of woman, if she demands performance her command must be obeyed. She in her professional avatar is away from the bonds of family and social relations and so called hierarchies. Yet she is caring.

     

    May be the crowd criticizing it on its myopic vision fails to appreciate. Sari in office and shorts and top at home is such a brilliant piece of costume designing.  Promoting sari as a office wear is so nationalistic and shorts and top at home show respect for the tradition and culture, but freedom in relationship. The choices being made are independent with self will and not being forced.

     

    Is there anything wrong in her lovingly cooking at home, seducing him with visual delights of definitely appetizing dishes and being in touch with her husband? Would the reaction been positive if after coming home, she played with the infant kid, breastfeeding the baby and showing those pictures on smartphone to her husband. Would that not still be sticking to the stereotyped images? Many would have questioned her need to work with an infant baby. Because, they need to serve; deep-fried stale creative comments with high frequency.

     

    May be the creative team did discuss the possibility of her ordering pizza at office and at home and eating in virtual togetherness created by the smartphone screens. May be they missed this insensitive highly progressive twist.  Why do we shy away and find fault at reflecting what is really happening in our society?

     

    How did they miss the macho male progressive trick of senior male boss taking load from an obviously overworked junior lady and allowing her to go home? Then from home, when the clock struck 11, the junior- who is also wife-, would have shown the dinner to him and her silently requested ab toh ghar aa jao.

     

    Though technically the whole premise of boss wife is weak.  Most companies do not appreciate/ allow/ employ husband wife combo and definitely not in a direct reporting structure.

     

    Think most of the baiters have missed the last lines of the ad. The relentless professional boss in caring wife avatar does not take the bait by an equally emotional husband.

     

    WIFE : Boss ko bol wife bula rahi hai

    HUSBAND :Tuh hi bolo na boss ko

    WIFE : Zaldi aana wait karoongi

     

    And they miss that it is just an episode of their life. How cute and loving the real relationship between these two would be. Why negate and why not look at positives.

     

    Maybe the next ad from Airtel must could make the Boss wife stay back for a meeting. Husband to comes back and cooks for her. End visual almost same with role reversed. Double stroke of breaking stereotypes and appreciation form this crowd.

     

    Hopefully that will never happen. Brands do not need to always looking at creating social revolution. Nothing wrong in being sensitive caring and easily adapting to changing role requirement.

     

  • Colosceum, Ormax unveil consumer-created fiction shows in India

    By A Correspondent

     

    In a pioneering venture, Colosceum Media and media insights firm Ormax Media and have come together to introduce consumer-created fiction shows for the Indian television industry.

     

    Consumer research was conducted over the last six months across more than 15 cities in India to generate original stories using proprietary techniques developed by Ormax. These stories were then tested using Ormax True Value, an industry standard that has been used on more than 250 television shows across more than 20 channels since 2008. Together, the two companies will approach leading broadcasters in India. Only shows that have tested exceptionally well, with more than 85 per cent probability of success, will be presented to broadcasters.

     

    Speaking about the initiative, Lalit Sharma, CEO – Colosceum Media said: “Ormax has used very advanced consumer research techniques to generate original stories for daily fiction shows for Hindi GECs. These concepts are stories that have been both created and validated with the consumers. A story may have originated in Indore, developed in Jalandhar and then fine-tuned by another set of consumers in Amravati. Currently, production houses make large investments in getting concept developed in-house. The broadcasters then make investments to judge their viability. By creating concepts that are sourced from consumers, we are creating a win-win situation for all stakeholders.”

     

    Shailesh Kapoor

    Shailesh Kapoor, Founder & CEO – Ormax Media said: “It’s been a long but fulfilling process of engaging with the actual consumers in story generation. Having produced shows like Roadies, Splitsvilla and MasterChef India, Colosceum are an established leader in the non-fiction space. We’re excited to partner them in their plans to establish a strong presence in the fiction space.”

     

  • Zee TV will always stand for Ummeed

     

    If there’s one man in the broadcast sector who knows what works to generate a good, consistent score on the ratings roster, it’s the Pradeep Hejmadi, Business Head of Zee TV. Mr Hejmadi led the all-important S-Group at TAM, the audience measurement firm currently the sole player providing us TV viewership data.

     

    Having joined the Zee Entertainment flagship channel as Business Head, Mr Hejmadi got onto the act of building a new brand identity and packaging for the channel along with his marketing head Sorbojeet Chatterjee and the rest of the team. On Sunday evening, at the annual ‘Zee Rishtey Awards’ show, Zee Entertainment Managing Director and CEO Punit Goenka unveiled an all-new brand packaging that resonates with the channel’s core ethos, while staying relevant to the changing palate of its loyal audiences. The Zee logo turned to a deeper more in-your-face shade of blue and the look-and-feel got vibrant and younger. From the proposition of ‘Ummeed se saje Zindagi’, the new tagline of the channel changed to: ‘Har Lamha Nayi Ummeed’.

     

    Readers of MxMIndia would’ve read the news of the branding on December 15. But, now let’s hear the story from Pradeep Hejmadi himself. Excerpts from an exclusive interview with Pradeep Hejmadi:

     

    Zee TV has been doing very well in the crop of Hindi general entertainment channels (GECs).  Of the various fictions that took off in 2014, Zee shows had the best launch ratings. So, as they say, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? Why this relaunch? And would you say this is a repositioning as well?

    Our successful fiction launches this year and the consistent growth of our fiction programming speaks of a very special relationship we have closely cultivated with our audiences – one that has only evolved and strengthened over the years. It has grown due to our ability, as a broadcaster, to innovate and keep pace with the changing times and expectations. What we’re going in for is a brand refresh exercise and not a relaunch. Zee TV’s core proposition of ‘Ummeed se saje Zindagi’ was about a celebration and vindication of a woman’s emerging beliefs and a reflection of her changing hopes, dreams and optimism. In that sense, Zee TV will always stand for ‘Ummeed’. It is the articulation that will change to reflect the changing times.

     

    Today, with India poised for distinct growth, there is a feeling of ‘a new hope, every moment’. So, Zee TV adds another layer to its core proposition, making it even more relevant to everyday life scenarios that its viewers are faced with. Zee TV’s new slogan ‘Har Lamha Nayi Ummeed’ captures the prevalent spirit amongst the people and our brand philosophy as also our content will reflect the same.

     

    Would this also mean a renewed content focus?

    Our core proposition isn’t changing. As I said earlier, Zee TV will always stand for ‘Ummeed’ and our content has been a reflection of  this universal life truth. The brand refresh exercise is aimed at arriving at a more ‘here and now’ rendition of our core proposition, making it more relatable in our day-to-day lives. Naturally, our content will mirror the same.

     

    Can you take us through the entire exercise? What were the findings on the earlier look-and-feel and the logo and what it is now?

    The brand refresh exercise has been about dialling up a few aspects of our brand identity – it always stood and will continue to stand for Ummeed. It’s just about taking it to the next level and making the packaging more vibrant, assertive and dynamic.

     

    In terms of ratings and revenues, are there any specific targets of this exercise?

    None.  If there is a currency for affection, we’re gunning for it!

     

    Did the entire mood of ‘achche din aane waale hain’  influence your line of ‘Ummeed’ ?

    No. ‘Acche Din …’ is a more recent campaign. Zee TV adopted ‘Ummeed’ as its core proposition way back in 2011.

     

    The problem with words like ‘hope’ is they build an expectation and if the hopes are belied and not met with, then there is disappointment. Is that something that you factored in or does this have no real bearing on the repositioning?

    Expectations are raised when promises are made. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with fuelling hope. That’s what makes the world go round.

     

    When Zee was launched way back in 1992, it had a simple, snappy line of ‘Yeh Hai Zee TV’. Do you think stuff like the tag line or the brand’s promise work with viewers, because a GEC is a GEC is a GEC after all?

    Contextually, it was perfectly right to have a slogan like ‘Yeh Hai Zee TV’ because we were pioneers in 1992, paving the way for satellite television in India. Now, over a period of time, where Zee, as a broadcaster, has etched a distinct brand identity in the minds of the audience, our current positioning is a reflection of the way our content is treated and the impact it has on our audience.

     

    A version of this appeared in dna of brands dated December 15, 2014