CommuniKate: Social Media Musings – KateDickman.com CommuniKATE: Social Media & Other Musings

Apple iPad = Product Redundancy At Its Finest

I will admit, the new iPad is a cool device with great functionality, but functionality we've all witnessed before and what many of us already have in our possession.  It seems Apple rushed out an item they hoped to be the most desired item, but in my eyes I see it as being ridiculously redundant. Word about the iPad has been rampant on Twitter since yesterday's announcement from Apple.

@kevinelliott It's not a replacement for a computer, nor for a phone! It's a flashy, expensive, superfluous device! #iPad #redundant

My sentiments, exactly, Kevin.  The device seems a tad excessive -- particularly for those who already own MacBooks and iPhones.  Others seem to be yapping about how it is going to aggregate all things digital.  I beg to differ.  It seems the Apple minions are running towards the stores to buy it in droves.  Steve Jobs wanted to make something that is "more intimate than a laptop but so much more capable than a Smartphone," but who truly needs an in-between device? My Macbook Pro serves me just as well (except that it lacks a handy touchscreen) without having to drop another $500 during a recession.  The fact that you'd have to spend extra on a monthly data plan for yet another gadget seems unnecessary.

On a more superficial note, the name doesn't draw me into buying it (particularly as a woman).  "I'd like an iPad please!"  This Washington Post article hit the nail on the head:

"Are there NO women in the Marketing or Biz Dev department of Mac?" wrote one user, speculating that "iPad" would pass muster only with a man. No women were present on Apple's panel at the San Francisco announcement."

It seems Apple was simply in a rush to release a product that would be the Kindle & Nook killer, while seemingly reproducing their iTouch product with a few more features and a bigger size.  However, after finding this brief article in February of 2008, it seems the current design and name of the product was leaked nearly two years ago.  Strange.  With two years of production and concept modification, you'd think they would have come up with more features and uses for the device that would blow the iPhone/iPod Touch out of the water.

The day I see an iPad with a full Mac OS (and option to make calls on), I will run immediately to Apple.  Until then, I won't be needing you, iPad.  I've got more useful pads at home.

Bits of Kate

I have to admit - the frequent lack of time and writer's block as of late has me not writing much of anything.  For that i feel guilty.  However, I found a new way to share my thoughts and interesting photos/sites etc in an easier and quicker fashion.  I've created www.BitsofKate.com  - There you can find daily bits and musings from me.  You may find it to be far more interesting then (possible) senseless rambling that goes on here sometimes.  I shall come back here and revive it in due time though.  Don't Fret.

It's still new so have a little patience...

Let the Conversation Begin! Listen First…

We all know that conversation is vital in our lives; both professionally and personally and the conversation for each one of us all began with our first word or with a company's first move towards social media.

Well recently my daughter Adria has begun her lifetime of conversation. It's a great reminder of how we must listen first and then communicate. Sometimes I feel like there's too much talking (both on and off the blogosphere) and not enough listening which provides far less value than what a true conversation can provide. Ask questions..listen for feedback and listen well By doing so, we can truly learn something new each day. With that, here's a video of my mini-me saying "Mama". (Oh and please excuse the sound of my gross cold+sinusitis voice.) Let the conversation begin Adria!

[dailymotion id=k4oJm1ljIUGXTFV6JR]

I've Fallen Off the Face of the Earth

It's official.  I fell off... 

I'm working on getting back on.  

Things are a bit hectic on this end and I will return to this beloved blog once I've sorted things out. 

If you or anyone you know has a job opportunity with the web/new media marketing field, please comment below with your email address.  Actively job searching and am open to relocation.  

 

Thanks for being so patient everyone.  I'll be back soon.