By Kathleen Ramirez, Fahlgren EVP and Corporate Media Director

(You fill in your own blanks.)

There is no denying that what was once called the traditional media landscape is fast becoming an antiquated term. Most discussions surrounding the changes with media inevitably make their way back to something related to digital applications and technology.  

Our view is that technology has morphed from an additional vehicle to a great enabler and equalizer. We know Americans are more and more adept at multi-tasking. A recent Experian Simmons report revealed that approximately 90% of us watch TV in a typical day and upwards of 70% use some other media while doing so. Surfing the web, using cell phones and emailing were cited as activities most often done while watching TV. 

What does a traditional landscape really mean to today’s overly connected and overscheduled consumer anyway?

Ask a different person….you’ll get a different answer.

So here’s the point of the title of this article….it’s not necessarily the technology or explosion of choices people have today.  It’s understanding where it all fits in the hearts and minds of consumers. 

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By Kathleen Ramirez, Fahlgren EVP and Corporate Media Director

“Mommy’s alright, Daddy’s alright, they just seem a little weird”

We’ve started a new system in our house to keep the kids in order and they must think my husband and I have lost it. For doing the everyday things they are supposed to (like make the bed, set the table, etc.) they get a ticket.

One ticket = 10 minutes of TV, Computer or Wii

We have three kids. They are 7, 6 and almost two. And it has been fascinating to see the media choices they’re making when it actually cost them something. The older two kids are the ones really participating. The baby gets a ticket for just sleeping through the night…

Interesting Differences

Our 7 year-old daughter is a saver. She uses as few tickets as possible. When she does, it is typically for TV time. She’s in an interesting place between Wonder Pets and Hannah Montana. Hopefully, she’ll stay in the Wonder Pets camp for another year or so!

Our 6 year-old son is completely different. He burns through his tickets as fast as he earns them. His choice? CartoonNetwork.com. Every time. All of the time.

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