Tip
Here’s a great cartoon that will generate a lot of discussion about a topic of interest to everyone: smartphone platforms.
Background
The cartoon is very funny (and very true) and acts as a visual stimulus to discuss the three smartphone platforms: Android (developed and owned by Google), Apple and Blackberry. It’s a topic that everyone is interested in and can discuss.
In class students will probably begin by talking about whichever platform they personally have and why they chose it. Try to develop the discussion to look at the wider themes of marketing: aiming at specific market segments, product features, pricing, distribution, advertising etc.
Another obvious topic that follows on, given Steve Jobs’ ill health, is the future of Apple. The issue here is: what happens to a company after the strong, visionary leader leaves? There is an article on this subject here.
More tips & techniques
If you would like similar tips and ideas, visit the ‘Business Topics‘ section of my website PaulEmmerson.com.
