Important Announcement #3
DATE: August 23, 1993
TO: Industry Colleagues and Friends
FROM: John Stiernberg
SUBJECT: Buzzwords and Latest News!
More Big News: This is to share some ideas and update you on my activities since Important Announcement #2 was sent in May 1993. I've spoken to many of you by telephone or in person over the past several months. My consulting practice is up and running!
Top Three Industry Buzzwords for 1993
We're hearing more and more each day about changes in the entertainment and communications industry worldwide. I trust that you hear much of the same news that I do. The impact of digitalization on just about everything is creating a new vocabulary as well as a big stir. Here are my votes for the top three industry "buzzwords" of 1993:
1. Multimedia: the integration of audio, video, and computers. The August 7, 1993 issue of "Billboard" magazine includes an excellent overview of consumer multimedia. It is a special section in the magazine entitled "The World of Interactive Media: CD-Based Technologies and the Changing Face of Home Entertainment."
2. Interoperability: the ability of dis-similar electronic system components to communicate and work with one another on a network. This topic is covered in the article "Networks in Audio" from the NSCA Product News edition of "Pro Sound News" April 2-4, 1993.
3. Integrated Systems: functional sub-systems (specifically entertainment, communications, life safety, and environmental control) working together and controlled by computer. See below for access to more information.
These terms cross over professional/consumer and commercial/residential applications. An exciting aspect of my work is helping clients confront the changes in their businesses which are resulting from our industry's growing emphasis in the three areas above.
Watch for John's Article on Integrated Systems
For more information on integrated systems, look for a feature article, written by yours truly, entitled "Opportunities in Residential Integrated Systems" coming in the CEDIA Supplement to the 8/20/93 edition of "Sound and Video Contractor" magazine. If you don't receive the magazine or would like an authorized copy direct from the author, please request via Faxback Survey #2 enclosed.
We Have a Winner! --Survey Results Available
Thanks to those of you who responded to Faxback Survey #1. The winner of the year's subscription to "Wired" magazine was Dennis Kono. Dennis is principal of SMS, a leading manufacturer's representative firm based in the Cleveland OH area. Congratulations Dennis!
Over 20% of you responded to the survey! An encouraging 76% of those responding said that the word "consultant" had a neutral or positive connotation. A brief report with the summary of survey results is available for the asking. Please check the "survey results" box on the enclosed Faxback Survey #2.
See You at Upcoming Trade Events
I will be attending upcoming industry events and would like to know if you are planning to attend:
* CEDIA Expo 93 September 8-11, 1993 in Dallas TX
* AES Show October 7-10, 1993 in New York NY
* Forum 93 October 24-26, 1993 in San Diego CA
Please let me know if you or someone from your company will be attending each of these key events. Simply check the appropriate box on the enclosed Faxback Survey #2.
Faxback Survey #2: Name That Business?
In response to last issue's survey question on forming a consulting practice, several of you suggested that I name my practice something other than "John Stiernberg." They indicated that a company name helped to project an image of bigness and professionalism.
At this point, I'm a one-person practice and I like to avoid hype. Does it matter to you one way or another if a business development consultant has a company name? Do you have a suggestion for a company name?
I'd appreciate your feedback on this topic. Please respond via Faxback Survey #2 enclosed. Simply make a few notes and fax or mail back to me.
Special Prize Drawing
We had fun with the prize drawing for responding to Faxback Survey #1, so we're repeating the offer (it will probably become a regular feature of the Important Announcement series). Here 's how to enter:
Returning the survey enters you in a prize drawing. The prize is a copy of "The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination." Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Daniel J. Boorstin, the book brings to life more than three thousand years of human artistic achievement. This prize is the audio-cassette (abridged from the book) edition read by Michael Jackson. It's interesting and fun to listen to. Painting, sculpture, architecture, theology, philosophy, history, poetry, drama, literature, dance, music, and film are covered.
On Friday, September 17, 1993, I'll draw the winning survey at random from the ones I receive either by fax or mail. Sound like fun? Please respond!
Let's Talk Soon!
My office is in Woodland Hills, California. The address, telephone, and fax numbers are on this newsletter--please keep in touch.
Thanks again for your interest and support. Looking forward to hearing from you soon.