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SXSW 2006: Trend Spotting Applied Science

A report from South by Southwest explores the process of predicting profitable consumer demand at the international festival in Austin, Texas -- Read my commentary here at AlwaysOn.

What does it take to get into a frame of mind where being consumer-centric is more than a mere cliche? I've considered that question as I've observed the current shift in demand. Appealing to the connected consumer demographic has become a tour de force for many marketers. Clearly, the benefits of mastering market perception are without compare. So, let's consider one new method to help us gain a better appreciation.

This year's South by Southwest conference attendees were exposed to all of the usual insights about emerging opportunities -- do-it-yourself content and mash-up tools, social networking platforms where everyone participates, and the whole notion that personalization of the consumer experience is essential.

Of course, there was a faddish "digital convergence" track, but I found my cerebral stimulation elsewhere at the event.

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