Fun Interactive Digital Platforms

Brands are connecting with people on Facebook, the popular social-networking site in various ways. There are simple advertisements, and then there are “engagement ads,” which focus on directing users to pages or applications with activities that trigger an action that is a broadcast through the users’ news feed. Additionally, there are tons of applications, games, widgets, polls, discussion boards and contests that foster participation. OK you get the idea. Brands are vying for our attention on Facebook. It is actually overwhelming when you search and see how many companies and brands have a Facebook page. Almost every popular brand has a profile or page and encourages the user to join the fun. Although people might not be focusing on the advertisements, they are certainly are participating in other ways. For example, my 21-year-old brother tipped me off that Gillette has some pretty cool applications, games and videos. By doing a quick search for Gillette, there are a few interesting pages that come up.

Not only does Gillette have a profile, discussion board and an active Wall, they also have a whole section dedicated to videos. Gillette Champions, such as Tiger Woods, Roger Federer and Thierry Henry are the main attractions in these videos. The athletes give tips to the art of shaving and show men how they too can put their best face forward.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/video/video.php?v=16533304855

Additionally, there are umpteen videos on You Tube and Gillette’s website to learn more about the athletes as well as the campaign.


My favorite application so far is trying on a new look with the Gillette Facial Styler. This widget invites the user to upload a photo and “try on a new look.” After you upload the photo and adjust the settings, you are supposed to share with friends. Then, they are asked to vote: Should they save it or shave it? Although, I don’t usually sport facial hair, I thought I would try on the handlebar look for kicks. Any thoughts on my game face?

Interacting, posting, commenting and sharing are all actions that Gillette wants you to do while visiting their Facebook page. After spending some time on Gillette’s page and playing around with their applications and widgets, I think the brand does a great job in attracting young men’s attention, capitalizes on viral marketing and social sharing and most of all, its fun and entertaining.