Denny Kurien, RGD

AI is here for good. How can we make the most of it? I've used AI to help me come up with ideas, start research, and draft content. It has sped up a lot of processes for me. But it has never been close to creating a final draft or thought. Google is looking for unique content, fresh information, and insightful data opinions, and personal experience. AI just cannot provide this (the personal experience and opinions anyway). Seth Godin suggests that AI will create a clear separation from mediocrity. Do you think that's true? How are you using AI for your marketing content?

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Steve Jobs predicted Chat GPT in 1985. Here’s how you can “steal” his visionary wisdom… You see, I’ve been in a unique position as an entrepreneur-educator. - One has a limited number of “correct” answers. - One has an infinite number of possible solutions. But it’s been my job to create unseen solutions to known problems, while at the same time bridging the gap between learning and discovering. Now, I can’t tell you how to predict the future… But if there’s one thing you CAN do. And it’s to think against the grain, no matter how “out there” you might be. Because when you start thinking like a divergent… - You’ll start to see through the fog. - You’ll begin to detect patterns before they take shape. - You’ll figure out how to turn what “could be” into “what is”. That’s where innovators are born. Challenge everything. Think differently. Stay curious. – What is your biggest prediction for tech & AI over the next decade? Yes, this is your chance to play Steve Jobs ;) Drop it in the comments below ⬇️

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People have been asking how we created a 100% AI brief that narrowly beat top planners from Rethink and GUT in the Account Planning Group of Canada - APG Canada AI Battle. Yes, the brief was 100% AI output. We used six AIs and tools in a roughly compound iterative workflow using each as separate agents based on known platform strengths and our configuration: 5 x Claude 3.5 Sonnet custom projects - AI Battle Data Collector - AI Battle Brief Creator - Compelling Content Writer - AI Battle Human Judge Role Play - AI Battle Brief Critic 2 x GPT 4o custom GPTs - The Brief Architect - The Brief Critic 2 x Perplexity custom Spaces - AI Battle Researcher - Research Data Double Check 2 x Gemini 1.5 Pro custom Gems - Researcher - Validator 2 x AgencyCoLab AI projects - 4Cs - Creative Brief 1 x Google Doc with Gemini Our workflow followed a pretty standard process: Data collection - Agency CoLab - Perplexity - Gemini Brief Creation - Agency CoLab - Claude 3.5 Sonnet - GPT 4o Brief Refinement - Claude 3.5 Sonnet - Gemini Brief Validation - GPT 4o - Claude 3.5 Sonnet Brief Formatting - GPT 4o - Google Doc with Gemini The best part of the night was the discussion following the results which highlighted the impact of AI, the power of human ideation, and the challenges this industry is facing. The outcome was somewhat polarizing. Huge thanks to my collaborator Sarah Hassanally for working on this with me. Shout out to our formidable opponents Julian Morgan and Amy Badun for creating a powerful counterpoint to the AI brief. We thought for sure you had won. Thank you to all the sponsors, judges, speakers, audience members and hosts. #aibattle Michelle Lee Dré Labre Jason Theodor Nichol Noorirad Rexall Pharmacy Group ULC Ron Tite OpenAI Anthropic Perplexity Google AgencyCoLab AI

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Web concept for Underground Film House 🎥 #webdesign #websites #web #gsap #javascript #css #html #preloader #artdirection #designer #grandeprairie #alberta #canada #tech #webdesigner #webdev #webdevelopment #awwwards #digital #digitalexperience #underground #design #concept #digitaldesign #website #websites #development

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Let's be clear. Most of this is not "Gen Z slang". It's not "TikTok slang" either. Most of it is AAVE (African American Vernacular English). AAVE roots run deep in our history, and was originated by the Black community in the USA (and to some extent, Canada). It was also looked down upon before becoming as popular as it is now. So let's start giving credit where credit is due. Video source: https://lnkd.in/gEChWwv7 #HistoryMatters #ContextMatters #LanguageMatters #JEDI #EDI #DEI #DEIA #InclusiveMarketing #InclusiveCommunications #InclusiveBranding #InclusiveAdvertising #InclusiveResearch #InclusionMatters

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The first time I was called out, I was very defensive. I thought to myself, "this person calling me out totally has the wrong idea." Not only were my intentions pure, but I had actually co-founded an agency that focused on inclusion. It must just be a misunderstanding. It must be a mistake. The truth is, I was naive. And I was defensive because - deep down - I knew there was some truth to what was being said, and I was just having trouble accepting it. Here are four things I've learned since then: ➡️ It's not about me, so don't make it about me ➡️ Resist the urge to explain, because again, it's not about me ➡️ Don't react impulsively - let it soak in and give myself time to reflect ➡️ And lastly, how I react and integrate what I've learned is the best way to pay the person back who had the courage to call me out in the first place. Fix forward, not just backward. #JEDI #EDI #InclusionMatters #CallOuts #CallIns

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Transport your audience to a different place with AR portal. We built this webAR stone portal that teleports you to Ontario forest. By physically walking through an AR portal, a user can virtually travel wherever you want them to go. This can be: 1. Take a walk through a new facility  2. Visit a virtual store  3. Travel to a tourist destination 4. and many more You can use 360-degree images, videos, or adding a call-to-action that drives traffic back to your website. The possibilities are endless.   Reach out and we’ll discuss the possibilities.   #webAR #AR #8thWall #augmentedreality

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So I recently embarked on a digital nomading adventure. All the way too...Canada! Well, Vancouver to be exact. It's taught me a lot of things about myself, about being in another place and space for an extended period of time and connecting with people in a different way. In my recent post, I write all about it and spoiler alert, it won't be my last adventure. https://bit.ly/3XAR6vR __________________________________________________________________ ✍️Let's tell your story (so you can stand out) 🔉 Want to get noticed in your industry, company or category — for all the right reasons? Telling your story is what I do best. DM me to get started. ✒️ Need a speaker or workshop facilitator for your company or professional organization? I speak about Personal(ity) Branding, Mastering your Introduction or Elevator Pitch and How to Lure people in with your LinkedIn. DM me to book. 🔔 Do like Anita Ward and “ring my bell” to make sure you never miss a tip or bon mot from me. ⬆️ #PersonalityBrand #RemoteWorkLife #DigitalNomad

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Pushing the boundaries of the impossible and fostering innovation - the Bell Labs Formula has been a beacon for entrepreneurs and innovators worldwide. 🌐 At the heart of this formula is the belief in the power of collaboration. Bell Labs showed us that when diverse minds come together, magic happens 🌟. They pioneered the concept of interdisciplinary teams, creating an environment where physicists, engineers, and mathematicians could brainstorm and challenge each other. This diversity of thought led to ground-breaking solutions 🤝🚀. Bell Labs also taught us the 'problem-first' approach. Instead of being technology-driven, they focused on identifying critical problems and then developing technology to solve them. This approach ensures that innovation aligns with real-world needs 🎯. And let's not ignore the significance of the physical environment. Bell Labs designed their workspace to encourage spontaneous interactions, believing that great ideas often emerge from casual conversations. Their open corridors and shared spaces were platforms for exchanging thoughts and insights 🏢💬. The legacy of Bell Labs is evident in the countless technological breakthroughs they've fostered - from the transistor to the laser, from satellite communications to cellular telephony 📱. Their formula was, and still is, a roadmap to revolutionary innovation 💡. As entrepreneurs, we can draw valuable lessons from the Bell Labs Formula. It's a reminder to embrace diversity, focus on problem-solving, and create spaces that nurture collaboration 🌍. Let's continue to build on this legacy and drive the future of innovation 🔭. For more insights, subscribe to The Three Ducks Visionary Circle Newsletter. Link in bio. #BellLabsFormula #Innovation #Collaboration #Entrepreneurship 🦆🦆🦆

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Over the next few years, we are likely to see the value of all vendors put under a new and merciless microscope. If the value of knowledge and insights starts to drop to near zero, will the last valuable service from professional service agencies be reduced to genuine novel thinking and real/trusted relationships?

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Strong creative strategy wins over media buying tactics. ALL. DAY. Here's how I’ve worked with a fast-growing jewelry brand (new client!) to: ❤️ Lower acquisition costs from $56 to $38 ❤️ Lift In-Platform ROAS from 2.8 to 4.2 💰 Position for their most profitable Q4 yet Step 1. Deep dive research, To understand: What do our customers ACTUALLY care about? Step 2. Deep dive competitive research, To understand: What messaging is needed to outdo our competition? Step 3. Ad account analysis and creative breakdowns, To understand: What are we saying right now? Where are the gaps? Step 4. Produce creative that has well-backed evidence and research to support: 🧠 Meeting customer desires, 🧠 With messaging that separates us from the competition, 🧠 With an audio experience that drives a deeply sentimental feeling. ❌ Current messaging: "Get affordable 18K jewelry" ✅ Revised messaging: "Strengthen family bonds." Emotions drive purchases. ("I neeeeed to get this.") Logic drives justification. ("It's a great deal anyways.") Emotion + Logic driven ads are undefeated.

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Let’s break down this UGC concept I created for vamawellness.ca Organic Appeal: The narrative flows naturally, ensuring it doesn’t feel like an ad but a genuine user experience. Engaging Hook: The opening statement immediately addresses a common problem—frizzy hair—capturing attention and encouraging viewers to keep watching. Clear Value Proposition: The script clearly outlines the benefits and unique selling points of the product, such as its Ayurvedic botanicals and lightweight, non-oily formula. Visual and Verbal Illustration: By showing the product in use and describing its effects, the video engages both visual and auditory senses. Relatable Pain Points: It addresses common hair issues and connects with the audience on a personal level, making them feel understood and heard. Strong Call-to-Action: The closing prompts viewers to visit the website and order, driving engagement and potential conversions. By combining storytelling with product demonstration, this UGC script effectively builds trust and showcases the product’s benefits, making it an excellent marketing tool for VAMA Silk. 📧[email protected]

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Audio studio DOKI DOKI launches with an identity inspired by video game sounds Quebec-based audio studio DOKI DOKI specialises in creating original music and sound design for video games. With the help of advertising agency No Fixed Address, it's launched with a visual identity built around sound. Sound is the unsung hero of video games. While characters, story and gameplay draw players in, effective sound design helps to bring these virtual worlds to life and make them feel rounded and more enjoyable. Whether it's the waka waka sound of Pac-Man on his never-ending pursuit of cherries, or the tune that plays when Mario grabs a Super Star power-up, video games have a rich sonic history just waiting to be tapped into. And that's just what No Fixed Address has done for the new full-service audio studio, DOKI DOKI. Founded by President Michel Labrecque, DOKI DOKI claims to "see sound differently". Specialising in creating music and multiplatform sound design for video games, DOKI DOKI is named after the Japanese onomatopoeia for a heart-pounding feeling of excitement. It's all part of a striking identity that sells the importance of sound through visuals, animation, and wordplay. Using familiar imagery from games like Pac-Man, Pong, and Galaga is a shrewd creative choice. By trading on the sonic successes of the past, No Fixed Address subtly leaves it to the audience to understand why sound is so important in computer games. And fortunately, these allusions didn't land the studio in hot water regarding copyright. "These early games are so iconic that we only had to hint at the visuals to ensure that everyone would instantly hear the same sound in their imaginations," Jean-Philippe concludes. Credits & read full article: https://lnkd.in/d2TvjA3p Let's collaborate to bring your creative visions to life. Reach out today to discuss your project. #DesignServices #CreativeCollaboration #branding

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*Trigger warning* Imagine prioritizing your own (incorrect) perception of "correct grammar" over how another human being wants to be addressed. This video brings up an important statistic I read recently: ➡️ "Around half of Gen Z adults (48%) and four in ten millennials (42%), compared with fewer Gen Xers (31%), boomers (28%), and members of the Silent Generation (29%), say they would be comfortable with a friend using gender-neutral pronouns." Notice how the younger the generation, the more comfortable they are with gender-neutral pronouns? From a marketing perspective, it's time brands realize that inclusion is inevitable, so you might as well accept it before you fall behind. With all this said, I can't imagine handling this level of bigotry in such a graceful manner as Shivani Dave did. Follow more of their content here: https://lnkd.in/gBdiMb_X Video Source: via IG https://lnkd.in/gnq2csjC Statistics Source: https://lnkd.in/gkQhnEeJ #JEDI #EDI #InclusiveLanguage #InclusiveBrands #InclusiveMarketing #InclusiveAdvertising #InclusionMatters #Pronouns

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Simple contests are an effective way to engage your audience and encourage interaction. They can also foster a sense of community. 🏆 #DigitalMarketing #CommunityBuilding

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This is an LED wall like you find in fancy virtual production studios. But it's completely digital. Inside Unreal. Huh, what? Let me explain. The client was RSTLSS Inc (they're awesome btw). They'd asked us to create a fun piece of work to accompany a big announcement. We had to knock it together really quickly but we were expecting to be able to use their unreal assets as a set for the shoot. No dice. So we had to come up with a creative solution to the problem. Which ended up being a 200ft LED wall with the environment playing as a video texture. https://lnkd.in/e6fhyUSD Obviously it's not the same as the full 3D world but it gave the piece its own unique vibe. It's a recurring theme in the volume that we end up using old skool production techniques to pull off shots (ie. green screen, or rear projection) even though we're doing everything in Unreal. Our commitment to ONLY realtime forces us to get creative sometimes particularly when there are solutions that animators would tell us are the "correct" way to do things. Never been that interested in being correct to be honest. The volume is only 8x8 metres but it really is a limitless sandbox and every week we find completely new and inspiring ways to use it. Hit me up if you want to know more. #unrealengine #ue5 #vicon #stretchsense #realtime #rstlss #mocap

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Also trying now... #Aftereffects #MotionGraphicsMonday #TuesdayTutorials #WednesdayWisdom #MotionDesign #Animation #GraphicDesign #VisualEffects #ExplainerVideos #LogoAnimation #TitleSequence #TorontoMotionGraphics #CanadianDesigners

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Before we present creative, we'll often ask ourselves, "Why WON'T they like it?". Once we go through all the reasons they won't like it, we think about what our response is. It's a simple exercise that can ensure you're not spontaneously responding without the time to think about it. But an entire Resistance Inventory? Do you know the number of times I NOW wish I would have created a "Resistance Inventory"? Too, too, too, many. These are the five major categories of resistance. While the actual categories may not surprise you, what's so important about this is the conscious exercise of identifying them and discussing how they are likely to play out on your team or your client's team. As always, great work, @Greg Satell

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