John W. “Jack” Felton, longtime head of communications at McCormick Spices and noted PR advocate and educator, passed away on May 7, 2013. Anyone who has the read The History Factory’s Oral History will recognize Jack as one of our company’s earliest supporters and cheerleaders. Although “risk-taker” is not a…
The History Factory Blog: Business History Matters
Brooks Brothers’ Rich Heritage Dazzles in ‘Gatsby’
All organizations at one point or another will encounter a unique chance to leverage their heritage. Whatever form that takes—a strategic partnership, a political or social reason, or an internal opportunity—companies should be prepared for it. But they don’t often have the resources to capitalize on the opportunity. And when…
Seven Years of 140 Characters or Less
Seven years ago, a creature from the depths of brain and hardwire left California, on its way to every corner of the Earth. The avian sensation landed in pop culture with such force it has yet to be replaced. What was once code transformed into billions of thoughts and messages—each…
The Eyewitness
In any good murder mystery drama, the plot hinges on the eyewitness. Was there a witness? What did they see or hear? Was this the cape the defendant was wearing? What was it like to be there, hiding beneath the covers, when the defendant jumped out from behind the wardrobe…
The Future of History
The internet is amazing. Yes, it can also be a cesspool of uselessness, but at its best, the web offers some impressive and innovative means of sharing information—sights, sounds and stories. At The History Factory, we’re always on the lookout for fresh ways to get a story out there. We…
Virtual Exhibit Enhances Zurich in North America’s Centennial Celebration
How Zurich’s traveling exhibits evolved into a dynamic and interactive virtual experience The History Factory was pleased to create and implement traveling exhibits as part of Zurich in North America’s centennial celebration. Displayed at financial services industry events throughout 2012, these exhibits shared Zurich’s 100-year history of insuring and helping…
Internet as truth-teller: Why you shouldn’t shy away from the Web’s archiving capabilities
The ongoing scandal involving David Petraeus, former head of the CIA, proves one thing: The Internet never forgets. Part of the national debate centers on sensitive information in e-mail messages that some argue should have stayed housed safely on a secure network or computer. E-mails aren’t the only online artifacts…
Presidential Elections and a Brief History of Emerging Technologies
Throughout our history, presidential elections continue to help introduce new and emerging technologies, demonstrating their application and setting the table for their broader commercialization. In fact, today’s presidential election marks the 60th anniversary of the use of computers to predict results. While polling–or even actual vote counts–may be questioned by…
Superstorms: The Multifaceted Soul of Storytelling
Storytellers rely on conflict. It’s the central motivator in any good plot. Without conflict people simply don’t care—readers stop reading, moviegoers stop watching (and ask for their money back), and audiences stop “Following.” Narrative conflict is developed and identified according to certain predefined tropes, namely: Man vs. Man (Rocky), Man…
Advertising During Your Anniversary: Authenticating and Strengthening Brands by Communicating Substantive Content
Several leading brands are leveraging their anniversaries in their advertising. Especially in 2012, a year packed with major anniversaries, the airwaves and digital and print media are saturated with celebratory and commemorative anniversary messages. But what is the value of this type of consumer communication, and what does it achieve?…