14 DAY TRIAL // Everyone knows that the world's largest software company really cares about its customers, don't they? If they've forgotten, they will soon be reminded as the $130 million ad campaign by Microsoft Corp. will soon get on its way. This time, it plans on redefining the company's image while still holding onto the notion that it 'cares' about its customers. The campaign will include television, print, and Internet advertising, attempts to change the view that Microsoft is simply a "huge American company" by highlighting the work it does around the world promoting education and economic development.
The campaign will be voiced by none other than Fargo's very own William H. Macy. It emphasizes the "Your potential. Our passion" motto it began in 2002. Microsoft has recently suffered from its under-par campaigns. This holds true when compared to Apple.
Microsoft Group Advertising Manager Mike Lucero said in an interview late last week, "We are often perceived as a huge American company? We wanted to be very specific about what we are doing in each country in education, innovation, economic opportunity, and security."
There's a reason why the company is seen as a huge conglomerate; its revenues of $39.8 billion in fiscal 2005 and has more than 63,000 employees, 63 percent of whom are in the United States might have something to do with the fact that they are indeed a "huge American company. Looking back at why Microsoft plans on attributing $130 million to advertising, I know understand why the large amount, but will it be enough to convince the whole world?