New Branded Consumer

3 people I think just kind of get it are: Steve Jobs, Richard Branson, and Steve Wynn. They create products / services that sell simply because they understand the consumer. They understand that a product / service is more than functionality.

Apple products are revolutionary not so much for the technology - but really the value add for the consumer in terms of functionality. The first iPods were latter to Mp3 players and MD players (mini disc players - anyone remember those?!) but somehow captured the market and revolutionized portable media. White headphones are ubiquitous and I believe actually expanded the portable music industry and brought it to people who otherwise wouldn't have owned a mp3 player.

Richard Branson (let's talk about Virgin Airlines since I'm on a Virgin flight now) creates a service - and somehow creates a flying experience that is superior to other airlines. With boring flight demonstrations by flight attendants replaced by funny cartoons for the flight evacuation info and purple lights emulating the ambiance of a swanky lounge - I, for some reason, don't mind paying a premium on my tickets.

What makes staying at the Wynn and Encore in Vegas just simply better than let's say the Mirage? Steve Wynn understands what people want - a full on experience - and focuses on the details on the furnishings and providing the best entertainment on the strip (XS?! Surrender?!).

All three companies trade at a premium to their peers because they give to consumers something that the other products / service lacks. These three men just kind of intuitively understand what that is.
Not to toot my own horn - but understanding the consumer fascinates me - and I think I kind of just intuitively get it. I can see trends and spot what the next thing that will take off because it connects to the end user. If only I can make a career or make some money off of such currently useless talent....