Our Blog: where do you stand?

What We're Reading: September 19-23

By: Maggie Brandt | 09/23/2011

If you were to stop by Standing's break room this week, you would have heard several passionate conversations about this week's season premiers of many of our favorite TV shows - Glee, Modern Family, Big Bang Theory, Castle, Two and a Half Men, and Parenthood, among others. Yet, even hours spent enthusiastically tuned into great TV hasn't stopped us from reading up on some of our favorite topics: healthcare, issues management, brand experience and social media.

1. Watson, IBM's Jeopardy-winning computer, has a new job! Health insurer WellPoint has contracted Watson to analyze a patient's medical chart and records, textbooks, research and WellPoint's own databases to balance drug interactions, identify the best odds for effectiveness of treatments, and help insurance companies review patient cases.
2. Earlier this week, Jessica discussed ways that companies can present effective apologies when they find themselves in hot water. Inc. writer Tim Donnelly shares more apology tips: Issue an apology as soon as possible after the incident, personalize the apology for your audience, and end by clearly identifying the corrective actions you will take.
3. Many of retail's top brands have gotten there based on the quality of their product and, often more influential, the quality of their service. This Forbes writer reminds companies that maintaining fantastic customer service comes down to hiring the right personalities and training every staff member to enhance the customer experience.
4. I don't know about you, but my newsfeed has been flooded with people's opinions about the new Facebook changes. According to a Fast Company blogger, the changes could come with a few growing pains for businesses. Here are some strategies for making the most of Facebook's newest features, and avoiding its pitfalls.

While this fall's TV line-up could become very addictive, schedule in some time to put down the remote and open a book (or newspaper or website) and READ!

Posted in Health Care, Brand Positioning, Digital Communications, Issues and Crisis Management, What We're Reading