Quote:
Originally Posted by ayeckley
I've got nothing at all against the marketing business, however I think it's key to be able to recognized when you are being "marketed to". It's certainly not unique to NI. I can think of lots of companies that do this (going at least as far back as the Apple).
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DUH! Look at the Kit of Parts. Don't you see that as one big marketing bucket? You should. Autodesk, IFI, AndyMark, BaneBots, NI, the list is too long for me to list. You don't think they are providing parts out of the goodness of their heart, do you? You don't think FedEx donates shipping "just because" do you? It's the hope of ALL of the suppliers that you'll give them repeat business. That you'll recognize them as being leaders in innovation because they're donating (or providing at a significantly reduced price) to FIRST. Opening ceremonies are marketing blitz events. Closing ceremonies are marketing blitz events. Awards given out are marketing blitz events. FIRST
SURVIVES on marketing revenue almost entirely. If you didn't already know that then hopefully you do now.
If anything you should THANK the suppliers and sponsors of FIRST for letting you have access to technology and goods at a price significantly lower than you could have on your own. That's where FIRST's main value is in my mind - you don't get the level of exposure at the same price point anywhere else.
-Danny