Steve Stromberg
President of SmartyPantsConsulting, a professional development and corporate training company based in Minneapolis, Minn.
Pinterest – You're Probably Breaking the Law
August 16, 2012
The hottest thing on the Web right now (and there’s always a hottest thing, right?) is Pinterest. It has been reported that Pinterest is currently driving more business referrals than the top few social media sites and for most businesses, it simply came out of nowhere.
The Pinterest model is certainly nothing complicated. As you navigate your daily web activities you post images to a board using the “pin it” button or upload from a computer or smart phone. You have to request an invitation to Pinterest or be invited by someone who’s already a member.
Once registered, you can develop and maintain themed-based image boards covering a variety of topics, food or home furnishings, for example. Friends and associates can then comment and “like” the images.
Of course, most Pinterest image boards are loaded with copyrighted material. These can include photos and art which are legally owned by individuals and corporations and protected by U.S. Copyright laws. You have most likely posted protected content many times and never thought a thing about it.
So, who cares? All publicity is good, right? Companies, artists, and writers should be honored that their work and products are being popularized, right?
Most are, but those that aren’t, can turn to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and request that Pinterest remove their protected content. Individual users do the posting and for now the Pinterest model works beautifully. Individual users would be nearly impossible to pursue (although it has been done in music file sharing instances) so you and your Pinterest pals are fine.
When it comes to creating a board on behalf of your company, I recommend these two important steps before you starting pinning:
1. Make sure that you own or have approval to pin the images you’re using.
** For instance,if you have images of an exhibit from a trade show, you may need to speak to the company to see if they’ll allow you to post the photo (even if they are a client).
2. The Federal Trade Commission is watching closely, so don’t create “fake customers.”
**If your employees are posting positive feedback about the photo they should reveal that they are employed by your company.
Pin away.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
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