Lab+Assignment+Three

//1.In three paragraphs, describe the role of Jan Chipchase in defining the role of cellphones in the developing world for Nokia, and the benefits of analyzing and defining their use in different cultures as part of their market expansion.//

Jan Chipchase is more of a sociocultural anthropologist than a marketer because he is concerned with various human cultures around the world, as people from even the most remote areas have been observed and put under the scope of his camera with which he seeks to understand how cultural contexts might also influence the use of cell phones. By examining the minute details of people’s everyday life, Jan Chipchase comes to the conclusion that “cell phone is becoming one fixed piece of our identity.” Thus by analyzing the use of cell phones in different cultures, especially in the developing countries, Jan Chipchase in a way helps restructure the technology trends in different social environments.

It has come to Chipchase’s attention that even though communication may not be on the same level of importance as running water, it would still be almost as vital and essential as the most fundamental rights for some people. Thus discovering certain cultural practices to build cell phones that are suitable to the culture in discussion is very crucial. Analyzing and defining the uses of cell phones in different cultures as part of Nokia’s marketing expansion is more than a successfully strategic move. According to Jan Chipchase, “Pushing technologies on society without thinking through their consequences is at least naïve, at worst dangerous.” Taking the time to thoroughly understand what different cultures value and how people use technologies differently should be the first step for any corporations in marketing their next commercial targets. Taking people’s needs into consideration when designing cell phones is also thoughtful of Nokia and thus beneficial to making more profits.

//2. How does the idea of microfinance support two of the key themes of sustainability as outlined in the diagram posted on your class wiki '5 Key Themes for Sustainability'? Write one paragraph for each of your chosen themes.//

Microfinancing supports “achieving a sustainable economy” because it allows people who are not as financial stable as the rest of the population or even those struggling with the most basic needs in life to gain some financial assets. The idea of “providing prosperity and opportunity for all” is therefore realized.

Microfinancing supports “ensuring a strong, healthy and just society” by enabling more convenience in communications in the community. More interaction between the community members allows people to learn more information about both their local society and other cultures thus providing more social cohesion and personal well-being.