Computer Engineer Barbie

I couldn't resist, the temptation to write about this got to me and I finally broke down. The story that follows is an example of what a small, dedicated, and well network group can accomplish when they work together.

Mattel Inc., maker of the iconic Barbie doll, recently asked fans to vote on what profession the next Barbie should have. Among choices were architect, anchorwoman, computer engineer, environmentalist and surgeon.

After 4 weeks and over half a million votes, girls the world over had made their decision: Anchorwoman Barbie. Awesome, thanks for your vote little girls, but the adults win...again.

Adults overwhelmingly dwarfed the girls by casting their votes for Computer Engineer Barbie. How could this have happened?

Apparently a small network of computer engineers were enthralled with the prospect of a Barbie doll fashioned in their likeness, and decided launch a viral campaign to get their colleagues to vote in favor of the computer engineer version of the doll.

Result: Mattel will launch Computer Engineer Barbie as the next doll in their "I Can Be..." line later this fall.

Don't underestimate the power of a small, dedicated, and well networked group, regardless of whether you're interacting with one, a member, or leading.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304198004575171791681002592.html

In a nod to the kids (who will one day comprise a larger, still dedicated, but better networked group), Mattel decided it would also launch Anchorwoman Barbie. Good call Mattel. I bet there are more little girls driving purchase motivation for Barbie dolls than computer engineers.