Rolls Royce: A Blade Above
And now for something really comforting.
A Secret Revealed
Normally classified, this first-ever release of footage from Rolls Royce documents a “blade off? test—the forced failure of an A380 jet engine blade while the engine is running at full tilt.
Dicey but Good
The goal of this costly and dangerous exercise is to contain the immense energy generated by the blade failure to the the jet’s engine housing. The ability to control and dissipate such violent force could protect passengers and the aircraft itself should an engine ever actually lose a blade in flight.
Patent Goodwill
This footage validates Rolls Royce as a premium brand with a staunch commitment to safety and excellence in design engineering.
The viral distribution of the clip invites the public to become active participants in goodwill marketing on behalf of Rolls Royce—an example of the beneficial side of virally networked, or word of mouth (WOM), public relations. Even better, it’s inexpensive (other than the cost of the sacrificed engine) and more credible than self-sown corporate boasting.
Never Fear
Instead of fearing crowd-sourced mediums like blogs, Digg and YouTube, take time to understand—and embrace—their inherent idiosyncrasies.
If your product or service is sound, social network marketing is a great way to proliferate your message. These days, the greatest danger of online social marketing is not engaging in it.
