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Brands Risk Losing Competitive Advantage Without a Clear Cost or Value Strategy, Says Info-Tech Research Group

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Many organizations struggle to stand out because their investments, operations, and brand messaging support competing priorities. A new blueprint from Info-Tech Research Group outlines a three-step approach to help leaders choose between cost and value leadership, address capability gaps, and strengthen their competitive position.

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Organizations that lack a clear strategic position often spread resources across competing priorities, create inconsistent market messaging, and struggle to establish a meaningful competitive advantage. To help leaders address this challenge, global research and advisory firm Info-Tech Research Group has published its new blueprint, Position Your Brand Strategically as a Cost or Value Leader. The research provides a structured approach for choosing how the organization will compete and turning that decision into a focused action plan.

The firm’s resource explains that cost and value leadership require different operating models. Cost leaders depend on efficiency, standardization, and disciplined cost control to serve price-sensitive markets. Value leaders rely on innovation, customer experience, and brand strength to earn premium pricing. Organizations that try to pursue both approaches without making clear tradeoffs can become “stuck in the middle,” without a sustainable cost advantage or meaningful differentiation.

“Clear strategic positioning is essential for creating alignment and focus across the organization,” says Nathalie Vezina, a research director at Info-Tech Research Group. “When leaders do not explicitly choose between cost and value leadership, teams can pull in different directions, investments become diluted, and customers may struggle to understand what the brand stands for. A unified strategy helps organizations direct resources toward the capabilities that will strengthen their competitive position.”

Info-Tech Outlines Three Steps for Establishing a Clear Strategic Brand

The Position Your Brand Strategically as a Cost or Value Leader blueprint includes practical assessments and planning tools to help organizations move from strategic ambiguity to focused execution.

In the blueprint, the firm recommends the following three steps:

Step 1: Diagnose the Organization’s Current Position. A clear strategic position starts with determining whether the organization’s strengths are better suited to cost efficiency or differentiated value. Info-Tech’s assessment examines factors such as operational costs, pricing, profit margins, innovation investment, standardization, product quality, and target customers. The results help reveal whether the organization has a clear position or is still balancing conflicting priorities.Step 2: Make the Strategic Tradeoff Explicit. Organizational leaders then compare their cost structure and level of differentiation with relevant competitors. Info-Tech advises leaders to benchmark against companies with similar capabilities, scale, and target audiences instead of automatically comparing themselves with the largest brands in the market. This analysis can also reveal underserved customer needs or less crowded markets where the organization has a stronger opportunity to compete.Step 3: Identify Gaps and Build an Action Plan. After selecting a strategic position, leaders identify the capabilities and practices that must change. Cost leaders may need to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, standardize offerings, refine pricing, or simplify the supply chain. Value leaders may need to strengthen research and development, product differentiation, brand perception, customer experience, and communication of their unique value. The action plan should prioritize the gaps that directly affect the organization’s ability to succeed with its chosen strategy.

Info-Tech’s blueprint further emphasizes that the chosen strategic position should shape organizational culture.

The firm advises that cost leadership requires accountability for efficiency and precise operations, while value leadership depends on creativity, customer understanding, and continued investment in differentiated offerings. Aligning culture, resources, and decision-making with the chosen strategy helps turn strategic clarity into consistent execution.

For exclusive commentary from Info-Tech’s experts, including Nathalie Vezina, or to access the complete Position Your Brand Strategically as a Cost or Value Leader blueprint, please contact pr@infotech.com.

About Info-Tech Research Group
Info-Tech Research Group is the “get things done” partner for over 30,000 IT, HR, and marketing leaders worldwide. The fastest growing research and advisory firm, Info-Tech enables leaders to make well-informed decisions and transform their organizations through AI, strategic foresight, step-by-step methodologies, practical tools, industry-leading advisory, and training programs. For nearly 30 years, tens of thousands of private and public organizations have trusted Info-Tech to lead their most important initiatives through periods of change and deliver outcomes that truly matter.

To learn more about Info-Tech’s HR research and advisory services, visit McLean & Company, and for data-driven software buying insights and vendor evaluations, visit the firm’s SoftwareReviews platform.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software, and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

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SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

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An International Event for the 400th Birth Anniversary of Bada Shanren held in Qingyunpu District, China’s Jiangxi

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NANCHANG, China, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A report from Jiangxi International Communication Center (JXICC): On September 22, the Event for the 400th Birth Anniversary of Bada Shanren “The Cosmos as Inner Heart: International Youth Step Into Bada Shanren’s World of Art” was held in Qingyunpu District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province— the hometown of Bada Shanren. Chinese and foreign youth representatives and guests from 19 countries and regions including the United States, Russia, Morocco, Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea participated.

Bada Shanren is an outstanding master of Chinese calligraphy and painting. His works are treasures of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting, embodying profound Chinese aesthetics and humanistic heritage, and exerting a far-reaching influence on international art. The year 2026 marks the 400th anniversary of the birth of Bada Shanren. In order to enable Gen Z international youth to better understand the beauty of Chinese calligraphy and painting and to spread and promote fine traditional Chinese culture, the event arranged cultural experience sessions including special exhibition visit, collection introductions, stamp-hunting memorial exploration, rubbing making, and ink painting album page copying. It allows Chinese and foreign youth to get close to Bada Shanren’s art world through vivid experiences, and builds a cultural bridge connecting China and the world with hands-on practices.

At the launch ceremony, international youth representative Yagshygeldiyeva Aygul from Turkmenistan shared her feelings. She said that she had learned about Bada Shanren online before, but that standing in front of the original works felt completely different. “I didn’t really understand Chinese painting before. Today, standing in front of the paintings, I finally felt the beauty of traditional Chinese painting.” She mentioned that the image of animals rolling their eyes in Bada Shanren’s works left a deep impression on her. “Those animals look very proud, and I can feel the artist’s personality through them. This makes his paintings special and unforgettable.”

During the subsequent hands-on experience, Alfina Kildiiarova from Russia mentioned that it was her first time trying rubbing. “I think it’s very interesting. It’s very important for international youth to learn more about Chinese culture.” Robel Tilahun from Ethiopia noted that his country also has an artistic tradition similar to calligraphy. “Calligraphy connects you with a different kind of culture. Coming here and seeing the real artworks is a very beautiful feeling.” He summarized the experience in one word: “Magnificent.”

Migdaris Murillo Pitty from Panama said after painting with her own hands that although it was her first attempt, the process made her feel very relaxed and excited. “You can show a part of yourself in the painting.” She also mentioned that through this experience, she “felt a small part of the vast Chinese culture.”

Marking the 400th anniversary of Bada Shanren’s birth, this event, through a combination of field visits, cultural education, and artistic experiences for Gen Z international youth, allows them to appreciate the beauty of Chinese calligraphy and painting while becoming firsthand participants in and communicators of fine traditional Chinese culture, helping Bada Shanren’s art reach further overseas.

 

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SOURCE Jiangxi International Communication Center(JXICC)

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In HelloNation, Construction Expert Jovana Villanueva of Easton, PA, Breaks Down Residential Development

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EASTON, Pa., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What steps keep market-rate residential construction on schedule and on budget? A new HelloNation article explains how effective construction management reduces uncertainty and safeguards return on investment during every stage of residential development.

The article outlines a structured approach to planning, coordination, and oversight, emphasizing how construction management creates predictability in complex projects. The focus begins with pre-construction planning, where key factors like cost modeling, material availability, and labor assumptions are assessed early. By analyzing drawings for constructability and identifying potential design challenges, the process helps reduce change orders and schedule disruptions later in the build.

The article makes clear that pre-construction planning serves as the foundation for success in market-rate residential projects. With accurate cost modeling, owners can make informed decisions before construction begins. The article points out that this early clarity is critical to maintaining alignment with financial targets throughout the project.

Construction Management Expert Jovana Villanueva of Easton, PA, explains that trade coordination and communication are essential once building begins. The article details how day-to-day trade coordination ensures that subcontractors work efficiently and in the correct sequence. This reduces on-site congestion and quality issues, helping the entire team stay on track.

The article also highlights how ongoing quality control is built into the entire workflow. Rather than treating inspections as a final step, construction managers monitor materials and installation methods throughout the project. This approach reduces costly rework and protects the property’s long-term value—both of which support the project’s return on investment.

Another major focus in the article is schedule management. It notes that many market-rate residential projects run into trouble when timelines are based on optimistic assumptions rather than field data. The article emphasizes the role of construction managers in tracking actual progress and making real-time adjustments to keep owners fully informed. This transparency is key to managing financing, leasing, and occupancy plans.

At every step, from pre-planning to turnover, construction management aligns design goals with financial performance. The article explains how managers work with architects and engineers to select materials and systems that offer long-term durability rather than just low initial cost. Long-lead items are flagged early to avoid pricing spikes and delivery delays, which can threaten project outcomes.

For developers involved in residential development, the article argues that construction management is not just oversight—it’s a disciplined system that ties every decision back to performance, cost, and timeline. By maintaining tight trade coordination, detailed scheduling, and clear communication, construction managers reduce risk and improve outcomes.

The importance of ongoing reporting is also addressed. The article describes how regular updates on costs, schedules, and risks help investors and stakeholders stay confident in the project’s financial outlook. This level of control and insight helps ensure that each market-rate residential project delivers on its intended return on investment.

The Construction Management Workflow Behind Market-Rate Residential Developments features insights from Jovana Villanueva, Construction Expert of Easton, PA, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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SOURCE HelloNation

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New Campaign Helps Parents and Caregivers Find the Right Car Seat for Their Kids

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This National Child Passenger Safety Week, the Ad Council and NHTSA deliver lifesaving reminders to ensure children are in the correct car seat for their age and size.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — As part of National Child Passenger Safety Week, the Ad Council and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched new public service advertisements (PSAs) and a new campaign tagline in support of their child car safety campaign. The new creative reminds parents and caregivers of children ages 14 and younger to make sure their kids are in the correct seat for their age and size.

The new tagline, “They Grow. You Check.” brings awareness to a child’s continued growth over time and emphasizes encouraging parents to check that their kids are in the right seat for their age and size. Although many parents are navigating busy schedules, resources on NHTSA’s website, including the Car Seat Finder Tool, can help them quickly and easily select the right car seat for their child’s age and size. In addition, the website provides a database of car seat inspection stations.

“Every parent wants to keep their child safe but may not know how to find the right car seat for their child’s age or size,” NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison said. “NHTSA is taking the guesswork out of car seat shopping by providing quick and simple tools and information for parents and caregivers. The right car seat, properly installed, is the best tool we have to protect a child in a crash, and we want to help parents make sure every child is safe.”

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death for children under 14. But when used effectively, car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. That’s why the new PSAs assure parents and caregivers that NHTSA can help them ensure their child is in the right car seat for their age and size.

The new work, developed pro bono by the creative agency BUCK and Part and Sum, both part of the Residence network, shows how parents have to juggle multiple roles – they are chefs, chauffeurs, and tutors all rolled into one. These PSAs emphasize the understanding that parents don’t need to be experts at everything, and they can lean on NHTSA’s expertise to keep their child safe on every car ride. They also remind parents and caregivers of the importance of correct car seat use and fit.

“Parents believe they’re doing the right thing but often rely on instinct and comfort instead of verification,” said Michelle Hillman, Chief Campaign and Program Officer, the Ad Council. “We want to make car seat safety simple for parents and caregivers. Parents can trust NHTSA’s resources to confidently help them find a car seat that’s right for their child at every age and size.” 

The campaign directs audiences to NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat, and NHTSA.gov/Protegidos in Spanish, for more information on correctly securing children in vehicles. The PSAs, available in both English and Spanish, will run nationally in donated TV, radio, print, outdoor, and digital space. 

Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 20 through 26, concludes with National Seat Check Saturday, where parents and caregivers can receive free car seat checks in their local communities. In 2026, there are nearly 5,000 registered car seat inspections stations nationwide where families can receive hands-on education on how to correctly install car seats from a certified child passenger safety technician.

For more information on safe car seat practices and to find a local car seat inspection station, visit NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat and NHTSA.gov/Protegidos.

About NHTSA

For more than 50 years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has served as the key federal agency charged with improving safety on our nation’s roads. As part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, NHTSA is working to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries by promoting the use of seat belts and child safety seats; helping states and local communities address the threat of distracted, drunk and drug-impaired drivers; regulating vehicle safety standards and investigating safety defects in motor vehicles; establishing and enforcing fuel economy standards; conducting research on driver behavior and traffic safety; and providing consumer information on issues ranging from child passenger safety to impaired driving. For more information visit www.nhtsa.gov.

About The Ad Council

The Ad Council convenes creative storytellers to educate, unite and uplift audiences by opening hearts, inspiring action and accelerating change around the most pressing issues in America. Since the non-profit’s founding, the organization and its partners in advertising, media, marketing and tech have been behind some of the country’s most iconic social impact campaigns – Smokey Bear, A Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Waste, Love Has No Labels, Tear the Paper Ceiling and many more. With a current focus on mental health, gun safety, the opioid epidemic, skill-based hiring and other critical issues, the Ad Council’s national campaigns encompass advertising and media content, ground game and community efforts, trusted messenger and influencer engagement, and employer programs, among other innovative strategies to move the needle on the most important issues of the day. To learn more or get involved, visit AdCouncil.org, join the Ad Council’s communities on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X, and view campaign creative on YouTube. 

SOURCE The Ad Council

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