Economic downturns can get people thinking differently, exploring options. New careers are one result, and careers in comedy may be one trend, if sales figures for ThoughtOffice's Comic Genius software for comedians are an economic indicator.
Blaine, WA, USA, May 15, 2009 (PRESSbooth.ORG) -- The current economic downturn has led people to begin thinking in new ways, and exploring options they might have previously dismissed. They are responding by creating new businesses, new careers, new ways of paying the mortgage. And now, an interesting trend has been reported by creativity and brainstorming software maker ThoughtOffice: a 600% increase in sales of their Comic Genius program bundle.
"We were quite surprised to discover this trend," comments David Lockman, Product Specialist for ThoughtOffice Corporation. "An increase of six times the number of copies sold over the same period last year is really noteworthy. We're not quite sure what to make of it - statistical anomaly or sign of the times. But it's pretty cool, nevertheless."
Software has been used for a number of years to help writers improve both the quantity and quality of their product, and comedy writers are no exception. Since the early days of ThoughtOffice's predecessor, IdeaFisher ( http://www.ideafisher.com ), which pioneered the creativity software market, comedians and comedy writers all over the world have been using their computers to develop new material.
With the downturn in the economy, people are discovering new ways to earn a living. Some people are even turning their layoffs into an opportunity to pursue their dreams of business ownership ( http://www.thoughtoffice.com/?page_id=18 ), writing the Great American Novel, and - apparently - performing comedy. If the sales figures for ThoughtOffice Comic Genius are any indication, we are going to be seeing some new comics very soon. Between January 1 and May 10th, 2009, sales of Comic Genius were up 600% over the same period in 2008.
"We've often heard that adversity breeds great art, especially music and comedy. It's beginning to look as if the poor economy is going to have some unexpected benefits," says ThoughtOffice's Lockman. "Not only are people starting new businesses - everything from dog walkers to high-tech startups - but it appears we may be getting some new comedians. I'm all for that. I love to have a good laugh!"
The roots of comedy include exaggeration, association, and vivid imagery. ThoughtOffice creativity software helps users to develop these elements and more, using its integrated associative search engine. The program also provides expert support in the form of plugin modules, which contain the canned expertise of more than 200 creative professionals. Comic Genius ( http://www.thoughtoffice.com/?page_id=43 ) is one of 10 available ThoughtOffice bundles designed to help users quickly develop new ideas. Packages are available for company CEOs, Inventors, Life Coaches & Consultants, Writers, and more.
"This recession has been a little bit scary for everyone," notes Lockman, "but I think if we all keep a good attitude - and a good sense of humor - about what's going on in the world, we'll be through this tough period a lot more easily. Laughter is great medicine, for individuals and the society as a whole. And we're hoping that this remarkable increase in sales for Comic Genius is a very positive leading indicator."
About ThoughtOffice:
ThoughtOffice Corporation is a Washington state firm focused on innovation and creativity solutions for 21st Century business. The company was founded by a former Inc. 500 executive and twelve-time serial entrepreneur, whose past enterprises include IdeaFisher, and QuickyMart eCommerce software. RichContent Permanent Media Placement, and ThoughtOffice, the next generation brainstorming software, are his current projects. Visit http://www.ThoughtOffice.com, call 360-450-6888, or e-mail info @ thoughtoffice.com for more information.
Contact:
Mark Alan Effinger
ThoughtOffice Corporation
9734 Lincoln Lane
Blaine, WA 98230
360-450-6888
info @ thoughtoffice.com
http://www.thoughtoffice.com
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