1. By far the most significant acceleration was in our technologies of connection. In June
2000, 97 million mobile phone subscribers existed in the United States; in June 2010,
the number rose to 293 million. Urban and suburban Americans swim in a sea of Wi-Fi
(sitting in my living room on a quiet side street I can see 8 wireless networks)—and in
the middle of Nebraska, you can get online at McDonald’s.
2. From 2002 to 2012, it dropped by nine marriages per 1,000 unmarried women ages 15
and older. And if you look at the chart included in the 2015 Index, you’ll see that the
marriage rate has been declining steady from the 1970s. With so much emphasis on
same-sex marriage in the news, it’s easier than ever to miss this.
3. According to Harris Interactive, 88% of Americans expect to be able to schedule a
service “on–demand.” In 2015, Amazon took speed to a new level. Amazon Prime
Now delivers tens of thousands of daily essentials and gift items in one and two-hours.
4. Teen and young adult consumers have become overwhelmed with the infinite number
of options for consumer products, entertainment, and activities. So brands like Frank &
Oak, which helps young men discover stylish clothing, or Tribeca Shortlist, a service that
“hand picks” movies for its customers, are leading the way in simplifying the customer
experience by offering on-target recommendations.
