Greatest gifts

I am now the proud owner of a silver Vespa.

Most vendors want their products likened to sexy machines such as Ferraris, Ducatis or fast jets.

But storage vendor NetApp has gone for a slightly more sturdy machine - the Vespa.

A couple of us here on CRN were sent model scooters through the post today - with an attached press release featuring the strapline: "Go further, faster with a Vespa".

"Vespa scooters are flexible, light and very efficient when it comes to economy.." it read.

And then the classic IT marketing bit....

"Similarly NetApp's storage solutions are flexible, innovative and help midsize businesses to stay ahead of the IT curve.." it said.

Help!

And then it all becomes clear.

The NetApp new product range has been code named VESPA.

Oh. I see what they did there.

Of course, I'd have been more impressed if they had sent a real working Vespa through the post.

THAT is what I would call a marketing campaign.