As the economy slows, many marketers are using focus groups and other qualitative research tools to get a fix on how the public's mood translates into trends. Yet, as trend-trackers, we need to recognize that many perils can get in the way of spotting trends, especially in turbulent times. Or everyone's on the Internet and the so-called offline world is disappearing. We need to look at growth areas, but it's usually misleading to simply pronounce that the world is moving in just one direction. Basic human needs remain.
Most people are social creatures who seek connections, whether online or in person.
Most people want to get out of the house some of the time. The forms of our behavior change, but many needs remain. But it hasn't. As the Internet grows, physical stores and shopping centers will work harder to attract customers. As childbirth outside of marriage increases, conservatives will work harder to discourage these pregnancies.