1. For 57 years Barbie has had a look that the world has come to recognize. Some argue that when Mattel begins to offer diverse Barbies, she will no longer be instantly recognizable, and consequently the brand will be watered down. Do you agree? If so, explain why. If you do not agree, explain why not.
2. Was the drop in Barbie's sales correlated to a mismatch between Barbie's original image and that of 'real girls'? Were there other factors? What were they?
3. Was it wise of Mattel to develop a strategy based on that assumption? Explain.
4. In an attempt to develop Barbies that closely reflect the body type, hair type and complexions of young women in the real world what risk(s) is Mattel taking?