Song of The Day: Better Way - Artist: Ben Harper
Today, the company, for which I work, officially changed its name from America Online to AOL. If you never really differentiated between the two, I think that is further evidence that it is a good move. :)
Back in ‘91 AOL changed its name from Quantum Computer Services, Inc. to America Online, Inc. to align better its name with its mission and corporate identity. Furthermore, during my tenure, the initials were briefly attached to the Time Warner logo in ‘01 until the board approved a reversal in September of ‘03.
In a prepared statement, our CEO said it is time for another name change to reflect better our…
“new corporate identity…[and]…our expanded mission — to make everyone’s online experience better. Plus consumers in the U.S. and around the world already know us by our initials.”
Jon Miller, America Online Changes Name to AOL, WSJ Online
The name has a storied history and I think this will be a positive part of it.
One other interesting aspect, in light of all this, is that the company is converting to a limited liability company (LLC) as a part of its agreement with Google, which will own 5% of AOL by the end of this quarter.
Again, all the indicators appear upbeat to me. :)