The buffer in a bad-news message is a

a. statement completely unrelated to the bad news so that receivers will not know that bad news is coming.
b. hint that good news will follow.
c. denial of the requested action.
d. statement that reduces shock or pain and encourages the receiver to continue reading.

Lillypad toys is a manufacturer of educational toys for children. six months ago, the company's research and development division came up with an idea for a unique touchscreen device that can be used to introduce children to a number of foreign languages. three months ago, the company produced a working prototype, and last month the company successfully launched its new device on the commercial market. what should lillypad's managers prepare for next? a. increased competition from imitators b. a prolonged period of uncontested success c. a sharp decline in demand for the product d. a difficult struggle to move from invention to innovation