As the Internet continues to grow almost unbelievable speed, more and more businesses are realizing the importance of a single service provider when it comes to creative website design, branding and online marketing. In the past, most people who were considering an online presence had to have a separate web designer, branding specialist and SEO or internet marketing company to handle the promotional end of things. Today, not so much; small and large companies alike are learning that a dedicated web and graphic designer with expertise in all of these areas can produce far better results. Why?
Apr
24
2012
New Website Design has Tails Wagging
Posted by Chris in Branding, Web Design | Comments Off
This month we completed an enjoyable website redesign project for PetExec, a web based software program designed for the dog daycare industry.
One of the goals of the website was to create new appeal that “feels” personal, welcoming and friendly to potential clients, instead of the high tech look and feel that many software companies rely on today.
Engaging graphics, a modern color pallet, heart felt stories and improved structure effectively showcase the products/services PetExec offers. We turned the focus of the website on the results the dog daycare software company can deliver to clients. PetExec enjoys a very loyal fan base, thanks to the innovative software that helps others in the pet industry streamline their operations and achieve a higher level of success and visibility.
We felt strongly that the new website design should reflect the passion that those who work in the pet industry feel about what they do, giving it a personal and fun look and feel and also sharing some of the business owners stories. The new website invites interaction, rather than a ‘no touch’ or stand-offish appearance.
Learn more about this project and the unique services that PetExec offers in our Press Release.
Apr
10
2012
Web Design Spotlight | WordPress Custom Business Website
Posted by ChrisTags: corproate branding, wordpress business websitesin Branding, Custom WordPress Design | Comments Off
We recently completed a custom website project for LifeNexus a technology company that has designed a cutting-edge product and system for storing personal health records on a pocket size secure card.
This project was a good challenge in that it need to be completed based upon a very strict deadline and the website had to contain a number of key features critical to the requirements and products and services that LifeNexus offers. We worked closely with the team to integrate marketing strategies and design a website that accurately communicates the company’s goals and brings their vision to life.
Read more as I outline the process and what goes into creating a custom website.
Mar
24
2012
New Branding Work – Website and Print Media
Posted by ChrisTags: glassware branding, website design glassware companyin Branding, Print and Branding, Web Design | No Comments
Glassware company receives modern slick look for new product line.
Recently we completed a new project for Genus Glassware a custom glassware company headquartered in Scottsdale Arizona. The Glassware company creates cutting edge sophisticated beverage glassware for high end establishments.
What we did
‘G’ wanted a look that was sharp, clean, modern and bold. We designed the look and feel of the website, promotional materials, logo and business cards. Since this company is unlike other glassware companies by offering one of a kind double walled glasses with ultra modern design, they wanted to to step outside the norm of ‘light and white’ for glassware. We ventured into the darker colors with high contrast. The logo was to be simple and iconic with a bold G that made a statement and that over time will evolve the brand into a recognizable mark.
The branding package included:
- Ecommerce website design
- Logo design
- Signage
- Sell sheet
- Double sided business cards
Mar
06
2012
New Design Work – Spring Promotions
Posted by Chris in Branding, Email Marketing, Print and Branding | Comments Off
Spring is a great time to freshen up your brand through multimedia promotions.
Currently we are in the process of doing just that for the Arizona Design Center out in Scottsdale. Twice a year they have an Interior Designer event for the trade and showcase new and exciting interior styles and conduct workshops with top designers to help interior design businesses market their services more effectively.
How we Helped
We came up with a marketing strategy that was a bit on the lighter side with some retro elements to help make the comparison between the old and new. Since marketing continues to evolve into the social media realm, it’s important that designers evolve with online trends.
The multimedia campaign includes the design, production and concepts for the following:
- -email marketing
- -print brochures
- -landing page
- -posters
What’s really great about the multimedia approach is how we are able to track the results of each piece through analytics. Email marketing and landing page marketing is one of the most effective. Overall we have about a 19-25% open rate on everything we send.
Interested in more information on how your company can have a creative marketing campaign and get results? Contact us.
Have you noticed the new JCPenny logo and rebranding campaign?
The new “fair and Square” is intended to evoke JCP’s proud American heritage and commitment to treat customers “fair and square.“ It is also to remind customers to ‘frame the things they love’. Interesting concept.
The old logo was designed last year by a graphic design student at the University of Cincinnati. This year they went with the professionals and choose a branding outfit in San Francisco. Let’s see if it will take it to the next level. And let’s also see if they do another rebranding next year!
Just out of curiosity…do you know which brand has had one of the longest life span without a major redesign?
The General Electric Logo. From 1934 on it has had the same typographical elements.
Just goes to show a good logo and consistent message is timeless!
Jan
16
2012
Website Design – 8 Ways to Ruin a Great Website
Posted by Chris in Branding, Web Design | Comments Off
There are some fantastic website designs out there, and then there are some that would be awesome other than a few things that detract from the overall impact and potentially drive visitors away. Are you committing any of these web design crimes?
Here are 8 ways that people ruin a potentially great website.
1. Colors. The colors you use in the design of your website can make it pop, or drive everyone away. Use too many bright colors, and the look is a bit “nervous.” The saturation and contrast of your colors makes a difference, as does your niche – particular niches need a particular feel, such as relaxing, exciting, inviting, etc.
2. Flash intros. Once upon a time, flash intros were all the rage. Today, there are still some that are informative and attention grabbing, but most visitors to your site do not like to be “demanded” to wait while your intro plays – they want quick access.
3. White space. Not referring to using white color, white space is the area between the elements. Unfortunately, some web designers feel that white is “boring,” so they leave little or none on the pages. The fact is, in your visitor’s eye white space makes everything look neat and organized, so they do not get that sense of clutter – good readability and focus are other benefits.
Jan
02
2012
Tips to Evolve Your Brand (and Increase Your Success) in 2012
Posted by ChrisTags: Branding, dynamic website, target audience, visualsin Branding | Comments Off
Give your brand a makeover!
If you’re brand seems a bit stale, or you’re simply ready to evolve it and make it do all it can do for you, there are a few things you can do to enhance both your brand and increase your success in the new year. Are you ready for 2012 to be the year that you finally reach your goals in regards to your business, and have your brand more recognized than ever before?
Give your brand a makeover with our 5 tips!
1. Define your key services/products. Focus on your strengths and avoid casting your net too wide. Your services/products should be defined in a clear, concise manner so that potential clients don’t get confused.
2. Take a close look at your own messages and clearly define your audience. Take a really critical look at your own website and collateral materials such as brochures, business cards, your blog, even your email signature. Are you sending mixed messages, or is your messaging clearly targeted, speaking in a single, clear voice?
Layered cake and Website design?
It really makes sense. Read on!
When reviewing the effectiveness of a website, you need to explore many layers, both on the surface and below, including the following:
Website functionality
Navigation and information architecture,
Forms and data entry,
Trust and credibility,
Quality of writing and content,
Help, feedback and error tolerance,
Page layout and visual/aesthetic design,
Accessibility and technical design.
Website visitors make judgements about trustworthiness, credibility, competency, reliability, design and style within seconds of arriving on a Web page. Make sure your website has all the elements for success!
Your website’s aesthetic reflects directly on the perception and trustworthiness of your brand. Even if your design was the hotness when it first launched, aesthetics evolve.
An old design will be detrimental to your product, leading to the declining metrics mentioned earlier. How can you tell whether your website’s aesthetic is outdated?
Look at your competition. Look at hyped-up newly launched services in other sectors.
Your metrics are down. Not sure what this is? You’re really in trouble.
Your web visitors tell you the truth. It’s time to step it up.
It’s been more than 12 months since your last update to your website.
“Clear indications that it’s time to redesign”. This article really sums it all up.