Print media and internet are similar in some ways – for one, visual cues are used in both for communicating information. Print media has been around for much longer than the internet. Studying ads in print media can give many pointers towards making internet marketing more effective, says an interesting article.
Who is Your Target Audience?
There is a lot of diversity among audiences and a specific type of ad appeals to a particular group of people. Ads in print media are very specific to a particular target audience. Knowing your target audience is the first step to deciding what type of ad would be most effective. It is very important to keep your target audience in mind at all times while designing each aspect of your website.
Idea in a Nutshell
Space is not a constraint as far as the web is concerned but don’t misuse it. By adding too much information, you might end up confusing your target audience. In print media, space is a major constraint and the best ads are those that showcase simplified ideas in a nutshell. It helps to employ the same principle while putting up content on your website or online ad. Simplify the ideas and limit the number of ideas per page or ad to one if possible. Internet marketing, like print media advertising is about catching the eye of your audience, and this can be best achieved by keeping you message simple.
Inspiration from Other Websites
In the print media, certain layouts or structures are standard. If you come across a website with a really impressive layout, don’t be afraid to make use of the idea while designing your own website. Content is the core of the website. If your content is distinct, then there is nothing to worry about.
Once upon a time I was riding on the top of a First Avenue bus when I heard a mythical housewife say to another, “Molly my dear, I would have bought that new brand of toilet soap if only they hadn’t set the body copy in ten point Garamond.” Don’t you believe it. What really decides consumers to buy or not to buy is the content of your advertising, not its form. – David Ogilivy