The Changing Face of the Web
For years, Google searches, e-mails, and instant messages dominated the internet. Those looking to make a space for themselves or their businesses in cyber space would sign up for a free email account, download AOL instant messenger, and make Google their homepage. Today, internet users are finding new ways to interact and build online audiences. Fresh methods of communication and marketing sprung up, and even the indestructible Google has a contender looking to give the people more of what they want.
Getting Visual
When Google first designed its ultra-simple search page, its goal was to give users a fast experience. Other search engines took forever to load, but Google’s plain white design could appear in mere seconds. Today, high-speed internet has become the norm and loading times aren’t the concern they used to be. Google’s new competitor, Bing, created a fresh design that draws the user in with large, colorful graphics.
The internet’s new tendency toward visuals doesn’t stop with Bing. Text-only webpages are slowly fading away, and bloggers, online magazines, and business websites are carefully choosing eye-catching graphics for their articles and landing pages.
Uncluttered web designs continue to rule the web, but with an extra dose of color and creativity. Both Bing and Google now provide searchers with quick mini-preview of each webpage. Putting together an attention-grabbing web design is more important than ever.
Getting Social
Website analytics have begun reporting a new trend for traffic. A few years ago, search engines played the largest role in getting hits to a webpage. Now some website owners have noticed that more traffic is coming from Facebook, Twitter, and other social media sites. Today’s web surfers aren’t dependent on a search bar anymore. They discover interesting links from their friends and online networks. Instead of running a search through Google, they might post a question on Twitter and wait for recommendations from the people they already know and trust.
Embracing Multimedia
Website owners are beginning to realize that text isn’t the only way to get the word out there. Videos and podcasts can draw in an entirely new audience. Bing first encouraged this revolution by including tabs in its search results for video, music, images, and more. The newer, faster web can accommodate several different media and deliver just the right material to just the right searcher.
Understanding the changes in advertising platforms is crucial to the marketing and advertising world. Knowing what is available and how it can be used to reach your target market is the first step to creating customer loyalty and engagement. To brush up on online platforms, specifically Bing, join us April 26 for our web-based marketing event. This event will be held in Tampa and is open to both AMA members and anyone else interested in learning about developments in internet marketing.
Sources:
How Bing is Out-innovating Google (CNN Tech)
Social Media and SEO: 5 Steps to Success (Mashable)
Bing vs. Google vs. Yahoo: Feature Smackdown (PC World)
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