Consumers today have forced a change in marketing. They are aware, savvy, discerning, and well-versed in the tactics marketers have used for generations to capture attention. In the digital age, transparency and a focus on content shows more heart and consideration for your audience than trying to sell to them.
Social media has become a large part of public relations, brand building, and advertising. Its influence has also revised approaches in other fields and industries as well. The conversation continues to change with the desires of social media users and designers. Here are some of our favorite tips and tricks to keep in mind for social media in 2016:
Facebook recently revised its trademark “like” with the introduction of five additional Reactions, designed to allow users the opportunity to better express their emotions. With the help and input of sociologists, as well as a year of testing in limited markets, Facebook states that these Reactions represent the spectrum of universal emotional responses, though not surprisingly there is still no dislike button to show disapproval. The new Love, Haha, Wow, Sad, and Angry Reactions currently all carry the same weight as the longstanding Like in terms of user interaction, but there are hopes that in the future these new choices will allow for a more accurate and refined understanding of user’s response to content.
The all-new McFadden/Gavender website has been listed as one of the best new portfolio sites for February 2016 by Web Designer Depot. We are so honored to receive a shout out from this well-respected community hub for web design.
Virtual reality has sparked imaginations for decades, whether the interest spawned from science fiction or the recent influx of VR gear on the market, it is capturing interest all over. In early February, AltspaceVR launched a virtual world for Samsung’s Gear VR with more than a dozen spaces each hosting events throughout the day. Users are playing party games together, attending comedy shows and concerts, participating in storytelling events, meditating, and even getting together for Dungeons & Dragons.
