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How Effective Emotional Design Can Transform Online Engagement

Author: Eleanor Hecks

Countless websites and apps provide digital experiences that promote site visitors, but do they encourage them to stay? It only takes a few seconds for a site user to make up their mind about an online product. Utilizing this time wisely to create a positive first impression is key to maintaining their satisfaction.

One way brands are fostering that connection is through emotional design. This design principle creates experiences that captivate and build lasting loyalty, and understanding it is the key to building long-standing relationships with customers.

What Is Emotional Design?

Emotional design is a philosophy that centers around creating experiences that evoke specific feelings in users. It is based on the psychological triggers that influence how people feel when interacting with a product.

Designers can use this method to create experiences that make interactions usable and emotionally satisfying. While design focuses on aesthetics, it also considers the emotional journey that accompanies each interaction.

In emotional design, designers use it to engage users on three cognitive levels, including visceral, behavioral and reflective. When a product interacts with users on all three levels, it can create positive experiences for people who use it.

How Effective Emotional Design Attracts Online Engagement

Emotional design drives online engagement because it taps into the center of human experience — their emotions. When users have positive feelings while interacting with a website, they are likelier to stick around and return more frequently. Research shows the impact that emotional design has on user engagement.

A study found the difference in interactions between two of the same ATMs, except one had a more attractive interface. The results showed that the ATM with a more visually pleasing interface led to higher engagement levels and greater user satisfaction. This was because the design generated positive emotions among users, making it seem like the machine was easier to use.

Several platforms have implemented emotional design to enhance engagement. Take Headspace, for example. This meditation app expertly uses this principle to create a calming atmosphere for its users, from soothing colors to gentle animations. Its design aligns with its goal of promoting mindfulness while encouraging repeat engagement.

The same interactions can occur for nonprofits looking to encourage website engagement and donations. Volunteers are already twice as likely to donate to charity when they feel emotionally connected to a cause. If you incorporate emotionally resonant design elements — such as heartwarming stories and imagery — you are even likelier to encourage continued volunteer involvement and financial support.

Implementing Emotional Design

Since emotional design is integral to an app or website, several key points are essential to consider.

1. Know Your Users’ Desires

Understanding your users on a deeper level is crucial. When you know your users’ wants, needs and values, you can gain insight into what may trigger their response.

For example, suppose you have a website that sells home security systems. Users may desire to feel safe and protected 24/7. Knowing this, you can craft a strategy for the site’s design that assures visitors that the products work to meet their needs.

2. Implement Website Elements That Elicit Strong Emotion

When users visit a platform, they should be able to understand the message your brand is trying to send. Stories can resonate with visitors emotionally, so your website should incorporate details that work together to cause a specific response.

For example, images and colors are excellent ways to tell the user a story. Colors create the mood for a platform, while visuals craft a narrative that draws users in. Incorporating these elements is essential to eliciting users’ responses, helping them feel more connected to your brand on a personal level.

3. Give Users the Feeling of Ownership

People often develop a strong emotional attachment to items or experiences they feel they have some ownership over, even if it is symbolic. This psychological phenomenon is known as the endowment effect, which suggests that individuals value an item more highly when they own it.

Websites and apps can achieve this effect by personalizing their platforms. For example, they may offer features where users can explore a product through interactive videos. When you make site visitors feel like they are engaging with a product in person, they are more likely to become attached to it.

The Power of Emotional Design

Emotional design is more than an aesthetic choice — it is a way for brands to connect deeply with their audience to foster more meaningful interactions. When you understand the psychological meaning and effectiveness behind emotional design, you can create experiences that elicit strong emotions. As a result, your brand is more likely to encourage them to stay loyal and develop lasting relationships for success.

How to Shift from Etsy to a Standalone Site as an Emerging eCommerce Entrepreneur

Author: Eleanor Hecks

You started an online store on Etsy and spent time growing an audience and a list of repeat customers. Now, you should probably shift your frequent clients to an independent platform, where you maintain control.

However, moving from Etsy to a standalone site requires some work and an understanding of the differences. Your audience may also have some preferences about where they shop. Here are the things to keep in mind as you make the transition.

1. Set Goals

Consider the specific goals you want to achieve by opening a separate site. Some reasons include:

  • Expanding to customers outside a single platform
  • Maintaining complete control over your business
  • Preparing for any potential changes by Etsy that might negatively impact your business
  • Gaining more customization options

Setting up a dedicated site costs money. By setting specific goals that you keep in mind, you can keep the new website within your budget while ensuring your site meets your unique needs.

2. Prepare for Growth

As your business grows, you may have times when traffic spikes — for example, research indicates that around 66% of people will increase their online shopping during the holidays. Pay attention to when your busiest seasons are and when you sell the most. Make sure your new website can handle the increased bandwidth during those times.

  • Ask about bandwidth rules and charges for going over
  • Consider what new products might pay your website costs and bring more sales
  • Know your audience and where to teach them

Ideally, you’ll launch new marketing campaigns alongside your new standalone site.

3. Secure Domain Name

Whether you use a dedicated server or put your store on a platform such as Squarespace, Wix or Shopify, you’ll need a domain name to send customers to. For e-commerce sites in the U.S., a .com domain is your best bet. People recognize it as a commercial site and are comfortable with the extension.

  • Find a reasonable domain name registrar. You can use GoDaddy or WordPress Domains, for example. Be sure they are reputable, as you don’t want to lose your domain.
  • Search for a name yet to be used to brand your store.
  • Find one that is easy to spell and remember. The harder you make the name, the more likely someone will mess up typing it and never make it to your storefront.

Most registrars ask where to point the name. For now, secure the domain. You can worry about fixing nameservers later. The website hosting provider will likely have instructions on how to make the changes easily when you’re ready.

4. Choose the Right Platform

E-commerce generates around $5.7 trillion per year and is growing. Where you place your standalone website may be as important as its name. You want a reliable hosting provider with high uptime statistics.

If designing the site yourself, you need something easy to use or that your web designer understands. While not an exhaustive list, some options include:

  • Shopify
  • Wix
  • Squarespace
  • WordPress hosting through any web host provider
  • Zyro

For the most control, go with a shared hosting plan. You can upgrade to a dedicated hosting plan as you grow. For a drag-and-drop solution, choose a platform geared toward online sellers.

5. Migrate Your Store

Once you set up your site, start migrating products to your new store. The fastest way to migrate information is to download your store’s data and upload it to the new platform. Each will have a different process. To download a CSV file from Etsy:

  • Log in to your store account and go to “Store Manager.”
  • Navigate to Settings > Options > Download Data.
  • Indicate you want a CSV file.

The file will contain information on your active listings, which you can upload to your new platform. Double-check all information to ensure everything copied correctly.

Should You Leave Your Etsy Store Up?

Since Etsy charges per listing, whether your item sells or not, you may wonder if you should keep your Etsy store even after creating a new website. It depends. Look at where your traffic comes from. If most of the purchases are from your private marketing and mailing list, you could delete your listings. However, if the majority of your traffic comes from Etsy searches, you will want to leave your store active until your website sales surpass your Etsy sales.

You can also list items in multiple places, including Etsy, eBay and Mercari, as well as on your website. As long as you make sales and profit, you’ll benefit from each platform’s marketing.

How Designers Can Craft Accessible Web Experiences for an Audience of Older Adults

Author: Eleanor Hecks

Crafting websites tailored to the needs of older adults requires some knowledge of the audience’s potential conditions and preferences. Brands catering to seniors or wanting to add more of them to the customer base can attract new customers by tweaking their designs.

If you sell products aimed at older adults, such as hearing aids or scooters, checking your site’s accessibility is a must. Banks, grocery stores and medical offices must cater to several generations. Ensuring everyone has an excellent user experience (UX) is crucial to success.

Potential Accessibility Issues for Seniors

According to the latest Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, older people are more likely to have a disability–around 46% of those over 75 report at least one condition. The most common issues include mobility and cognition. However, conditions can also include vision and hearing impairments.

As people age, they may deal with arthritis and vision issues, leading to struggles, particularly when using a small screen device. Tapping a tiny link or button may be impossible for someone with low manual dexterity.

Ways to Improve a Website Experience for Older Adults

Many of the principles designers use for excellent UX apply to creating a positive design for older adults. Adding a checklist of items to consider goes a long way toward keeping your site friendly to multiple age groups.

1. Increase Sizes

Since some seniors struggle with dexterity, arthritis and pain, making call to action (CTA) buttons larger can improve their interaction with your page.

Statista estimates that there are 311.36 million U.S. mobile internet users in 2024, with a projected increase to 333.18 by 2029. Some older adults only access websites via their smartphones. Imagine being in their shoes, trying to tap on a tiny little link when they struggle to use their hands already.

Going slightly larger positively impacts anyone with dexterity issues who wishes to access your site from a mobile device. Larger sizes also help those with visual struggles.

2. Improve Contrast

Older adults may find their vision isn’t as crisp as it once was. Some suffer from macular degeneration or cataracts. As people age, they often need readers for close-up text, too. Some won’t bother with the glasses and will struggle as text runs together.

One thing that helps older adults is using high contrast in your design. If your background is white, the text should be black or navy blue. Use big fonts that are clear and easy to decipher. Avoid scripts and decorative fonts whenever possible.

3. Tweak the Navigation

Simplify the navigation on your site. While Generation Z has grown up around technology and doesn’t remember a time without digital information, baby boomers grew up without computers. Many are quite tech-savvy, but they could struggle if you start moving navigation around or making elements challenging to find.

Excellent navigation benefits all your users, so spending time adding some breadcrumbs and making popular pages easy to find is worthwhile. Make your logo clickable so the user can easily return to the home page.

4. Perfect Visuals

Take the time to fix any issues with visuals. Even photos should have some contrast so they are easy to read. Add alt tags for those using screen readers.

As nearly two-thirds of readers still opt for physical written copies of content such as books when available versus digital content, some seniors may prefer to print pages to read or save for later. Ensure you have crisp displays that translate well to print, as well as an option to print content easily available.

If you have a text overlay on an image, follow best practices and use a serif or sans serif font, make it big and ensure it contrasts with the background.

5. Make Settings Adjustable

Make your design customizable to meet the needs of users from different generations. Code the option for them to change the text color, font size or lighting. You may need to add a video that shows how they can adjust things to suit their needs.

If you’re uncertain how to create personalized options, grab a code from a web design tool and insert it in your files.

6. Implement Error Correction

Look at your error correction models. Make forms as simple as possible to clarify which step to take next.

Your error messages should offer feedback to correct user mistakes. Imagine you want only their first name and email, but they fail to provide an extension on the email, rendering the information useless.

Offer a reminder that an email looks like name@provider.com and show them how to correct the mistake. You will have to spend a little more time coding your forms, but the result will be a senior-friendly form that is more enjoyable for those with less experience filling in digital forms.

Test With Your Users

Including all ages in your designs requires planning and persistence. Take the time to test out any design changes with your users. Gather a team of customers who will give honest feedback about what they like and what needs improvement. Over time, your design will become more accessible to older adults, and you’ll gain higher conversion rates and happier clients.

WordPress vs. Drupal: Which Is the Best Fit for Your Web Project?

Author: Eleanor Hecks

Choosing the right content management system (CMS) is crucial for your website project. It impacts your site’s functionality, design and usability. To understand whether WordPress or Drupal is suitable for your site project, you must know their differences. Once you know how each CMS functions under various conditions, you can decide which one fits your needs best.

1. Scalability

When choosing between WordPress and Drupal, knowing their scalability is essential for ensuring your website can grow alongside your business needs.

WordPress

WordPress is well-known for its scalability. It powers small blogs and large enterprises alike. With so many plugins and themes, WordPress can easily handle increased traffic and content.

However, achieving optimal performance at scale often requires additional resources and optimizations. These would include tasks such as caching plugins, a good hosting service and a content delivery network.

Drupal

Drupal was already built with scalability in mind. It is highly flexible and can support large websites with traffic surges and extensive databases. Additionally, it offers advanced caching features and handles large-scale projects more efficiently than WordPress.

Winner: Drupal

Both CMSs can scale to meet the demands of growing websites. However, Drupal wins in handling large, complex projects. If you need enterprise-level scalability, it is often the better choice. Yet, with its ample plugin support, WordPress makes a strong contender for smaller sites.

2. Security

With cybercrime affecting approximately 32% of businesses annually and costing up to $6 trillion worldwide, security is a critical factor in choosing a CMS.

WordPress

WordPress is a frequent target for cyberattacks because 64.3% of websites worldwide use it as a CMS. However, security can be easy to handle by making regular updates and installing security plugins. Since it has a large community, you can also ensure quick identification and patching of vulnerabilities. Nonetheless, users must stay on top of best security practices to maintain a safe site.

Drupal

Drupal has a security team, making it more tightly controlled with potential threats. The CMS also has built-in security measures and rigorous coding standards government and corporate websites prefer.

Winner: Drupal

WordPress and Drupal offer strong security capabilities, but Drupal’s protocols and dedicated team give it an edge. However, any CMS can have security flaws, so proper management is essential to fixing vulnerabilities.

3. Ease of Use

One reason you may choose a CMS over the other is your technical expertise. Knowing how each affects the efficiency and flexibility of your development process helps you decide which CMS is better for your project needs.

WordPress

Many developers choose WordPress for its ease of setup and use. Its extensive documentation, large community, and various plugins and themes make development straightforward. Developers can get started quickly and customize websites with minimal coding. However, advanced customizations require in-depth knowledge of PHP, CSS and HTML.

Drupal

Drupal is more complex and has a steeper learning curve than WordPress. While it offers more flexibility and control, it can overwhelm beginners. Drupal’s modular approach allows developers to build highly customizable solutions, but it provides a deeper understanding of its architecture and coding practices.

Winner: WordPress

WordPress is the clear winner for ease of use and quicker setups. On the other hand, Drupal is more suitable if you are comfortable with greater complexity and need more control over your projects.

4. Website Integrations

A CMS should be able to connect with various tools and services to enhance functionality seamlessly.

WordPress

WordPress has over 59,000 plugins and numerous themes, allowing for integration with multiple third-party tools and services. From e-commerce to marketing automation, WordPress offers plugins for practically anything you need. Its REST API also enables further custom integrations, making it highly adaptable.

Drupal

Drupal also supports many integrations with third-party sites and tools. Its APIs allow connections to various systems, including CRM, ERP and marketing automation platforms. With its openness and level of customization, it makes a strong choice for intricate projects.

Winner: WordPress

WordPress and Drupal have strong integrations, but WordPress is more user-friendly. Therefore, WordPress is ideal if you desire easier implementation.

Making a Choice for Your Website Project

Choosing between WordPress and Drupal depends on your needs. Many developers use WordPress because of its ease of use and overall functionalities. However, if you need a CMS with more advanced customization and traffic scalability, consider using Drupal for your project.

Ads vs. Experience: Crafting a Website That Respects Both Revenue and UX

Author: Eleanor Hecks

Utilizing ads on your website can increase revenue. Some businesses make as much off affiliate programs as sales of products or services. However, finding the right balance between ads and user experience (UX) requires finesse.

You should prioritize UX because your ads will get little traction without site visitors. Savvy website owners embrace best practices to enhance both revenue and UX.

1. Limit the Number of Ads

Some sites put up so many ads that users need help finding the content they need. How many are too many? The perfect balance may vary from one audience to another. Part of figuring out what works best for yours is knowing your customers and using a bit of common sense.

In a Picnic/YouGov survey, researchers found 70% of consumers find digital advertising annoying at best. Plus, nearly 90% of site visitors say they are less likely to return if they have a poor experience, meaning these annoyances could cost you repeat readers. While you may need the revenue to keep your site profitable, avoid overwhelming visitors with clutter.

It is impossible to state a specific number of ads that perfectly balance every site. Instead, listen to your users. If they complain about the ads, you have too many. Try multivariate testing — running one page with only two or three ads and one with more — to see which version converts best.

2. Make Speed a Priority

With advances in 5G and high-fiber internet speeds, people expect sites to load in milliseconds. If you have a lot of bulky ads on your page, it can impact UX as the person waits for the images to load.

Although many people have access to high-speed internet, some do not. Consider the slowest connection someone might have and aim to make their experience optimal.

3. Track and Fix Rage Clicks

Your site’s health shows up in the backend analytics. For example, if a particular link or button has rage clicks — repeated attempts to click on an element repeatedly and rapidly — you must test it and see if the link works.

A frustrated user will likely bounce away when page elements do not perform as expected. Your ads can create a similar problem, especially if they link to a third-party site. You may initially use a link an affiliate sent, but they change their website structure and the link no longer works as intended.

4. Test Ad Placement

Where is the best place to put your ads so they are non-intrusive? Each website is different. Your content impacts how invasive an ad is, and user preferences also come into play.

The best way to find the perfect ad placement for your website is to conduct A/B testing. Try ads above the fold, below the fold and in the sidebar. Pay attention to where people click. While you want them to look at advertisements and click on affiliate links, you also want your site sticky enough that they stay around for a while and bookmark pages for revisits.

What do other successful websites in your industry do? Note where they place their ads, how many they use on a page and how frequently they move them around. If something is not working, shift it to another area of the site.

5. Consider Aesthetics

Enhancing your website’s UX is about so much more than design. Even color selection impacts users. Once your site functions as intended, focus on its look and how well the ads mesh with elements such as the background color or other visuals on the page.

Step back from the computer and view the design from a distance. Pull it up on your mobile device and see if the ads overwhelm someone using a smartphone or tablet. Put yourself in the visitor’s shoes and make adjustments for an exceptional experience while driving traffic to money-making areas of your online business.

6. Focus on Native Advertising

The most effective ads blend with the rest of the website’s design and purpose. Rather than intruding on the user experience, they enhance it. Visitors often find native ads more attractive, too.

You can dig into your audience demographics and use sophisticated segmentation and targeting to make the ads as non-disruptive as possible. The result may be higher click-throughs and better returns. You can also focus on content-driven options related to the topic. Since the customer is already interested in what they are reading, they are much more likely to find the ad relevant.

Revenue and UX Are Equally Crucial

Balancing revenue needs with user experience is challenging. You must get details in front of people to make money, but at the same time, ads aggravate a lot of people. Finding the right mix takes time and testing.

Pay attention to analytics, survey customers, and look at heat maps to determine what is working and what needs replacing. Over time, you will succeed in both areas and find the perfect balance for your business.

8 Ways AI is Enhancing Efficiency and Innovation in Web Development

Author: Eleanor Hecks

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on nearly every industry has become apparent in 2023. Companies everywhere are looking at how they can implement machine learning ethically and transparently. AI web development is just one more niche in a long list of enterprises tapping into the power of machine learning.

Using it can save you time and money. AI helps perfect processes, speed up coding and ensure consistency. With more time to focus on the creative side of things, developers can brainstorm innovative new ideas. Here are eight ways AI is enhancing efficiency and innovation in web development.

1. Improved Customer Support

Chatbots utilizing AI technology have become quite popular in 2023. Almost immediately after OpenAI released ChatGPT in November 2022, businesses began to see the advantages of having a smart machine interact with customers, answer common questions and take on the role of basic customer support.

Chatbots are well suited to solve some things but not everything. In a Gartner survey, researchers found chatbots solved 58% of returns and cancellations but only 17% of billing disputes. Web development companies can utilize chatbots to handle canceled orders and answer basic questions, freeing up staff time to build a stronger workplace culture and better programs.

2. Better Customer Engagement

AI web development often focuses on the user experience (UX) to ensure the finished product solves a pain point for customers. Tapping into the power of AI allows programmers to run through massive amounts of data about the consumer base and spit out reports that offer insight into their needs and preferences.

In addition, you can use AI to test modules and ensure everything runs smoothly. The better the UX, the more reach you will gain with your website designs. Word-of-mouth marketing is a powerful, free form of advertising — when your product shines, you will attract more referrals.

3. Higher Efficiency

Utilizing AI allows you to save money and increase efficiency. Make a list of the menial tasks developers do in a day — anything repetitive can usually be automated to save time, reducing overhead costs.

Website development firms may pay big salaries to skilled workers within a niche development area. When you automate some tasks, you gain additional time for the person to work on creating a new app or reaching out to new customers.

4. Better Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Do not limit the use of AI to your development team, though — anyone on your staff can benefit from automation. The sales department can use it to create better customer relationships. Use CRM software to send a note to people on their birthdays, when a renewal is approaching or to announce a new product they might find beneficial.

CRM programs give companies insight into past buying behavior and predict future patterns. You can also use it to develop buyer personas to help with stronger marketing. Ideally, your team will work alongside one another with web developers, chatting with marketing and sales to come up with new software people want and ways to best promote it.

AI web development considers every touchpoint the user has from the first moment they land on the page until they convert into a buyer. When in doubt, the designer can run the concept through an AI model to see if there are any bottlenecks.

5. Employee Retention

If the 20% voluntary turnover rate remains or increases, keeping your top performers may become more difficult. Keeping your best staff saves you recruiting costs and lost time. If you have to replace someone who knows the job well, it takes time to find someone who can do the same tasks, train them and wait for them to build the skills.

It is better to keep the workers you have, but how does AI help with retention? You can use it to drive productive onboarding, train employees in weak areas and identify people who are dissatisfied with their jobs. HR can tap into the power of machines to customize employee packages and meet their individual needs.

6. Automated Personalization

The same data that goes into creating a personalized worker experience can be used to cater to customer needs. AI gives you a chance to collect behavioral data from buyers and see what they respond best to.

Tweak some aspects of a website based on how users interact with various features. Gather data and process it quickly for insight into where to place a call to action button or which offers people respond to best.

Many clients are looking for brands using the powerful insight AI offers, so you can use your development procedures to entice attractive offers. When they hear how you are tapping into machines to drive growth for your other clients, they will be more likely to sign up for a web development package.

7. Improved Security

The global cost of cybercrime is around $8 trillion annually, with a prediction of $13.8 trillion by 2028. Some of the ways you can use AI to help manage cybersecurity include using it for threat detection, where the computer tracks patterns for any sudden shifts in traffic or strange user behavior. It can then block IPs or shore up security on the spot.

You can also use AI for risk management and pinpointing weaknesses in a system. Offering your clients reassurance that you are on top of potential threats puts you ahead of smaller brands without the resources to track cybercrime.

Why You Should Turn to AI Web Development

AI web development offers many advantages to traditional methods, giving you more time to create amazing designs that help you stand out from competitors. Implementing it in your work improves efficiency and puts you ahead of the game.

Eleanor Hecks is editor-in-chief at Designerly Magazine. Eleanor was the creative director and occasional blog writer at a prominent digital marketing agency before becoming her own boss in 2018. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and dog, Bear.

Google’s Helpfulness Core Update: Write for People, Not for Robots

Author: Reddit

Google’s latest update, known as the Helpfulness update, is reshaping the landscape of SEO and content creation. Danny Sullivan, Google’s Search Liaison, has shed light on what constitutes ‘unhelpful content’ in the eyes of the world’s largest search engine. As an advocate for user-centric content, Sullivan underscores that the primary red flag for Google is content created with the intent to rank well in search results rather than to genuinely serve end users. While creating content that search engines can find is important, what is more important is remembering your true audience: people.

Stop writing content for search engines

Sullivan’s guidance is unambiguous: content written for search engines rather than human audiences is considered unhelpful. For instance, creating a list of “20 SEO Tricks to rank on Google” that are just common knowledge with the main goal of ranking for “SEO Tricks” instead of providing real value to readers exemplifies content that Google would label as unhelpful. This pivots the focus from search engine optimization to the actual value and relevance for the audience. This will likely have a serious negative impact on sites and pages that employ sketchy methods for keeping people scrolling, for example, recipe websites that bury the actual recipe under a deep bed of search engine bait text. This move is nothing new. We have seen similar updates to search ranking that target and derank unhelpful page designs to falsely increase SEO and SERPs while annoying visitors. The infamous slideshow article trick may immediately come to mind for SEO specialists who suffered through the age of the click-through wars. In the end, the message is simple: write for people, not for robots, because the goal is to create content that helps real people, and keeps the ‘robot’ of AI and SEO tools as a passive intermediary instead of the main target.

Highlights on the Google Helpfulness Core Update:

  • Danny Sullivan’s Warning: Google’s Search Liaison, Danny Sullivan, highlights the issue with content created mainly for search engine rankings rather than for human readers.
  • Criteria for Unhelpful Content: Writing content like top 10 lists mainly to rank for keywords is considered unhelpful by Google.
  • Content Creation Tools Caution: Using tools to find content topics might lead to content that Google deems unhelpful if the focus is on scoring rather than genuine content creation.
  • Guidance on Useful Content: Sullivan emphasizes creating people-first content that answers questions and provides value as opposed to search engine-first content.
  • Signals for Helpful Content: Google uses web signals to determine content helpfulness, favoring content that addresses user queries effectively.
  • Content and Quality Questions: Google suggests self-assessment questions regarding originality, comprehensiveness, insight, value, and credibility of content.
  • Expertise Matters: Questions surrounding the expertise involved in content creation are crucial for establishing trustworthiness.
  • Page Experience Significance: A good page experience across various aspects is important for high rankings in Google’s systems.
  • People-First Content Approach: Content should be created primarily for people, with a focus on expertise and satisfaction from the reader’s perspective.
  • Avoid Search Engine-First Tactics: Google discourages creating content solely to gain search engine rankings, warning against practices like keyword stuffing or chasing trending topics without genuine expertise.
  • SEO and Content Creation: While SEO is essential, it should complement people-first content rather than dominate the creation process.
  • Understanding E-E-A-T: Google uses E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) as a framework to identify high-quality content.
  • Quality Rater Guidelines: Google’s quality rater guidelines help creators understand how their content may be perceived by Google’s algorithms.
  • Content Evaluation Tips: Creators are encouraged to ask “Who, How, and Why” about their content to align with what Google’s systems reward.
  • Disclosures on Automation and AI: Transparency about the use of AI or automation in content creation can aid in establishing trust with readers.

Sullivan points out that relying excessively on tools to determine content topics can inadvertently lead to the production of unhelpful content. He suggests that content creators should prioritize the “who, how, and why” of content production over merely aiming for a high ‘score’ that would supposedly please search engines.

Answers a user’s question effectively

Responding to a query from Simone de Vlaming about how Google discerns the intent behind content, Sullivan explains that Google’s algorithms look for signals that align with what people generally consider helpful. Content that answers a user’s question effectively is likely to be seen as ‘people-first’ and, therefore, helpful.

crackdown on high-domain-authority news site exploits

The Helpfulness update has implications for SEO strategies. ‘Parasite SEO,’ which exploits high-domain-authority news sites for quick rankings, might take a hit if it dilutes the site’s primary focus. The use of AI in content creation could also be under scrutiny, especially if it leads to content that lacks firsthand expertise or appears automated without clear disclosure. For example, this article employed Ai to design the post image! (Which we are disclosing to you here, but also in our metadata.) ‘Tool-Optimized Content,’ like that created using SEO tools for research, (think SEMrush or AHREFS) will most likely not be at significant risk, since the bulk of research and content development is still person first, and provided it also caters to user needs and offers genuine value.

Focus on Topical Authority

Strategies likely to benefit from the update include building ‘Topical Authority,’ which entails creating focused content around a specific niche. Google favors sites with a clear primary purpose, and a concentration on topical authority aligns with that preference. For example, we allow guest posts but only from a select few and under a limited number of topics that we know our Louisville-local audience of website owners have an interest in. Additionally, content optimized for user metrics, such as minimizing the need for users to search elsewhere for better information, may gain traction. This speaks directly to E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) page and site structure goals. Make it easy for people to find what they want on your site and you will do well with the new helpfulness update.

Navigate the Helpfulness update successful

To navigate the Helpfulness update successfully, Google advises content creators to ask themselves key questions about the originality, comprehensiveness, and trustworthiness of their content. These questions address factors like spelling and stylistic issues, mass production, expertise, and the overall page experience. In plain terms, do you enjoy reading your own content? If not, you may want to rethink your content strategy.

People-First Content is essential

The main emphasis, if you have not already noticed, is on ‘People-First Content.’ Google encourages content creators to craft material that serves their intended audience with depth and expertise. Conversely, ‘Search Engine-First Content’ should be avoided, as it is made primarily for ranking purposes and could lead to penalties. The good news is this is a “if you know you know” situation. If you are not sure what that means there is a good chance you are already doing the right thing because your content is guided by human interaction and your very real experiences that you want to share. If however you are using so many SEO tools to create content that becoming a cyborg is starting to appeal to you, I would strongly suggest taking a step back and taking a “Touch Grass” approach to your content strategy. Slip on your real-world experience and write from the heart. You don’t have to produce The Lord of the Rings or the Magna Carta for each new post, but try to come at it from a perspective that what you write needs to be engaging and influential in a real and authentic way.

A call to action for content with integrity, authenticity, and audience Focus

Google’s Helpfulness update is a call to action for creators to produce content with integrity, authenticity, and a focus on the audience. By aligning with Google’s guidance, content creators can ensure they are contributing positively to the vast pool of online information and standing out in the digital arena.

Helpful Links and resources on Raising the Bar for Content Quality:

Creating helpful, reliable, people-first content https://developers.google.com/search/docs/fundamentals/creating-helpful-content

Google Search Status Dashboard
https://status.search.google.com/products/rGHU1u87FJnkP6W2GwMi/history

Interested in seeing what SEOs are saying about the Helpfulness update on Reddit? Check out this thread started by Matt Diggety:

Thoughts on the Google "Helpful Content" Update
byu/matt_diggity inSEO

Planning a website for a Business Improvement District (BID), City, or Community

Author: Gideon Harrington

Creating a website for a Business Improvement District (BID), city, or district is a significant task that requires careful planning and the right expertise. One common method used to find a website designer is through a Request for Proposals (RFP) system. However, relying solely on an RFP without seeking a subject matter expert can lead to challenges and may not yield the best results. Here are some helpful tips and guidelines on planning a BID, city or community website design or redesign. Keep these in mind as you begin your search for the best city website designer for your project.

Business Improvement District (BID) Website Design for American Cities

The Business Improvement District (BID) has become an invaluable asset in fostering the growth and prosperity of local businesses and communities across American cities. By collaborating with local authorities, BIDs work to create enhanced trading environments that benefit both businesses and the community at large.

At Design Web Local, we understand the critical role that clear and effective communication plays in building the profile of a BID and increasing foot traffic to local businesses. Our expertise in website design for BIDs ensures that all relevant information is easily accessible, helping to connect local business owners with visitors and the community.

What Should a BID or City Website Include?

A BID website serves as a central hub for information and engagement. Key features of a BID website designed by Design Web Local may include:

  • A comprehensive shop directory
  • An interactive map of the BID area
  • Updates on the latest news and events
  • Live feeds of social media activity
  • Video libraries showcasing events, activities, and promotions
  • A newsletter signup feature
  • A responsive website design for optimal viewing on all devices
  • Live chat support for instant visitor assistance
Download City Website Planner Outline

Essential Elements for a BID, City, or District Website

When designing a website for a BID, city, or district, there are several key elements to consider:

  1. Clear Navigation: Ensure that the website has a user-friendly navigation structure, making it easy for visitors to find the information they need.
  2. Interactive Maps: Include interactive maps that highlight key areas, businesses, and attractions within the district.
  3. Event Calendar: Provide a comprehensive event calendar that showcases upcoming events, meetings, and community activities.
  4. Business Directory: Create a directory of businesses within the district, categorized for easy searchability.
  5. News and Updates: Have a section for news and updates to keep the community informed about the latest developments.
  6. Contact Information: Clearly display contact information for the BID office and other key contacts.
  7. Mobile Responsiveness: Ensure that the website is mobile-friendly, as many users will access it from their smartphones.
  8. Social Media Integration: Integrate social media feeds and provide links to the BID’s social media profiles.
  9. Accessibility: Make sure the website is accessible to individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA compliance standards.
  10. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize the website for search engines to increase visibility and attract more visitors.

By finding the right subject matter expert and considering these essential elements, you can create a website that effectively serves the needs of your BID, city, or district, and fosters a strong sense of community and engagement.

Comprehensive Features for Government, City and Municipal Websites

Our innovative content management system is meticulously crafted to cater to the unique needs of local governments, ensuring seamless communication and efficient service delivery to communities. We offer an extensive array of features, including detailed agendas, dynamic calendars, up-to-date news sections, and comprehensive facility listings, all designed to create a user-friendly experience for both residents and government staff.

Beyond these fundamental elements, our platform is capable of integrating custom interactive maps, providing a visual and interactive layer to your community’s resources and points of interest. Whether it’s art installations, public facilities, or event locations, our maps ensure that residents and visitors alike can easily navigate and connect with the city.

Our city-centered website system boasts compatibility with a variety of GIS services and integrable services, ensuring that you can sync with platforms such as Google and Waze for real-time updates and navigational assistance. We also offer integration with KPI data and spreadsheets, allowing for a comprehensive overview and analysis of city metrics and performance indicators.

Our team of experienced community content management designers are not just about finding ways to present information; we are about enhancing the way local governments interact with their communities, providing a centralized hub for all necessary resources and services. With our website platform, you can ensure that your community stays connected, informed, and engaged, fostering a stronger sense of community and streamlined government operations.

What is a Business Improvement District, and why does it need a website?

Much like a city unto itself, a Business Improvement District is a collaborative effort between local businesses and authorities to enhance the local trading environment. Through a ballot process, local businesses agree to contribute to a levy, which is then used to fund projects and services that benefit the local area. These improvements can range from enhanced safety and security measures to environmental enhancements and more. Having a website allows you to clearly communicate not only important community information but also highlight all the services and benefits you bring to your members.

The Pitfalls of RFPs Without Expert Guidance

An RFP system allows organizations to solicit bids from various vendors for a project. While this can be an effective way to gather a range of proposals, it has its limitations, especially when it comes to specialized projects like website design for a BID or city. Without the input of a subject matter expert, the RFP may lack the necessary details and criteria to attract the right vendors. Additionally, evaluators may not have the expertise to assess the proposals accurately, leading to a suboptimal choice.

Finding a Subject Matter Expert in BID Website Design

To ensure the success of your website project, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of a subject matter expert in BID website design. Here are some tips on how to find one:

  1. Industry Associations: Look for associations related to urban development, city planning, or business improvement districts. They often have directories of experts or can provide recommendations.
  2. Online Communities: Join online forums and communities where professionals in BID management and urban development discuss best practices and share recommendations.
  3. Portfolio Review: Look for website design agencies with a strong portfolio in BID or city websites. Review their past work to assess their expertise.
  4. Ask for Referrals: Reach out to other BIDs, cities, or districts that have recently undergone a website redesign and ask for referrals.
  5. Check Credentials: Ensure that the expert or agency has the necessary credentials and experience in working with BIDs, cities, or districts.

Reliable Website Design for Governments and Community

With Design Web Local, you can trust that your website will be a reliable resource for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Our team of experts will work with you to create a website that reflects the spirit of your community, ensuring that all content is up-to-date, accessible, and engaging. Our Websites are easy to manage on your own and affordable to have updated by our team.

Your Municipal Website Design: Delivering a Positive User Experience

At Design Web Local, we specialize in creating websites that serve the unique needs of local municipal communications and tourism marketing. Our goal is to ensure that your website is not only accessible to all residents but also provides them with the tools and information they need to engage with their community.

Why Choose Design Web Local for Your BID or City Website Design?

Our expertise in local municipal communications and tourism marketing uniquely positions us to understand the specific needs of BIDs, cities, and districts. We are committed to creating websites that not only look great but also serve as valuable tools for community engagement and growth.

Contact Design Web Local today to start the journey towards a more connected and engaged community through a beautifully designed and functional BID website

What Emerging IoT Trends Should Businesses Pay Attention To?

Author: Eleanor Hecks

You must pay attention to the latest innovations coming to the Internet of Things. IoT devices complement many other advanced technologies, so people are starting to combine them. These emerging IoT trends stand to revolutionize how businesses use the technology.

How Are IoT Trends Evolving Technology?

Emerging IoT trends are evolving technology into something entirely new. It combines with the most advanced, popular innovations to create something never before seen. The IoT as you know it may soon change forever.

In 2022, IoT startups secured the highest amount of funding they had received since 2012. They collected an average of nearly $16 million, a 30% increase from 2021. People saw the emerging trends of 2023 and decided they needed to be a part of the technological innovation.

The market for IoT devices dipped over 20% in 2022. However, they still secured incredibly high funding because investors believed the upcoming trends would revolutionize the technology. How much money they receive gives businesses a direct insight into its future. In this case, it is a clear indication of success.

What Are the Emerging IoT Trends?

The emerging IoT trends offer new takes on traditional devices. While some incorporate other well-known technologies, others create something entirely new.

  1. Automation

Many emerging trends combine IoT devices with other advanced technologies. Automation has been a massive success for many businesses and is among the most popular. Although it has existed for a few years, it is only starting to pick up speed.

Many companies use IoT in robotic automation. For example, FedEx has used it for five years to organize and distribute mail, replacing traditional carriers. Most businesses rely partially on e-commerce sales, so they would benefit from technology that can package, label and ship products.

Even if you do not ship items to customers, you should pay attention to this trend because it has many real-world uses. No matter your industry, you can automate some of your responsibilities with IoT devices. It could streamline your processes, increasing accuracy and profit.

  1. Artificial Internet of Things

Artificial intelligence in IoT — what people call AIoT — is one of the latest IoT trends. It combines artificial intelligence with traditional IoT technology. However, the extent of its presence differs depending on the device’s purpose.

Incorporating AI into IoT allows businesses to rapidly analyze data, make accurate predictions and run things smoothly. The simplest form of AIoT uses an algorithm to process information, while the more advanced version makes the devices operate independently.

Much of the buzz around it comes from the potential for peer-to-peer communication where each IoT device interacts with others. They already have a constant connection to the internet, so establishing one between a group of them is a minor leap.

  1. Asset Tracking

A business owner is no stranger to supply chain delays and surprises, considering everything from a bad storm to a foreign conflict can disrupt things. IoT asset tracking can give immediate updates on an item’s location.

You can use remote IoT tracking to find packages in real time, no matter where you are. It improves traceability, helping you reduce losses. All you have to do is put a device on a pallet to keep track of its whereabouts the entire time it is in transit.

On top of tracking where products are, IoT asset tracking can tell you if they break in transit. The sensors can detect minor changes and alert you to potential damage. This technology can even improve your brand’s reputation since you can resolve the issue before your customer receives a defective item.

  1. Digital Twins

A digital twin is a virtual copy of a physical object. Basically, it is an advanced version of traditional simulations. You use IoT sensors to map whatever item you want to visualize to monitor it in real time or simulate it after a change.

A digital twin can handle thousands of variables simultaneously, so you can use it for complex situations. For example, you could simulate how your new packaging design will function. You can use a digital twin instead of repeatedly building and testing prototypes.

It is also helpful for visualization. A digital twin can help you if you want to keep track of something remotely. Since it is a replica of the item in a digital format, you can monitor it even if you are not close to it. If something on the actual object begins to malfunction, you can consult the copy to understand how to troubleshoot things.

  1. New Regulations

Regulations have begun to appear because of the rapid appearance of new IoT trends. Businesses should be aware of each new law to protect themselves as they adopt the technology. Regulatory bodies want to set ground rules as more industries use it.

For instance, the European Commission accepted a data protection act in 2023. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission proposed mandatory cybersecurity labels for IoT devices in the same year.

What Can Businesses Do to Prepare?

Businesses can analyze their needs to prepare for upcoming IoT trends. Once they identify where to use the technology, they can figure out how to implement it. While AIoT may be the best choice for one company, automation may be vital for another, depending on their individual needs.

Whatever they choose, it is a good idea to act now since the technology is only getting bigger. In 2023, the amount of IoT devices reached 15.14 billion globally. Experts expect the number will continue to rise and reach nearly 29.5 billion as early as 2030. They can take advantage of the growth if they prepare for it.

Follow the Trends

Businesses can benefit from paying attention to emerging IoT trends revolutionizing technology. You could use it to automate your e-commerce packaging, test new product prototypes digitally or predict supply chain delays. Ultimately, it could improve your company’s operations and elevate your digital processes.

Eleanor Hecks is editor-in-chief at Designerly Magazine. Eleanor was the creative director and occasional blog writer at a prominent digital marketing agency before becoming her own boss in 2018. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and dog, Bear.

Next-Level Campaigns: How AI Supercharges Customer Acquisition and Retention

Author: Sean H.

Customer acquisition and retention are necessary for businesses to succeed. Acquiring new customers allows companies to grow, but they must also retain them to guarantee brand loyalty and sustainable profitability.

Consumers are constantly shifting their preferences and behaviors, making it challenging for companies to reach target audiences with effective campaigns. However, with artificial intelligence (AI) by your side and the right data, you can better understand, attract and retain your customer base.

A Brief Overview of How AI Works

AI helps marketers by analyzing large amounts of data in a shorter time. Companies have always used data to learn about their customers. Yet, before AI came into the picture, businesses used traditional marketing methods that often relied on broader information.

Today, the global AI market comes to $142.3 billion, and companies use it to identify specific customer behaviors, preferences and patterns. Marketers create more targeted and personalized campaigns using algorithms to sift through data sources like website visits, social media interactions and purchase histories.

This information provides a deep view of customers’ habits and what they like. With these insights, businesses craft messages and offers that resonate directly with individual users. As a result, potential customers are more likely to engage because those messages capture their attention.

Essentially, AI eliminates much guesswork and ensures you use your resources efficiently to reach the right audience on time.

Personalized Marketing Messages and Recommendations

AI takes personalization to a whole new level by understanding each customer. One way it personalizes marketing is through product recommendations.

For instance, when users visit an e-commerce site, AI analyzes their browsing behavior, past purchases and abandoned carts. It uses this information to suggest products they are likely to buy. However, this method requires more than showing relevant products — it also needs you to present them at the right moment in the user’s journey.

Email marketing has also benefited from AI’s personalization capabilities. Instead of sending generic newsletters, companies can now send emails that provide specific solutions to their customers’ needs. From subject lines that capture attention to content that addresses their interests, AI ensures every email feels individually crafted.

In social media advertising, AI looks at users’ interactions, likes, shares and comments to display ads that relate to their interests and values. It ensures each message caters to the individual to increase engagement and customer interest.

Optimizes Ad Campaigns

Optimizing an ad campaign has become highly sophisticated with the integration of AI. AI assists businesses in ensuring their advertising efforts are on point through various techniques:

  • Dynamic pricing: AI analyzes real-time market demand, competitor pricing and other factors to adjust ad bids automatically. This analysis ensures companies get the best value for their ad spend while maximizing visibility.
  • Audience segmentation: Instead of broad demographic groups, AI creates micro-segments based on behaviors and past interactions. This allows for highly targeted ad campaigns that cater to specific audiences.
  • A/B testing at scale: While traditional A/B testing compares two versions of an ad, AI can test multiple variations simultaneously. It analyzes which elements — like headlines, images or calls-to-action — perform the best.
  • Predictive analysis: AI forecasts how likely a particular ad is to convert based on historical data and user behavior. This predictive insight allows businesses to allocate their budgets better — pushing resources toward advertisements likely to yield higher results.
  • Multichannel optimization: AI focuses on more than one platform by evaluating the performance of ads across various channels — from social media to search engines.
  • Real-time adjustments: Market conditions and user behaviors can change rapidly. Therefore, AI-driven platforms become useful as they react in real time to tweak campaigns to adjust to these changes.

Predicts Customer Needs

AI may be able to capture data and analyze it for campaigns. However, the interesting part is that it can predict future trends by analyzing past behaviors. With its predictive capabilities, you can address customer needs before they arise.

AI achieves this by looking for patterns in your customer data. These could be things your customers have purchased or time spent on particular pages. From there, AI determines what a customer is interested in or might look for in the future.

For example, a customer who checks out athletic gear often may be interested in a new sportswear line. The company can then use this information to promote the products, instantly saving time and money from studying customers’ preferences and behaviors.

Beyond looking at individual behaviors, AI also analyzes global trends. By examining broader market patterns and predicting upcoming trends with AI, your business can always be a step ahead in its offerings.

Automates Customer Communication

Effective communication is crucial in establishing and maintaining customer relationships. Communication helps customers get answers to their questions, build trust with a brand and solve problems. However, low-priority communications often take up much of your customer support team’s time.

When AI automates simple requests, customer support can better care for customers with larger issues. For example, AI could help customers find what they want on the business’s website. Hubspot found that 78% of customer support agents use AI and automation because they say it lets them spend their time on more important aspects of their role.

One of the most popular ways companies do this is through chatbots. These tools handle numerous customer inquiries in real time, providing instant answers and solutions. AI chatbots can understand and respond to user queries. The interaction feels smooth and natural, and more customers are satisfied with the help they receive.

Using AI Marketing for Customer Acquisition and Retention

AI has certainly changed the way marketers reach and retain new customers. Whether it is through personalized messaging or product recommendations, businesses witnessed the power behind it to engage with customers in previously unimaginable ways. Pinpoint some areas where you could use AI in your business and start taking customer acquisition to another level today.

Eleanor Hecks is editor-in-chief at Designerly Magazine. Eleanor was the creative director and occasional blog writer at a prominent digital marketing agency before becoming her own boss in 2018. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and dog, Bear.