One focus

Websites that are dedicated to individual movies have always been interesting to me. Fans and future fans get the opportunity to learn about the film, the characters, and any other tidbits they can pick up before they see the movie. I’m using the Avengers movie website as an example, partly because I’m desperate to see it, and partly because the website is awesome both visually and organizationally. 

This site has a basic menu bar that easily allows viewers to navigate from one page to the next. In this instance the menu bar enables people to learn about the characters, the music, see pictures, and pick up on any updates before the movie comes out. The site is also full of movement, color, and intensity. The information is eye catching, while the music puts the viewer on edge.

All of the effects are meant to compel audiences to watch the film. If sites like this are impressive enough, they hold the power to sway the undecided, reaffirm the need to watch from the devoted, and pull in new faces.

Promotional websites are powerful marketing tools.  

Sometimes you shouldn't do it yourself

When attempting to put a piece of Ikea furniture together, things can either go very well, or horribly, horribly, HORRIBLY wrong. The directions appear to be simple and straight to the point. Unfortunately, halfway through the process it feels like the instructions have switched to a different language. Frustration takes over shortly after, and anger is the only outcome.

I found this parody of the Ikea building experience, and I think it sums things up nicely.

Excluding the final two steps, I believe many people have been in the same boat. I don’t think that there is anything Ikea can do as a company to make the directions clearer. It has to do with the people buying the furniture. Not everyone is meant to build things on his or her own. The sooner people come to terms with that the better. 

Buitoni tells a story...

Buitoni, a company best known for its extraordinary pasta selection, uses a story to identify with customers. Buitoni products are “artfully prepared,” and that is the greatest point emphasized in all advertising stemming from this establishment.

In the commercial above, the pasta is compared to a rich opera voice, priceless art, and historic monuments. A price cannot be put on those things. Buitoni products have just as much culture, history, tradition, AND they can be purchased at your local grocery store.

The comparison is ingenious. The use of a giant scanner adds an element of humor while making a clear point. Furthermore, even if you don’t know of the opera singer, the name of the painting in the museum, or the significance of the statue, you understand that it is art. Based on this advertisement, Buitoni is considered to be on the same level.