by threshold | Feb 24, 2024 | Creative, Design, Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web, Thought Leadership
With millions of websites competing for attention in today’s digital age, ensuring that your site stands out from the crowd is essential. Here are our top tips to help you achieve a memorable and engaging website design that will attract and retain visitors.
know who you are.
The importance of having a strong brand identity can’t be overstated. Before diving into the web design process, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your brand’s visual identity and voice. Your website should reflect your brand’s personality and values while speaking to your target audience, whether it’s students, professionals, or families.
Use consistent design elements such as colors, typography, and graphics throughout your site to create a cohesive visitor experience.
design is psychology. use it to your advantage.
Our brains are wired to process information in specific ways, and design can leverage these cognitive tendencies. Visual hierarchy is a powerful tool that can guide users’ attention to the important parts of your website through the use of headlines, images, and eye-catching CTAs. A good design can influence what a user sees first and how they interact with your site.
Emotions are heavy hitters when it comes to people’s decision-making processes. Evoking the right emotions through a design—whether it’s a sense of trust, excitement, or nostalgia—can help foster a stronger connection between the user and the brand.
Another psychological tool you can use to elevate your website is something called the principle of social proof. For better or for worse, we live in an age of social influence and people are more likely to take action if they see others doing the same. Incorporating testimonials, reviews, and user-generated content can help build trust and credibility with visitors, encouraging them to engage further with your website.
dare to be different.
While it’s essential to adhere to design principles and best practices, don’t be afraid to break the mold and experiment with unconventional elements in your website design.
For example, the internet is made up of boxes—people are used to seeing grid-like layouts. Consider shaking things up by using an asymmetrical layout to create visual interest. Experiment with big, bold typography choices, vibrant color schemes, or whimsical illustrations to infuse personality into your website. Introducing unexpected elements can surprise and delight visitors, making your website more memorable.
By daring to be different and embracing unconventional elements in your website design, you can set your site apart from the competition and create a unique online experience for visitors. Remember to stay true to your brand identity and objectives while pushing the boundaries of what’s been done before.
don’t forget about user experience (ux)!
When considering these things, it’s crucial to strike a balance between creativity and usability. Ensure that unconventional elements enhance rather than detract from the overall user experience. Nobody likes a site that’s hard to navigate! Conduct user testing to gather feedback and make adjustments as needed to ensure that your design choices resonate with your target audience.
final thoughts.
By following these tips and implementing thoughtful design strategies, you can make your website stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on visitors. Remember to continuously monitor and optimize your website’s performance to ensure that it remains relevant and engaging in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
We recognize the uniqueness of each brand and the importance of individual visions. By seamlessly integrating client ideas with our technical expertise, we produce websites that not only meet but exceed the expectations of the target audience.
Whether you’re a startup looking for a bold online debut or an established business in need of a digital facelift, Threshold is ready to cater to your specific needs. Our bespoke solutions take into account your brand identity, target audience, and business objectives, ensuring that the end result is more than just a website – it’s a strategic tool for growth and engagement.
In the dynamic world of web development, Threshold remains your trustworthy ally, navigating complexities with finesse. Entrust us with your digital aspirations, and witness as we transform your vision into a tangible reality, connecting you with your audience in meaningful ways. Allow us to be the catalyst to elevate your brand, captivate your audience, and explore the limitless possibilities of web development together.
about the author.
When we think about someone who can literally do it all, Heather is always the first one to come to mind. From designing and developing stunning websites that always out-perform, to understanding branding in a way that would put even the most experienced professionals to shame, Heather is our go-to girl in all things creative.
by threshold | Jan 19, 2024 | Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web, Thought Leadership
Ava Page
As we set sail into the ever-evolving realm of digital marketing, staying attuned to the latest social media trends is paramount. At Threshold Agency, we’re your compass in the vast sea of possibilities, guiding you through the social media landscape that is set to define marketing in 2024 with a blend of professionalism and a light touch.
video continues to reign.
In the age of short attention spans, video content remains king. Threshold Agency leverages this trend, crafting engaging video narratives that captivate your audience and elevate your brand’s storytelling.
interactive content takes center stage.
The era of passive scrolling is evolving into interactive engagement. From polls and quizzes to immersive experiences, Threshold Agency taps into the allure of interactive content, creating meaningful connections with your audience.
authenticity Is non-negotiable.
In a world saturated with content, authenticity emerges as the true currency. Threshold Agency fosters genuine connections by humanizing your brand, emphasizing real stories, and creating a relatable online presence that resonates with your audience.
rise of social commerce.
Shopping is becoming more social than ever. Threshold Agency navigates the social commerce landscape, integrating seamless shopping experiences into social platforms to convert engagement into sales and elevate your brand’s online retail presence.
sustainability as a core value.
As environmental awareness grows, so does the importance of sustainable practices. Threshold Agency aligns your brand with eco-conscious values, integrating sustainability into your social media presence to connect with the socially responsible consumer of 2024.
AI-driven personalization.
Tailoring content to individual preferences is the future of social media marketing. Threshold Agency harnesses the power of AI to deliver personalized experiences, ensuring your brand speaks directly to the unique interests and needs of your audience.
community building beyond platforms.
Beyond likes and shares, the focus is shifting to community building. Threshold Agency fosters vibrant brand communities, creating spaces where your audience can engage, share experiences, and become advocates for your brand.
to sum things up.
As the tides of social media trends shape the marketing landscape in 2024, Threshold Agency stands at the helm, ready to navigate and capitalize on these shifts. Our commitment is to infuse your brand with the perfect blend of professionalism and a light touch, ensuring you ride the waves of innovation with confidence and success.
Step into the future of marketing with Threshold as your trusted guide.
before you go.
For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website!
You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
about the author.
Ava is the SEO & Paid Media Specialist at Threshold.
In her role, she is responsible for the content creation and management of all Threshold and PromoShak social channels, blog content, and SEO maintenance, and aids in digital marketing strategies both internal and client-facing.
When she’s not busy creating content, you can usually find her picking out new plants, island-hopping, watching Duke basketball, or spending time with her fur babies.
by threshold | Nov 10, 2023 | Digital Marketing, Financial Marketing, General, Marketing, Thought Leadership
Jenny Paul
The landscape of the banking industry is in a constant state of evolution, especially in the digital sphere. As we delve into 2024, the key to staying ahead lies in understanding
emerging trends and harnessing the expertise of advertisers to effectively market banking products.
Let’s explore some pivotal trends shaping the banking sector and how advertisers can play a key role in communicating these financial offerings.
2024 banking trends: a snapshot.
data-centric strategies.
The effective utilization of data remains paramount for banks and credit unions. Targeted marketing based on customer insights and behaviors is key to driving
engagement and conversions. Advertisers equipped with analytical tools can assist in crafting data-driven campaigns that resonate with specific customer segments.
personalized customer experiences.
Customers expect tailored experiences. Banks are increasingly focusing on personalization to deliver relevant services and offerings. Advertisers can aid in creating
personalized content across various channels, optimizing customer journeys, and enhancing user experiences on digital platforms.
emphasis on digital channels.
The digital shift in banking continues to accelerate. Online banking, mobile apps, and digital payment solutions are becoming the norm. Advertisers well-versed
in digital marketing strategies can help banks capitalize on these platforms, ensuring visibility and engagement through targeted digital campaigns.
rise of fintech collaboration.
Collaboration between traditional financial institutions and FinTech firms is on the rise. Advertisers can assist in showcasing these partnerships, highlighting
innovative solutions and services that emerge from such collaborations, fostering trust and credibility among customers.
the role of advertisers in banking product
promotion.
strategic campaign development.
Advertisers bring expertise in developing strategic marketing campaigns tailored to the banking sector. They can identify the unique selling propositions of
financial products and craft compelling narratives that resonate with the target audience.
utilizing multi-channel marketing.
Effective advertisers understand the importance of a multi-channel approach. They can leverage various platforms – social media, email marketing, search engine
advertising, etc. – to ensure comprehensive coverage and engagement across diverse customer segments.
optimizing user experience.
Advertisers play a crucial role in optimizing the user experience. They can collaborate with banks to design intuitive interfaces, mobile apps, and websites that simplify
banking processes, creating seamless and user-friendly experiences.
adapting to changing trends.
Advertisers constantly monitor industry trends and consumer behavior shifts. Their agility in adapting campaigns to align with evolving trends ensures that banking
products stay relevant and competitive in the market.
looking forward: the collaborative future.
The banking landscape in 2024 presents immense opportunities for growth and innovation. However, to navigate this complex terrain successfully, collaboration
between financial institutions and advertisers is indispensable. By leveraging the expertise of advertisers, banks can effectively communicate the value of their
products and services, driving customer engagement and loyalty.
to sum things up.
As we embrace the dynamic trends in banking, the role of advertisers becomes pivotal in shaping the success of banking product promotion. Their ability to strategize,
innovate, and adapt will be instrumental in propelling the banking industry forward in 2024 and beyond.
about the author.
Jenny is a senior CSM who handles all things financial marketing – literally. When it comes to financial institutions and their marketing campaigns, there isn’t a question she
can’t answer, or a problem she can’t fix. She keeps the ship floating, and makes it look effortless.
When she’s not acting as a guru for our CSM team, you can find her spending time with her kiddos, probably doing something adventurous and amazing.
by threshold | Oct 13, 2023 | Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web, Thought Leadership
Alfred Perez – digital marketing manager.
press start.
Ever thought of pairing your marketing efforts with video games? You just might after reading this.
Video games have seen a significant upward trajectory for the past few years. Much of the growth was due to the increase in player base, the mobile gaming boom, e-sports, and streaming platforms like Twitch. The number of eyes going towards video games has continued to capture the attention of brands trying to effectively get in front of their audience. Video games have slowly, but surely found ways to promote ads through their medium.
Here are a few examples of how to advertise in video games:
in-game billboards and posters.
Modern video games include billboards, posters, and signs in virtual worlds. Brands can pay for ad space on these in-game assets. These advertisements can be static images or even videos, making them highly visible to players. Planning truly needs to be at the forefront of this marketing strategy because video games are a worldwide medium so the brand should be worldwide as well for this to really be effective.
product placement.
Brands can negotiate product placement deals with game developers to have their products or logos featured within the game’s environment. This can include items, vehicles, or clothing that prominently display the brand. Pretty cool, right?
sponsored game content.
Brands can sponsor specific in-game content, such as events, challenges, or game modes. Time to pick your favorite level!
sponsored streams.
Brands can negotiate terms with popular streamers about promoting their product or service through the streamer’s channel to reach their specific audience. This can include logos throughout the stream, in-channel ad breaks or an ad read from the streamer like a podcaster would.
branded virtual items.
In some games, players can purchase or earn virtual items like clothing, accessories, or skins for characters or objects. Brands can create branded virtual items for players to use in the game, increasing brand visibility. It’s swag time.
playable ads.
Some mobile games offer playable ads where players can engage with a mini-version of the advertised game within the ad itself. If players enjoy the mini-game, they may be more likely to download and play the full game.
interactive advertisements.
Interactive ads can appear on loading screens, pause menus, or as part of the game’s storyline. These ads may require players to engage with them in some way, such as clicking, swiping, or solving puzzles.
video ads.
Short video advertisements can be shown to players as they progress through a game or during natural breaks in gameplay. These ads can be skippable or non-skippable, and they often reward players with in-game currency or other benefits for watching. An example of this would be Amazon’s video game streaming service Twitch which is comparable to how Google’s YouTube video ads work.
native advertising.
Some games incorporate advertising seamlessly into the game’s narrative or environment, making it feel like a natural part of the gameplay. This can include characters using real-world products or references to real-world events. Ready to explore your game-writing abilities?
advergames.
Advergames are video games created specifically for marketing purposes. These games often feature branded characters, themes, or products and can be used to engage and entertain potential customers.
live events and tournaments.
Brands can sponsor or host live in-game events or tournaments, where players compete for prizes or recognition. These events can be streamed on platforms like Twitch, expanding the reach of the brand.
the end game.
It’s essential for brands to choose the right games, streamers and/or advertising methods that align with their target audience and marketing objectives. You don’t want your marketing to feel forced or out of place. Additionally, respecting the gaming experience and ensuring that ads enhance rather than disrupt gameplay is crucial for the success of in-game advertising.
Now plug in that X-box and get going!
before you go.
For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website!
You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
about the author.
Alfred is the Digital Marketing Manager at Threshold, which means he’s basically a wizard when it comes to all things digital. When Alfred’s not monitoring and activating digital services for our clients to deliver the best possible results, you can probably find him playing video games, visiting local Austin breweries, and playing rec sports with his friends.
He also loves to cook, but isn’t a fan of doing the dishes that accompany cooking a meal – but really, who can blame him?
by threshold | Sep 14, 2023 | Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web, Thought Leadership
Michael Pratt
How do you stand out in a sea of competition? By guiding your audience through a killer experience.
Effective UI/UX design is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of successful digital marketing endeavors. And within the real estate industry, where visual appeal and user engagement are paramount, crafting immersive digital experiences is crucial.
We’re sharing the secret sauce to engaging your audience below, so don’t click away just yet!
first impressions. they’re kind of a big deal.
UI, the visual layout and aesthetics, and UX, the overall user experience, profoundly impact initial impressions.
In real estate marketing, where potential residents will turn away if properties aren’t presented in the best light, a well-designed and intuitive website fosters trust and encourages visitors to go down a rabbit hole of site exploring.
make every visitor a navigator pro.
In real estate marketing, streamlined navigation is, well, kind of essential. Intuitive UI/UX design ensures potential buyers can effortlessly browse listings, view property details, and access contact information.
A seamless navigation experience enhances user satisfaction and encourages conversion. Cha-ching!
tap into those emotions.
Effective UI/UX evokes emotional connections. High-quality imagery, immersive virtual tours, and engaging property descriptions amplify the emotional resonance of a property. What does this do? Lots.
Emotional engagement strengthens branding and increases the likelihood of prospective buyers reaching out.
not local? not a problem.
Navigating a real estate website should mirror the ease of visiting a property in person. Effective UI/UX ensures intuitive property categorization, filtering, and detailed property information presentation.
So even if your prospects aren’t local to the property location, this seamless exploration process enhances their satisfaction and encourages extended engagement.
get people inquiring about you.
UI/UX design influences users’ interaction with contact forms, chatbots, and other communication channels. Streamlined interfaces facilitate inquiries and foster trust, ultimately translating into increased lead generation.
to wrap it all up.
The potency of UI/UX design in real estate marketing cannot be underestimated. As online interactions increasingly shape buyers’ decisions, a strategic focus on immersive, user-centric experiences is paramount.
Don’t be discouraged! Threshold is an expert in this domain, employing innovative UI/UX strategies that truly transform real estate marketing.
By cultivating emotional engagement, streamlining interactions, and delivering personalized experiences, we underscore the potential of UI/UX to redefine success in the dynamic landscape of real estate marketing.
by threshold | Aug 9, 2023 | Digital Marketing, Tech/Web, Thought Leadership
Anooj Francis
A robust online presence is crucial for businesses to succeed in today’s fast-paced digital world. As a trusted web development agency, we understand the importance of choosing the right hosting provider for your WordPress website. Among the many options available, WP Engine stands out as a game-changer. Here we will delve into the exceptional benefits of hosting your WordPress website with WP Engine and how it can elevate your online success.
unmatched performance.
When it comes to website performance, speed is paramount. WP Engine boasts an unparalleled infrastructure, utilizing cutting-edge technology to optimize page loading times. Their servers are purpose-built for WordPress, ensuring lightning-fast loading speeds for your website. This translates into better user experiences, higher search engine rankings, and increased customer engagement.
enhanced security measures.
Security is a top concern for any website owner, and WP Engine takes this responsibility seriously. With robust security features and proactive monitoring, they provide a fortress-like environment for your website. WP Engine automatically updates WordPress and its plugins, guards against malware, and conducts regular backups, ensuring your data is always safe and secure.
hassle-free WordPress updates.
Keeping your WordPress core and plugins up-to-date is vital for maintaining a secure website. WP Engine handles all updates for you, saving you time and effort. They thoroughly test updates before implementing them, minimizing the risk of compatibility issues and potential website downtime.
scalability for growth.
As your business expands, so will your website’s needs. WP Engine offers seamless scalability, effortlessly accommodating increased traffic and resource demands. Whether it’s a surge in visitors or the addition of new features, WP Engine ensures your website performs optimally, no matter the scale.
top-notch customer support.
Nothing is more frustrating than encountering technical issues with your website and waiting endlessly for support. WP Engine sets itself apart with its exceptional customer support team, which is available 24/7. Their WordPress experts are ready to assist you at any time, swiftly resolving your concerns, so you can focus on what matters most – your business.
global reach with CDN integration.
WP Engine leverages Cloudflare’s powerful CDN, ensuring your website’s content is distributed across a vast network of servers worldwide. This results in faster page load times and improved user experiences for visitors from around the globe while reducing requests to the WP Engine origin server.
staging environment for testing.
WP Engine provides a staging environment, allowing you to test changes and updates to your website before making them live. This invaluable feature ensures that any modifications are thoroughly reviewed and optimized, reducing the risk of potential errors impacting your live site.
managed backups for peace of mind.
Accidents happen, but you can rest easy with WP Engine’s managed backups. They automatically create backups of your website, allowing you to restore it to a previous state with just a few clicks. This feature is a lifeline in case of data loss, ensuring your valuable content remains intact.
to conclude.
Partnering with WP Engine for hosting your WordPress website can be a game-changing decision for your online business. The unmatched performance, enhanced security measures, seamless scalability, and exceptional customer support ensure that your website operates at its full potential.
We highly recommend WP Engine at Threshold for its reliability, advanced features, and commitment to empowering businesses. Please get in touch with us if you wish to explore the possibilities with WP Engine or discuss any other aspect of your website. We are here to help you maximize online success and take your business to new heights.
For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website!
You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
