http://eduardorandom.blogspot.com/2013/05/reviewing-past-posts-till-present.html?showComment=1368317341648
http://briantbenham.blogspot.com/2013/05/csit-155-week-14-online-social-strategy.html?showComment=1368317507171#c737185573310100259
http://myrtlecreeknursery.blogspot.com/2013/05/effective-social-media-platforms-for.html?showComment=1368317719254#c7369577204815579596
http://pekingman1.blogspot.com/2013/05/week-14-assignment-i.html
Saturday, May 11, 2013
W14 - A Semester in Review
As the class began, I completely had in mind lectures filled with Java and HTML and creating our own site from "the ground up", so to speak. After all, that is what my counselor sold me on as I changed my degree path towards CSIT so I could brush up on the realm of IT before a contracting gig outside of the country. Needless to say, that was not this class. I suppose that led to some disappointment and frustration, but I feel I've grown fond of the social media subject matter.
So it began, opening the doors to the realm of blogging. I participate in hockey blogs all the time and have been asked to begin one with a group of people in hopes of success, but mainly to share our passion and knowledge. However, I was always held back by my own lack of experience and knowledge of blogging to ever pursue the idea seriously. Understanding the concepts of blogging and the unique ways to branch out and attract viewers has allowed me to pursue a fun goal of mine and it is due entirely to this class. I felt the assignments being answered in blog form really allowed me to explain my reasoning in a story-like setting when applicable and led to my new-found familiarity with blogger.
The Facebook assignment was a natural transition from blogger, in my eyes. However, I really felt limited with Facebook due to the requirements in place. With an online class, structure is ultimate reliant on yourself. You cannot make a class all head to the computer lab and "Like" each students page. Due to this fact, I certainly was unable to view the full realm of Facebook analytics. I was actually curious to do so and may spam some friends to simply like my fictitious page just for the sake of comparison between Facebook and Google. While Facebook is extremely popular, and I see the merit in understanding the business page side of it, I did not really enjoy that section. Mostly due to my own personal opinion of Facebook, but also due to the limitations as I mentioned earlier.
Following the path of social media, we dived into Twitter. I love Twitter now and I absolutely did not before this class. Before this class, I saw Twitter as a device that the everyday guy and girl use to "follow" what their favorite celebrity and/or athlete were doing. The idea of following someone famous who I have never, and likely, will never meet had little appeal to me. However, the class broadened my view of Twitter and I soon realized how powerful 140 characters or less can be. The quick news feed, short and sweet advertisements, and the chance to istantly communicate with like-minded individuals is great. I think I probably had two or three tweets before this class, and now I'm over two or three hundred. While that number is not comparable to someone who Tweets everyday, it proves the change in opinion I've had and due to this class. The business power of Twitter is, in my opinion, not even at full potential and will only grow.
With little to no surprise, I would absolutely push Twitter if I had a business. I feel like the ability for viral marketing due to trends allows for an increased possibility to be seen by someone who has never heard of the company before. Facebook is the one application I feel could be used weekly or bi-weekly and still yield the same result. I feel a Facebook post daily would become tiresome for followers in regards to my business whereas a small tweet linking the viewer to my site or a special offer is seen as enticing.
Simply put, I thoroughly enjoyed this class despite having no aspiration of starting a small-business. I enrolled, initially, to understand the concepts of Web coding and instead am taking away the unbelievable importance for social media within a business. As I begin my work in the IT world for a major oil company, I feel like I can contribute ideas with social media to expedite communication, if it is not already established. Surely it is, and if so I can still implement my knowledge to a smooth transition. It's a win-win in my eyes. Communication is key and the ability for instant, widespread communication is available now. This is the future for businesses small and large.
So it began, opening the doors to the realm of blogging. I participate in hockey blogs all the time and have been asked to begin one with a group of people in hopes of success, but mainly to share our passion and knowledge. However, I was always held back by my own lack of experience and knowledge of blogging to ever pursue the idea seriously. Understanding the concepts of blogging and the unique ways to branch out and attract viewers has allowed me to pursue a fun goal of mine and it is due entirely to this class. I felt the assignments being answered in blog form really allowed me to explain my reasoning in a story-like setting when applicable and led to my new-found familiarity with blogger.
The Facebook assignment was a natural transition from blogger, in my eyes. However, I really felt limited with Facebook due to the requirements in place. With an online class, structure is ultimate reliant on yourself. You cannot make a class all head to the computer lab and "Like" each students page. Due to this fact, I certainly was unable to view the full realm of Facebook analytics. I was actually curious to do so and may spam some friends to simply like my fictitious page just for the sake of comparison between Facebook and Google. While Facebook is extremely popular, and I see the merit in understanding the business page side of it, I did not really enjoy that section. Mostly due to my own personal opinion of Facebook, but also due to the limitations as I mentioned earlier.
Following the path of social media, we dived into Twitter. I love Twitter now and I absolutely did not before this class. Before this class, I saw Twitter as a device that the everyday guy and girl use to "follow" what their favorite celebrity and/or athlete were doing. The idea of following someone famous who I have never, and likely, will never meet had little appeal to me. However, the class broadened my view of Twitter and I soon realized how powerful 140 characters or less can be. The quick news feed, short and sweet advertisements, and the chance to istantly communicate with like-minded individuals is great. I think I probably had two or three tweets before this class, and now I'm over two or three hundred. While that number is not comparable to someone who Tweets everyday, it proves the change in opinion I've had and due to this class. The business power of Twitter is, in my opinion, not even at full potential and will only grow.
With little to no surprise, I would absolutely push Twitter if I had a business. I feel like the ability for viral marketing due to trends allows for an increased possibility to be seen by someone who has never heard of the company before. Facebook is the one application I feel could be used weekly or bi-weekly and still yield the same result. I feel a Facebook post daily would become tiresome for followers in regards to my business whereas a small tweet linking the viewer to my site or a special offer is seen as enticing.
Simply put, I thoroughly enjoyed this class despite having no aspiration of starting a small-business. I enrolled, initially, to understand the concepts of Web coding and instead am taking away the unbelievable importance for social media within a business. As I begin my work in the IT world for a major oil company, I feel like I can contribute ideas with social media to expedite communication, if it is not already established. Surely it is, and if so I can still implement my knowledge to a smooth transition. It's a win-win in my eyes. Communication is key and the ability for instant, widespread communication is available now. This is the future for businesses small and large.
W13 - FaceBook Analytics
I received 3 more "likes" and 2 comments in regard to my site. Because I am still 26 likes shy of fully accessing FaceBook analytics, I feel not much has changed on my front. Would be interesting to fully experience FaceBooks analytics but the like requirement, while I understand it's place, obstructs me from doing that.
W13 - Analytics
After navigating through the Google Analytics page, I feel my site would benefit from the conversion suite and social tools the greatest. Ultimately, I believe all of the tools within Google Analytic's could be beneficial, however, I wanted to narrow down my top two for the sake of the assignment. So here we go.
Conversion Suite:
In a legitimate business website, I would incorporate many interactive tools to the site itself. Such as videos to view or download, as well as PDF files for warranties, charts explaining part compatibility, etc all to make the shopping experience for the potential customer easy to understand.. and by easy to understand, I really mean easy to fill the shopping cart and click check-out. While utilizing the conversion suite tools, I can get a measurable idea of my websites visitors behavior and become more adaptable to meet their needs. This tool set will also identify the top-selling items as well as explain the flow of my website which leads back to ease of navigation. I believe a simple website, navigation wise, is what creates a more care-free, enjoyable experience that can ultimately net larger likelihood for purchases.
Social Tools:
Ultimately, social tools made my top two due to my desire to utilize viral marketing. The fewer expenses placed in advertising, the better. Ideally, I would prefer the consumer base to drive the marketing for me through social media. The tools given within the Google Analytics would allow me to identify which particular social media applications are contributing the most to the volume on my site. With that information, I could choose to either enhance the information distribution through that source, increase and improve other social media outlets, or attempt to do both. Also, these tools would display what the visitors are saying about my site. Good or bad, the information gathered would be crucial to the adaptability and improvement of my website.
Conversion Suite:
In a legitimate business website, I would incorporate many interactive tools to the site itself. Such as videos to view or download, as well as PDF files for warranties, charts explaining part compatibility, etc all to make the shopping experience for the potential customer easy to understand.. and by easy to understand, I really mean easy to fill the shopping cart and click check-out. While utilizing the conversion suite tools, I can get a measurable idea of my websites visitors behavior and become more adaptable to meet their needs. This tool set will also identify the top-selling items as well as explain the flow of my website which leads back to ease of navigation. I believe a simple website, navigation wise, is what creates a more care-free, enjoyable experience that can ultimately net larger likelihood for purchases.
Social Tools:
Ultimately, social tools made my top two due to my desire to utilize viral marketing. The fewer expenses placed in advertising, the better. Ideally, I would prefer the consumer base to drive the marketing for me through social media. The tools given within the Google Analytics would allow me to identify which particular social media applications are contributing the most to the volume on my site. With that information, I could choose to either enhance the information distribution through that source, increase and improve other social media outlets, or attempt to do both. Also, these tools would display what the visitors are saying about my site. Good or bad, the information gathered would be crucial to the adaptability and improvement of my website.
Monday, April 29, 2013
W12 (2) Coupon Deal
A simple coupon deal would be on a highly popular graphics card which would correlate to $40.00 off plus free shipping on an entire order. Not only would one of the most expensive products for a new computer or upgrading a current be on sale, but a deal where all shipping within the order is free could entice a bulk purchase.
W12 (1)
The four additional marketing tools I would choose are as follows:
To begin integration, I would post a link via FaceBook providing the daily deal through Groupon to make it widespread knowledge to my customer base. Flipboard could be sent out through email to previous/current customers and as an option for a monthly flipboard e-zine to future customers. (Think online shopping, about to check out and there is usually some form of ooptional newsletter info available) Pulse and Feedly blogs and/or newsfeeds pertaining to my business would be advertised through all social media platforms to provide customer experience to potential customers and therefore, doing the advertising for me.
- Feedly
- Groupon
- Pulse
To begin integration, I would post a link via FaceBook providing the daily deal through Groupon to make it widespread knowledge to my customer base. Flipboard could be sent out through email to previous/current customers and as an option for a monthly flipboard e-zine to future customers. (Think online shopping, about to check out and there is usually some form of ooptional newsletter info available) Pulse and Feedly blogs and/or newsfeeds pertaining to my business would be advertised through all social media platforms to provide customer experience to potential customers and therefore, doing the advertising for me.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
W10 Part 2: Email Marketing
Here are the blogs I have commented on!
http://socialmediamilieu.blogspot.com/
http://melaniessocialmediajourney.blogspot.com/
http://eduardorandom.blogspot.com/
http://socialmediamilieu.blogspot.com/
http://melaniessocialmediajourney.blogspot.com/
http://eduardorandom.blogspot.com/
W10: Email Marketing
Email marketing is a course of action that, I feel, needs to as precise to the company's demographic as can be. I almost feel like bold font and all capital letters is needed for that sentence because it is that important. There isn't much grey area within email newsletters. You check your email and within seconds you've decided that of the 20 emails you have not opened, 18 of them are now in the trash can. The reason is, no one enjoys spam and irrelevant information.
With my business being centralized around gaming computers and it's respective hardware and accessories, a monthly newsletter would fit my needs. My defense for monthly spam? Well, technology continues to change and improve every six to nine months. With that being said, a monthly newsletter would allow me to focus on specific sales according to technology development trends. For me having an interest, albeit nerdy, in computers and technology, I'll happily open an email from a reputable source (Newegg.com) when the subject line reads "25% off "x" piece(s) of hardware & Free 2-day shipping!"
I feel that my company can utilize the constant evolution of technology to safely send out a monthly newsletter with little regard of customers feeling overwhelmed with notifications.
With my business being centralized around gaming computers and it's respective hardware and accessories, a monthly newsletter would fit my needs. My defense for monthly spam? Well, technology continues to change and improve every six to nine months. With that being said, a monthly newsletter would allow me to focus on specific sales according to technology development trends. For me having an interest, albeit nerdy, in computers and technology, I'll happily open an email from a reputable source (Newegg.com) when the subject line reads "25% off "x" piece(s) of hardware & Free 2-day shipping!"
I feel that my company can utilize the constant evolution of technology to safely send out a monthly newsletter with little regard of customers feeling overwhelmed with notifications.
W9 Part 3: Blogging for Business
Here are my comments of the week!
http://socialmediamilieu.blogspot.com/
http://myrtlecreeknursery.blogspot.com/
http://mccstudent05.blogspot.com/
http://socialmediamilieu.blogspot.com/
http://myrtlecreeknursery.blogspot.com/
http://mccstudent05.blogspot.com/
W9 Part 2: Blogging For Business
Potentially good or bad, my business targets a very specific consumer group. For them, I could use the categories of "gaming", "e-sports", "PC upgrades", and "PC hardware". Again, this targets an already interested and, probably, invested consumer group.
To potentially branch out to other groups, some categories could simply include "electronics", "media", "hobbies", and "PC repair". This allows the possibility of an unfamiliar customer to see my products as a result of searching within a broad category range.
To potentially branch out to other groups, some categories could simply include "electronics", "media", "hobbies", and "PC repair". This allows the possibility of an unfamiliar customer to see my products as a result of searching within a broad category range.
W9: Blogging For Business
When faced with the dilemma of how personal a blog should be, I think you have to specify the setting. What context is the blog used for? What are the goals of the blog? Would delving into deep, personal facts/opinions increase hits, followers, comments, etc?
For example, this very blog is specifically used for class work and my acting business. I feel personal opinions not pertaining to the subject matter is unnecessary and would create more harm than good. Assuming my business was real, I would hold the same stance. I would venture to say 99% of the time being overly personal is not appealing to potential customers. However, depending on the product I believe a little insight of those "running the show" can create some interest. For example, many video game companies publish a "Meet the Developer" blog maybe once every two or three months. This is possibly used as a filler for lack of other noteworthy news, but also gives current and potential consumers a more in-depth glimpse of what the product is aiming to accomplish.
In summary, I feel there is very little room for personal blogging when incorporated under a business.
For example, this very blog is specifically used for class work and my acting business. I feel personal opinions not pertaining to the subject matter is unnecessary and would create more harm than good. Assuming my business was real, I would hold the same stance. I would venture to say 99% of the time being overly personal is not appealing to potential customers. However, depending on the product I believe a little insight of those "running the show" can create some interest. For example, many video game companies publish a "Meet the Developer" blog maybe once every two or three months. This is possibly used as a filler for lack of other noteworthy news, but also gives current and potential consumers a more in-depth glimpse of what the product is aiming to accomplish.
In summary, I feel there is very little room for personal blogging when incorporated under a business.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
W7: Similar Business's
Toms Hardware: This site is a know-it-all site with a surplus of information on technology parts and performance and minimal retail offerings. Where my business is primarily focused on the retail aspect, we are similar in the products sold/reviewed. As I have noticed, blogs and videos are the primary networks Tom's Hardware uses to distribute information and attract readers.
Newegg: If my business we're real, Newegg would be the monster of the industry and improving upon what they have set as the standard would be required. They have a dedicated YouTube channel with constant videos added regularly. This is something many customers view to visually see the parts in action and tutorials.
After searching, I had a difficult time finding Tech Companies who pushed Pinterest or Instagram as a primary network to customers. This confirmed my speculation that the main demographic of the industry is more interested in videos to confirm purchases. I would push the video and blog routes to satisfy that area as well as communicate with the customers themselves.
Newegg: If my business we're real, Newegg would be the monster of the industry and improving upon what they have set as the standard would be required. They have a dedicated YouTube channel with constant videos added regularly. This is something many customers view to visually see the parts in action and tutorials.
After searching, I had a difficult time finding Tech Companies who pushed Pinterest or Instagram as a primary network to customers. This confirmed my speculation that the main demographic of the industry is more interested in videos to confirm purchases. I would push the video and blog routes to satisfy that area as well as communicate with the customers themselves.
W7: Visual Networks
YouTube - This appears to be the heart-beat of my business industry. As my main demographic is males, the use of videos is a primary network I intend to use to reach out and appeal to potential or existing customers.
Instagram - Probably my secondary tool to use when promoting my business. With a computer part retail store it's possible for me to use instagram to show the latest parts/pieces that customers are wanting and instagram could absolutely accomplish that.
Tumblr - Tumblr certainly has it's place, but for new age technology that is constantly changing I still feel on the go social media apps such as Twitter are more useful and simpler for potential/existing customers.
Pinterest - I feel this network could be used similarly like Instagram where I could pin pictures of pieces or computer towers and what games or movies would look on them. Useful for providing eye-candy and relate able information to customers, although videos would be best.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Activity Log
So using page manage -> activity log is not showing the future posts I submitted, I will begin by listing the events I submitted and ideally, before Sunday I can have a screenshot ready.
March 13 - 12:30 P.M. - Live Q&A with CEO and Founder Matt Root (self plug)
This post would allow the customers to inquire about the company, products, job opportunities as well as provide feedback, be it positive or negative, which would help determine what approaches need to be taken as the company grows.
March 28 - 8:00 A.M. - 1 Month Mark Sale - 15% off of total purchase exceeding $1000 and see if eligible for FREE FedEx 2-Day shipping!
A signature day, such as a one month mark, allows for a sale to entice purchases and expand customer base. A discount of the magnitude would almost guarantee a solid amount of traffic as many would see it as too good to not utilize (especially after receiving that nice tax refund).
April 2 - 8:00 A.M. - Concept Gaming is expanding and in need of web-developers, HR Manager, and IT technicians. Apply Now!
This post shows the growth of the company, first and foremost. Also, based on my own conclusions, many who enjoy the depth of computers that this company would provide, would also love the opportunity to enter the industry.
March 13 - 12:30 P.M. - Live Q&A with CEO and Founder Matt Root (self plug)
This post would allow the customers to inquire about the company, products, job opportunities as well as provide feedback, be it positive or negative, which would help determine what approaches need to be taken as the company grows.
March 28 - 8:00 A.M. - 1 Month Mark Sale - 15% off of total purchase exceeding $1000 and see if eligible for FREE FedEx 2-Day shipping!
A signature day, such as a one month mark, allows for a sale to entice purchases and expand customer base. A discount of the magnitude would almost guarantee a solid amount of traffic as many would see it as too good to not utilize (especially after receiving that nice tax refund).
April 2 - 8:00 A.M. - Concept Gaming is expanding and in need of web-developers, HR Manager, and IT technicians. Apply Now!
This post shows the growth of the company, first and foremost. Also, based on my own conclusions, many who enjoy the depth of computers that this company would provide, would also love the opportunity to enter the industry.
Business Likes
Newegg - Newegg is the leading online retailer and would be rival. However, they are the giant of e-retail, as far as computer components go, for a reason and have a format to provide a source of information. A lot could be learned for a new business by observing the trends and interactions of the industry leader.
AMD - AMD is a top semiconductor company that primarily makes computer processors for commercial and consumer markets. They also make products ranging from motherboard chipsets, graphic processors, and embedded system apps. AMD, as far as Concept Gaming Inc. is concerned, would be a primary supplier to my business and would be heavily advertised.
AMD Gaming - Mix everything stated above in regards to AMD and add in the gaming focus. Obviously, different hobbies or procedures require different components and AMD Gaming would give me a source of the latest and greatest from the gaming aspect.
Intel - Intel is the top competitor to AMD and it is generally known that prefer one or the other. So, as to not segregate the target market, we allow all manufacturers to supply to us and we sell to our consumer base.
FedEx - Ideally, FedEx and Concept Gaming would enter into a contract as the only distributor for Concept Gaming Inc. This could give us the capability to offer discounts to shipping or other enticing offers.
As mentioned above, I can use the Facebook features of seeing new information on technology and computer components, shipping deals provided by FedEx, and understand the competition that is with Newegg. Countering deals would greatly help draw new customers in.
AMD - AMD is a top semiconductor company that primarily makes computer processors for commercial and consumer markets. They also make products ranging from motherboard chipsets, graphic processors, and embedded system apps. AMD, as far as Concept Gaming Inc. is concerned, would be a primary supplier to my business and would be heavily advertised.
AMD Gaming - Mix everything stated above in regards to AMD and add in the gaming focus. Obviously, different hobbies or procedures require different components and AMD Gaming would give me a source of the latest and greatest from the gaming aspect.
Intel - Intel is the top competitor to AMD and it is generally known that prefer one or the other. So, as to not segregate the target market, we allow all manufacturers to supply to us and we sell to our consumer base.
FedEx - Ideally, FedEx and Concept Gaming would enter into a contract as the only distributor for Concept Gaming Inc. This could give us the capability to offer discounts to shipping or other enticing offers.
As mentioned above, I can use the Facebook features of seeing new information on technology and computer components, shipping deals provided by FedEx, and understand the competition that is with Newegg. Countering deals would greatly help draw new customers in.
Insights and Customer Service from a Business P.O.V.
Reach - This is a metric used to show the number of unique visitors who have seen your post. It measures unique visitors who have actually had your post on their news feed.
Engaged Users - The number of people who have clicked anywhere on your post.
Talking About This - This metric is the number of unique visitors who have created a "story" about your page within a weeks time. By created a story, that includes actions such as liking a page, posting on the page wall, like a post, comment on a post, share a post, etc etc.
Virality - The final metric, Page Virality, is defined as the number of people who have created a story from your post as a percentage of the number of people who have seen it.
A business can utilize the tools given by Facebook to determine what actions need to be taken to reach out to existing and new customers/visitors. If they determine that their metrics are low, perhaps that means more posts, stories, and interactions with customer base is required. This will attract more attention, ideally positive, to their business page.
Engaged Users - The number of people who have clicked anywhere on your post.
Talking About This - This metric is the number of unique visitors who have created a "story" about your page within a weeks time. By created a story, that includes actions such as liking a page, posting on the page wall, like a post, comment on a post, share a post, etc etc.
Virality - The final metric, Page Virality, is defined as the number of people who have created a story from your post as a percentage of the number of people who have seen it.
A business can utilize the tools given by Facebook to determine what actions need to be taken to reach out to existing and new customers/visitors. If they determine that their metrics are low, perhaps that means more posts, stories, and interactions with customer base is required. This will attract more attention, ideally positive, to their business page.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Feeling a little out of place as this class is so business-owner oriented and not so much at all IT related, I'll go head and "start" one of my own. Guess I need to read the course description a little closer. Lesson learned.
Moving on...
Let's introduce Concept Gaming Incorporated. This is my take on high performance computer equipment from the desktop/laptops themselves to individual parts and accessories to enhance one's casual hobby or dedicated passion. Reliant on online sales and web traffic as there will be no physical stores to go to. However, the company is HQ'd quite conveniently here in Oceanside, CA.
Target Market - This market is a niche, for sure, but it is quickly growing at an explosive pace over the last decade. Gaming itself is more casually seen whereas 5-10 years ago one was deemed socially awkward for committing any time to gaming.
TM Demographic
In Summary, my target-base is young to young adult men and women who share an interest in casual and/or competitive gaming via PC. The company can provide to those who have never made any high-end PC or PC accessory purchase as well as to those who need an upgrade or replacement part. This demographic is aware of the highly competitive PC and PC parts/accessories industry and has a disposable income.
With trends in technology, advancements in individual parts occurring every 9-18 months will create a constant influx of sales, whether the consumer immediately jumps at the release of the latest and greatest or bargain shops for the high-quality, but technically "out-dated" piece that was just the industry standard before. Standing out above competition will require competitive prices to industry rivals and a primary focus of having the top service and convenience before, during, and after the sales process.
Link To Facebook Page Here! Click Me
Moving on...
Let's introduce Concept Gaming Incorporated. This is my take on high performance computer equipment from the desktop/laptops themselves to individual parts and accessories to enhance one's casual hobby or dedicated passion. Reliant on online sales and web traffic as there will be no physical stores to go to. However, the company is HQ'd quite conveniently here in Oceanside, CA.
Target Market - This market is a niche, for sure, but it is quickly growing at an explosive pace over the last decade. Gaming itself is more casually seen whereas 5-10 years ago one was deemed socially awkward for committing any time to gaming.
- Gamers.
- Computer Enthusiasts.
TM Demographic
- Age - 14 to 30
- Gender - Predominately male with a growing female base.
- Marital status - Any
- Family size - Any
- Income - middle-high middle+
- Education level - Any
- Occupation - Any
- Race - Any
- Religion - Any
- Attitudes- Tech-savvy, competitive, energetic, social, casual, dedicated, assertive
- Beliefs- Individuality, diversity
- Emotions- Dedicated, eager
- Values- Quality, efficiency, convenience, support
- Hobbies- Video games, video streaming, music, graphic design, multimedia projects, music, technology, online pop-culture, social media
- Type of Entertainment- Online
- Lifestyle- Alternative
- Brand Importance/Customer Loyalty- Lifeblood of the company
- Highest value- Quality (product/service/distribution) -> Price -> Convenience
- Method of Payment- Online. Credit/Debit Card, PayPal, Specific Concept Gaming Credit Card (for those who qualify)
- Preferred Interaction- Online store, Live Chat via website, direct email/phone communications to specific branch (Sales, Tech Support, HR, Distributing)
In Summary, my target-base is young to young adult men and women who share an interest in casual and/or competitive gaming via PC. The company can provide to those who have never made any high-end PC or PC accessory purchase as well as to those who need an upgrade or replacement part. This demographic is aware of the highly competitive PC and PC parts/accessories industry and has a disposable income.
With trends in technology, advancements in individual parts occurring every 9-18 months will create a constant influx of sales, whether the consumer immediately jumps at the release of the latest and greatest or bargain shops for the high-quality, but technically "out-dated" piece that was just the industry standard before. Standing out above competition will require competitive prices to industry rivals and a primary focus of having the top service and convenience before, during, and after the sales process.
Link To Facebook Page Here! Click Me
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Sites I Cannot Get Away From
1. Why is this site effective?
I feel this site is effective for a few reasons. Mainly, the viewers it draws share a universal passion/interest for the sport. On top of that, the format is set up so one can simply navigate with little experience on the site. I feel the links are simply and clearly stated for smooth navigation.
2. What specific principles of good design do they include and why?
I feel emphasis is the most obvious principle that this site uses. Catchy headlines, eye-popping images, and access to discussion boards and videos all emphasize the wealth of information the site has at a single click of the mouse. This site also utilizes proportion as the page always seems to have that perfect relationship between objects.
3. What makes you come back again?
The ease of updates or casual reading keeps me coming back. There are seemingly millions of sports websites but the fact I can catch the top headlines from the front page allows me to read the content quickly when time is limited.
4. What could be improved?
To be nit-picky, it would be fun to have an account with the site and customize what news, updates, videos, etc you see based on your selected preferences.
1. Why is this site effective?
I believe the site maintains simplicity. There is no need to spam a page with clutter, especially an online radio page. People access what they want, quickly and efficiently, and that retains traffic.
2. What specific principles of good design do they include and why?
Balance and unity really stick out to me on Pandora. The position in which links, search bar, and advertisements gives a welcoming feel to the page and gets you from point A to point B with no resistance.
3. What makes you come back again?
As stated before, efficiency is key. While people are continuously on the go, a simple set up goes a long way into keeping visitors interested.
4. What could be improved?
Advertisements are the only thing I see as an eye-sore.. but that's kind of the point of them. Other than that, I feel a possible, albeit, slight increase in font size could help.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
The Good, the Bad, and the uhh what were they thinking!
Not that I am overly qualified to judge one business site to another, but I am using the always accurate to me eye-test and for some of these sites, I just thought "Wow."
TEC Torch - This was my first view of the given list and my initial "Wow" moment. To me, this site is so cluttered and bland that I had a hard time believing this was an actual company. Here's my list of three potential problems:
-Difficulty finding information
-Unprofessional look may cause potential customers to look else-where
-Limited contact ability
Rich Soil - Insert sentiments from TEC Torch here.
-Grammar stuck out to me. I understand I'm currently blogging and not following any set format or really even checking up on my own grammar... but I'm not running a business. The complete lower-case style came across as lazy to me.
-Endless front page. I'm almost positive my mouse scroll wheel broke from furiously scrolling for half an hour. I feel this desperately needs to be broken up into several pages. Condensing news, offers, information, etc into a topic bar near the top of the page. This would allow the visitor to view what he/she wants to see.
-Email sign-up was at the bottom of the page. I don't know... after that marathon of a mouse scroll I just did, I don't think I'm ready to sign up for the company newsletter. With a front page in such scale, what is the likelihood a viewer even see's that sign-up?
Swagelok - Happiest I've been while viewing a fluid systems product website.
-Professionally done. Looks sharp and has an atmosphere, if you will, of success.
-Search Bar. This is probably an aspect of Information Systems that is so often overlooked. Not sure where to find what you're looking for but the product name is staring you in the face? Punch that bad boy in to that site and you'll efficiently find what you're looking for. Saves time, viewer is happy and much more likely to return.
-Pictures scaled properly. No mouse scroll marathons on this site. The pictures are displayed at a scale that you can clearly see what products/services they offer, but not causing the page to continuously extend.
Apple - Although I'm not the biggest Apple guy out there, this site is perfect in my eyes. It's so well done. From color scheme to organization. Whoops, better bullet these reasons...
-Organization. The products are seperated in their own respective categories. No wasting time clicking on a whim. This layout has it plain to see.
-Advertisement. No, not spam ad's but actual images and links to detailed information on the latest Apple products.
-Contact Information. Clearly seen at the bottom of the screen and also in the support tab. So all needs are filled in a single page. Store/Support/Account. Simple, simple, simple.
Disclaimer: Sarcastic tones due to late-night studying & project working as well as some blogging, at it's finest, in-between.
TEC Torch - This was my first view of the given list and my initial "Wow" moment. To me, this site is so cluttered and bland that I had a hard time believing this was an actual company. Here's my list of three potential problems:
-Difficulty finding information
-Unprofessional look may cause potential customers to look else-where
-Limited contact ability
Rich Soil - Insert sentiments from TEC Torch here.
-Grammar stuck out to me. I understand I'm currently blogging and not following any set format or really even checking up on my own grammar... but I'm not running a business. The complete lower-case style came across as lazy to me.
-Endless front page. I'm almost positive my mouse scroll wheel broke from furiously scrolling for half an hour. I feel this desperately needs to be broken up into several pages. Condensing news, offers, information, etc into a topic bar near the top of the page. This would allow the visitor to view what he/she wants to see.
-Email sign-up was at the bottom of the page. I don't know... after that marathon of a mouse scroll I just did, I don't think I'm ready to sign up for the company newsletter. With a front page in such scale, what is the likelihood a viewer even see's that sign-up?
Swagelok - Happiest I've been while viewing a fluid systems product website.
-Professionally done. Looks sharp and has an atmosphere, if you will, of success.
-Search Bar. This is probably an aspect of Information Systems that is so often overlooked. Not sure where to find what you're looking for but the product name is staring you in the face? Punch that bad boy in to that site and you'll efficiently find what you're looking for. Saves time, viewer is happy and much more likely to return.
-Pictures scaled properly. No mouse scroll marathons on this site. The pictures are displayed at a scale that you can clearly see what products/services they offer, but not causing the page to continuously extend.
Apple - Although I'm not the biggest Apple guy out there, this site is perfect in my eyes. It's so well done. From color scheme to organization. Whoops, better bullet these reasons...
-Organization. The products are seperated in their own respective categories. No wasting time clicking on a whim. This layout has it plain to see.
-Advertisement. No, not spam ad's but actual images and links to detailed information on the latest Apple products.
-Contact Information. Clearly seen at the bottom of the screen and also in the support tab. So all needs are filled in a single page. Store/Support/Account. Simple, simple, simple.
Disclaimer: Sarcastic tones due to late-night studying & project working as well as some blogging, at it's finest, in-between.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Twitter helped my world go 'round
Trying to think of a specific, negative experience with a company was actually difficult. I'll consider myself lucky and hope I didn't jinx myself in the future by stating that. However, it was easy to think of a great experience that involved twitter. Let me preface by saying, my brother-in-law is more obsessed with computer video games than anyone I know. With me working in that very field, I thought it would be fitting to buy him computer parts and teach him how to build his very own computer.
I went to a site called Newegg, and began ordering the required parts. It went extremely smooth, until one part was missing come delivery time. Not worried, I simply called their support line for an update. For whatever reason, I called at a time where the average wait time was upwards of an hour and a half! Normally, I'd chalk it up to bad timing and try a bit later but I had planned out the arrival to work with my brother-in-law's vacation to visit us. This is where social media helped me out! I saw on their site a link their Twitter page and submitted a quick, 140 character or less plea to get through to anyone capable of answering my quick question. Was a total shot in the dark and I didn't have much faith in hearing from anyone. It was probably five minutes later I received a tweet to check my email and the response was enclosed. Turns out, the delivery company had left that last part at the warehouse and I was able to drive and pick it up the same day!
Maybe my story was one where all the stars aligned and I was on Lady Luck's side, but Twitter bailed me out and I was so happy to use another form of contact.
I went to a site called Newegg, and began ordering the required parts. It went extremely smooth, until one part was missing come delivery time. Not worried, I simply called their support line for an update. For whatever reason, I called at a time where the average wait time was upwards of an hour and a half! Normally, I'd chalk it up to bad timing and try a bit later but I had planned out the arrival to work with my brother-in-law's vacation to visit us. This is where social media helped me out! I saw on their site a link their Twitter page and submitted a quick, 140 character or less plea to get through to anyone capable of answering my quick question. Was a total shot in the dark and I didn't have much faith in hearing from anyone. It was probably five minutes later I received a tweet to check my email and the response was enclosed. Turns out, the delivery company had left that last part at the warehouse and I was able to drive and pick it up the same day!
Maybe my story was one where all the stars aligned and I was on Lady Luck's side, but Twitter bailed me out and I was so happy to use another form of contact.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Playtime and Business time... or both?
My best evaluation of social media is that what began as simply social networking has now branched into a means of communication for businesses, small and large. I believe social media provides a much easier approach for customers to provide feedback as well as market to potential customers. For example, it seems every business has a Facebook page and, those who can afford it, advertise with banners on Facebook.
I really feel we, as a society, find voicing our opinions over social media (funny.. as I write this blog I mention that) easier than calling the company over the phone. Maybe the anonymity gives many the courage they would not normally have or the possibility for ones opinion to be read by thousands, if not millions.
Either way, social media is more than a trend many thought it would be. Here is my shortened list of what social media outlets I feel are geared towards personal and professional, as well as those I feel cover both areas.
Personal:
- DeviantArt
- MyLife
- Flixster
Professional:
- Google+ (the chat/video chat features and drive storage capability makes this very helpful to businesses!)
Best of Both Worlds:
Your thoughts?
Monday, January 28, 2013
W1 - Introductions and Decision Making
Finding the right blog template varies from person to person, but I believe there are universal appeals. Nothing too flashy and in your face, but enough color and style to separate my blog from others. The template chosen gives me a feel of crisp visualization and stands out just enough for my liking.
I prefer having an interactive feel that is well organized to prevent any confusion a reader may have. I feel people appreciate subtle visual stimulation and are back to a site that offers no form of "resistance" to their needs, whether business or professional.
I prefer having an interactive feel that is well organized to prevent any confusion a reader may have. I feel people appreciate subtle visual stimulation and are back to a site that offers no form of "resistance" to their needs, whether business or professional.
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