Tag archive for ‘siteseeing’
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Is Bing the new Google?
I originally sat down to write about how much I disliked Bing. But as I explored it further, all of my arguments fell apart; I found myself coming back to “but it’s not Google” again and again. And while I applaud brand loyalty, my job is about using the best tools and technologies for the job—whatever the job is. So, “It’s not Google” isn’t really an argument—that’s just being resistant to change. Which I’m not. Or, I shouldn’t be… Continue reading
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Ford’s facebook attempt is a non-starter
I’ll admit it: I own a Ford Taurus. And even though I look like a pharmaceutical rep driving it, it’s still my ride and I have to defend the brand. Sort of. So, when David Murphy called out Facebook Ford Drives U as an example of improper use of a social network, I had to… Continue reading
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Patagonia: taking green commerce to a new level with the footprint chronicles
Patagonia knows its market. The manufacturer of clothing for the outdoors adventurer has taken environmental sustainability—a core concern for its target audience—to a new level with the Footprint Chronicles website. It’s a broad-strokes effort to explain the environmental impact of the manufacturing sector, viewed strictly through the lens of Patagonia products.
It’s a brilliant concept, with execution that lives up to the company’s lofty ideals. Continue reading
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Virgin America: balancing functionality with flash
Virgin America has a lot going for it in terms of differentiation from other airlines. Personalized entertainment systems and power outlets at each seat, generous legroom, tinted windows, leather upholstery. . . and mood lighting! And all at affordable rates.
The airline also has a differentiator that is less concrete, but equally powerful–style… Continue reading
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Smart: Retains Brand Voice While Dispelling Common Misconceptions About Smart cars
Smart’s microsite for the U.K is designed to guide the user through a series of quizzes and scenarios designed to dispel misconceptions about the diminutive Smart Fortwo—namely that it is unsafe, too small to be practical, low on features, and tight on interior accommodations. While the site could have come across as defensive, preachy, or sales-y, it avoids those potential pitfalls and remains both informative and entertaining. Continue reading
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Apple: A Little More Polishing Would Help the User Experience Match the Sleek Design
Apple’s website does a great job of maintaining the company’s consistent and powerful branding and provides a lot of engaging content. But like much of Apple’s user interface design, what seems simple on the surface can get complicated fast if you need something specific. Continue reading
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Microsoft’s Xbox 360: A Formidable Force, but its Website Needs to be Streamlined.
With more than 10.9 million sales to date, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 console is a formidable force in the national video game marketplace. Its official website is just as ambitious. We discovered that the content’s all there—we just wish there was a better presentation. Continue reading
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Williams-Sonoma: Even if You Don’t Have a Backyard, You’ll be Eyeing this Site’s Outdoor Grills
Packed with information and illustrated with gorgeous photography, the Williams-Sonoma website appeals to novice cooks and seasoned chefs. But the site is missing opportunities to build community. Continue reading
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Business Objects: A site about business intelligence that’s—mostly—intelligent.
Business Objects
Business intelligence is interesting stuff. It helps people do their jobs more efficiently, saves companies money and resources, and facilitates creative solutions. And the Business Objects site does a decent job of communicating that. Mostly. Continue reading
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Hallmark: Knows its Audience, but is it Alienating Everyone Else?
For nearly 100 years, Hallmark has been a trusted brand in America, with familiar slogans like, “when you care enough to send the very best.” But now it’s time for Hallmark.com to morph into a brand of the 21st century. Continue reading
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Autodesk: A 2D Site Holds the Promise of 3D, but Falls Short.
Creator of ubiquitous 3D software AutoCAD, Autodesk.com provides an online experience that is not unlike its product: Easy to operate if you know how to do it. If you don’t, you’re kinda out of luck. Continue reading