News from vh-crossmedia
Completed projects and news from my work
Tips & Tricks No. 16
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 facts about the importance of typography
The careful selection and use of fonts is an essential aspect of graphic and web design. By focusing on legibility, visual hierarchy and consistent branding, you can optimise text in designs and create an appealing overall look.
- Fonts play a crucial role in the visual communication of texts and contribute to the mood and readability of a design. For example, a sans serif font such as Arial can convey a modern and clear impression.
- Legibility is a key aspect of typography. A font that is easy to read enables users to grasp the text quickly and effortlessly. Serif fonts such as Times New Roman are often intended for longer sections of text, as the serifs support the flow of the text.
- Text formatting such as line spacing, character spacing and paragraph spacing influence the readability and visual flow of the text. Sufficient line spacing can make the text airier and easier to read.
- The right combination of fonts makes it possible to create visual hierarchies and differentiate between different elements in the design. You can use a sans serif font for headlines and a serif font for body text to create a clear distinction.
- When selecting fonts, it is important to consider the character of the design and the target group. Of course, a playful and handwritten font will be suitable for a children's book, while a serious and professional font will be more suitable for a corporate website.
- The scalability of fonts is crucial for legibility and adaptation to different screen sizes. In web design in particular, care should be taken to ensure that the fonts are easy to read on mobile devices.
- When using fonts in web design projects, it is important to use web fonts to ensure that the selected fonts are displayed correctly on different devices.
- White space or blank space around the text is an important design aspect of typography. It creates visual breathing spaces and increases readability. For example, sufficient space between paragraphs can make the text more accessible.
- It is advisable not to use too many different fonts in one design to create a harmonious and cohesive overall look. A good rule of thumb is to limit yourself to 2-3 fonts and make sure they go well together.
Fresh on the net: Dardenne Travel
For my long-standing customer, Dardenne TravelI was able to carry out a comprehensive website redesign to bring the online presence up to date with the latest technology. In developing the new design concept, I preserved the company's corporate design and integrated numerous images, graphics and texts from the previous pages. The result is a website that not only provides a familiar overview of the content and gives visitors a fresh look and feel, but also increases user-friendliness and is particularly mobile-friendly thanks to modern technologies.
Dardenne Reisen GmbH has been a successful family business based in Schleiden in the Eifel region for over six decades. As a "bus company with a satisfaction guarantee", the company has extensive experience in scheduled and touring services and works together with various providers. Special care was taken to ensure smooth navigation and quick access to information for all user groups on the website.
Competitive advantage through originality: the importance of unusual advertising materials
Unusual advertising materials can be advantageous for companies in many ways. They offer an opportunity to stand out from the crowd and attract the attention of potential customers.
Eye-catching promotional gifts are an effective marketing tool that aims to attract the attention of potential customers and leave a lasting impression. They go beyond traditional promotional items and rely on creativity, originality and uniqueness to effectively convey a brand or company's message. Here are a few reasons why companies might consider using unusual promotional products:
- High recognition value: If the advertising material is unique and unconventional, companies are better remembered by the target group. This can lead to increased recognition and therefore more customer loyalty.
- Attract attention: Unusual promotional items such as a printed beer mat or personalised drinking bottles have a higher chance of attracting attention. When a company uses a creative and unusual promotional gift or medium, it generates interest and can lead to people talking about it or sharing it on social media.
- Differentiation from the competition: In highly competitive industries, an original promotional item such as a deckchair can help you stand out from the competition. Customers may be more willing to engage with a company that is characterised by creativity and originality.
- Emotional attachment: Unusual advertising materials can create an emotional connection to the company. By surprising or delighting customers, they create a positive association and strengthen the brand image.
- Virality and word of mouth: Unique promotional items such as a personalised cutting disc have the potential to go viral. If customers are enthusiastic about an unusual promotional gift, they often share it with friends and acquaintances, which leads to additional reach.
- Addressing new target groups: Even in small formats such as round magnets or stickers, creative advertising media can appeal to target groups that are not normally the direct focus of the company. This can extend the reach and market penetration.
- Emphasising the corporate culture: A company can express its own culture and personality through unusual advertising materials. This can appeal to customers who share similar values.
The choice of promotional product should always be made in accordance with the target group and the brand identity. The cost of such promotional items should also be taken into account, as they may be higher than conventional promotional items. Nevertheless, well-thought-out, unusual promotional items can be a worthwhile investment to increase the awareness and success of a company.
Professional website or homepage construction kit?
Although it may seem that website builders offer an easy and inexpensive way to create a website, they are not always the best choice when it comes to sophisticated projects and an effective online presence.
Completed websites that have been created with the help of modular systems are often frustratingly similar to numerous other sites on the Internet that also use the same system. Why is this the case? Although the providers of these systems promise individual customisation of the web design, in practice users can usually only change colours, text and images without additional knowledge. They are often denied in-depth customisation - the options are very limited as the framework is strictly predefined and cannot be changed. And nowadays, a homepage needs more than just a few lines of text and images.
A modular site is just a modular site, and that's obvious - even to your customers.
There are ready-made templates, and the big advantage is that you have a page in no time at all that you don't have to fiddle with (and shouldn't, because then it gets very complicated very quickly). As a result, however, the websites of hairdressers, dentists and hundreds of other providers are astonishingly similar. There is a lack of individuality and creativity.
Professional web design by vh-crossmedia - for a unique brand identity and differentiation from competitors
A customised website can be tailored exactly to your requirements. With my support, you have the freedom to incorporate functions and features that are relevant to your business or brand. What's more, as a professional web designer, I can give your website a unique design and brand identity that exactly matches your goals and target audience. This allows you to stand out from the crowd and differentiate yourself from competitors.
Another advantage of your collaboration with vh-crossmedia is the responsive designwhich ensures that the website is displayed optimally on various devices, including smartphones, tablets and desktops. The User experience (User Experience, UX) is the focus, as a well-designed website is crucial for keeping visitors on the site and convincing potential customers. My services ensure that your website loads quicklyis optimised for different devices and complies with current web standards. A technically flawless website is of great importance for a positive user experience and a better ranking in Search engines. As a web designer, I can also optimise your website for search engines to increase your visibility in search results and attract more visitors.
More complex requirements that go beyond the possibilities of website construction kits can be implemented by me as a web designer with expertise in customised programming or integrations. The advantage of this is that no specialist knowledge is required, which saves a lot of time and money. Saves timeand the result looks as planned, namely professionally designed. Another argument in favour: the online world is constantly evolving and I always know the latest and most relevant Trends. I also offer long-term support, as I not only help with the creation of the website, but also with its ongoing maintenance. Maintenance, updating and problem solving.
ConclusionA professionally designed website exudes trust and credibility and makes your company appear reputable and quality-conscious. While website builders offer a simple and cost-effective way to create a website, they reach their limits when it comes to more sophisticated projects and an effective online presence. As a web design professional, I can realise your vision and help you achieve your online goals.
Boost for your online visibility: advantages through Google reviews
Increase the trust of your visitors and boost conversions by presenting real customer opinions on your homepage.
Google reviews are a crucial marketing tool for companies: With over 8.5 billion daily search queries on Google, these reviews are a significant influencing factor. Many users already rate products and services themselves via Google services. Every high-quality and positive review puts your company in the spotlight and increases the credibility of your brand compared to the competition. So don't hesitate any longer - utilise the power of Google reviews to boost your success in the online market! Let me show you how it works ...
Customer reviews are invaluable and a powerful marketing tool. For this reason, many companies decide to integrate Google reviews on their website. By integrating Google reviews, you receive all new reviews in real time. This results in numerous advantages:
- Credibility: Google reviews are written by real customers and are therefore often more credible than testimonials or reviews published directly on the company's website.
- Transparency: By displaying Google reviews on your website, you show transparency and openness. Potential customers appreciate this and may feel more comfortable using your products or services.
- Social proof: Positive Google reviews serve as social proof of the quality of your company. Potential customers are more likely to use your products or services if they see that other customers have had a positive experience.
- SEO benefits: Displaying Google reviews on your website can have a positive impact on your search engine optimisation (SEO). Reviews and star ratings can be displayed in search results and influence the click behaviour of users.
I can provide you with elegant templates and integrate them into your existing WordPress site to showcase the Google reviews. The choice of layouts is extensive, ranging from full reviews to Google stars. Show the world what your customers think of you and grow your business - I look forward to hearing from you!
On this topic, please also read my article on Rating cards for social media.
Tips & Tricks No. 15
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 interesting aspects of colour theory and colour psychology
- Colours have a strong emotional effect on people and can trigger feelings such as joy, calm or excitement. Warm colours such as red or orange, for example, can create a lively and energetic mood.
- The right choice of colour can influence the mood of a website or graphic and effectively communicate the desired message. A calming colour palette with shades of blue can create a meditative or relaxing atmosphere.
- By understanding colour psychology, designers can specifically appeal to emotions and evoke the desired behaviour in the viewer. For example: A "Buy" button in a striking red colour can attract attention and encourage people to click.
- Colour contrasts help to create visual hierarchies and highlight important information. For example, a high-contrast button in an otherwise subtle colour palette attracts the viewer's attention.
- Choosing the right colour palette can strengthen brand identity and promote recognition. Coca-Cola's characteristic red colour has become an essential part of its brand identity.
- Colours can also be used to guide users through the flow of information on a website and encourage certain actions. A progress bar highlighted in colour shows the user how far they have progressed in a form.
- The colour scheme should always be in line with the intended audience and target group. A children's website can use vibrant and playful colours, while a business website should use more subtle and professional colours.
- Colours can be interpreted differently by cultures and regions, so it is important to consider the cultural relevance of colours, especially in international projects. For example, in some cultures white symbolises purity and innocence, while in others it is associated with mourning.
- The use of colour concepts and rules can help designs look professional and balanced and provide a pleasant user experience. The use of sufficient contrast between text colour and background colour improves the readability and usability of a website.
Fresh on the net: Kommern High Game Park
I had the great pleasure of redesigning the website of my long-standing client - the wildlife park in Kommern. The relaunch brought numerous advantages:
- Together we wanted to modernise the appearance of the website and adapt it to current design trends, and by using modern design elements and an appealing user interface, I was able to significantly improve the user experience. This should result in visitors staying on the website longer and finding their way around more easily.
- Another advantage of the relaunch was the continuous optimisation of the website for mobile devices. These days, more and more people are using their smartphones or tablets to browse the internet. By creating a responsive website that automatically adapts to the screen size, I want to ensure that the website is optimally displayed on all devices. This not only increases user-friendliness, but also search engine rankings, as mobile optimisation is an important factor for SEO.
- I was also able to optimise the loading time of the website as part of the relaunch. A slow website often leads to frustration among visitors and can cause them to leave the site prematurely. Optimising the loading times significantly improves the performance of the website and reduces the bounce rate.
Overall, the relaunch of my loyal client's website was an extremely rewarding and inspiring task. With its modernised look and feel, improved user experience, optimisation for mobile devices and faster loading time, the website is now ready to represent the company even more successfully and attract new customers.
Increase user interaction: creative graphics for social media
Whether for the launch of a new brand or the optimisation of an existing social media strategy - visual content plays a decisive role in establishing an online identity.
As a graphic and web designer, I would like to suggest some important points to keep in mind when creating engaging graphics for various social media platforms to strengthen your brand presence and encourage user interaction:
- Understanding your target group: In order to create graphics that appeal to your target group, it is important that we gain detailed information about your target group. The better we know the demographic characteristics, interests and preferences, the more targeted I can make the graphics.
- Consistent visual identity: For your brand to look consistent across social media platforms, it's crucial that we consider the information about your brand colours, fonts and overall style so that I can use these elements in the graphics.
- Platform-specific requirements: Each social media platform has different requirements for graphics in terms of size, format and file size. As a designer, I take these technical aspects into account and ensure that your graphics comply with the guidelines of each platform.
- Eye-catching design: To attract the attention of users, I develop graphics with an appealing design. I use visual elements such as colours, contrasts and images to ensure that your graphics stand out and appeal to viewers.
- Communicate a clear message: Graphics should convey a clear message that is understandable at first glance. I work to design the most important information and visual elements so that your message is perceived directly and unambiguously.
- Involving users: To encourage user interaction, I can incorporate interactive elements into your graphics. For example, this could be a question, a call to participate in an action or a request for comments to encourage users to get involved.
- Quality and professionalism: As a designer, my goal is to create high quality graphics that make a professional impression. I use high quality images, make sure text is easy to read and pay attention to detail to ensure your graphics look professional.
- Testing and customisation: After publishing the graphics, I monitor performance and user reactions. If necessary, I can make adjustments to improve the effectiveness of the graphics and further encourage interaction.
By taking these points into consideration and working with me as a graphic and web designer, we can create engaging graphics that strengthen your brand presence and encourage user interaction on various social media platforms.
Attract the best talent - with appealing job adverts
Especially in times of personnel and skilled labour shortages, well-designed job advertisements are of great importance for a company in order to attract applicants, strengthen its image, make the application process more efficient and present the company as an attractive employer.
Well-designed job adverts are important for a company for several reasons:
- Attract applicants: A well-designed job advert stands out from the crowd and attracts potential applicants. An appealing appearance, clear information and a precise description of the position arouse the interest of candidates and motivate them to apply.
- Image and employer branding: Job adverts reflect the image and employer brand of a company. A well-designed advertisement conveys professionalism, organisation and care in the eyes of potential applicants. This can improve the company's reputation and increase the likelihood that highly qualified candidates will be interested in a position.
- Efficiency in the application process: A clear and well-structured job advertisement enables applicants to quickly recognise whether they have the necessary qualifications and skills for the position. This reduces unsuitable applications and makes the selection process more efficient.
- Target group-orientated approach: A well-designed job advertisement addresses the target group specifically and speaks to their needs and interests. By clearly communicating expectations, the corporate culture and career opportunities, potential applicants can better assess whether the position matches their own goals and expectations.
- Representation of the company: A job advert is often the first contact a potential applicant has with a company. It offers the opportunity to make a positive impression and present the company as an attractive employer. As a result, applicants who can identify with the company are more likely to be motivated to apply and possibly stay with the company in the long term.
I would be happy to support you in inspiring your applicants with an optimally designed job advert and finding your ideal candidate.
Tips & Tricks No. 14
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 x facts, figures and data on the importance of graphic and web design
- According to a study by Google, 53% of users leave a mobile website if it takes longer than 3 seconds to load.
- A survey by HubSpot found that 38% of users leave a website if the layout and design are unattractive.
- A study by Adobe found that 39% of users will stop visiting a company's website if the images do not load well.
- A Stanford survey found that 75% of users judge a company by the design of its website.
- With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, mobile-optimised website design is of great importance. According to Statista, mobile devices accounted for around 55% of internet traffic worldwide in 2021.
- According to a study by the Missouri University of Science and Technology, visitors to a website form a first visual impression within just 0.2 seconds. An appealing and professional web design can arouse the interest of visitors and keep them on the website for longer.
- A survey by Blue Corona found that 48% of users rate a website as a company's credibility based on its design.
- 94% of consumers say the design of a website is the reason they distrust or reject a website, according to a survey by IronPaper.
- According to a survey by Canva, 65% of small business owners say that good design is critical to the success of their business.
Roll-ups: mobile advertising media for a high level of attention
Roll ups are popular, flexible and versatile advertising media that are ideal for all kinds of events. With high-quality, custom-printed banners, you can effectively present your company at trade fairs, promotional events or company parties and attract new customers.
Roll-up banners are popular advertising media in marketing that can offer various advantages and benefits for companies:
- High visibility: Roll-ups and banners have a large surface area and are often colourful, making them eye-catching advertising media. They attract the attention of potential customers and stand out from the crowd.
- Mobility and flexibility: Roll-ups are portable displays that are easy to transport and set up. They are ideal for trade fairs, events, presentations or as an addition to a shop. Roll-ups can be set up in different locations and therefore offer flexibility in terms of placement.
- Brand presentation: Roll-ups offer companies the opportunity to present their brand visually and communicate consistent messages. They can contain the company's logo, slogan, images and colours and thus help to strengthen the brand identity.
- Information and communication: Roll-ups and banners can present important information about products, services or special offers. They can also serve as signposts to guide visitors to specific areas or activities.
- Addressing target groups: Depending on where roll-ups and banners are placed, they can address a specific target group. For example, they can be used in shopping centres, at trade fairs or at events to attract the attention of visitors and attract potential customers.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of roll-up banners depends on factors such as design, placement and target group relevance. I would be happy to support you with a clear message and an appealing design to maximise the benefits of these advertising media in marketing for your company.
Every vote counts ...
Review cards, which are distributed by companies to their customers, are used to collect feedback and reviews from customers.
These cards usually contain a QR code, a link or instructions on how customers can rate their experience online, whether on platforms such as Google or Facebook or on the company's own website.
The purpose and benefits of such evaluation cards are manifold:
- Reviews provide companies with valuable insights into customer satisfaction, the customer experience and the quality of their products or services. They enable companies to identify strengths and recognise areas for improvement.
- Positive reviews can improve a company's reputation and strengthen the trust of potential customers. Customer reviews are often more credible than pure marketing statements from the company.
- Reviews on platforms such as Google and Facebook can have a positive effect on a company's search engine ranking. Search engines take reviews and star ratings into account when assessing the relevance and quality of a website.
- By collecting reviews, companies show their customers that their opinions are important. Customers feel valued and have the feeling that their voice counts. This can strengthen customer loyalty and increase the likelihood that customers will return.
- Customer reviews can help companies to continuously improve their processes, products and services. Negative reviews indicate areas where improvements need to be made, while positive reviews show what works well and should be maintained.
I would be happy to help you use review cards to support your company in terms of customer feedback and customer loyalty, reputation and credibility as well as search engine optimisation.
Please also read my article on this topic Google reviews on their website.
Fresh on the net: CWIT
I had the opportunity to redesign the website of my long-time clients and valued IT colleagues at CWIT. This challenge not only provided the opportunity to improve the look and feel of the website, but also the chance to optimise the user experience and strengthen the brand presence online.
Tips & Tricks No. 13
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 current design trends
The digital world is subject to constant change, and developments in graphic and web design are no exception. What was considered modern yesterday can be outdated today and replaced by new trends. Companies and self-employed people want to avoid their websites losing their appeal due to outdated designs and no longer appearing contemporary. To stay up to date, it is therefore important for graphic and web designers to be informed about current design trends, as modern graphic and web design is often based on these tendencies. Here I present the current trends:
- Responsive design: Responsive design will continue to be one of the most important requirements for web design in order to ensure an optimal display on different devices.
- Animations: Motion and animation are being used more frequently in web design to create an interactive and engaging experience for users.
- Bold typography: Typography will remain an important factor in web design, with larger, eye-catching fonts and creative font styles.
- Micro-interactions: Small interactions such as hover effects, buttons and button animations are being used more frequently in web design to improve the user experience.
- Minimalism: Minimalist design will continue to be an important trend in web design, with clear and simple layouts that create an elegant user experience.
- Retro design: Retro design elements from the 70s, 80s and 90s will continue to be in vogue as designers use them to create a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.
- Handmade elements: Handmade elements, such as hand-drawn illustrations or handwritten typography, are increasingly used in graphic design to create a personalised and handmade look.
- Muted Colors: Muted colours are used more frequently in graphic design to create a subtle and understated look that is still eye-catching.
- Geometric shapes: Geometric shapes are more commonly used in graphic design to create a modern and abstract look that is visually appealing.
Fresh on the net: EGE - Society for the Conservation of Owls
I am thrilled and very happy that as a web designer I have the opportunity to use the "EGE" - the Society for the Preservation of Owls - with the creation of a new website. As an animal lover and environmentalist, the preservation and protection of our natural world is particularly close to my heart. And since owls, as animals of the night, play an important role in our ecosystem, it is all the more gratifying that I can contribute to their conservation with my expertise.
Designing the website was an exciting challenge and I endeavoured to create a modern and appealing design that authentically reflects the message of the association. I am very grateful for the opportunity to use my skills and passion to contribute to the protection of these animals and I hope that the organisation's new website will inspire many people to get involved in the conservation of our natural world.
Bonus or loyalty cards in marketing
Bonus or loyalty cards are a popular marketing tool aimed at building customer loyalty and retaining customers in the long term.
Customers can use these cards to collect bonus points when purchasing products or services, which they can later exchange for rewards, discounts or other benefits. Bonus or loyalty cards allow companies to increase customer loyalty and customer satisfaction, as the rewards give customers an additional incentive to shop with the company and come back again. Customers feel valued and have the feeling that their loyalty to the company is being rewarded. This can also contribute to customers recommending the company to others in a positive way and thus attracting new customers.
Contact me if you would like me to create bonus or loyalty cards for you as an effective marketing tool to increase customer loyalty and customer satisfaction and attract new customers.
Small prices, big impact!
Flyers in DIN long format are an optimal and inexpensive option for large quantities of quick information or compact advertising measures.
Everyone Advertising flyer is developed by me individually and precisely for your target group - I support you from the layout to the consultation and selection of suitable paper types through to printing. The low-cost online printing companies are ideal for the "quick number". Take advantage of the low prices for a big impact!
Writing pads as promotional items with practical and versatile benefits
Promotional items such as notepads in your corporate design are perfect as customer gifts and are indispensable.
Notepads or writing pads with your company logo are a useful marketing tool that have a practical use and, unlike other promotional items, are not disposed of immediately. They can be used as a thank you to existing customers or as an incentive for potential customers to strengthen brand loyalty and the image of the company. On the other hand, they can also be used as an advertising medium by printing the company logo or corporate design on the pads, providing a cost-effective way of promoting the company and its products or services.
Notepads or writing pads as Promotional gifts are also popular because they are often used in everyday life with customers and business partners. According to the Central Association of the German Advertising Industry, writing utensils are the most popular promotional items of all. They are also extremely effective, as customers and business partners often use them over a longer period of time and therefore come into contact with the company's corporate design again and again. A printed notepad or writing pad is therefore an ideal means of spreading advertising and remaining in the memory of your customers.
Contact me if you would like me to support you with notepads or writing pads as an effective tool in your company's marketing mix.
Tips & Tricks No. 12
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
What is responsive web design and how does it work?
"Responsive web design" is a technique for developing websites in which the layout is designed to automatically adapt to the size and resolution of the device on which the website is displayed. This ensures an optimal user experience on all devices, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones. This is achieved through the use of flexible grid systems, flexible images and media queries.
Here are 9 recommendations for a responsive website:
- Use of a flexible grid structure for the website to ensure that content automatically adapts to different screen sizes and devices.
- Use CSS media queries to customise the layout and size of images for different screen sizes.
- Use fonts that are easy to read on all devices and adjust their size for different screen sizes.
- Avoid unnecessary elements that could slow down the loading time of the website.
- Use of images and graphics with a resolution that is suitable for the respective device.
- Use of clear and concise menus and navigation elements that are easy to use even on smaller screens.
- Testing the website on different devices to ensure that it looks and works well on all screen sizes and devices.
- Minimise the use of pop-ups or other elements that force the user to click on certain buttons in order to use the website.
- Use of a content management system (CMS) such as WordPress, which supports and automatically adapts the creation of responsive content.
Fresh on the net: Wackenbus 2023
In 2023, the Wacken buses will be travelling to the legendary Wacken Open Air, the biggest heavy metal festival in the world, for the 14th time. It's a very special bus service that takes rock fans from different parts of Germany, Austria and Switzerland to the festival, which takes place annually in Wacken, a village in Schleswig-Holstein, and attracts thousands of fans. I had the pleasure of designing a new and fitting layout for the website.
Success stories no. 2
In the "Journey through time" section, I publish anniversary articles at irregular intervals - in other words, valuable milestones and joint success stories with long-standing customers. Today:
Kurth Autokrane GmbH & Co. KG: successful co-operation since 2008
Since my first job in 2008 for the family-run company Kurth Autokrane GmbH & Co. KG, I have experienced an impressive journey. This company, which has been operating in the Eifel and Rhineland regions for more than 20 years, is known for its reliable and versatile services for crane jobs, machine relocations and work platform operations.
A motivated team of dedicated employees ensures that every order is handled professionally and efficiently. Kurth Autokrane offers a nationwide crane dispatch service up to a mobile crane size of 500 tonnes. Other strengths include a comprehensive towing service and bus and lorry recovery. With a 24-hour service 365 days a year and co-operation with renowned partner companies that also hire out equipment that is not available in the company's own fleet, Kurth Autokrane stands out for its flexibility and customer proximity.
Over the years, we have realised numerous projects and continuously developed Kurth Autokrane's online presence with three comprehensive website relaunches. Together we have created a wide range of advertising media, including
- The complete business equipment
- Image and job adverts
- Flyers, brochures, information material and data sheets
- Roll-ups, banners, perimeter advertising and flags
- Signage and labelling
- Promotional gifts
- Icons and illustrations
This long-standing partnership has enabled me to develop versatile and creative solutions that strengthen and support the Kurth company in its external image. Kurth Autokrane GmbH & Co. KG is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year - I would like to thank them for the trust they have placed in me and look forward to continuing our successful collaboration in the years to come. Further information can be found on the Website of the company.
Tips & Tricks No. 21
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 arguments in favour of classic business cards
Business cards have been an essential part of business life for centuries. Despite the digital age, they have maintained their place.
In a world where digital communication is becoming increasingly important, the classic business card remains a valuable tool for personal and professional communication. It combines tradition with functionality and offers numerous advantages that are often lost in the digital space. In this blog article, I highlight the advantages of classic business cards and also discuss the modern version with a scannable QR code.
- Personal contact
Business cards enable a direct and personal exchange. Handing over a card creates a moment of connection that is often not achieved by digital means. - First impression
A well-designed business card can make a lasting first impression. It reflects professionalism and care and can impress potential customers or partners. - Tangibility
Physical business cards are tangible and can be easily stored or passed on. They serve as a constant reminder of an encounter or a business transaction. - Creative design options
The design options for physical business cards are diverse. Different types of paper, printing techniques and finishes such as embossing or varnishing offer creative freedom. - Eye-catching design
Special design elements such as a colour cut (on the edges of the business card) or special materials make your business card a real eye-catcher and make you stand out from the crowd. - Immediate access to information
Business cards offer a quick way to pass on contact details and important information without the need for technical devices. - Extended information
A QR code on the business card makes it possible to provide more information than would fit on a conventional card. By scanning the code, contact details, websites, social media profiles and more can be stored directly on the smartphone. - Timeliness and flexibility
QR codes allow the digital content to which they refer to be updated at any time. This means that changes to contact details or additional information can be easily adapted without having to print new cards. - Combination of physical and digital
Business cards with a QR code combine the advantages of the physical and digital worlds. They offer the feel and personal touch of a classic business card, while at the same time providing access to more comprehensive and up-to-date digital information.
The modern business card with QR code
Imagine you receive a business card from a business partner. At first glance, it looks like a classic business card: high-quality paper, attractive design. But there is a QR code on the back. You pull out your smartphone, scan the code and a mobile website opens with all the relevant information - from contact information and social media links to a link to a current project or portfolio. The data is always up to date and you can save it directly in your address book.
As a professional graphic designer, I offer you the design of classic business cards that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also effectively communicate your brand and personality. Whether traditional or with an integrated QR code - I design business cards that optimally fulfil your needs and leave a lasting impression. Utilise the advantages of classic business cards to impress in personal contact and at the same time build a bridge to the digital world with modern elements such as QR codes. Let's design your perfect business card together!
Fresh on the net: SYMA
Since 1988 the SYMA Immobilienverwaltungs- und Verwertungsgesellschaft mbH active in Frechen. In over 35 years, the company has acquired and continuously demonstrated extensive expertise in all areas of property management. It offers its customers structured property management, as the four business divisions cover the entire spectrum.
As a web designer, I am particularly pleased to have had the opportunity to design the company's new website. Working with SYMA was extremely inspiring as they brought their many years of experience and expertise to the project. The new website now not only reflects the company's professionalism, but also provides a user-friendly platform for customers and interested parties to find out more about their comprehensive services.
The classics: expressive adverts
In today's digital world, print advertising may seem old-fashioned to some. But for companies that operate regionally and sell products or services directly to customers in their area, print is still a powerful and effective advertising medium.
Why print advertising works for your local business:
- Quick attention and response: Print media such as newspapers, advertising journals and trade journals are read by many people in your region every day. With a well-placed advert you can attract attention quickly and stimulate spontaneous purchases.
- Perfect for seasonal offers and events: Print advertising is ideal for advertise current offers, promotions and events. Whether Mother's Day, Easter or the next city festival - with a print advert you will be present at the right time and reach exactly the right customers.
- Targeted approach: Local print media offer the opportunity to place your advertising regionally limited to switch. How to reach exactly the target groupthat is relevant for your offer.
- Serious and trustworthy appearance: Print media continue to enjoy a high degree of popularity. Seriousness and credibility. By placing your advert in a respected medium, you strengthen the trust of potential customers in your company.
- Individual design and recognition value: With my experience and creativity I design for you unique print advertsthat are tailored to your target group and have a high recognition value. This will help you stand out from the competition and remain in the memory of your customers.
Print advertising is dead? Not at all!
Especially in combination with online marketing, print advertising for local companies can a strong and profitable strategy be.
Let me advise you and together we will develop a print campaign that will inspire your customers and increase your sales.
Fresh on the net: JoJo children's and youth centre
The JoJo Protestant children's and youth centre in Frechen is an organisation of the Protestant parish of Frechen. It offers a wide range of activities and programmes for children and young people. The centre is a place of encounter, education and leisure activities for young people.
This is how the JoJo describes itself: "Our centre is an open and welcoming place. We have plenty of space for children and young people. We make it possible to experience community. Children and young people have a right to be supported and guided towards the future. Children and young people ... receive pedagogically qualified support and encouragement and have free space for leisure activities."
It was a pleasure to be able to support the aim of the JoJo Protestant Children's and Youth Centre with the new website: To offer young people a safe space in which they can unfold, develop new skills and make positive social contacts.
Success stories no. 1
In the "Journey through time" section, I publish anniversary articles at irregular intervals - in other words, valuable milestones and joint success stories with long-standing customers. Today:
Hochwildpark Kommern: successful collaboration since 2009
Since my first assignment in 2009 for the company then known as Hochwildpark Rheinland, I have experienced a remarkable journey. I look back with pride on the many years of collaboration and the many joint successes.
Even in those days, the park was already established as a family business and was no longer an insider tip for nature lovers. At the same time, the decision-makers were already endeavouring to use progressive advertising measures and create a professional and modern brand identity. Over the past 15 years, I have been able to accompany them on their way to becoming one of the most popular excursion destinations in the region and I am proud of our long-standing cooperation. During this time, we have successfully implemented three website relaunches, numerous marketing campaigns and many interesting projects and I have been able to develop an extensive range of advertising materials. These include
- Signage
- Posters, flyers and brochures
- Stickers, banners and roll-ups
- Vouchers and menus
- Adverts and social media contributions
- Illustrations and teaching materials
- Logo revision
- Promotional items
- and much more
I would like to thank Hochwildpark Kommern for the trust and the good partnership and look forward to continuing our co-operation in the coming years. Further information can be found on the Website of the park.
Signs - more than just signposts
Signs are omnipresent. They inform us, guide us and characterise the appearance of cities, companies and buildings. However, they are often perceived as purely functional elements to which little attention is paid. Yet a well-designed sign can be much more than just a signpost. It can be an eye-catcher that attracts attention, conveys a message and reflects the identity of a company or institution.
Why good design is important
A professionally designed sign offers many advantages:
- It is eye-catching and memorable: an appealing design stands out from the crowd and sticks in the viewer's mind.
- It communicates effectively: a sign should convey its message clearly so that it can be understood at a glance.
- It adds value: A high-quality sign can significantly improve the image of a company or institution.
- It is durable: a well-made sign can withstand wind and weather and retain its appearance for years.
Design options
There are virtually no limits to the design of signs. From classic information signs to large-format advertising spaces, there are a multitude of ways to attract the attention of the target group.
Materials
The choice of material plays an important role in the durability and appearance of a sign. Depending on the area of application, various materials can be considered, such as aluminium, PVC, Dibond or acrylic glass.
Signs for every need
Whether company signs, construction site signs, information signs, advertising signs or guidance systems - the possible uses of signs are many and varied. Well-designed signs are more than just signposts. They are business cards, image carriers and ambassadors. With a professional design, you can attract the attention of your target group, communicate your message effectively and present your company or institution in a positive light.
I would be happy to advise you without obligation on all questions relating to the design and realisation of signs.
Tips & Tricks No. 20
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 tips on how I can help you shine with your website in the digital space
In today's digital world, creating a website is an art that balances aesthetics and functionality. From adapting to different devices to clearly communicating your brand message, every detail counts.
Here are nine practical tips to make sure your website not only looks great, but also achieves your goals. From usability to security, I'll show you how to make your online presence a success. And as an experienced graphic and web designer, I'm here to help you bring your vision to life.
- Responsive design - a website that adapts
Your website should look and function well on all devices, whether desktop, tablet or smartphone. As a professional, I can ensure that your pages have a consistent and appealing appearance. - User-friendliness (usability) - easy to navigate
Clear and intuitive navigation makes it easier for your visitors to find their way around your website and find the information they need quickly. By designing user-friendly menus and buttons, I ensure that your content is easily accessible. - Load time optimisation - fast and responsive
As a web designer, I can ensure that your website not only loads quickly, but is also responsive. By optimising image sizes, minimising scripts and choosing an efficient hosting service, I ensure that your website offers a smooth experience even on slow internet connections. - Call-to-actions - clear calls to action
Guide your visitors with clear calls to action to carry out the desired actions, be it filling out a contact form, requesting a quote or purchasing a product. - Barrier-free design - accessibility for all
Your website should be accessible to everyone, regardless of any restrictions. Pay attention to clear contrasts, easy-to-read fonts and user-friendly navigation. - Search engine optimisation (SEO) - Visibility on Google & Co.
Ensure that your website is easily found in search engines such as Google by using relevant search terms and optimising your pages for search engines. - Integration of analysis tools - understand your visitors
Use analytics tools such as Matomo to understand your visitors' behaviour and adapt your website accordingly to increase conversions. - Security - protect your data
Your website should be secure in order to protect sensitive data and gain the trust of your visitors. As a web designer, the security of your website is important to me. I implement robust security measures to protect sensitive data and close potential security gaps. From regular security updates to implementing SSL certificates, I work to make your visitors feel safe and confident in your website. - Content that inspires - convincing content
Provide high quality and relevant content that engages and informs your visitors. Good content is crucial to keep your target group interested and encourage them to come back.
As an experienced graphic and web designer, I have the expertise and creative skills to translate your vision into a stunning website that incorporates all of the above tips. From conception to realisation, I'll be by your side to ensure your website is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functions optimally and supports your goals. Contact me today to work together to create your unique online presence and strengthen your brand in the digital space.
Fresh on the net: Arenberg Castle Ruins Support Association
The Friends of Arenberg Castle Ruins e. V. has been working to preserve the tower and castle complex on the Aremberg in the Eifel since 2003 with almost 120 members. In cooperation with the owner of the site, Arenberg-Schleiden GmbH, the local community of Aremberg and many other institutions, the members of the association maintain the site and organise cultural and tourist events to bring the castle and its history closer to the public.
As a web designer, I am delighted to be able to help the local association with a new website to better present and support its commitment to the rich history of the Arenberg castle ruins. Let us take you on a journey of discovery and learn more about the fascinating history that makes this place a jewel of the past.
Attract attention: roll-ups and banners for your marketing campaigns
As a graphic and web designer, I offer customised solutions for your marketing campaigns, with a particular focus on the design of roll-ups and banners. These promotional tools are not only popular, but also extremely effective for showcasing your brand at various events and functions.
Here are some reasons why roll-ups and banners are an excellent choice for your business:
- Professional designThanks to my expertise in graphic design, I create high-quality roll-ups that represent your brand in the best possible way. From the choice of colours to the placement of your logo and message, every detail is carefully considered to ensure an impressive visual presence.
- Consistent brand presentationA strong brand identity is the key to success. I can help you develop a consistent visual language that flows seamlessly across all your marketing materials - be it on a roll-up banner, your website or social media.
- Effective communicationRoll-ups and banners are not only eye-catchers, but also effective communication tools. I work closely with you to ensure that your message is conveyed clearly and convincingly, whether it's product information, special offers or company values.
- Target group orientated strategiesEvery marketing campaign should be tailored to your target group. With my experience in analysing target groups, I develop targeted strategies to place your roll-ups and banners in the right places and attract the attention of your potential customers.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of roll-up banners depends on factors such as design, placement and target group relevance. I am happy to help you maximise the marketing benefits of these advertising tools for your company with a clear message and an appealing design. With my many years of experience and the latest techniques in roll-up design, we can ensure that your message is communicated effectively and that your company receives the desired attention.
All logos/proprietary names/trademarks and graphics/photos shown are for illustration and reference purposes only and are the sole property of the respective owner/originator or copyright holder. The inclusion of hyperlinks to external sites is, as is usual on the Internet, for reference purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement of the respective offer by vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel. Liability, in particular for any damage or consequences arising from the use of the offer, is excluded - vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel is not responsible for the content of websites to which direct or indirect reference is made via links. If, in your opinion, there is questionable content or content that violates applicable law, please inform me so that the relevant information can be updated or removed.
