News from vh-crossmedia
Completed projects and news from my work
Christmas is coming ...
As every year, the task in 2022 was to create Christmas design templates for my customers' cards. A large selection of individual layouts makes every Christmas greeting unique.
Visual communication with sense and understanding
Magazines and brochures are still important in advertising as they provide a physical presence and can appeal to a selected target group. Through appealing design and informative content, they enable a long-lasting impact and convey brand messages in a personal and tangible way.
Regardless of whether you want to design a powerful image brochure, create a detailed product catalogue, design a stylish magazine or write an official annual report - I not only get what you have to say and show in perfect form, I also think along with you.
Tips & Tricks No. 11
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
What is "white space" and why is it so important?
"White space" refers to the unused space between different design elements such as text, images or graphics. It helps to structure the design and improve the visual hierarchy by giving the viewer's eye a break and focussing on the most important elements. Effective use of white space can make a design more elegant, modern and easier to understand.
Here are 9 tips on the topic of "white space" - the free space in a design in which there is neither a visual element nor text:
- Emphasising content: By using white space, important content on a website or graphic can be better emphasised. The white space around an element draws the viewer's focus to it and enables them to quickly grasp the content.
- Improving readability: Sufficient use of white space can improve the readability of text on a website or graphic. By leaving enough space between blocks of text, you can prevent the text from appearing cluttered and more difficult to read.
- Enhancing aesthetics: The use of white space can help a design appear more aesthetically pleasing overall. It gives a website or graphic a clean, organic look that can give the impression of elegance and sophistication.
- Creating balance: White space can help make a website or graphic look more balanced and symmetrical. By harmonising the space around different elements, you can achieve an overall balanced design.
- Better navigation: The use of white space can improve navigation on a website. By creating gaps between different navigation elements, you can help the viewer to find their way around more easily.
- Reduction of distractions: White space can help reduce visual distractions on a website or graphic. By separating certain elements, you can prevent the viewer from being overwhelmed and losing focus.
- Facilitating perception: The use of white space can facilitate the perception of content. By leaving enough space between different elements, the content can be better understood.
- Improving the user experience: A well thought-out use of white space can improve the user experience on a website. By optimising the space around various elements, you can increase usability and provide visitors with a pleasant experience.
- Better conversions: Thoughtful use of white space can also help increase conversion rates on a website. By optimising the space around call-to-action buttons and directing the viewer's focus to specific elements, you can increase the likelihood that the viewer will perform a desired action.
Fresh on the net: Menopause counsellor Ulrike Platt
When women's fluctuating hormones turn everything upside down, when their feelings and moods take them on a rollercoaster ride, they may want a companion who takes their questions seriously. Someone who listens to them and works with them to find answers and solutions. Ulrike Platt - the expert for the menopause - provides this counselling for women in transition.
I was very happy to create an appealing website (and matching business cards, of course) for this topic, which has received little attention up to now, so that this often drastic experience for women becomes more present in social dialogue.
SIMPLY BEASTLY!
New signage for one of my most loyal customers, the Wildlife park in Kommern. The large information boards are attractive and easy to read, even for younger visitors to the park, and provide lots of details about the individual animal species.
Fresh on the net: FV 1922 Daufenbach e.V.
Daufenbach has been chasing after the round leather for more than 100 years now. In addition to the traditional football section, the club also offers gymnastics, football golf and even hip hop! The latter was established in 2022 and is very popular with 6 to 17-year-olds in the region. This means that dusty club life is finally a thing of the past. Of course, this breath of fresh air also includes a modern website and various advertising and PR measures, which I was happy to contribute and wish all the best for the future!
Workbook on the topic "Europe and us"
It was a great pleasure to be able to work for the Didactics of Social Sciences department at Trier University again: The school workbook on the topic of "Europe and us" provides information on the Greater Region, its location and its function in Europe. Above all, however, it is intended to give pupils the opportunity to explore and investigate for themselves. I have created the corresponding layout and hope that this will motivate the young researchers particularly well!
News from the Düren district
This year, the district of Düren is celebrating its 50th anniversary. To celebrate these five exciting decades with the citizens, an extensive programme has been put together that will run throughout the year. One of the first events was the open day at the Aldenhoven Testing Centre (ATC). Here you could take a look behind the scenes and find out more about the future of mobility - combined with everything for your physical well-being and a live music programme on a large stage. I was happy to design the posters and flyers for this event.
Tips & Tricks No. 10
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
What makes a good website?
A good company website is crucial to the success of a business in the digital age. Here are 9 recommendations that can help you design a successful website:
- Define your target group: Before you design your website, you should be clear about your target group. Who are your customers? What are their needs and expectations? Customise your website to this target group.
- Clear structure: A clear structure and navigation are important so that visitors can quickly find what they are looking for. A simple menu structure that covers the most important areas of your website makes it easier to navigate.
- Content: Provide high quality content that appeals to your target audience. It should not only be informative, but also appealing and easy to understand. Also use images and videos to liven up your content.
- Mobile optimisation: More and more people are using mobile devices to surf the internet. Make sure your website is optimised for all devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Fast loading times: A fast loading time is crucial for the success of your website. Optimise your images and use a reliable hosting platform to ensure that your website loads quickly.
- SEO: Search engine optimisation is an important factor for the success of your website. Make sure that your website is optimised with relevant keywords and meta tags to rank well in search engine results.
- Social media integration: Link your website to your social media channels to increase your reach and encourage visitors to share your content on social networks.
- Contact options: Make sure that visitors can easily get in touch with you. Add a contact page and offer various contact options, such as telephone, e-mail and contact form.
- Up-to-date: Keep your website up-to-date by regularly adding new content and updating existing content. An outdated website can deter visitors and damage your credibility.
Local patriotism
With the diligent support of the Sinzenich village community I was allowed to create ten more information boards in my former home village. The trail to the nature reserves in and around Sinzenich offers lots of new information on the unique flora and fauna as well as a marvellous view of the Zülpicher Börde from the hiking hut and a visit to the forest chapel on the Eulenberg. It is the second section of the Sinzenich natural history circular route and starts behind Sinzenich Castle at the bridge over the Rotbach near Linzenicher Straße (L178).
Work on this second circular trail, the route of which is already shown here, is currently in the final stages. As soon as the new information boards are in place, they will be posted here.
Business stationery that makes a good impression
Good business stationery is important as it characterises the first impression of a company and conveys professionalism. High-quality business cards, stationery and a uniform appearance help to gain the trust of potential customers and strengthen the credibility of the brand.
Nowhere else is a coherent design concept as elementary as in the design of your business stationery, because it must optimally support you in all external and internal processes and integrate seamlessly into your working environment. It is the tool you use every day - so it should not only be appealing and creatively designed, but also functional, well thought-out and optimally tailored to your specific requirements. My needs-orientated and effective implementation successfully supports your corporate communication.
Making it big with impressive formats
Expertly designed poster advertising offers you the opportunity to reach target groups that are difficult to address in their individual media consumption. A successful poster quietly and patiently courts the favour of passers-by and becomes more familiar with every encounter. I get the most important elements right for you so that everything essential is captured at first glance and attention is quickly and specifically drawn to your product, event or motif.
Mehr Platz für Sie und mich!
In meinem Konferenz- und Schulungsraum ist es jetzt noch komfortabler, wenn wir uns beim Erstgespräch kennenlernen oder uns für Geschäftsmeetings, Kundenberatungen und Workshops treffen. Ruhig, großzügig und und vielseitig nutzbar – der ideale Treffpunkt im Zentrum von Adenau um mit Ihnen als meinen Kunden und Geschäftspartnern in Kontakt zu treten oder Ihnen Ergebnisse meiner Arbeit zu präsentieren.
Ich freue mich auf Ihren Besuch!
Small prices, big impact
Flyer in postcard format are an optimal and cost-effective option for large quantities of quick information or compact advertising measures. I develop each advertising flyer 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 print shops are ideal for the "quick number". Take advantage of the low prices for a big impact!
Tips & Tricks No. 9
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
What characterises a good logo design?
Here are 9 tips for a good logo:
- Simplicity: The logo should be simple and easy to understand so that it is easily recognisable.
- Memorability: The logo should be easy to remember so that it is memorised by customers.
- Recognisability: The logo should be unique so that it is easily recognisable when displayed on different media and materials.
- Originality: The logo should be unique and different from other logos in the industry.
- Timelessness: The logo should have a certain timelessness so that it still looks current and modern years later.
- Adaptability: The logo should look good in different sizes and formats and be easy to present on different backgrounds and materials.
- Choice of colours: The colours of the logo should be chosen to match the brand and create an emotional connection to the customer.
- Font: The font of the logo should match the brand and be easy to read.
- Meaningfulness: The logo should convey a clear message about the company or brand. It should give the customer an idea of what the company does and what it stands for.
News from the Düren district
The district of Düren and its economic development department are active and committed in numerous fields. Whether it's for the needs of school leavers, start-ups or companies in the region, support and assistance is diligently solicited and I am pleased to have been able to help with this for many years.
Fresh on the net: Solar Wilden
SOLAR WILDEN has been offering state-of-the-art photovoltaics for 15 years. More than 3000 installed PV systems and an experienced team speak for themselves. With its photovoltaic, battery storage and electromobility services, customers reduce their energy costs, become independent and protect the climate.
I am delighted to be able to provide the company with a new logo and a suitable website for a successful public image.
The classics: expressive adverts
For target groups that purchase services or products regionally, a regional marketing strategy is still important in the age of online marketing. Display in newspapers, trade magazines and advertising journals still makes sense. Advertising in print media is particularly worthwhile for current offers that encourage spontaneous purchases. This type of advertising also works traditionally well for certain occasions or events. Advertisements can be regionally limited for targeted advertising and in industry-specific newspapers or magazines they reach exactly the right addressees.
I design customised print ads for you with recognition value that stand out and are read.
The QR code revival
The QR code (which stands for "Quick Response") was invented in Japan back in 1994 and led a shadowy existence for a long time until the coronavirus pandemic turned it into a currency for health and safety - from vaccination cards to digital menus.
In the meantime, scanning QR codes has become as natural as taking a selfie. The new way of displaying information has become a learned behaviour that consumers have become comfortable with. And so the square pixel box will still be with us when the pandemic is finally over.
And the code can do even more: it can contain links and thus becomes a kind of portal between the analogue and digital worlds. QR codes can not only store more information than normal barcodes, but also offer consumers a quick and effective way to get in touch with your company.
You can use a customised QR code with your contact information and have your data automatically entered into the address book after scanning. Or you can use the scan to link directly to your WhatsApp account! In this way, a QR code can create a seamless user experience and efficiently guide customers directly to the desired destination.
Consider adding a QR code to signage in your shop or to your business cards, flyers, posters or vehicle livery to help customers find out more about you. Perhaps you can link the code to a promotion or encourage your customers to contact you directly via WhatsApp about a specific offer.
If you need support in creating QR codes for your company, I will be happy to help!
New logo for KiTa
The "Brücke" daycare centre in Neersen was recently given a new location with a bungalow and extension as well as a modern annex, designed by local architect Stefanie Käding - barrier-free, spacious and flooded with light. And of course, the completed annex also includes a new logo, which I was able to contribute to the launch of the daycare centre on Mutschenweg.
Matomo: comprehensive web analytics for optimal performance
As a website operator, the use of web analytics software is crucial. It provides insights into user behaviour, helps with performance optimisation, enables target tracking and conversion optimisation, supports keyword analysis for better SEO and allows competitive analyses.
Matomo is my favourite open source web analytics platform. It provides website owners with detailed reports on website traffic, including visitor behaviour, referrers, conversions and more. Matomo offers similar features to Google Analytics, but is self-hosted, giving users full control over their data.
The main features of Matomo are
- Data protectionMatomo emphasises data protection and data sovereignty. In contrast to Google Analytics, users can host the analysis data on their own servers and thus have full control over how data is collected, stored and used.
- CustomisationUsers can customise Matomo to track specific metrics and events relevant to their websites or applications. This flexibility enables customised analytics reports to meet specific business needs.
- Real-time reportingMatomo provides real-time reports that allow users to monitor website traffic in real time.
- Open SourceAs open source software, Matomo allows users to inspect and modify the source code according to their requirements, which promotes transparency and security.
- Data sovereigntyMatomo ensures that users have full ownership of their data, unlike some other analytics platforms where data ownership may be more ambiguous.
- GDPR complianceMatomo offers features that help users comply with data protection regulations, such as anonymising IP addresses and providing options for users to opt out of tracking.
- Plugins and extensionsMatomo has a thriving ecosystem of plugins and extensions that extend its functionality and allow users to integrate additional features or further customise their analytics configuration.
As a web designer, I not only offer the creation of appealing and functional websites, but also a comprehensive service that includes web analytics using Matomo. With Matomo, we can create customised analyses to help you continuously improve your website and increase the success of your online strategy. You retain full control over your data, and I offer you a long-term partnership to make your website successful.
With Matomo as part of our comprehensive web design solution, you can be sure that your website not only looks good, but is also effective and helps you achieve your goals. Let's work together to take your online presence to the next level!
AIDA in web design: proven strategy for more success
As a graphic and web designer, I am passionate about not only creating aesthetically pleasing websites, but also ensuring that they effectively engage my clients' target audience and motivate them to take action. With this in mind, I'd like to share a proven strategy that can help achieve just that: the AIDA principle.
A for Attention
The first step in designing a new website for you and your business is to grab the attention of visitors. Through thoughtful design with appealing graphics, clear typography and an inviting colour scheme, I want to ensure that visitors are immediately drawn to your website. Remember that first impressions are crucial - a well-designed homepage or an impressive hero banner can make all the difference.
I for Interest
Once you have captured the attention of your visitors, it is important to arouse their interest. We offer relevant content that addresses the needs and problems of your target group. Using engaging text and supporting images or videos to present your offer in an attractive way means that the better you understand and address your visitors' needs, the more likely they are to stay on your website and want to learn more.
D for Desire
Once we have aroused their interest, you want to increase their desire for your offer. Let's work together to show how your product or service can solve their problems or fulfil their needs. Let's use customer reviews, success stories or other forms of social proof to build trust and increase your visitors' desire. Let's convince them that your offer is exactly what they are looking for.
A for Action
The final step is the call to action. We place clear calls-to-action at strategic points on your website that encourage visitors to take the desired action - be it a purchase, filling out a contact form or subscribing to a newsletter. I design these CTAs for you to be eye-catching but not intrusive, making it easy for your visitors to take action.
By incorporating the AIDA principle into your web design, we can ensure that your website not only looks beautiful, but is also effective at attracting visitors, piquing their interest, increasing their desire and ultimately getting them to take the desired action. If you need further assistance in implementing this principle for your website, I would be happy to help.
Fresh on the net: Frey to the power of three!
For one of my most loyal customers I have successfully three customised landing pages which are specially designed for different product lines. These pages were specifically designed to optimally present the uniqueness and appeal of the respective devices. The design of the landing pages required a fine balance between a consistent design that emphasises the brand identity and an individual layout that highlights the uniqueness and appeal of the products. The key component is to skilfully integrate the brand guidelines and elements into the design, while leaving room for creative freedom to combine the best of both worlds:
The advantages of these customised landing pages are manifold. Firstly, they make it possible to address the target group precisely, as they provide the relevant information that potential customers are looking for. This leads to a higher conversion rate as visitors immediately find what they are looking for. Secondly, special attention was paid to optimising user-friendliness. The clear structure and appealing design ensure a pleasant user experience, which in turn increases the time spent on the pages. Thirdly, the landing pages are optimised for different screen sizes to ensure that they work optimally on all devices, be it desktop, tablet or smartphone.
For efficient navigation and an improved user experience, there is an additional top page with the function as a selection option for the three landing pages - also known as Splash page or hub page. It not only enables a clear and simple selection for visitors, but also contributes to a uniform design that strengthens the brand identity.
The benefits of this structure include ease of use, tracking of visitor behaviour, flexibility for future expansion and potential SEO improvements. The clear and intuitive navigation on the hub page ensures that visitors can easily find the information they are looking for, while also allowing for easy customisation for possible future additions to product lines.
- Centralised control: The top page acts as a central point of contact from which visitors can navigate to the various product lines. This enables a structured and targeted experience.
- User friendliness: The use of a selection option at the top makes it easy for visitors to select the desired product line. This contributes to improved user-friendliness.
- Standardised design: The top page can have a uniform design that reinforces the brand identity. From there, visitors can move seamlessly to the individual landing pages, creating a consistent overall image.
- Tracking and analyses: By using a central hub page, web designers can better track and analyse visitor behaviour. This enables a more detailed evaluation of which product lines are particularly popular or which page has the highest conversion rate.
- Flexibility for future expansions: If more product lines are added in the future, the top page can be easily customised to make room for the new options without having to redesign the entire website.
- SEO benefits: Using a hub page can help improve search engine optimisation by making the structure of the website clearer and linking the pages better together.
Visual magic: the fascinating world of halftone images
Interesting insights into the creation of visual elements, especially in relation to halftone images and their application in graphic design and printing technology: this colourful video provides a better understanding of the technical aspects and creative evolution of halftone images.
Many thanks and good wishes ...
Dear customers, friends and business partners,
As the year draws to a close, it is time to pause and look back on all the projects and creative moments we have shared. Your support and collaboration have made this year special. A big thank you for your trust and the exciting challenges we have overcome together. I look forward to working with you again next year to realise innovative ideas and grow together.
Merry Christmas and a creative, successful 2024!
Tips & Tricks No. 18
In the "neunmalklug" section, I publish tips, tricks and technical information about graphic and web design at irregular intervals. Today:
9 terms that have made it from typography & printing technology into everyday language
- CopyIn classical letterpress printing, an impression was a first proof or a simple test print (the material to be printed was placed on the inked printing plate and usually tapped with a brush, whereby the printing ink clapped off onto the sheet). Today, the word is used to describe an inferior copy or imitation.
- ClichéCliché: Originally, it was a printing term for a printing plate that was used to create identical copies of an original. This is why "cliché" is also used today in a figurative sense to describe stereotypical ideas or entrenched opinions.
- LapidaryOriginally a simple font, also known as "lapidary script" (from the Latin "lapis" for "stone"). In everyday language, "lapidary" is used to express something succinctly and with little embellishment.
- Waste paperIn the printing industry, "waste" refers to unusable or faulty printed copies (from the Latin word maculatura: "the stained"). In the vernacular, it is used to refer to something superfluous or scrap material.
- MarginaliaIn typography, a marginalia refers to a note in the margin or a marginal note (marginalis: "concerning the margin"). In everyday language, the term is used for a triviality or an unimportant note.
- Matrix: A stamp used for casting fonts. Today it is often used as a synonym for "foundation" or "base".
- CategoryThe term rubric comes from the red (Latin: rubrum) colour that was used in religious books to mark instructions for the liturgy and was also used for headings and other structural elements, i.e. it denotes a heading or keyword that identifies a specific area of content. In everyday language, the term "rubric" is used for a category or section.
- StereotypeStereotyping refers to the process of moulding and reproducing typesetting or printing blocks. In common parlance, the term, like cliché, has come to epitomise entrenched ideas, which in the case of stereotype primarily stand for simplifications and prejudices.
- Type caseIn typography, a type case refers to a tool used to set type - the many lead letters lay sorted in the small compartments of wooden boxes. Today, the term is used for a decorative collection of objects in small wooden compartments.
Corporate design, visual identity and style guide
As a graphic designer, it is important for me to explain terms such as corporate design, visual identity and style guide to my clients, because a common understanding forms the basis for successful projects. Clarity about these concepts not only enables more effective communication, but also promotes informed decision-making and builds trust between me and my clients. This contributes to better collaboration, high-quality designs and long-term client relationships.
Corporate Design (CD) refers to the visual identity of a company, including all aspects that make it visually unique. It includes specifications for images and graphic elements that customers perceive of the brand, from logos to shop fittings. CD creates a clear visual identity and differentiates the company from other brands.
The visual identity represents all the visual elements of a brand. A professional visual identity is crucial as it is the face of the company and makes the first impression on potential customers. It goes beyond logos and colours; it should offer a convincing representation of the brand's core values and unique selling points.
Why a professional visual identity is important
- Differentiation: In a crowded market, it emphasises the brand and makes it easier for customers to remember.
- Credibility and trust: A professional identity conveys reliability and credibility, which arouses the interest of consumers.
- Consistency: It creates a consistent brand experience across different platforms and ensures instant recognition.
- Emotional connection: An effective identity builds an emotional bond and promotes customer loyalty.
- Communication of values: It can convey the values, mission and personality of the company, which promotes identification with the brand.
Building an effective visual identity
- Definition of the brand: Clear definition of core values, mission and target group for a precise visual representation.
- Unforgettable logo: Design of a simple, versatile and easily recognisable logo.
- Select colour palette: Selection of colours that match the personality of the brand and are visually appealing.
- Typography: Choose consistent fonts that reflect the brand and are easy to read.
- Creation of brand guidelines: Create a comprehensive set of rules to ensure consistent branding.
- Use high-quality images: Use of images that match the values of the brand and appeal to the target group.
- Maintain consistency: Ensure a uniform appearance across all platforms.
- Adaptation and further development: The identity should evolve as the company grows in order to remain relevant.
A Style Guide is a practical document that provides specific instructions on the correct application of the corporate design. It serves as a reference tool and ensures that everyone involved works consistently and uses the corporate design in accordance with the defined standards.
You could also say that corporate design is the "what" (the visual identity), while the style guide is the "how" (the instructions on how to apply the corporate design correctly). Both are crucial to ensure that a brand is presented consistently and professionally.
Successful examples
- Apple Inc: Known for minimalism, elegance and innovation, the bitten apple logo has represented these values for decades.
- Coca-Cola: The iconic red and white logo conveys tradition and nostalgia, echoing the brand's long history.
- Airbnb: The brand symbolises modernity and inclusivity, with a logo that combines a heart and a place mark.
To summarise, a professional visual identity is crucial in order to stand out in a highly competitive market. It serves as a recognisable feature, builds trust, creates emotional connections and communicates the brand's values. Continuity and adaptability are key to building a strong and recognisable brand.
New logo for Metallbau Steinhof
The young business owner of Metallbau Steinhof was looking for a logo that would consciously stand out from the usual clichés such as tools, screws, hammers and anvils or even a welder. Instead, we wanted to pursue a more contemporary approach together. The result is a figurative mark made up of spatially arranged lines that reflects the versatility of the company's services - from doors, gates and railings to steel structures.
Such a modern, abstract logo made of lines offers numerous advantages, including a contemporary appearance, versatility in interpretation, the ability to create a unique brand image, a reduced, clear aesthetic and flexibility in various applications. It helps to create a contemporary, versatile and memorable brand identity.
Visual persuasiveness: outdoor advertising with banners and tarpaulins
Advertising banners, billboards and tarpaulins play a crucial role in a company's advertising strategy. These forms of outdoor advertising are important because they appeal to a broad target group, remain in the memory of potential customers and increase brand awareness.
Here are some reasons why these advertising media are important for companies:
- Reach and visibility
Large billboards and advertising banners are often placed in highly frequented locations, such as on main roads or in shopping centres. They therefore reach a large number of people, both pedestrians and motorists. This broad visibility is crucial for reaching potential customers and increasing brand awareness. - Attract attention
Large and eye-catching advertising banners attract the attention of passers-by. Creative design, vibrant colours and interesting messages can help to make people stop and take a closer look at the advertisement. An appealing advert sticks in people's minds, making it more likely that they will remember the advertised company later. - Addressing local target groups
Large billboards and banners are particularly effective for local companies as they can specifically address local target groups. People in the immediate vicinity become aware of the company and are more likely to visit the shop or make use of the advertised product or service. - Flexibility and creativity
Advertising tarpaulins and banners offer companies the opportunity to be creative and communicate different messages. They can advertise seasonal offers, draw attention to special promotions or present new products. This flexibility allows companies to adapt their advertising messages to current needs and trends. - Creating credibility and trust
For many people, well-placed and professionally designed advertising banners radiate seriousness and trustworthiness. Companies that invest in high-quality advertising are often perceived as established and reliable. This can boost the confidence of potential customers and encourage them to try out the advertised company's products or services.
Professionally designed advertising banners, billboards and tarpaulins are therefore indispensable tools for attracting the attention of a broad target group, increasing brand awareness, appealing to local customers and gaining the trust of consumers. They are not only eye-catchers, but also powerful communication tools that strengthen a brand's image and play a key role in attracting potential customers and building long-term customer loyalty. Through their visual presence, they play a key role in ensuring a company's success in today's highly competitive market.
Mobile devices on the rise: How companies are adapting to new user habits
The way people access the internet is constantly changing and these changes have a significant impact on companies' online presence. Significant shifts in internet usage have been observed over the last two years, particularly in terms of the types of devices used.
This data provides insights into the percentage distribution of internet usage on desktop computers, smartphones and tablets in Germany over the period from September 2021 to September 2023. The values indicate the proportion of internet usage attributable to each device type - the figures provide interesting insights into user preferences (source: StatCounter).
Here is a brief analysis of this data:
- Desktop use:
The use of desktop computers is declining, from 58.44% in September 2021 to 55.38% in September 2023, which could indicate that people are increasingly switching to mobile devices to access the internet. - Mobile use:
The use of smartphones remains high and is increasing slightly, from 38.88% in September 2021 to 42.06% in September 2023. This underlines the continuing trend towards mobile internet use. - Tablet use:
Tablet usage remains relatively low compared to desktop and mobile, but fluctuates slightly between 2% and 3%. It seems that tablets are not as widely used as smartphones or desktop computers for accessing the internet.
Overall, the development of the data shows that desktop usage is decreasing, while mobile usage, particularly via smartphones, continues to increase. This is in line with global trends that show a shift towards mobile internet usage. It is important to note that these trends may be influenced by various factors such as improved mobile technologies, affordable smartphones and wider availability of mobile internet services.
Changes in internet usage have a direct impact on companies' online presence. Here are some thoughts on how companies can respond to these trends:
- Mobile optimisation:
With more and more people accessing the internet via mobile devices, it is crucial to ensure that the company website is optimised for mobile devices. The website should utilise responsive design to ensure an optimal user experience on smartphones and tablets. - Fast loading times:
Mobile users are often more impatient than desktop users. A fast website loading time is crucial to improve the user experience and ensure that visitors do not bounce due to long loading times. - Content optimisation:
Content should be optimised for mobile users. This means not only adapting texts and images, but also offering easily digestible content such as videos and short text sections that can be displayed well on small screens. - Security and data protection:
With the increase in mobile internet usage, awareness of security and data protection has also risen. Companies should ensure that their websites are secure and comply with data protection regulations in order to gain the trust of users. - Customer service and communication:
Mobile devices also offer new opportunities for customer service, be it via chat apps or social media. Companies can use mobile platforms to communicate directly with their customers and provide quick answers to questions or problems.
In many cases, a company's sector will play a role in Internet usage behaviour.
Online presence and adaptation to the changing habits of Internet users depend heavily on the type of business:
Company in the E-Commerce area often benefit greatly from the increase in mobile internet usage. With many people shopping online on mobile, e-commerce companies need to ensure that their websites and apps are optimised for mobile devices in order to remain competitive.
For local services such as hairdressers or restaurants, local search via mobile devices can be crucial. Customers often search for nearby services on their smartphones, so good visibility on mobile devices and positive online reviews are of great importance.
Companies that Media content must adapt to the habits of users who are increasingly using mobile devices to stream videos and music. This often requires the development of mobile apps and the optimisation of content for mobile devices.
For certain B2B (Business-to-Business) or in sectors such as management consultancy or legal advice, the importance of mobile internet use may be lower, as customers may be less likely to utilise these services via mobile devices. Nevertheless, online presence and accessibility via mobile devices can also be important here in order to appeal to potential customers.
Overall, it is crucial for companies to adapt to the changing habits of internet users. This means not only optimising for mobile devices, but also understanding the specific needs and expectations of the mobile target group. A user-friendly, fast and secure online presence is becoming increasingly important in order to remain competitive and provide a positive user experience.
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