News and updates in my blog

News Blog2025-08-16T09:50:22+02:00

News from vh-crossmedia

Completed projects and news from my work

Local patriotism

25 June 2022|

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

19 May 2022|

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.

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Making it big with impressive formats

18 May 2022|

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.

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Mehr Platz für Sie und mich!

15. May 2022|

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.

Volker Heupel – Grafikdesigner | Webdesigner in Adenau

Ich freue mich auf Ihren Besuch!

vh-crossmedia · Kirchstraße 5 · 53518 Adenau

Small prices, big impact

02 May 2022|

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!

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Tips & Tricks No. 9

16 April 2022|

neunmalklug from vh-crossmedia

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:

  1. Simplicity: The logo should be simple and easy to understand so that it is easily recognisable.
  2. Memorability: The logo should be easy to remember so that it is memorised by customers.
  3. Recognisability: The logo should be unique so that it is easily recognisable when displayed on different media and materials.
  4. Originality: The logo should be unique and different from other logos in the industry.
  5. Timelessness: The logo should have a certain timelessness so that it still looks current and modern years later.
  6. Adaptability: The logo should look good in different sizes and formats and be easy to present on different backgrounds and materials.
  7. Choice of colours: The colours of the logo should be chosen to match the brand and create an emotional connection to the customer.
  8. Font: The font of the logo should match the brand and be easy to read.
  9. 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.

Should we use these tips together?
I look forward to helping you further!

News from the Düren district

06 April 2022|

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.

The classics: expressive adverts

26 March 2022|

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.

Would you like more information on this topic?
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The QR code revival

24 March 2022|

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.

vh-crossmedia | QR code
vh-crossmedia | QR code

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!

Flyer campaign for Chaco

06 March 2022|

The company "Chaco" from the Westerwald - the versatile specialist retailer for tools, fastening technology, industrial supplies, industrial safety & bicycles - received support from me for current advertising campaigns. Also planned: a major relaunch of the company's own catalogue and much more ...

Green is everywhere ...

22 February 2022|

Despite my departure from the Voreifel region, my clients and I remain loyal to each other, including the local BÜNDNIS90/DIE GRÜNEN Zülpich association. I was able to help with the production of a series of information brochures that address green issues in the former Roman town and its surroundings. And even though the second version of the "GRÜNE BLÄTTCHEN" had already blossomed into "GRÜN IM GESPRÄCH", I am looking forward to many more editions!

Data protection and SSL obligation

01 February 2022|

The new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force on 25 May 2018 to ensure uniform data protection throughout the EU. The GDPR affects all websites that request personal data, i.e. email addresses (e.g. via newsletters or downloads), login data entered by users in the browser, contact or order forms and all online shops.

Is SSL encryption of my website important or even mandatory?

The use of an SSL certificate for websites has been recommended for some time and is also categorised positively by Google for search engine rankings. Google penalises websites that do not have an SSL certificate

If your website does not have a valid SSL certificate, visitors will receive a warning - in the worst case even an error message. Many visitors will then close the page.

When using a website, personal data of the visitor can be collected via various input fields and processed for the respective request. Unsecured input can be tapped and even changed by third parties without being noticed. Without SSL encryption, you enable an attack on sensitive data!

In addition to these aspects, it should also be mentioned that an SSL certificate is mandatory under the GDPR if you offer a contact form on your website, for example. An infringement can be penalised with a fine of up to €50,000.

What is "SSL" anyway?

SSL certificates are an all-encompassing measure to protect personal data and create trust. A small lock symbol in the browser bar indicates when we are using SSL encryption. But what is SSL?

SSL stands for "Secure Sockets Layer". It is a network protocol for the secure transmission of data. Websites can be equipped with the SSL certificate. Put simply, all data traffic from a website to the visitor and vice versa is encrypted so that the transmitted data cannot be viewed or intercepted by anyone else. This is often important for companies in order to be seen as trustworthy by their customers. The encrypted access to a website always takes place via https before the entered URL.

If you need support for the encryption of your website, please feel free to contact me!

Dancing to cool beats ...

15 January 2022|

Ideenschmiede Puderbacher Land is a volunteer project organised by the Puderbach Association of Municipalities. With the idea of a free "hip-hop workshop" with two-time German champions Gabriel Hermes and Miah Bein from Tanzfabrik Mittelrhein, more than 60 children (tested) were able to escape from everyday life and simply dance under almost normal conditions in four workshops over two days.

A great project that I was able to accompany with the appropriate advertising measures.

vh-crossmedia zieht um

13. December 2021|

Liebe Kunden und Geschäftspartner,

in Kürze sage ich der Voreifel Adieu und ich setze meinen Weg künftig im schönen Ahrtal fort. So bin ich ab dem 20.12. unter der folgenden Adresse erreichbar:

Kirchstrasse 5
53518 Adenau

Bis die Telefonverbindungen sich alle daran gewöhnt haben und die neue Festnetznummer eintrudelt, bin ich am besten mobil erreichbar:

0 151 - 25 28 38 81

Und um alles adrett und komplett zu machen, gönne ich mir eine kurze Auszeit:

Umzugsferien von Mo., 20.12 bis Fr., 24.12.2021

Ich wünsche allen eine erholsame Adventszeit und ein frohes Weihnachtsfest!

vh-crossmedia zieht um

Fresh on the net: Centre - Assisted living

12 December 2021|

Mittelpunkt offers assisted living in the districts of Düren, Aachen, Erfkreis, Euskirchen and Heinsberg for people who, in addition to the experience and skills they have acquired over the course of their lives, have special needs due to a mental illness and/or physical illness and/or mental disability.

I am delighted to be able to support this helpful company with a website relaunch.

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel | References

Fresh on the net: Way out - Assisted living

09 December 2021|

Assisted living Ausweg offers outpatient assisted living as part of integration assistance and educational support for young adults. The aim of the support is to break loneliness and the vicious circle, improve the living situation of affected people and make it easier for them to participate in life in the community.

I am pleased to be able to help with this sensible offer by relaunching the website.

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel | References

More than a club ... JSG Puderbach

01 December 2021|

Demographic change is also causing problems for amateur clubs in rural areas. Many teams have difficulties filling their starting eleven, especially in the upper age groups. This is where the formation of a youth football association (JSG) can help.

The Puderbach youth football association is made up of four regional clubs. And in order to promote the youth leagues, a little PR was needed, with a new layout for articles in the club magazine and suitable social media posts. I wish the teams the best of luck!

Beer mat fundraiser with raffle

30 November 2021|

For some time now FREYwillig & with heart under the motto "Regional. Social. From the heart." in the name of a good cause. The enterprising Westerwald natives Christian Frey and Ingo Bein are present on all channels and skilfully use print, web and social media for their projects.

The current idea of a "beer mat donation campaign" encourages local restaurants to turn beer mats into a donation in favour of social projects with the help of sponsors. The additional "joker lids" will also enable participation in a raffle with prizes totalling 5,000 euros!

As with every "FREYwillig & mit Herz" project, I am happy to be able to contribute to its success with my graphic design services when the motto is "Your donation for our region".

Fresh on the net: The giant schnauzers from Römerwall

11 February 2024|

The new website for Giant Schnauzer from the RömerwallThe website of the dog breeder, a renowned kennel, is presented in the appropriate colours of black and white as well as warm shades of grey to reflect the professional and inviting atmosphere of the kennel and the noble colours of the majestic dog breed. The pages contain interesting texts that not only inform but also help to improve the page rank in the search engines. In addition, high-quality photos were selected to immerse visitors directly in the world of the impressive Giant Schnauzer. Useful cross-links have been added for easy navigation so that users can find the information they need quickly and easily. An integrated contact form makes it easier for interested parties to get in touch with the breeders.

The kennel attaches great importance to ensuring that its puppies grow up in a loving environment. They are therefore raised both indoors and in the garden and enjoy close contact with the family right from the start. This is the best possible way to prepare them for their future life as loyal companions. They are reared with the utmost care and before they move into their new home, we ensure that all requirements are met so that the new owners receive a dog that will bring them much joy.

The small but fine website is not only a visual enrichment, but also an effective tool for strengthening the online presence of the giant schnauzer from Römerwall and for addressing potential customers.

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel | References Webdesign

Matomo: comprehensive web analytics for optimal performance

10 February 2024|

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Real-time reportingMatomo provides real-time reports that allow users to monitor website traffic in real time.
  4. Open SourceAs open source software, Matomo allows users to inspect and modify the source code according to their requirements, which promotes transparency and security.
  5. Data sovereigntyMatomo ensures that users have full ownership of their data, unlike some other analytics platforms where data ownership may be more ambiguous.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Web analytics software: with data to success

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

26 January 2024|

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

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel - AIDA in web design: A proven strategy for more successThe 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

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel - AIDA in web design: A proven strategy for more successOnce 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

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel - AIDA in web design: A proven strategy for more successOnce 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

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel - AIDA in web design: A proven strategy for more successThe 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!

13 January 2024|

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.

vh-crossmedia | Volker Heupel | References Webdesign

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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

02 January 2024|

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 ...

10 December 2023|

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!

vh-crossmedia wishes you a Merry Christmas and a creative, successful year 2024!

Tips & Tricks No. 18

08 December 2023|

neunmalklug from vh-crossmedia

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Matrix: A stamp used for casting fonts. Today it is often used as a synonym for "foundation" or "base".
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.

Visual persuasiveness: outdoor advertising with banners and tarpaulins

10 November 2023|

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.

Would you like more information on this topic?
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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.

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