Finding Information: Factors that improve online experiences.

The Institute for Dynamic Educational Advancement (IDEA) recently completed a survey about how people find information online. They've posted their findings online. In their own words, "...this report outlines key findings from surveys that explored factors that drive online experience as expressed by the three different subject groups – nonprofit organizations and cities, web designers and firms, and the general public." The survey’s major findings are summarized as:

• Designers underestimate the thresholds for an effective site
  
• Easy access to complete information is key to visitor enjoyment
  
• Good visual design and up-to-date information are critical
  
• Visitors want information fast
  
• Visitors want a broad range of topics
  
• Designers are overly optimistic about visitors’ ability to maintain orientation
  
• Visitors still need handholding
  
• Visitors point to the lack of breadth and depth of site content as causing an “Information Gap.”
  

You can view the information online or download the 17 page report in PDF at:

http://www.idea.org/find-information.html

"Insound 20" - creative rock merchandising, that rocks

Insound, an established indie rock purveyor, has just launched "Insound 20". The promotion consists of "Limited edition t-shirts, shirts and hoodies designed exclusively for Insound by Jason Munn of the Small Stakes." The idea of creating a cohesive set of promotional items for a portfolio of bands is very smart. It's a great way to show off an umbrella brand, while also offering their music fans a unique keepsake. Kudos to Insound for some very creative, and well executed product marketing.