Thursday, September 23, 2010

The Internet Case Study Book

To help improve the designism (Design for positive social change) project I am working on (1000 Thank Yous) I have been doing some research. Dave, a classmate suggested that I read The Internet Case Study Book to find out what successful websites have done in the past. In the social media section I read that there are three things that most good websites have; publishing, participation and personalization. Users like being able to add to the content of the site, participate in games and blogs, and personalize their own area of the site. Users need to be engaged, have a reason to stay on the site and a reason to return.

One of my favourite websites was last.fm. last.fm is a website that collects information on your favourite bands then suggests other songs and bands that you may like, your own personal music guru! On top of suggesting cool new music, the site has free MP3 downloads.

Some other websites that I found interesting were the Eternal Moonwalk in memory of Michael Jackson and Green Peace Brazil’s online web campaign. Green Peace Brazil created videos speaking out against the government and the things that are affecting the environment the most. Their creative and diverse approach helps to touch a wider audience and keeps repeat viewers interested.

While I don’t anticipate my website becoming an instant hit, if I could brighten at least one person’s day, I’d be satisfied.

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