By Megan Reisig
September 2nd, 2010
I spend a lot of time doing research on the Web or catching up on the top news stories affecting the PR industry and the industries of my clients. Often time, however, after hours of reading page after page of tiny, cluttered Web site copy, I find myself squinting, leaning in toward my computer and not following any of the guidelines for ergonomic computer safety.
The other day I stumbled across a fantastic Web site called Readability. Readability is a free tool that allows users to customize their Web viewing settings to make reading copy on the Web easier and less straining. And, it removes clutter around the copy so it’s easier to focus.
It’s so easy to install. Just visit Readability, select your preferred settings then drag the Readability badge to your browser’s bookmark toolbar. That’s it. Then, whenever you’re reading an article or copy on the Web that you want simplified, just click on the Readability link in your bookmark and the page will automatically be converted.
Readability is quickly becoming my favorite tool. If you’ve never used it before, give it a try the next time you’re reading copy on the Web. Or better yet, create a well-designed, readable Web site in the first place!
By Jared Bodnar
September 1st, 2010
If you’ve ever heard me extolling the benefits of working with our strategic partner, Loop Demand Gen, or worked with me on a multi-touch marketing communications program, you’ve probably experienced me pulling out an 11X17 sheet of paper with a flowchart on it. You might be wondering why I create a flowchart or process flow for all of the campaigns I develop. Here are a few reasons why I’m addicted to flowcharts:
1) B2B marketing is complex: At Canyon, we only do Business-to-Business integrated marketing communications programs. That means we deal with long sales cycles, multiple decision-makers, many touch points, lead scoring, trigger-based marketing communications tactics, etc. It’s always good to show how everything works together on one page.
2) Nothing slips through the cracks: When you flowchart something, it’s easy to see where process breakdowns may happen and fill in those gaps.
3) I’m a visual person: I need visual stimulation all the time and I like pretty pictures. Therefore, I think a lot of people respond to this type of presentation instead of words on a PowerPoint slide or a written proposal (Bor-ing!).
Take a look at my sample Loop flowchart above (click on it to enlarge). Do you think it conveys a B2B demand generation process flow effectively? Do you make flowcharts for your business? What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever flowcharted out?
By Vincent Betancourt
August 27th, 2010
Arizona’s technology industry has been expanding, but you might be wondering how to best connect, network and grow your business within this industry…
The Arizona Technology Council (AZTC) is a non-profit association that was founded to connect professionals within the Arizona technology sector. It offers networking opportunities, educational events and support.
There are two AZTC events that you should not miss…
- 2010 Marketing Technology Summit: Co-hosted by the Business Marketing Association (BMA) and AZTC. This event provides an opportunity for members to showcase their products and services. There will be exhibitors and educational breakout sessions. The event is Thursday, September 23, 2010.
- Arizona Technology Council’s Lunch and Learn is a semi-monthly program hosted by a member of AZTC. Both AZTC members and non-members learn about a theme or product from a variety of industries, while enjoying lunch and networking with other business professionals.
Be sure register for Best Practices for Improved Sales and Marketing Alignment, presented by Loop Demand Gen. This Lunch and Learn is scheduled for Tuesday, October 12, 2010.
At Canyon, we have come to realize that Technology + Strategy = Success!
By Adam Garcia
August 24th, 2010
Being an artist, I’m influenced by so many things. It’s the combination of these things that keeps my head thinking of all sorts of creative ideas that I can use on a daily basis.
Every once in a while however, we all run into major “creative block” and feel stuck and we’re not able to create new insightful work. Whenever we run into these blocks, it’s always helpful to be reminded of what inspires us.
I came across an influence map online the other day and decided to make my own. Influence maps can be made out of anything—artist’s work, music, paintings, movies etc. I suggest that everyone try making one of these, in case the ol creative block rears its ugly head.
What other ways do you keep your creativity in your industry flowing?
By Ryan Emenecker
August 23rd, 2010
Hard to imagine isn’t it? What would we do without Facebook? Hmm, let me think about that for a few milliseconds…
Oh, I know, how about talk to someone! Meet a friend for coffee. Try visiting a neighbor you’ve been meaning to meet. What about an act of kindness like taking some homemade cookies to a local fire station or maybe even plan some quality time with your family. Or even better, put down that phone, refrain from texting, tweeting or even chatting on Facebook and intentionally connect face-to-face with someone.
Impossible you say? Not according to Facebook. Wednesday, August 25 is the National Facebook Fast. Facebook is encouraging everyone to do just that—connect face-to-face.
What does this have to do with B2B communications? It’s a new idea called ‘Personal Touch.’ Okay, so the idea might not be new, but when was the last time you took the time to reach out and connect with your clients in a new and personal way?
Not sure what you can do. Be creative and have fun with it. Still not sure? Then call Canyon, we’ve got plenty of great ideas for you to reach out to your current clients and prospects you’ve been trying to reach.
So don’t forget, no Facebook on August 25, 2010—call a friend or Canyon instead…480-775-8880. We would even love to meet for lunch.
The funny part about this is that you use Facebook to invite people to this. I guess we can’t live without it after all.
