Brandalism is a term coined by innovative graffiti artist Banksy. 

Does your site suffer from Brandalism?

He made a name for himself by bringing pieces of artwork into museums that were replicas of the original art pieces (think Mona Lisa) modified and “decorated” with corporate logos and icons of our modern era (Pepsi symbols, cell phone towers, etc) 

Before long, life was imitating art.  Banksy’s coined term and innovative art concepts emerged as reality in the corporatisation of schools, libraries and public buildings as they are getting plastered with company logos and slogans.

This corporatisation has made it’s way to the web.  In response to what some see as the unchecked “Brandalizing” or commercialization of websites, “readibility” tools that help de-clutter what a web surfer sees online are in development to avoid exposure to web banners and ads.

Makes you think, huh?

The concept of readability tools for web sites isn’t really any different than someone using “all I want to see is what’s in it for me” technology like RSS readers, XM Radio, or HBO that either cut though the clutter of “push marketing” advertising messages or deliver targeted content.  Just as television advertisers now have to develop their commercials to be effective even when people are fast-forwarding through them with Tevo, web marketers need to be well aware that too, need to stay one step ahead of the game and adapt counter tactics.

Two quick thoughts to help you make your web site more of a web solution:

1. Keep your website clean and focused so that the reader isn’t tempted to use the ad screening software in the first place.

2. Use “call-to-action” links in the body of your website or blog, such as a link to a purchase page on your site will serve your web users better to promote in case your marketing items are blocked from view.

I’m not saying to not have ads on your website, I just wanted to point out that if technology is popping up that allows people to unclutter their web experience, thinking ahead about making your site clean may be a smart investment for the future of your web brand.

Something to keep an eye on.

Web Marketing Therapy Related Links:

• Going Through a Website/Branding Facelift? Expedite the Process With an Optimized Coming Soon Page
• What is Your Website’s “Authentic Sell-Ability”?
• Website Face-Lift: Better Landing Pages to Boost Up Business Success
• Basic Website Do’s And Don’ts

Categories: Art Therapy, On the Couch, Small Business, Technologies, Tools, Web Marketing Best Practices, Web Marketing Tips

Tags: Banner Ads, Brandalizing, Commercialization, RSS, Web Ads, Website Advertising

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