
Linda Hayes takes a look at some of the best (and worst) branded sites on the web.
My favourite website is www.pedigree.com.au. This might not be unusual, except for the fact that I don't own a dog. And I will not be buying a dog in the near future. So why do I like it? My daughter wants a dog and we regularly go on to complete the 'get a dog' questionnaire and look at the breeds they recommend for us. It is something that we do together and discuss. We print off pictures of her choices. She makes up names for them. They are our virtual pets. At the age of 6, she points out Pedigree in the supermarket and talks about when we will need to buy it.
It is just as engaging for owners with a photo library, dog of the week, e-newsletter updates on promotional offers plus articles on food and nutrition and dog care.
The look and feel of the latest breed (no pun intended) of websites are designed to initiate an emotive response, create confidence in the brand, reflect consumer's beliefs and attitudes, and finally, promote the functional benefits of the product.
Traditional low involvement brands are investing in the web heavily to create innovative ways to engage their consumers. It is more than just helping the consumer move through their decision making process or providing post purchase support, it is now about creating customer value, and in turn, loyalty.
Around 5.4 million, or 70 percent of Australian households now have internet access, making us one of the most connected countries in the world. Our access has increased by 200 percent since 2000 and we use the web to keep in touch, get information, shop, browse and armchair travel around the world.
To have your say, login at the top of the page or register free and start commenting.