Spread the Word

Last night we had a special meeting to discuss marketing and publicity of the website. We really want to make this project stand out, so we need to have a plan for bringing traffic to the site.

In the past, these project websites were pretty much made for future employers and contest wins. The player opens in a separate splash screen where the multimedia story is the focus. There is very little other text or information.

OUR website, which has now gained the name Andaman Rising, will be more like a traditional website. The homepage will have 15-second previews of each story and then some information about the area and the project. Each story will have its own page (not a splash screen) with an embedded player. There is even an option to view the story full screen! Below the player will be intro text, related content (we call it sidebar info), and related links.

So since this will be so different and have so much information, we want to get the word out. We discussed mass e-mails, corporate/NGO/organization sponsorship or linking, cafe displays, mailings, electronic press kits, large showings, collaborating with tourism companies, etc. The goal is to spread information about the area, attract tourists, and show people how the area is doing four years after the tsunami.

So, faithful blog readers, here is what I need from you: Spread the word!! The website, andamanrising.org, SHOULD go live around July 17th if all goes as planned. Tell your friends, family, coworkers. And if you have any other good marketing ideas or special connections, please leave a comment and let me know.