In Part 1, we included a list of potential formats to use when repurposing content. Today, we’ll look at each of these formats in more detail. By the end of this post, you’ll have a great grasp of what goes into these different formats and how you can utilize them for your own marketing needs.
Content Repurposing with Infographics
The infographic is probably the most collaborative piece you will create. With research, writing and artwork, an artist is typically given a detailed framework to start with.Whether you create it in-house or outsource the art, you’ll want to make sure you keep/obtain all the source files that make up the image.If you have all the smaller images that go into the creation of the larger infographic, you can use those images to create cohesive branding across all the content that you release. There are three main stages to an infographic design process:
1. Collecting Info
Collecting info for an infographic can be detailed and meticulous work. Many times designers receive the information in several of formats; PDFs, Excel docs, web links, Word docs, etc. It is usually the designer’s job, with direction, to pull out the key information and statistics to translate to an infographic. It is important for the person passing along the information to give clear directions to the designer, so the designer can properly illustrate their vision. The ultimate purpose is to display a great amount of information in a nice summarized graphic.2. Ranking the Content
In most cases, there are statistics that are more important than others. Those statistics need to be translated throughout the graphic. Showing a hierarchy graphically, as well as in the numbers, adds to the believability in the overall infographic. For example, if your client wants to show a percentage of profits compared to their competitor, then making their percentages larger and bolder will help make the case. The stats are just the beginning of the graphic. The design elements convey the whole story.3. Design Approach
The overall look and feel of an infographic can come from the client’s direction – or if you have total creative freedom then it is up to you to find a way that would best appeal to the target audience. Studies show that different age group reactions can vary when it comes to colors, styles and imagery. This has to be taken into consideration when determining the design of the graphic; you may not want to use all pastels when your target audience is males in their mid-30’s.Create HTML Version
Our longform content idea from the previous section fits very well into this mold.Longform pieces are growing in popularity on the web. Many blogs feature longform articles on a regular basis. These articles will have a custom design element, more in-depth content, and supporting materials. You can use the graphics from your infographic project to create a unique look for this piece and really draw the reader in. You can also include links to the other pieces of your repurposing plan as warranted. You can work in HTML5 elements for an SEO-friendly interactive edge to your longform content as well. There’s a wealth of opportunity to make an engaging, fun, interactive experience for your users.
Tips for a Great Longform Page 1. Whether it’s a post on your blog or a new page on your site, take some time to evaluate your topic and the materials you have. 2. If you have graphics, figure out a way to incorporate them into your piece for added sizzle. Custom backgrounds, icons, and pull-quotes add an appealing visual dimension to your work. 3. Use plenty of typography like dropcaps, formatting, headers and other elements to spruce up long blocks of content. 4. Don’t be afraid to experiment with HTML5 interactive design elements that are SEO-friendly. This can really help your piece get the notice that it deserves. 5. Remember to add links to any other repurposed materials you’ve created to accompany this page, or to return and link to them once they are completed.