| Method | Common Elements | Considerations |
| Ad / Poster / Banner |
- A clear, simple idea/message/call to action
- A strong, simple key visual
- Headline
- Subhead
- Brief copy
- Contact information and/or URL for more information
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- What's the publication deadline?
- What's the cost to run this ad (once or more)
- What are the ad specifications?
|
| Brochure / Catalog |
- Clean cover with inviting visual and headline
- Subheads
- Copy blocks, often with bullet points
- Contact information and/or URL for more information
- Catalog will have page numbers and table of contents
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- How and where will these be distributed?
- How many should I print (for now and for re-stocking?)
- What's the printer deadline?
- What are the print specifications?
- Where will I store them?
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| Postcard / Mailer / e-Mailer / Flyer |
- Clean cover with inviting visual and/or headline clearly conveying what's inside
- Subheads
- Copy blocks often with bullet points
- Contact information and/or URL for more information
|
- What's the best mailer size given my purpose and budget?
- How and when will this be distributed?
- Do I need to follow U.S. postal service requirements?
- Is there a bulk mail permit required?
- What's the mailing deadline?
- Do I have help available to stamp and/or sort the mailing if needed?
|
| Merchandising / Premiums / Giveaways / Promotional Collateral |
- Typically an item that is of some perceived value, usefulness, and/or nostalgia to your target audience to create word-of-mouth and/or visual awareness
- Simple, eye-catching visual
- Minimal copy (e.g. name of University/team/event/URL as applicable)
|
- Does the nature of this item(s) reflect BSU Standards?
- What is the cost per item to giveaway/sell?
- Is my vendor(s) licensed by BSU and equipped to meet quantity, quality, and timing requirements? (helpful to review samples)
- Where will the inventory be stored?
- Will I need a container, hangtag, and/or other packaging to distribute?
- How, when, and where will this be distributed?
- What are the University/legal requirements (if any) for selling?
- What is the plan for storing/distributing any excess inventory?
|
| PowerPoint |
- Clean, clear title screen
- A format (length, background style and tone) that fits the audience
- One key message per slide
- Bulleted text when possible
- Incorporates multimedia when possible (e.g. graphics, video, links, etc.)
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- How/when/where/how often will this be presented? What equipment will I need?
- Will this PowerPoint still be clear and informative if someone hasn't seen the live presentation?
- Will I need printable copies or electronic "leave behind" copies or versions?
- What are the file size requirements for electronic distribution?
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| Online |
- Simple, brief copy
- Headlines
- Subheads
- Brief copy (bulleted when possible)
- Include links to related material when possible
- Simple navigation structure (e.g. fewer, broader sections)
- "Contact Us" link and information
- Sitemap
|
- Has the web development team been contacted about my desire for a web page or web pages?
- How will my audience know where and when to find this site? (e.g. will it be part of a larger site or will you need to promote the site via print or online methods to create awareness?)
- Start your project by creating a sitemap or outline
- What is the developer's timeline?
- What are the developer's specifications for submitting content?
- How often should/can the site be updated? (And at what cost?)
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| Campaign |
- Multiple and/or repeated use of individual communication tools (see any/all above)
- A clear, overarching message or slogan
- Continuity of visuals and copy throughout campaign
- Depth of message content tailored to each tool used
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- What is the most effective timeframe for this campaign? (Plan the sequence of your communication pieces to rollout during this timeframe)
- What are the best communication tools to use in this campaign?
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