Why should we care about brochures anyway?
A great marketing tool in your disposal. In this day and age with marketing increasingly becoming more and more digitally focused, you might think on-screen PDFs or printed brochures might not be worth doing.
I think if you’re a business that relies a lot on networking and meeting people, physical brochures always make a lasting impression.
With on-screen PDF’s I’ve heard the argument that the content can’t be tracked like it can on a webpage, however, I believe they’re still valuable in helping you to measure the engagement on your webpage. If a potential customer has downloaded your brochure, chances are they’re somewhat interested in your business.
Perhaps you’re concerned that brochures could take quite a long time to design, and thus take a big chunk out of your marketing budget? Not necessarily, I’ve worked on a basic 2-sided brochure to be complete within a couple of hours, so it can be as big or small as you want it to be.
Printed and on-screen PDF brochures continue to be effective in today’s digital world for several key reasons:
- Accessibility and Convenience
On-Screen PDFs can be easily shared and accessed across various devices—smartphones, tablets, and computers—making them highly convenient. They can be distributed via email, websites, or social media, ensuring that your audience can view them anytime, anywhere. Printed brochures offer a physical, easy-to-reference format that doesn’t require a device or internet connection, making them accessible in any setting. - Professional Presentation
PDF brochures allow for high-quality visuals, interactive elements like links and embedded videos, and consistent formatting across devices. This professional presentation enhances brand perception and ensures your message is delivered effectively. Printed brochures, on the other hand, convey a sense of investment and care. High-quality print materials suggest that the company values its brand image and is committed to delivering a premium experience. - Detailed and Structured Information
Both formats enable the inclusion of comprehensive information in a well-organized manner. This allows businesses to provide detailed product descriptions, service explanations, or company history without overwhelming the audience, as might happen with a single webpage or digital ad. - Versatility in Usage
On-Screen PDFs can be interactive, with clickable links, multimedia integration, and easy updates, making them versatile for digital marketing campaigns, email promotions, and downloadable resources. Printed brochures are versatile in their distribution. They can be handed out at events, mailed to potential clients, or displayed in stores and offices, ensuring they reach the audience directly. - Integration with Digital Marketing
PDFs can seamlessly integrate with digital marketing strategies. They can include links to websites, social media profiles, or online stores, driving traffic and engagement. QR codes in printed brochures can direct readers to digital resources, blending print and digital experiences. - Tangibility and Memorability
The physical nature of printed brochures creates a lasting impression. They are often kept for future reference, making them a more permanent fixture in a consumer’s life compared to fleeting digital ads. On-screen PDFs, while digital, can be downloaded and stored, allowing users to revisit the information at their convenience, making them a long-lasting resource. - Credibility and Trust
Both formats add a layer of credibility. Printed brochures, especially those with high-quality finishes, convey trust and professionalism. On-screen PDFs, when well-designed, also reflect the company’s dedication to providing valuable, easy-to-consume information. - Reduced Digital Overload
Printed brochures and on-screen PDFs provide an alternative to the constant barrage of digital ads and emails. They offer a more focused, less intrusive way to communicate with potential customers, helping your message stand out in a cluttered digital landscape. - Customizability and Personalization
PDFs can be easily customized and personalized for different audiences or specific campaigns, allowing for targeted marketing. Printed brochures can also be tailored with variable data printing, creating personalized messages for recipients. - Cost-Effectiveness
Creating and distributing on-screen PDFs is cost-effective, especially when compared to the recurring costs of digital ads. Printed brochures, though involving an upfront cost, can be produced in small batches for targeted distribution, ensuring that the investment reaches the right audience. In essence, both printed and on-screen PDF brochures bridge the gap between digital and traditional marketing, offering a blend of accessibility, professional presentation, and credibility that remains highly effective in today’s digital world.
Check out some of my previous brochure designs at: https://benskinnercreative.com/services/keycollateral/brochures-reports