For anyone who uses Google as their go-to search engine, you know that one of the best parts of the day is the new Google Doodle. Whether honoring a historic figure, holiday, or worldly event, these Google-shaped designs bring together important dates with an all-new take on (arguably) the most recognizable logo. And they do it almost every single day. Or rather, a majority of days. January hosted 17 out of 31 Doodles, some of which even had to share the spotlight. Because they took place on the same day, Google made each their own design and alternated which was displayed, which was true for Josip Vandot’s 130th birthday and the 255th anniversary of the British Museum. (More on this in a second.)
Sure hosting this many Doodles may be time consuming and expensive, but it’s also a Google classic. Searchers have come to know and love these alternate logos; they draw user attention from across the globe. Or in other words, it’s a genius marketing plan. Google is employing a separate department of researchers and designers to create these one-of-a-kind inventions. (When you’re bringing in billions, this expense is nothing to blink at – especially since Doodles are for sale.)
Doodles have their own name, their own definition, and most importantly, no one else is doing it. They can be anything Google wants them to be.
Even videos.
Doodles and their Subject Matter
Now, back to random birthdays and anniversaries. Until we log onto our computers each day, it’s likely none of us have heard of Josip Vandot or the British Museum. (He was a writer and poet, and the latter is likely the most famous museum in London.) Which means seeing these mentions educates and cultures the everyday searcher. We may have got on the computer to search Bruno Mars or Beyonce’s shoe size, but end up learning about an important figure or date in history. All through a visual medium. Pretty tricky, Google.
What Online Marketers Can Take Away
Obviously, this is a broad-scale venture. One that few companies have the means to replicate. However, that doesn’t mean its basic principles can’t be used. For instance, the ability to use one’s brand in a new and creative way – one that doesn’t directly promote a company, but markets while under the radar. Other take-aways from Google’s Doodles:
- Visual is key
- Incorporate real-life events
- Vary subject matter to attract a wider audience
- Alterations are a welcome surprise, but not a rule
- Find a way to profit from these outside efforts
- Be incredibly unique
- Don’t hide these efforts, but also let them speak for themselves; the company’s main advertising should always be first priority.
To date, there has been nothing else like the Google Doodle. Take this genius formula and turn it into your own unique mold to find a working plan that best meets company specialty and expectations.
And in case you need some more inspiration, check out this Doodle-finding link.
Bethaney Wallace
Bethaney Wallace is a tea drinking, Amazon loving writer and editor. When she's not working on TSR or her personal blog, she loves reading and looking for new DIY projects.
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