It’s 2024 and it's more apparent than ever that the world of web design will continue to be an ever-changing landscape, a canvas where innovation continually reshapes the digital experience. From the early days of static layout websites to the current era of dynamic interactivity, web design and the experiences it can produce have come a long way.
Much like UX design, public relations professionals have undergone constant transformation over the last decade, having to continuously redefine and reimagine the way they communicate with their audiences. In its early days, PR was synonymous with traditional press releases and face-to-face interactions. Today, that world looks much different. But, should it?
In this fast-paced digital age, staying current with public relations and web design trends is not just an option; it's a necessity. As PR practitioners, designers and developers strive to build brand awareness and create captivating online experiences, being on the cutting edge of new trends is crucial. 2024 promises to be an exciting year for web design and public relations, filled with innovative trends that will redefine the digital landscape. Here are our top 4 for each:
Web Design
Kinetic or animated typography
Typography has always played a pivotal role in web design, but its evolution into kinetic or animated typography adds a new dimension to web experiences. David Milan does an excellent job at pushing the boundaries of traditional typography by using animations and dynamic text to capture users' attention in this way.
Maximalism with denser richer graphics
Maximalism challenges the notion of less is more, embracing dense and rich graphics to create visually stunning websites. This design philosophy challenges the minimalistic principles that have dominated the digital landscape, encouraging designers to infuse their websites with dense and rich graphics, vibrant colors, and intricate details. Modern devices, with their impressive processing power and graphics capabilities, make this trend feasible. They can now handle complex graphics, animations, and interactive elements, enabling designers to push boundaries and create visually captivating digital experiences.
ADA-focused design principles
The importance of and increased spotlight on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant websites has spurred a transformative trend known as neomorphic design. This innovative approach to user interfaces goes beyond aesthetics; it introduces tactile and futuristic elements that prioritize accessibility for all users. Neomorphic design emphasizes user experience by seamlessly blending skeuomorphic and flat design principles, resulting in interfaces that are not only visually engaging but also remarkably functional.
An emphasis on storytelling
The art of storytelling has crossed over from just being important to copywriters and has emerged as a new way of thinking about web design, helping reshape the way users engage with online experiences. The importance of compelling stories cannot be overstated. It transcends mere content delivery, becoming the lifeblood of web experiences that leave a lasting impact on visitors.
Public Relations
The proliferation of generative AI
The ongoing use and skepticism surrounding generative AI are going to have a substantial influence in 2024. PR professionals have most likely integrated this tech into various aspects of their work, but it comes with a caveat. While tools like ChatGPT and WriterAI can help with ideation, clients and journalists are becoming increasingly adept at discerning when AI is replacing human-created content or pitches. Building authentic relationships with journalists and crafting thoughtful, intentional outreach is still extremely important and will never become a lost artform.
Journalist fatigue
Journalists are inundated with more than 50 pitches per week, and a staggering 73% acknowledge that only a quarter or less of those pitches are relevant to their work. This may seem like a no-brainer but PR professionals need to provide content that is not only relevant but also includes proprietary data and timely news that aligns with journalists' deadlines.
The return of in-person interactions
2024 will see a resurgence of in-person interactions as a critical factor in PR success. It's time to step out of the sweatpants and away from the keyboard and prioritize building relationships face-to-face. Just as marketing teams immerse themselves in the client's world, PR professionals should step out and build tangible relationships.
Strategic partnerships over tactical support
With internal client teams becoming more PR-savvy, public relations agencies must transition from providing mere tactical support to offering high-level strategic recommendations. PR professionals need to not only understand the media landscape but also have a deep knowledge of their client's industry, products, solutions, and business objectives. The ability to translate this knowledge into flexible strategic media relations plans is crucial.
As we navigate the future of PR and design in 2024, it's clear that the industries are evolving rapidly. Alloy exists at the intersection of PR and CX, a rare position that allows us to truly understand our client’s needs, create digital experiences that drive growth and innovation, and use storytelling to build and manage brand reputation. Interesting in learning more? Contact us today.