Paper Goes Digital
Touchcode uses a new technology to discreetly embed coded information into printed material, which can be scanned by placing a device with a Touchcode-enabled app against the image. The ability to add an interactive element to a still image opens up a whole world of opportunities for print. This technology has potential to digitalize traditional advertising in a way that’s more engaging than traditional QR code scanning experiences.

Branded Content Coming to an Instagram Near You
Instagrid Network is trying to generate revenue for Instagram by connecting brands with influential users to increase their presence on the popular photo app. Integrating paid content into Instagram raises a concern that this could cause the app to loose its authenticity and put-off users. However, if done correctly, Instagrid Network has the potential for marketers to successfully expose consumers to branded content in a genuine way.

Amex + Twitter = Discounts
American Express just introduced an innovative digital experience for cardholders, using Twitter. It works by syncing your Twitter account to your card number on the Amex site and tweeting special hashtags (i.e. #amexcoffeee). Special offers for products you tweet about are loaded directly onto your card. A new approach to getting consumers to interact with a brand, this could be the beginning of a new trend.

Pinterest’s Founding Designer on Dead Simple Design
Over the past few months it’s hard to think of a day where we haven’t seen an article discussing Pinterest’s incredible growth and successful design. This FastCo Design article written by Pinterest’s founding designer gives a look into his philosophy of simple design that fueled the company’s success. According to Sahil Lavingia, they key to simplicity is bridging the gap between what something does and why it exists.

Simplicity is King for Not-So-Simple Product
Always on the lookout for inspiration, we were thrilled to find the Beoplay website. This site is a perfect example of how effective simple design can be in explaining a not-so-simple product. The streamlined content eliminates the need for unnecessary clicking, and the images are able to show rather than tell. Simplicity is king in this case; check it out.