2017 is going to be a big year for website design, and as the industry continues to evolve, so do the design trends. Next year, we predict the continued rise of case studies, videos on websites, and long-form content, such as blogs.

Case Studies on Websites

We have heard more and more advisors ask about posting case studies on their website. Case studies are similar to testimonials; they establish proof that the tools or services you offer work. They are often framed as stories, showing the progress of one customer’s journey. A customer may have a problem, turn to a company, and find a way to solve their problem.

Here is an example of one of our clients using case studies on their site. We love that they provide a case study for each of their niche markets, including retirees, widows, and business owners.

For example, in one of our past broadcasts, we showed how advisors solved a problem using FMG Suite products. According to Content Marketing Institute, case studies are the fifth most popular marketing tool for marketers. When clients or prospects see a real-life example of something working for someone in a similar situation as them, they are more motivated to reach out and try it for themselves.

Video Marketing

We have harped on the importance of video from day one, and video marketing continues to grow. Companies are turning to video for updates, marketing, commercials, and information for their clients. Videos capture your viewer’s attention quickly and draw them into the story you are telling.

While video itself isn’t new, the ways it is being used are always advancing. Video can be used in a number of ways and we are excited to see what 2017 brings for video marketing.

Blogging

Like video, blogs aren’t new but we see them gaining traction in 2017. Long-form content, like blogs, are a great way to tell a story and set your content apart from the masses. Consumers have more options than ever, which is why it is important to put your best foot forward through content.

One way to make your blog more interesting and gain more readers is to leverage an everyday topic and spin it for your services. For example, your clients and prospects may wonder: is it worth it to drive further to a gas station to save a few cents per gallon? While this question isn’t likely tied directly to your services, you can analyze the numbers behind it and provide a fun and unique way to view finance for your readers. These topics are a way to branch everyday finances and planning for larger goals.

There is no way to know what will gain traction in the new year, but we are predicting the continued rise of video marketing and long-form content marketing and seeing more case studies on websites, especially for service providers.