Last year, we reported on an analysis which found that many advertisements with prosocial and cause-related messages are not as effective as surveys on consumer attitudes suggest. This urged researchers to explore how to make such ad messages more effective. Several new studies provide insights on this issue. Read more »
An image that tells a powerful story is vital for the success of a public service ad. Is a photograph or illustration better at motivating prosocial actions? The answer lies in whether the visual medium is paired with concrete or abstract messaging, and how intimately the audience can relate to the ad, new research shows.
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Some ads promoting pro-environmental behaviors put human-like faces on natural images like oceans, volcanos and forests, among others. Marketing scholars ask: which anthropomorphic character is more effective—one that is happy or sad? The answer lies in whether the content is perceived as a sudden disaster or an ongoing tragedy.
Member Only AccessA pair of comedic Apple ads and two anti-gun violence messages earned four of the six Outstanding Commercial Emmy nominations from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The winner be announced during the awards ceremony on September 12th.
