Discover the in-depth analysis of Google Algorithm updates with insights for improving site ranking. Explore our analysis, notably ranking trends & SEO recommendations.

large_googleupdates2023.png

medium_googleupdates2023.png

small_googleupdates2023.png

thumbnail_googleupdates2023.png

googleupdates2023.png

Updated: Google Algorithm Updates Through 2-20-2025

Redesigning a website is a significant endeavor that requires a well-planned strategy to ensure success. Websites are increasingly complex, necessitating robust content strategies to meet both user needs and search engine requirements. At Fruition, we adopt a <a href="/services/website-design" target="_blank">collaborative approach</a>  that extends beyond just the aesthetic appeal of your site. We often encounter clients with aging websites that demand comprehensive content curation and an overhaul of information architecture. Our aim is to deliver not only a modern and visually appealing design but also a user-friendly and brand-consistent online presence through an effective website redesign process.

## What Comes First In a Website Redesign Project? 

Before diving into wireframing or visual design, <a href="/blog/discover-the-proven-ux-ui-design-process" target="_blank">we engage in 'Discovery' exercises</a> with your team. These exercises are crucial for aligning stakeholders on the redesign's purpose and goals, helping to establish a solid foundation for the new site. You can undertake similar exercises internally to help you prepare for the project and potentially expedite this process with your chosen agency. To make sure you’re prepared for the entire website redesign process, follow our preparation steps below.

## How to Prepare for Your Website Redesign Kick-Off & Discovery

### 1. Setting Goals

Website redesigns can stem from various needs, such as incorporating new branding elements. However, they often evolve into broader discussions about content, imagery, and functionality. We initiate projects with a stakeholder questionnaire to gather insights from various departments, including customer service, sales, and marketing. This comprehensive feedback ensures we capture the entire organization's expectations and set clear website redesign goals.

**Example:** If your primary goal is to improve user engagement, consider objectives like enhancing the user interface (UI) for easier navigation or integrating interactive elements that encourage user interaction. We incorporated a live ordering system for a client that updated the UI and still delivered orders to their tracking system. This kept users on their site and delivered a much-improved user experience.

**Get a head start:** Conduct an internal survey to identify key goals for your redesign. This insight will clarify the project's scope, facilitate communication with potential agency partners, and assist in estimating budget and timelines.

### 2. Measuring Success

Defining success metrics early in the website redesign process is essential. Whether the goal is to <a href="/services/seo-services" target="_blank">boost organic traffic </a> or generate more leads, aligning design decisions with these objectives is crucial. Post-launch, we reassess these metrics to evaluate the site's performance, implementing A/B tests or improvements as necessary.

 **Example:** Utilize tools like Google Analytics to track changes in website performance metrics, including traffic patterns, bounce rates, and conversion rates post-launch. Analyze these metrics regularly to refine strategies and design elements.

**Get a head start:** Document current performance metrics and consider any new ones relevant to your goals. Share this list with your agency to align design decisions with measurable outcomes.

### 3. Curating Content

Our 'Keep, Kill, Combine' exercise helps organize and refine your site's content. We plan the content structure and migration for the new site by assessing each page's relevance. This process ensures that only valuable and aligned content remains, contributing to a streamlined and effective user experience.


<img style="width: 100%; height: auto" margin="auto" src="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/The_Website_Redesign_Process_What_to_Expect_Before_you_start_1_6eccf3d91b.png">

**Example:** If a blog section is outdated, consider updating it with fresh content that aligns with current trends and user interests or merge related topics into comprehensive guides.

**Get a head start:** Audit your site's content to determine what to keep, remove, or combine. Organize your findings to facilitate collaboration with your redesign team. This website content audit will set a solid foundation for content strategy.

### 4. Planning Navigation

With a clear understanding of the required content, we develop a navigation system that enhances user experience. Good navigation is intuitive, allowing users to find what they need quickly and easily. This step involves creating a <a href="/blog/how-effective-is-your-sitemap" target="_blank">site map</a>  that visually represents your site's hierarchical structure.

<img style="width: 100%; height: auto" margin="auto" src="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/The_Website_Redesign_Process_What_to_Expect_Before_you_start_3_537050ae11.png">


**Example:** We’ve had clients that previously organized products and services into pages nested under broader ‘areas of service,’ but our research found that breaking these out into individual ‘Services’ and ‘Products’ navigation items helped users find relevant content faster and led to more conversions.

**Get a head start:** Consider user feedback on navigation and outline an ideal site structure. This proactive approach will streamline the design process and improve the UX process for website redesign.

### 5. Branding Consistency

Beyond logos and colors, your brand should resonate throughout the website. We conduct <a href="/services/branding" target="_blank">tone and voice workshops and visual brand analyses</a>  to ensure alignment with your brand's vision. This process helps maintain a cohesive brand identity across all touchpoints, integral to UI/UX website design.


<img style="width: 100%; height: auto" margin="auto" src="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/The_Website_Redesign_Process_What_to_Expect_Before_you_start_4_c72e686730.png">



**Example:** We’ll often develop a digital style guide that outlines brand colors, typography, and imagery guidelines to ensure consistency across web pages and align with the larger brand vision you bring to us.

**Get a head start:** Compile brand guidelines and existing creative materials. If content support is needed, provide any copywriting guidelines to facilitate consistency.

### 6. Competitor Analysis
Understanding the competitive landscape is vital for differentiation. We analyze competitors to identify best practices and pitfalls, inspiring innovations for your new site. This analysis can uncover opportunities to offer unique value propositions that set your site apart.

**Example:** Identify gaps in competitors' offerings and consider how your redesigned site can address these areas to attract and retain users.

**Get a head start:** List top competitors and evaluate their online presence. This groundwork will inform our competitive analysis and save time during the project.

### 7. Importance of Accessibility

In today's digital landscape, <a href="/blog/ada-compliance-for-websites" target="_blank"> accessibility in web design </a> is critical, but every organization has a different budget and threshold for how much time and energy is spent on this effort. We take accessibility into account with our design and development process but also partner with accessibility experts to meet and document how the site was built to adhere to WCAG 2.2 A/AA guidelines. It’s essential to understand the effort you want to make to meet these guidelines with your new website.

**Example:** Government agencies in many states must complete VPATs and post Accessibility Statements on their website, or they could be fined. For these cases, we complete full accessibility audits with live users to ensure WCAG 2.2 A/AA guidelines have been met.

**Get a head start:** Have conversations with your leadership team about what level of accessibility you need to meet. You may want to discuss this with your legal counsel as well.

### 8. Engaging Users in the Redesign Process

Involving users in the redesign process can provide valuable insights into their preferences and needs. Conducting user surveys, interviews, or usability testing can inform design decisions and enhance user satisfaction. We often conduct stakeholder interviews with your internal stakeholders, adding an extra layer of context to our design decisions.

**Example:** To gather as much feedback as possible from external stakeholders (or users of your site), we often post online surveys that these users can take, sometimes with a gift card incentive to drive more completions.

**Get a head start:** If you want to conduct surveys and interviews with internal and external users as a part of the redesign project, begin preparing a list of these stakeholders and how you might engage with them.


### 9. CMS & Hosting

Last, it’s important to go into a website redesign project with a solid idea of what content management system (CMS) you might want to use and where to host the website once it’s ready to launch. A good starting point for figuring out the CMS you want to use is reflecting on the current CMS and identifying the positives and negatives you and your organization have had with it. Additionally, you’ll want to think about ease of use and the effort required to maintain and keep the CMS updated. For hosting, do some research, or talk to your agency partner once you’ve made those decisions. They should be able to guide you to a <a href="/blog/ensuring-digital-operations-for-airports-in-the-face-of-cyber-threats" target="_blank"> reliable hosting environment</a> that will support your new site.

**Example:** We’ve seen many organizations migrate from Drupal to WordPress due to costly maintenance fees and a less intuitive administration panel. We’ve also seen organizations on WordPress with very messy backends and tons of plugins looking for a simpler approach.

**Get a head start:** Take an audit of the things your current CMS does or does not do well, and list out the improvements you would like to see in a redesign. Are there any major features or security concerns you want to address? Take a look at other CMSs and research hosting packages that might include your CMS maintenance in the monthly fee.


## Are You Ready for a Redesign? Let’s Make It Happen

If you’re considering a website redesign project in the near future, use this article as a guide to help you get ready. By following these steps and preparing in advance, you'll better understand your redesign project's scope and the amount of help you’ll need to make the redesign project successful. This preparation will assist you in drafting a project plan or brief, ensuring your goals and objectives are communicated to your agency partner, which will help them determine a scope, budget, and timeline for the project.

If you’re not able to complete some of these items on your own, you can also partner with an agency (like us!) that can guide you through these steps in a full Discovery process that will help ensure your website redesign project is a complete success!

<a class="btn btn-primary" style="font-size: 17px;" href="/contact">Contact Us </a>

Prepare for a website redesign with our comprehensive guide. Learn key steps to assess your site, define goals, and execute a successful redesign project. 

large_The-Website-Redesign Process-What-to-Expect-before-you-start.jpg

medium_The-Website-Redesign Process-What-to-Expect-before-you-start.jpg

small_The-Website-Redesign Process-What-to-Expect-before-you-start.jpg

thumbnail_The-Website-Redesign Process-What-to-Expect-before-you-start.jpg

The-Website-Redesign Process-What-to-Expect-before-you-start.jpg

The Website Redesign Process: What to Expect Before You Start

If you work in [content marketing](/services/content-marketing), it’s almost impossible to go online and not hear something about AI. Since ChatGPT’s launch in November 2022, AI-generated content has taken off, with some companies using the technology to churn out new content at an unprecedented pace. And it’s not just small businesses that are using AI to create content; one study estimates that almost [11% of Fortune 500 blog articles](https://originality.ai/blog/ai-generated-content-dominates-on-some-fortune-500-sites) are likely AI-generated, while another claims that [almost 6% of news articles are published with “little to no human oversight.”](https://titleformat.com/posts/what-percentage-of-news-articles-are-ai-generated/#:~:text=Research%20by%20Newsguard%20found%20that,its%20730%2C000%20articles%20using%20AI.)

If major players are increasingly using AI to create content without human interference, you might be tempted to do the same. While AI certainly has its place in outlining, brainstorming, and fine-tuning content, leaving the human aspect out of your content creation process can lead to issues. These problems can range from publishing inaccurate information to articles that are inconsistent with your brand’s voice and vision, or articles that are just plain…boring.

As someone who spends most of their time creating, editing, and proofreading content, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to leverage generative AI to create better content at a quicker pace. It’s taken some trial and error to get there, so to save you the trouble, I’m sharing some common mistakes copywriters make when using AI to create content and how to avoid them.

## Mistake #1: Providing Generic Prompts & Expecting Creative Answers

Ever get frustrated that AI just won’t give you the answers you’re looking for? AI prompting has become a key skill, and for good reason. Short, generic prompts, like “create a blog about dog kibble” will result in generic answers. AI is a powerful tool, but it can’t read your mind!

Instead, treat AI as a copywriter on your team. Just as you’d provide a copywriter with explicit direction, do the same in your AI prompt. You should provide:

- The role your AI companion will take on
- The main points you want the AI to create content around
- The voice and tone the AI should use
- Goals for the piece

With more information and direction, your AI’s output will be of much higher quality. However, don’t just prompt and post—nine other mistakes should be taken into consideration first!

## Mistake #2: Giving AI Confidential Information

Providing AI with as much context as possible helps get a better result, but be cautious of sharing private items like client names, customer data, or proprietary information. Remember, everything you upload to tools like ChatGPT and Gemini becomes part of the AI’s learning model. To get the best output without compromising security, consider using a private AI model, like [FruGPT](https://www.frugpt.com/). FruGPT allows you to train a private AI tool with your information. Your private AI is not used to train other AI models or shared in any way.

FruGPT is unique because it supports multiple AI models, including OpenAI’s GPT series and other specialized LLMs, giving you the flexibility to choose the right model for your needs. Whether you need creative writing, technical content, or research-backed data generation, FruGPT enables you to select and fine-tune AI models accordingly.

If a private AI platform isn’t an option, ensure you’re leaving out confidential information in your prompts. Using the pet food example above, you’d want to leave out the name of the pet food company, the brand name of the kibble, and any private information you wouldn’t want a competitor getting ahold of.

[Get Started with FruGPT for Free](https://www.frugpt.com/pricing/)

## Mistake #3: Forgetting To Add Your Expertise & Perspective

No matter how well you train your AI, it can’t capture all the unique experiences, nuances, and knowledge you have about your product, service, or brand. After prompting AI for content creation, go back and add specific examples, stats, and business information. Don’t forget—your competitors are likely using AI for content creation and optimization. The key to setting yourself apart is to give your content a human touch and real-world examples.

## Mistake #4: Lack of Fact Checking

AI has made huge strides in content generation—quickly providing coherent, well-written, and engaging content when prompted correctly. However, you should always fact-check AI-generated content for key reasons:

- **Hallucinations:** AI models can “hallucinate” or fabricate information
- **Inaccurate training models:** AI tools can generate incorrect information
- **Contextual understanding:** AI might struggle to understand nuance and context
- **Source reliability:** Your tool might not always cite reliable sources

To create content that’s rich, accurate, and compelling, always consider doing your own research and integrating your insights.

## Mistake #5: Abandoning Tone & Voice

Brand voice defines how your company is perceived and how you relate to your audience. Don’t let AI make you sound robotic or generic. Infusing AI-generated content with your tone and voice ensures the content aligns with your brand values and maintains clarity and coherence. To make AI output better match your brand’s voice, consider uploading your editorial brand and tone guidelines to a [private GPT](https://www.frugpt.com/).

## Mistake #6: Failing to Tailor Content to Audience & Platform

Just as human-created content is tailored to audience and platform (blog posts, emails, paid media ads, etc.), your AI-generated content should be, too. Include specifics in your prompt about where the content will appear and background information about the audience. Also, review the content to ensure it answers user questions and complies with platform specifications.

## Mistake #7: Not Optimizing for SEO

AI can support your SEO efforts by speeding up content creation, but be cautious of poorly written AI-generated content that doesn’t follow Google’s E-E-A-T framework (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness). To help each content piece rank highly, have an SEO expert review it to ensure it meets the most current SEO best practices.

## Mistake #8: Not Proofreading

Even if you ignore mistakes #3 and #5, at the very least, proofread AI-generated content before you publish it. Ask yourself:

- Does it sound human?
- Do ideas and topics flow smoothly?
- Is the content specific enough to be helpful, or is it too generic?
- Are there excessive words or symbols that are overused by AI?

## Mistake #9: Not Adapting to AI Advances

Like it or not, AI is here to stay. In [Deloitte’s Q3 2024 Generative AI survey](https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/us/Documents/consulting/us-state-of-gen-ai-q3.pdf), 67% of organizations reported they are increasing investments in generative AI. Given AI’s expanding role, we must learn to work with AI rather than push against it.

## Mistake #10: Using AI To Replace Your Creativity

AI is a powerful tool—but it isn’t you. Large language models are built on what’s been done before. They can’t tell the future or predict the next viral idea. Instead of asking AI to create something for you, consider using it as a collaborator to enhance your creativity.

## Ensuring AI Enhances Your Content Strategy

AI-generated content needs to do more than rank well—it needs to engage users. Mastering the balance of efficiency and quality can be a tightrope walk, but by avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating content that appeases search engines, algorithms, and humans alike.

[Contact Us](https://www.fruition.net/contact)



Discover 10 AI content creation mistakes and how to avoid them to improve quality, boost creativity, and enhance SEO in your content marketing efforts.

large_10-Mistakes-You-May-Be-Making-while-Using-AI-for-Content-Creation.jpg

medium_10-Mistakes-You-May-Be-Making-while-Using-AI-for-Content-Creation.jpg

small_10-Mistakes-You-May-Be-Making-while-Using-AI-for-Content-Creation.jpg

thumbnail_10-Mistakes-You-May-Be-Making-while-Using-AI-for-Content-Creation.jpg

10-Mistakes-You-May-Be-Making-while-Using-AI-for-Content-Creation.jpg

AI for Content Creation: Top 10 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

In today's digital world, accessibility is more important than ever. Ensuring that websites are inclusive and accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments, is a crucial step towards creating a better online experience. Fruition AI is revolutionizing the way businesses handle website accessibility by automating the process of generating and updating alt text for images.

### What is Fruition Auto Alt Text?

Fruition AI is an innovative platform that leverages machine learning to streamline the alt text creation process for images on websites and digital asset management (DAM) systems. The platform allows users to seamlessly pull images from various sources, generate accurate alt text using AI, and push the updated content back to the original sites.

### Key Features of Fruition's Auto Alt Text

#### 1. **Image Pulling from Multiple Sources**
Fruition AI enables users to connect and pull images from various platforms, including:
- Strapi
- WordPress
- Drupal
- Shopify
- Photo Shelter

This feature ensures that businesses using different content management systems can centralize and automate their alt text efforts effortlessly.

#### 2. **AI-Generated Alt Text**
Using advanced machine learning algorithms, Fruition AI analyzes images and provides accurate, meaningful, and SEO-friendly alt text. This not only enhances accessibility but also improves search engine ranking by ensuring images are properly indexed.

#### 3. **Effortless Content Push**
Once the AI-generated alt text is reviewed, Fruition AI allows for a seamless push of the updated content back to the respective platforms. This feature ensures that websites stay updated with minimal manual intervention.

### How Fruition's Auto Alt Text Works

1. **Connect Sources:** Users can easily connect their websites or DAM systems to Fruition AI.
2. **Pull Images:** The platform automatically retrieves images that require alt text.
3. **Generate Alt Text:** AI analyzes each image and generates contextually relevant alt text.
4. **Push Updates:** Approved alt text is pushed back to the original platform.

### Benefits of Using Fruition Auto Alt Text

- **Improved Accessibility:** Ensuring compliance with web accessibility standards (such as WCAG) by providing accurate alt text.
- **Time Efficiency:** Automating the process saves countless hours of manual work.
- **SEO Optimization:** Properly tagged images improve search engine visibility and ranking.
- **Consistency:** AI ensures consistent formatting and accuracy across all website images.

### Pricing of Auto Alt Text
Pricing is simple=$0.20 per image. Discounts able after the first 10,000 images are processed. 

### Use Cases for Fruition's Auto Alt Text

Businesses and organizations of all sizes can benefit from Fruition AI, particularly those that:
- Manage large image libraries.
- Want to improve their website's accessibility and SEO.
- Operate across multiple CMS platforms.
- Need to meet compliance requirements for digital accessibility.

### Getting Started with Fruition's Auto Alt Text

Getting started with Fruition AI is simple. Users can sign up, connect their preferred content sources, and let the platform handle the heavy lifting. With scheduled runs and customizable settings, businesses can ensure their website remains accessible without ongoing manual effort.

### Auto Alt Text for Websites and DAMs

Fruition AI provides an innovative, efficient, and scalable solution for businesses looking to enhance their website accessibility and SEO performance through AI-powered alt text generation. By automating a traditionally manual process, Fruition AI helps organizations stay ahead in the digital landscape while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards.

Setup a quick demo for auto alt text. 



Discover how Fruition AI automates alt text generation to enhance website accessibility and SEO. Leverage AI to ensure compliance, save time, and improve search rankings effortlessly.

large_auto-alt-text-with-ai.jpg

medium_auto-alt-text-with-ai.jpg

small_auto-alt-text-with-ai.jpg

thumbnail_auto-alt-text-with-ai.jpg

auto-alt-text-with-ai.jpg

Enhancing Website Accessibility with Fruition AI's Auto Alt Text Automation

In our exclusive video series, Sallie Wright Serene, our Lead UX Designer, walks you through what it's like to partner with Fruition on a UX/UI website design or redesign project. From the initial kickoff meeting to the final handoff, we ensure every step is meticulously planned and executed to align with your vision and objectives.

## Watch and Learn
Watch our video series to see how Fruition can turn your digital dreams into reality. Dive into the details of our UX/UI process for designing a website, meet the team, and learn how we can help you achieve digital success.

- Get a behind-the-scenes look at our comprehensive UX process, including [stakeholder meetings, internal site reviews](https://fruition.net/services/user-research), and competitive analysis.
- Learn how we take a holistic approach and integrate [SEO](https://fruition.net/services/seo-services), [content strategy](https://fruition.net/services/content-marketing), and conversion rate optimization to build robust, user-centric websites.
- See how we collaborate with your team, leveraging tools like Figma for real-time feedback and ensuring seamless communication.
- Explore real-world [examples of our work](https://fruition.net/clients?service=WordPress+Development), from online retailers to universities, and discover how we have transformed their digital landscapes.

We start with understanding your pain points and aspirations. We then build a roadmap that includes everything from setting up shared drives and defining communication cadences to diving deep into user research and competitive analysis. Our goal? To design a website that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

## VIDEO #1: Fruition’s Wireframe Process

<iframe width="840" height="432.50" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ghByZrAcvD4?si=E_ZlTklRZ2ENM2Lb" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>



## VIDEO #2: Fruition's Visual Design and Mock-Up Process

<iframe width="840" height="432.50" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cB9hNMj8Fq4?si=dQTGhCEv-ZoShCvF" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>

## Ready to Transform Your Website?

Our UX/UI design video series is a testament to our dedication to education and transparency. We believe in sharing our knowledge to help you understand the intricate process behind [designing and creating websites](https://fruition.net/services/website-design) that look great and drive real business growth. By choosing Fruition, you're not just getting a service provider – you're gaining a trusted advisor who will guide you through every step of your digital journey.

<a class="btn btn-primary" style="font-size: 17px;" href="/contact">Let’s Connect! </a>



Video series with Sallie Wright Serene as she reveals Fruition's UX/UI design steps, ensuring clients get creative and effective solutions.

large_UI design process that transforms websites into user-centric experiences (1).jpg

medium_UI design process that transforms websites into user-centric experiences (1).jpg

small_UI design process that transforms websites into user-centric experiences (1).jpg

thumbnail_UI design process that transforms websites into user-centric experiences (1).jpg

UI design process that transforms websites into user-centric experiences (1).jpg

Transform Your Website with Our Proven UX/UI Design Process

Hi, I'm Jim Collins, CEO of [Fruition](https://fruition.net/). In balancing our business’ current needs and preparing it for the future,  we CEOs have our plates full of countless responsibilities, and it can seem like there are never enough hours in the day to get it all done. After 20 years of managing companies, I’ve learned that the key to success (and a manageable priority list) is focusing on what you’re really great at – and outsourcing the rest to experts. I’ve found that outsourcing [digital marketing](/services/digital-marketing) can be a game-changer for many CEOs. It can free up valuable time and substantially boost your company's ROI while allowing you to focus on what you do best – growing your business. But let's be honest – finding the right digital marketing partner can be challenging. To help you find an agency that cares about growing your business just as much as you do, I’m sharing some common hurdles of outsourcing digital marketing and practical strategies to help you confidently overcome them.

# Navigating Common Outsourcing Challenges
 
## Maintaining Control in Outsourced Marketing

One of the biggest challenges of outsourcing digital marketing is the fear of losing control over your brand's voice and strategy. After all, your business is your baby – how can you ensure your digital marketing agency has the same vision and care as you? This step can be scary, but with careful planning and structured communication, you can ensure your partner is on the same page and marketing goals are met. My best tips for helping you maintain control and achieve successful outcomes include: 

- **Establish Clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)**: Define specific KPIs that align with your business objectives. For example, if your goal is to increase website traffic, set a target, such as a 14% increase in monthly visitors over the next six months, be sure to communicate your goals clearly from the outset. Having quantifiable goals makes sure both parties are focused on the same outcomes. Since business objectives can change, make sure you discuss goals when choosing a partner and throughout your working relationship. At Fruition, we discuss goals at the outset of our partnership and on an ongoing basis to ensure we’re in sync with your in-house team.

- **Regular Check-Ins:** Establish a routine for regular check-ins with your digital marketing agency to review progress, discuss upcoming projects, and address emerging issues. Determine a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly meeting schedule that aligns with your business needs. These consistent touchpoints ensure you stay aligned, give you specified times to make adjustments, and proactively manage any challenges that may arise. 


- **Transparent Communication**: The right partner wants to grow your business and will be open to feedback if strategies are not aligned or are pushing toward top-line goals. At the same time, your outsourcing partner won’t be in day-to-day internal meetings and communications that may affect ongoing strategy and market trends. Encourage open dialogue to build trust and ensure everyone is informed about changes or updates. 


## Ensuring Data Security

When outsourcing, safeguarding your sensitive information is critical. To ensure our partners feel secure, we implement some of the following strategies to enhance data security and protect your business:

- **High-level Security Measures:** Choose outsourcing partners with a strong track record of implementing high-level security protocols. At Fruition, we prioritize the security of sensitive information like passwords and environment variables by employing best practices. Our tool, [Fruition Share](/blog/client-side-encrypted-password-sharing), exemplifies this commitment by safeguarding your data using AES-GCM encryption, ensuring it is encrypted before it leaves your browser.

<img style="width: 100%; height: auto"  src="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/Fru_Share_border_ce00060739.png">



- **Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs):** NDAs are vital in protecting confidential information. This legal safeguard helps verify that sensitive data is not shared without permission. We have NDAs in place for all clients to ensure your sensitive information stays private.  

## Upholding Quality Standards

When you’re not doing the work yourself, maintaining high-quality standards can be a top concern. Here’s how you can see to it that your marketing efforts meet your expectations:

-  **Develop and Implement Comprehensive Quality Assurance Processes:** Establish detailed guidelines and checklists for your digital marketing campaigns. For instance, if you outsource [search engine optimization (SEO) services](/services/seo-services), create a quality checklist that includes keyword relevance, metatag accuracy, and adherence to search engine guidelines. If you’re not sure how to create this kind of process, talk to your prospective partners about their Quality Assurance process. For example, we have a standard procedure at Fruition to ensure SEO content aligns with keyword optimization, search visibility, and brand voice. 

- **Conduct Regular Reviews:** During regular check-ins, evaluate the performance and impact of your digital marketing initiatives. For instance, if you've outsourced your SEO efforts, use these sessions to review keyword rankings, traffic analytics, and conversion rates to ensure your objectives are met. Your digital agency may offer reporting to help you review their progress and success. At Fruition, we build **customized reports** to assist with these evaluations and keep us moving toward our KPIs.

<img style="width: 100%; height: auto"  src="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/ES_All_Channel_Traffic_border_20e81b114f.png">




- **Establish Feedback Mechanisms:** Create systems for ongoing feedback between your team and your outsourcing partner to foster continuous improvement. One effective method is to hold a quarterly business review (QBR), where you can evaluate performance, identify successes and areas for improvement, and refine your strategic plan together. Unlike regular check-ins, the QBR focuses on discussing and enhancing the overall strategy for future growth.

## Building Trust

Establishing trust is essential for a successful partnership with your digital marketing agency. To build trust with a new partner, I recommend: 


- **Starting with Smaller Projects:** Initiate a few smaller campaigns to assess the agency's reliability and work ethic. For example, you might start by outsourcing a single pay-per-click (PPC) campaign to evaluate how they manage deadlines, creativity, and communication. This strategy enables you to gauge their capabilities without a significant upfront investment. Once you feel comfortable with the agency’s work and expertise, you can add other channels, like [SEO](/services/seo-services) and [content marketing](/services/content-marketing). 

- **Check References and Testimonials:** Review past client testimonials and consult references to assess the agency's credibility and track record. <a href="https://clutch.co/" target="_blank">Clutch</a> is a great resource for finding the right business partner. They verify each reviewer’s identity and work history to ensure you get real reviews from real clients. Here is an example review profile for <a href="https://clutch.co/profile/fruition#reviews/" target="_blank">Fruition</a>. Reading these reviews provides valuable insights into client experiences and outcomes, helping you assess the agency's strengths and reliability.

<img style="width: 100%; height: auto"  src="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/Fru_Clutch_border_4e5f65394d.png">



- **Consider a Trial Period:** Initiate a trial period to assess the partnership before making a long-term commitment. Consider a six-month contract to determine how effectively the agency aligns with your marketing objectives and company culture. This trial phase provides a practical opportunity to test the waters. Generally, a trial period of at least six months enables you to move beyond the initial assessment & onboarding phase (the first three to four months) and evaluate month-over-month performance.


## Efficient Partnership Management

Managing your digital marketing partnerships effectively will make the outsourcing experience seamless, especially if you’re working with multiple vendors. Set yourself up for success by: 


- **Assigning a Dedicated Partnership Manager:** Designate someone within your team to act as the primary point of contact for the digital agency. This person will oversee the relationship and address any issues that arise. If you have a marketing manager on your team, have them liaise directly with the agency to ensure brand consistency across all digital platforms.

- **Contingency Plans:** Develop backup plans to address potential disruptions in your digital marketing operations. Different plans could involve identifying alternative agencies or having in-house resources ready during emergencies or if unforeseen issues with the partner arise.


## Understanding Billing, Retainers, and Monthly Deliverables

Understanding retainers and clearly defining monthly deliverables will help both you and your agency stay focused on doing the work that matters most. When interviewing different agencies, review the following items:

- **Clearly Define Monthly Deliverables:** At the outset, specify what the agency will deliver each month. This includes outlining specific tasks, expected outcomes, and timelines. For instance, if you're working on a content marketing strategy, detail the number of blog posts and any other content-related tasks included in the retainer. This clarity helps maintain focus and ensures both parties have a shared understanding of expectations.

- **Establish a Process for Adjusting Deliverables:** Develop a structured approach to managing any changes in monthly deliverables. If you decide to shift focus or add new elements to your marketing strategy, ask about their formal process for providing increased support and their timeline for dedicating additional resources to support your business. This might involve approvals from key stakeholders and possible adjustments to the retainer agreement through a change order process.

- **Conduct Regular Reviews:** Evaluate the retainer's performance during the monthly or quarterly business reviews. These reviews help guarantee that the agency meets its commitments and that the deliverables align with your marketing objectives. These conversations can also help you understand your agency’s different areas of expertise if you’re looking for increased digital marketing support.


## Safeguarding Intellectual Property 

Safeguarding your intellectual property (IP) keeps your business secure and ensures your brand image is consistent.  Be sure to clearly define IP ownership in the contract phase so you understand who owns the intellectual property created during your digital marketing projects. For example, if you hire a digital agency to develop a new brand logo or create unique content, certify that the contract explicitly states that your company retains ownership of these assets. This clarity prevents future disputes and confirms your brand elements remain under your control. At Fruition, IP ownership is a standard part of our contracts and can be modified to your comfort level. One of our clients, <a href="https://www.flydenver.com/" target="_blank"> Denver International Airport (DEN)</a>, meticulously outlined ownership details to protect its iconic branding elements.
To protect your brand image, perform periodic audits to verify IP agreement compliance. For example, if you’re working with multiple marketing partners, regularly review their use of your brand assets to ensure they align with your guidelines and contractual terms.

# Outsource Your Digital Marketing with Confidence

Listen, as a fellow CEO, I get it—outsourcing your digital marketing can seem daunting. But from one leader to another, let me share some advice: proactive planning is your best friend here. Keep those communication lines open, and make sure your contracts are rock solid. Before you dive in, take the time to seek out professional advice and do your homework. Trust me, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your success. You've got this!

I understand the juggling act you face—leading your team, managing finances, and driving growth. With so much on your plate, avoiding roadblocks and maximizing ROI is critical. To help vet the right digital marketing agency for our team or another, I recommend using our checklist below; it could be an excellent resource for you.
If you have questions or need guidance, please [reach out](/contact). I'm here to offer my knowledge and help you navigate the complexities of managing a digital marketing partnership in today’s fast-paced world. I look forward to supporting your success!

# Outsourcing Your Digital Marketing: A Checklist for Choosing the Right Partner

<a class="btn btn-primary" style="font-size: 17px;" href="https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/Outsourcing_your_digital_marketing_checklist_9fcf5377dd.pdf">Download the checklist </a>



## Before Interviewing Partners:
-  Determine what channel(s) you’d like to outsource
-  Establish KPIs for each channel and your overarching business. Understanding both will help your partner work towards channel goals and larger business initiatives
-   Assign an internal partnership manager to spearhead agency conversations (during the contract phase and ongoing)
-  Decide what you want out of an agency partner. For example, do you want to own the strategy and have your agency execute your vision? Or are you looking for a strategic partner to own your marketing initiatives?

## While Interviewing Partners:

- Research reviews, references, and testimonials 
-  Ask your potential partner to sign an NDA before sharing business specifics 
-  Inquire about high-level security protocols, like password-sharing
-  Ask the agency about contract lengths and trial periods, if applicable 
-  Understand the agency’s approach to monthly retainers and deliverables
-   Ask the agency about reporting and their approach to measuring success 
-   Talk to the agency about their communication plan, including main points of contact, weekly/biweekly/monthly meetings, and quarterly business reviews 

## During the Contract Phase:
- Check your contract to ensure you’re satisfied with the proposed approach to security and IP ownership 
-  Ensure you understand your monthly retainer and the deliverables it includes
-  Understand your contract terms, like the length of the contract, contract renewal terms, channels the agency will support, and framework for adding or removing services 


Learn why outsourcing your digital marketing to the right digital agency partner can free up your time, boost ROI, and improve your site’s security.

large_Guide-to-outsourcing-digital-marketing.jpg

medium_Guide-to-outsourcing-digital-marketing.jpg

small_Guide-to-outsourcing-digital-marketing.jpg

thumbnail_Guide-to-outsourcing-digital-marketing.jpg

Guide-to-outsourcing-digital-marketing.jpg

Outsource Digital Marketing with Confidence: A CEO’s Guide to Overcoming Common Challenges

At Fruition, safeguarding our clients' data and ensuring the highest standards of security and compliance are at the core of everything we do. We are thrilled to announce that Fruition has successfully attained SOC2 and ISO 27001 certifications, alongside receiving additional auditor sign-off for HIPAA compliance. These achievements underscore our unwavering commitment to providing secure, reliable, and compliant solutions for our enterprise and government clients.

### **Achieving SOC2 and ISO 27001 Certifications**

**SOC2 Certification**

SOC2 (System and Organization Controls 2) is a rigorous auditing framework that ensures service providers securely manage data to protect the privacy and interests of their clients. Fruition’s SOC2 certification demonstrates our adherence to stringent security principles, including:

- **Security:** Protection of system resources against unauthorized access.
- **Availability:** Ensuring system accessibility as stipulated by service level agreements.
- **Processing Integrity:** Guaranteeing that system processing is complete, valid, accurate, and timely.
- **Confidentiality:** Protecting information designated as confidential.
- **Privacy:** Ensuring personal information is handled according to the organization’s privacy notice.

By achieving SOC2 certification, Fruition reassures our clients that their data is managed with the highest levels of security and integrity.

**ISO 27001 Certification**

ISO 27001 is an internationally recognized standard for information security management systems (ISMS). Fruition’s attainment of ISO 27001 certification reflects our comprehensive approach to managing sensitive information, ensuring that it remains secure through systematic risk management processes. This certification covers:

- **Risk Assessment:** Identifying and assessing information security risks.
- **Security Controls:** Implementing appropriate controls to mitigate identified risks.
- **Continuous Improvement:** Regularly reviewing and updating security measures to adapt to evolving threats.

ISO 27001 certification reinforces Fruition’s dedication to maintaining a robust information security framework that meets global standards.

### **HIPAA Compliance Endorsement**

While Fruition is not a covered entity under HIPAA, we handle Personally Identifiable Information (PPI) and thus adhere to HIPAA standards to ensure the utmost protection of sensitive data. Our additional auditor sign-off on HIPAA compliance means that Fruition meets the required safeguards for the privacy and security of health information, including:

- **Administrative Safeguards:** Policies and procedures to manage the selection, development, and implementation of security measures.
- **Physical Safeguards:** Controls to protect electronic systems and related buildings and equipment from unauthorized access.
- **Technical Safeguards:** Technology and policies to control access to electronic health information.

This compliance ensures that our clients in the healthcare sector can trust Fruition with their sensitive information, knowing that we uphold the highest standards of data protection.

### **Adhering to NIST Guidelines**

Fruition goes beyond industry standards by extensively following the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines, including:

- **NIST AI Risk Management Framework (RMF):** Ensuring that our AI-driven solutions are developed and deployed responsibly, addressing risks associated with artificial intelligence.
- **NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0:** Enhancing our cybersecurity posture through a flexible and comprehensive framework that aligns with business needs.
- **NIST Special Publication 800-53:** Implementing a catalog of security and privacy controls to protect federal information systems and organizations.

By integrating these NIST guidelines into our operations, Fruition ensures robust security measures that align with national best practices.

### **Fruition’s Cutting-Edge Products**

**FruGPT: Generative AI Platform**

FruGPT is Fruition’s state-of-the-art generative AI platform designed to empower businesses with advanced AI capabilities. From natural language processing to machine learning-driven analytics, FruGPT delivers innovative solutions that drive efficiency and innovation. Our SOC2 and ISO 27001 certifications ensure that FruGPT not only excels in functionality but also maintains the highest standards of data security and compliance.

**Agent-Focused Platform**

Our agent-focused platform is engineered to provide seamless and secure interactions between businesses and their customers. By leveraging advanced AI technologies, this platform enhances customer service, automates routine tasks, and delivers personalized experiences. Security and compliance are integral to our platform’s design, ensuring that all interactions and data handling meet strict regulatory requirements.

### **Secure Cloud Hosting Environment**

Fruition’s Cloud Hosting Environment is SOC2 certified, offering a secure and reliable infrastructure for our clients. Whether you’re an enterprise or a government agency, our cloud solutions provide:

- **Scalability:** Easily scale resources to meet your business needs.
- **Reliability:** Ensure high availability and minimal downtime.
- **Security:** Benefit from advanced security measures that protect your data in the cloud.

Our SOC2-certified cloud environment is tailored to support the complex demands of enterprise and government clients, providing peace of mind through robust security and compliance.

### **Commitment to Excellence**

Achieving SOC2 and ISO 27001 certifications, along with HIPAA compliance endorsement, is a testament to Fruition’s dedication to excellence in security and compliance. These certifications not only validate our security practices but also enhance trust and confidence among our clients and partners.

At Fruition, we understand that in today’s digital landscape, security and compliance are paramount. Our continuous investment in meeting and exceeding industry standards ensures that we deliver secure, reliable, and innovative solutions that empower our clients to thrive.

### **Looking Ahead**

As we move forward, Fruition remains committed to maintaining and elevating our security and compliance standards. We will continue to embrace emerging technologies and frameworks, ensuring that our clients benefit from cutting-edge solutions that are both secure and compliant.


*If you have any questions about our certifications or how Fruition can support your business needs, please don’t hesitate to [contact us](#).*

We are thrilled to announce that Fruition has successfully attained SOC2 and ISO 27001 certifications, alongside receiving additional auditor sign-off for HIPAA compliance. 

large_Fruition-Achieves-SOC2-and-ISO-27001-Certifications-with-HIPAA Compliance-Endorsement.jpg

medium_Fruition-Achieves-SOC2-and-ISO-27001-Certifications-with-HIPAA Compliance-Endorsement.jpg

small_Fruition-Achieves-SOC2-and-ISO-27001-Certifications-with-HIPAA Compliance-Endorsement.jpg

thumbnail_Fruition-Achieves-SOC2-and-ISO-27001-Certifications-with-HIPAA Compliance-Endorsement.jpg

Fruition-Achieves-SOC2-and-ISO-27001-Certifications-with-HIPAA Compliance-Endorsement.jpg

Fruition Achieves SOC2 and ISO 27001 Certifications with HIPAA Compliance Endorsement

## Amazon: More Than an Online Marketplace—A Leading Ad Platform

In 2025, Amazon is more than the world’s largest e-commerce marketplace—it’s now the third-largest digital advertising platform in the U.S., projected to capture over 15% of total digital ad spend by year’s end[^1]. Its advertising reach spans multiple touchpoints, including Amazon.com, Fire TV, IMDb, and a growing array of third-party apps and websites through the Amazon Demand Side Platform (DSP). For businesses looking to connect with millions of consumers at every point in the buying journey, Amazon Ads has become indispensable.

## What Are Amazon Ads?

Amazon Ads are digital advertisements displayed across Amazon’s own ecosystem (such as product pages, the home page, search results) and extended network (third-party websites and apps). Much like [Google Ads](/services/paid-media-management), Amazon Ads use a pay-per-click (PPC) model—advertisers only pay when someone clicks. The targeting is powered by Amazon’s deep insights into users’ browsing, shopping, and demographic data, making it possible to serve ads to the right audience precisely when they’re most likely to convert.

## Types of Amazon Ads

Amazon offers various ad types, each designed to help you meet different marketing objectives and engage with potential customers at every stage of the funnel.

### 1. Sponsored Products
Sponsored Products highlight individual product listings, displaying them prominently in search results and on product pages. These ads help increase visibility and sales opportunities for specific items, making them ideal for boosting conversions on bestsellers or newly launched products.

![Amazon product page showcasing swimwear for men and women, including shorts and swimsuits, with 'Sponsored' labels indicating paid advertisements. Prices, ratings, and delivery information are displayed under each product.](https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/sponsored_products_26ab4b0560.png)

![Amazon product recommendations based on shopping trends, showcasing women's clothing including jeans and a tee. Products are labeled 'Sponsored' with prices and Prime availability displayed under each item.](https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/sponsored_products_footer_670a6e38ae.png)

### 2. Sponsored Brands
Sponsored Brands are banner ads that appear at the top of search results. These ads offer an excellent way to spotlight your brand’s identity, showcase multiple products, and drive traffic to a customized landing page. They’re particularly effective if you’re looking to build brand recognition and drive consideration across your full product line.

!['Similar brands on Amazon' section with sponsored ads for GAP, PajamaJeans, and Jean Name Shirts & Gifts. Product prices, ratings, and images are displayed under each item, along with a GoDaddy advertisement.](https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/sponsored_brands_footer_f8e0b5af77.png)

### 3. Sponsored Display
Sponsored Display ads appear on product detail pages, customer review pages, search results, and under the “Featured offer.” This format is excellent for retargeting shoppers who have shown interest in your or similar products. Sponsored Display also extends your reach beyond Amazon by displaying ads on third-party sites, leveraging Amazon’s audience data.

![Amazon video ads](https://s3.us-east-1.wasabisys.com/cdn.fruition.net/amazon_ads_video_0210aba6bf.png)

### 4. Amazon DSP
Amazon Demand Side Platform (DSP) uses real-time bidding to deliver display and video ads across Amazon-owned sites, apps, and third-party publishers. With DSP, advertisers can apply advanced targeting options—such as lifestyle segments or in-market audiences—to reach consumers both on and off Amazon.

### 5. Custom Ads
For brands looking for standout, tailor-made creative, Amazon’s Custom Ads offer an innovative approach. These ads are typically higher cost but can deliver significant impact through unique placements, interactive elements, and brand storytelling—perfect for major launches or brand awareness campaigns.

## Understanding Amazon Ad Placements

Where your ads show up can be as important as the ads themselves. Amazon’s platform offers five main placements:

1. **Product Detail Pages**: Appear directly on pages where consumers view product information.  
2. **Search Results**: Capture users actively searching for specific or related products.  
3. **Third-Party Websites**: Leverage Amazon DSP to display ads off Amazon—expanding your reach.  
4. **Amazon Devices**: High-impact, full-screen placements on Fire TV, Kindle, or Echo devices.  
5. **Amazon Owned & Operated Sites**: Extend visibility on properties like IMDb, Goodreads, and DPReview.

## Who Can Benefit From Amazon Ads?

Just about any business aiming to boost product visibility and revenue can find value in Amazon Ads. According to internal Amazon data, advertisers that strategically optimize campaigns can see a significant return on ad spend (ROAS). Brands of all sizes—from household names to emerging startups—can tap into the platform’s deep user insights to drive growth.

### Hospitality Brands
Hotels, resorts, and other businesses in the travel sector have benefited from an expanded set of video and display options on Amazon DSP. A luxury hotel chain, for instance, can show immersive, full-screen ads on Fire TV devices, allowing users to see exactly what a resort has to offer. This tactic often results in higher booking rates, with Amazon reporting a 40% increase in expected gross bookings in 2024[^2].

### eCommerce Brands
For both established retailers and new sellers, Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display ads can put your products in front of in-market shoppers. As shoppers on Amazon often have high purchase intent, even small gains in visibility can translate into meaningful revenue increases.

### Financial Brands
Banks, insurance companies, and credit card issuers are increasingly using Amazon Ads to reach targeted audiences. A credit card brand, for example, can run a Sponsored Brands campaign promoting a new cash-back offer. Because Amazon has robust targeting, these ads can focus on users who frequently purchase from certain categories or meet specific demographic criteria.

### B2B Brands
Amazon Business has grown substantially, making it a prime channel for B2B sellers. From industrial equipment to office supplies, B2B advertisers can leverage Amazon DSP or Sponsored Display to retarget potential buyers who previously explored their listings.

## Amazon Ads: A Powerful Alternative (or Companion) to Google Ads

As the digital advertising landscape continues to evolve, Amazon Ads stands out by letting advertisers capitalize on real-time, high-intent shopping behaviors. While Google Ads targets users across the broader web, Amazon Ads can zero in on active shoppers—often those ready to buy. For many businesses, running both platforms in parallel is the best strategy, as it covers users researching on Google and purchasing on Amazon.

With the right audience insights, ad formats, and ongoing optimizations, Amazon Ads can deliver impressive growth and profitability. As 2025 unfolds, we’re seeing even more features—like Generative AI-driven ad creative and refined targeting—making Amazon Ads an ever-stronger force in the industry.

### Ready to Scale Up with Amazon Ads?

Success on Amazon Ads hinges on understanding your target audience, selecting the right ad types, and continuously refining your strategy based on real-time performance data. If you’re ready to explore how Amazon Ads can elevate your brand:

[Contact the experts at Fruition](https://fruition.net/contact) and discover how our team can optimize your Amazon advertising strategy for maximum ROI.



[^1] [Amazon.com Announces Q1 Results (2023)](https://ir.aboutamazon.com/news-release/news-release-details/2023/Amazon.com-Announces-First-Quarter-Results/)  
[^2] [Hospitality Marketing with Amazon Ads](https://advertising.amazon.com/solutions/industries/hospitality-marketing)  

Unveil the power of Amazon's digital advertising platform. Learn about different Amazon ad types, placements, and targeting strategies to boost your product visibility and sales. Start reaching your ideal customers today!


a computer screen with a laptop and a phone

large_Understanding-Amazon-Ads-A-Comprehensive-Guide.jpg

medium_Understanding-Amazon-Ads-A-Comprehensive-Guide.jpg

small_Understanding-Amazon-Ads-A-Comprehensive-Guide.jpg

thumbnail_Understanding-Amazon-Ads-A-Comprehensive-Guide.jpg

Understanding-Amazon-Ads-A-Comprehensive-Guide.jpg

A Complete Guide to Amazon Ads for 2025 Success

## Social Media: From Trendy Newcomer to Marketing Mainstay

Social media has long since evolved from the new kid on the block to a critical pillar of any digital marketing strategy. According to the latest data from Pew Research Center, over 85% of online adults in the United States now use at least one social networking site, and more than half actively engage on two or more platforms. With user numbers rising and businesses pouring in, competition for attention is more intense than ever—which is why brands are investing significantly in social media advertising.

## The Simple Answer for Most Brands: More Ad Spend

In 2021, eMarketer estimated that global advertisers would invest nearly \$56 billion in social media ads. By 2025, this figure is projected to exceed \$120 billion, representing a growing slice of total digital ad expenditures. The surge in social ad spend is fueled by the ability to hyper-target specific audiences, providing substantial ROI when compared to older methods like newspaper, TV, radio, or even traditional PPC.

Social media platforms continue to refine their advertising tools, offering marketers robust user data and advanced targeting capabilities. While platforms such as Twitter (now called X) and LinkedIn have their share of the pie, Meta’s Facebook and Instagram remain strong leaders in social ad spend. Meanwhile, TikTok, Snapchat, and newer platforms like Threads (from Meta) and emerging AR/VR channels are rapidly carving out their own valuable niches.


## What’s Next for Advertisers?

Despite Facebook and Instagram still dominating the space, newer platforms are no longer a novelty. Brands wanting to stay innovative and reach younger, highly engaged demographics should have TikTok and Snapchat firmly on their radar:

- **TikTok**: Short-form video is here to stay, with TikTok’s user base forecasted to surpass 1.8 billion monthly active users by the end of 2025. Its unique algorithm and popularity among Gen Z create opportunities for brands willing to experiment with entertaining, bite-sized video content.

- **Snapchat**: Famous for ephemeral content and AR filters, Snapchat continues to perform well among teens and young adults. Its AR ad offerings and interactive tools can help brands connect with users in fun, innovative ways.

At the same time, **Instagram** remains a powerful option for brands whose content is visually appealing. Advertising on Instagram is integrated through Facebook’s ad platform, giving advertisers the full suite of targeting options, from lookalike audiences to device-specific placements. For many Fruition clients, cost per click (CPC) on Instagram still rivals Facebook, though success varies by industry and campaign goals.

Instagram’s user base skews younger than Facebook, making it an effective channel for reaching millennials, Gen Z professionals, and even teen segments. As Meta continues to integrate new ad placements (like Instagram Reels) and features within Instagram, it’s likely the platform’s ad revenue and user engagement will continue growing.


## Stay Ahead of the Curve with Emerging Platforms

Our advice: diversify. While Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn (or X) might seem like the safe bets, be prepared to adapt as new or evolving platforms enter the market. Whether you’re dabbling in TikTok, Threads, Snapchat, or experimenting with the Metaverse and AR/VR channels, embracing these platforms early provides a competitive edge—and sets you up to capitalize on future innovations.

The social media landscape in 2025 demands agility, creativity, and the willingness to test new approaches. Keep your eyes on emerging trends and features, and don’t hesitate to pivot when promising new opportunities arise.


### Want to learn more about Social Media Marketing?

[Talk to the experts at Fruition](https://fruition.net/contact) to discover how we can help propel your company to the next level with cutting-edge social media strategies and campaigns.

Examine new opportunities in social media advertising. Discover the ideal channels for your brand as you navigate the rapidly evolving landscape.

a blue and orange line drawing of a megaphone

large_Generic-Blog-Hero-1.jpg

medium_Generic-Blog-Hero-1.jpg

small_Generic-Blog-Hero-1.jpg

thumbnail_Generic-Blog-Hero-1.jpg

Generic-Blog-Hero-1.jpg

2025 Social Media Ad Trends: Where Your Investment Should Be Heading

## Understanding Image Copyright and Why It Matters

With the vast number of images circulating online, having a firm grasp of image copyright laws is more important than ever. Inappropriate or unauthorized use of images can result in costly legal or financial ramifications. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s essential to verify the image’s original source, obtain relevant permissions, and thoroughly understand any terms of use.

## Identifying Whether an Image Is Copyrighted

Most newly created works—including photographs and other images—are automatically protected by copyright from the moment they come into existence. The real challenge often lies in identifying the legitimate copyright holder to secure permission for use.

## Five Steps to Determine Image Copyright

Below are several ways to confirm an image’s copyright status and ownership:

1. **Look for an Image Credit or Contact Details**  
   Many online images feature a caption or credit line identifying the creator or copyright owner. This attribution may also include contact information or a link to the owner’s website, making it easier to reach out and negotiate usage terms.

2. **Check for a Watermark**  
   Watermarks often indicate an image is protected under copyright. They usually include the owner’s name or the name of their business, which can help you find contact details. Using software to remove these watermarks is illegal and can lead to legal repercussions.

3. **Inspect the Image’s Metadata**  
   Creators sometimes embed valuable information—such as the owner’s name, copyright notice, or contact details—into the file’s metadata. You can access this data by viewing the image’s properties on your computer or through an image editing software.

4. **Use Google’s Reverse Image Search**  
   If the owner remains elusive, try conducting a reverse image search on Google. By clicking on the camera icon within Google Image Search, you can upload the image or paste its URL. This can reveal other places the image appears online, which may lead you to the copyright holder.

5. **Consult the U.S. Copyright Office Database**  
   If you have enough details to potentially identify the copyright holder, you can search the U.S. Copyright Office Database. While registration in the database is not mandatory for an image to be copyrighted, it does provide creators with additional legal benefits.

**Important Note:** If you cannot identify the image’s source and copyright owner with certainty, it’s safest not to use the image. There are many reputable stock image sites that offer high-quality, legally compliant images suitable for different needs and budgets.

## Situations Where You Can Use Images Without Explicit Permission

In specific circumstances, it is permissible to use an image without seeking explicit authorization:

- **The image is clearly labeled as free for use.**  
  For instance, platforms like [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/) provide images under licenses that allow free usage.

- **The image is in the public domain.**  
  Public domain images are not subject to copyright because the copyright owner has relinquished those rights or the copyright term has expired.

- **The image is covered by a Creative Commons (CC) license.**  
  Creative Commons licenses outline various levels of permissive use, but always review the specific terms to ensure compliance.

In any case, ensure you have all the necessary information to use the image safely and legally. When in doubt, reach out directly to the creator or copyright holder for clarification.

## Concluding Thoughts

Image copyright can be intricate, but understanding the fundamentals will help you stay compliant and avoid potential legal issues. Always ensure you have the proper rights before using images—this precautionary step can save you from expensive and stressful disputes. 

For over two decades, **Fruition** has championed best practices in digital rights management, content creation, and SEO services. We remain steadfast in supporting artists and creators worldwide in protecting their intellectual property and digital content.

Avoid costly legal issues by learning how to verify an image’s copyright status. Discover five essential methods—including checking metadata, using Google’s reverse image search, and consulting copyright databases—to ensure every image you use is both safe and legal.

a computer screen with a magnifying glass and a security lock

large_2023-12-14T11:40:23.200Z_646.png

medium_2023-12-14T11:40:23.200Z_646.png

small_2023-12-14T11:40:23.200Z_646.png

thumbnail_2023-12-14T11:40:23.200Z_646.png

2023-12-14T11:40:23.200Z_646.png

How to Check Image Copyrights: 5 Simple Steps

# Airport Cyber Threats

In the increasingly digital age, the [aviation industry](/industries/airport-website) faces an evolving threat landscape, with airport websites becoming prime targets for cyber-attacks. Recent high-profile incidents, such as the <a href="https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/killnet-claims-us-airport-ddos/" target="_blank">KillNet</a> attacks and the  <a href="https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/article291482420.html" target="_blank">Seattle Airport outage</a> , underscore the critical need for fortified web hosting and application security. As these threats grow in sophistication and frequency, C-level executives in charge of technology and marketing at major airports must prioritize robust security measures. As a web hosting and security provider for some of the largest airports in the world, Fruition has a deep understanding of the unique threats airports face and how to protect against them.

## Understanding the Threats

Cybercriminals employ diverse attack vectors, ranging from Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) to sophisticated malware intrusions. These attacks aim to disrupt operations, compromise sensitive data, and damage reputations. Fruition’s responsibility as a leader in web hosting and security is to ensure that the airport websites we manage are resilient against such disruptions, maintaining their integrity and availability under all circumstances. 

## Our Strategic Approach to Airport Cyber Defense
To safeguard airport websites, we have developed a comprehensive security strategy centered around three key pillars:

### 1. Proactive Alerting Systems

Our first line of defense is an advanced alerting system that integrates seamlessly with our web application firewall (WAF), ingress, and hosting components. By continuously monitoring traffic patterns, we can rapidly detect anomalies indicative of an attack. Early detection enables us to respond swiftly and effectively, minimizing potential damage.

### 2. Collaborative WAF Management
Effective defense against cyber threats requires a collaborative approach. We establish strategic partnerships with airport IT and security teams, tailoring our WAF management to accommodate varying expertise levels. Our preferred tool, Cloudflare, allows for granular adjustments in real-time, ensuring that WAF rules are optimized both proactively and reactively. This partnership enables us to share intelligence and coordinate responses, enhancing overall security posture.

### 3. Resilient Application Architecture

Recognizing the dynamic nature of airport websites, we architect solutions that withstand high traffic volumes and maintain performance. Our approach includes:

- **Asset and Database Caching:** Utilizing Varnish, Cloudflare, and Redis for efficient asset delivery and reduced server load.
- **CDN and Media Offloading:** Leveraging services like Amazon S3 and Google Buckets for media delivery, reducing server strain during peak loads.
- **WebSockets for Dynamic Data:** Offloading dynamic data (i.e. FIDS data, parking lot availability, and TSA wait times) delivery to microservices, easing the demand on web servers.
- **Load Balancing and Auto-Scaling:** Implementing these techniques to accommodate traffic spikes seamlessly.
- **Security and RBAC:** Enforcing strict role-based access control to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.
- **Automatic Updates:** We’ve built an automated software update workflow for hosted applications that alerts and stages security vulnerability patches for immediate testing.

## Our Airport Hosting Offering

With our strategic approach to mitigating attacks established, Fruition developed a hosting platform to power our resilient application architecture. To meet the unique demands of airport websites, our hosting infrastructure integrates advanced security and innovative technologies:

- **Geographically Diverse Infrastructure:** Utilizing Kubernetes clusters across multiple locations to ensure high availability and robust security.
- **Automated Updates and Scalable Operations:** Streamline code updates and scale operations efficiently to handle traffic surges.
-  **SSL Management and Multi-Environment Support:** Simplified SSL management and support for development, staging, and production environments.
- **Comprehensive Data Encryption:** Employing modern encryption protocols for data in transit and at rest, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- **Advanced Bot Management and Rate Limiting:** Providing flexible controls to manage traffic spikes and mitigate automated bot attacks.
- **Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity:** Containerized hosting and comprehensive backup solutions ensure rapid recovery and minimal downtime.


## Ensuring Business Continuity with Disaster Recovery

The last important piece of this is preparing for the worst-case scenario—a successful attack or infrastructure outage. In either of these situations, it’s our responsibility to ensure that we can redeploy the application quickly to get the site back online. These are some of the disaster recovery techniques we follow to allow our team to quickly respond to a site outage.

- **Containerized Hosting:** Utilizing Rancher and Kubernetes for rapid deployment across multiple cloud providers, ensuring minimal downtime.
- **Comprehensive Backup and Recovery:** Storing backups across various locations to facilitate quick restoration in any hosting environment.
- **Effective Communication Systems:** Maintaining direct communication channels with airport partners to ensure coordinated, timely responses.

This is a very high-level overview of the core elements that allow us to recover from a major disaster. Underneath the hood, we utilize robust services and orchestration that allow our team to redeploy sites to different zones, regions, or cloud providers in a very short amount of time. This gives us flexibility and numerous options to quickly restore a site in the face of an attack or infrastructure outage.

## Conclusion

For marketing and technology leaders at airports, partnering with a dedicated, experienced digital service provider is crucial in navigating the cyber threat landscape. Our track record with esteemed partners such as <a href="https://www.flyontario.com/" target="_blank">FlyOntario.com</a>, <a href="https://www.flydenver.com/" target="_blank">FlyDenver.com</a>, and <a href="https://metroairport.com/" target="_blank">MetroAirport.com</a> demonstrates our commitment to delivering secure, reliable web solutions. By implementing the strategies outlined above, we ensure that airport websites remain resilient, secure, and prepared for whatever challenges the future may hold. We look forward to sharing our expertise and strengthening our collaborations with airports seeking a steadfast digital ally.

If you have an upcoming hosting or redesign RFP, or just want to learn more about how we could support your current site, [contact us today](/contact).


Discover how airports can protect their digital operations from cyber threats with expert insights on web hosting security, DDoS protection, and disaster recovery. Learn proven strategies from Fruition's experience securing major airport websites.

large_Ensuring-Uninterrupted-Digital-Operations-for-Airports-in-the-Face-of-Cyber-Threats.jpg

medium_Ensuring-Uninterrupted-Digital-Operations-for-Airports-in-the-Face-of-Cyber-Threats.jpg

small_Ensuring-Uninterrupted-Digital-Operations-for-Airports-in-the-Face-of-Cyber-Threats.jpg

thumbnail_Ensuring-Uninterrupted-Digital-Operations-for-Airports-in-the-Face-of-Cyber-Threats.jpg

Ensuring-Uninterrupted-Digital-Operations-for-Airports-in-the-Face-of-Cyber-Threats.jpg

Ensuring Uninterrupted Digital Operations for Airports in the Face of Cyber Threats

## Local SEO Optimization 2025

Local SEO continues to be a cornerstone for the success of any business aiming to reach customers within their local geographic area. As consumer behaviors evolve and search technologies advance, optimizing for local search remains essential for businesses looking to attract customers ready to make purchasing decisions—whether it's setting up an appointment, booking a service, or visiting a store in person. With local search audiences typically positioned closer to the bottom of the sales funnel, it's imperative to develop and refine strategies that ensure your business appears prominently in local map listings, highlights your unique advantages to new customers, and anticipates the needs and questions of your audience who are actively researching solutions. Focusing on these areas can distinguish your business and drive new growth.

## Changes To Local SEO

Since 2023, Google has continued to enhance its local search capabilities, introducing new features and refining existing ones to improve user engagement with local maps and business listings. These updates not only benefit consumers seeking quick and relevant information but also present new opportunities and challenges for business owners managing their online presence.

### Enhanced Google Business Profile Features

Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business or GMB) has become even more integral to local SEO strategies. In 2025, Google has introduced several new features to provide richer, more interactive information about businesses:

- **Advanced Call Analytics**: The ability to track detailed call history and integrate it with CRM systems allows businesses to gain deeper insights into customer interactions and optimize their call strategies.
- **Enhanced Review Management**: New tools for managing reviews, including sentiment analysis and automated responses, help businesses engage with customers more effectively.
- **Expanded Attributes**: Additional attributes such as **Wheelchair Accessibility**, **Pet-Friendly Facilities**, and **Sustainable Practices** are now available, allowing businesses to highlight specific features that cater to niche audiences.
- **Interactive Booking and Ordering**: Integration with more third-party booking and ordering platforms directly within the Google Business Profile, enabling seamless transactions without needing to visit the business website.
- **Virtual Tours and AR Integration**: The incorporation of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) elements allows customers to explore businesses virtually before visiting in person.

![Modern retail storefront with AR display showcasing virtual tours and interactive features](https://cdn.fruition.net/google_inoffice_picture_maps_4b39932a0a.jpg)

### Algorithm Enhancements: The Vicinity Update 2025

In December 2024, Google rolled out the **Vicinity Update 2.0**, an evolution of the original Vicinity Update. This update further refines local search algorithms to prioritize even more precise proximity data and contextual relevance. Key aspects include:

- **Hyper-Local Search Prioritization**: Enhanced algorithms now consider not just city or neighborhood proximity but also specific local landmarks and real-time location data to deliver the most relevant results.
- **Reduced Weight for Business Name Keywords**: Consistent with the 2023 trend, the importance of keywords in business names has been further diminished, placing greater emphasis on actual service relevance and user intent.
- **AI-Driven Contextual Understanding**: Leveraging advanced AI, Google can now better understand the context behind search queries, providing more accurate and tailored local results based on user behavior and preferences.

### Increased Competition from Alternative Platforms

Apple has significantly revamped **Apple Maps** with iOS 17, introducing features such as:

- **Enhanced Privacy Controls**: Offering users more control over their data and search history, attracting privacy-conscious consumers.
- **Seamless Integration with Siri and HomeKit**: Providing a more unified ecosystem experience for Apple users, potentially drawing some traffic away from Google Maps.
- **Improved AR Navigation**: Building on existing AR capabilities to offer more immersive and interactive navigation experiences.

While Google remains the dominant player in local search, these advancements from Apple underscore the importance of continuously enhancing your Google Business Profile to maintain visibility and competitiveness.

## How To Optimize Your Local SEO in 2025

To stay competitive in the evolving landscape of local SEO, businesses must adapt their strategies to leverage new tools and respond to changing consumer behaviors. Here are key areas to focus on:

### Prioritize Your Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile remains the most critical component of local SEO. In 2025, maintaining an optimized profile involves:

- **Comprehensive Profile Updates**: Regularly update all available fields with accurate and detailed information, including new attributes and features introduced by Google.
- **High-Quality Multimedia Content**: Continuously add high-resolution photos, virtual tours, and AR-enabled content to engage users and showcase your business.
- **Active Review Management**: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, respond promptly to feedback, and utilize sentiment analysis tools to understand customer satisfaction trends.
- **AI Integration for Optimization**: Use AI-powered tools to automate updates, monitor performance metrics, and personalize responses to customer inquiries.
- **Utilize Google Posts and Stories**: Regularly publish updates, promotions, and engaging content through Google Posts and Stories to keep your audience informed and interested.

### Develop a Robust, User-Friendly Local Landing Page

Your local landing page should serve as a comprehensive hub for information about your business, optimized for both search engines and user experience:

- **Clear Branding and Unique Value Proposition**: Communicate what sets your business apart clearly and compellingly.
- **Locally Optimized Content**: Create content that addresses local events, news, and FAQs to resonate with your community.
- **Engaging Visuals**: Incorporate staff photos, local imagery, and interactive galleries to build a personal connection with visitors.
- **Customer Testimonials and Case Studies**: Showcase reviews, testimonials, and detailed case studies to build trust and credibility.
- **Awards and Recognitions**: Highlight any local awards or recognitions to reinforce your reputation.
- **Integrated Interactive Maps**: Embed interactive maps that link directly to your Google Business Profile, providing seamless navigation for users.
- **Comprehensive Contact Information**: Ensure your address, phone number, and other contact details are prominently displayed and consistent across all platforms.

### Leverage Emerging Technologies

Embracing new technologies can give your local SEO efforts a significant boost:

- **Voice Search Optimization**: With the rise of smart speakers and voice assistants, optimize your content for voice queries by focusing on natural language and long-tail keywords.
- **AI and Machine Learning**: Utilize AI tools to analyze customer data, predict trends, and personalize marketing efforts for better engagement and conversion rates.
- **Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences**: Offer AR features that allow customers to visualize your products or services in their environment, enhancing the decision-making process.
- **Local Chatbots**: Implement AI-powered chatbots on your website and social media platforms to provide instant customer support and information.

### Enhance Mobile Optimization

With mobile search continuing to dominate, ensure your website and local landing pages are fully optimized for mobile devices:

- **Responsive Design**: Ensure your site adapts seamlessly to various screen sizes and devices.
- **Fast Loading Times**: Optimize images, leverage caching, and use content delivery networks (CDNs) to ensure quick load times.
- **Mobile-Friendly Navigation**: Simplify navigation menus and ensure that key information is easily accessible on smaller screens.

### Strengthen Local Link Building

Building strong local backlinks remains a vital aspect of local SEO:

- **Collaborate with Local Influencers and Bloggers**: Partner with local influencers to create content that highlights your business and attracts backlinks from reputable local sources.
- **Sponsor Local Events and Organizations**: Gain visibility and backlinks by sponsoring community events, charities, or local sports teams.
- **Engage in Local Partnerships**: Form partnerships with complementary local businesses to cross-promote services and share backlinks.

### Monitor and Analyze Performance

Regularly tracking and analyzing your local SEO performance is crucial for ongoing success:

- **Use Advanced Analytics Tools**: Leverage tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and third-party SEO platforms to monitor traffic, rankings, and user behavior.
- **Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)**: Focus on metrics such as local search rankings, website traffic from local queries, conversion rates, and customer engagement.
- **Adjust Strategies Based on Data**: Use insights from your analytics to refine and optimize your local SEO strategies continually.

## Conclusion

Local SEO in 2025 demands a dynamic and comprehensive approach that leverages the latest technologies and adapts to evolving search algorithms and consumer behaviors. By prioritizing your Google Business Profile, optimizing your local landing pages, embracing emerging technologies, enhancing mobile optimization, building strong local backlinks, and diligently monitoring your performance, your business can achieve and maintain a competitive edge in local search. Stay ahead of the curve by continuously refining your strategies and utilizing expert resources to maximize your local visibility and drive sustained growth.

**Want to improve your local marketing? Reach more customers with local search optimization from the experts! [Contact the Experts!](#)**

Discover the latest Google Business updates and exactly what your business should focus on in 2025. Stand out in local search and tap into your local customer base.

2025 Guide: Optimize Your Business with Google Business Listing and Local SEO

These days, retailers can’t afford to not sell online. You need to get your products where your customers are, and that’s on their screens. But getting into eCommerce is no small feat, and finding the right software to power your store is an important decision.

## WooCommerce Experts Guide
The ecommerce experts at Fruition recommend WooCommerce for businesses that are already using WordPress to power their websites and are ready to start selling on their own online marketplace. WooCommerce is a free, open-source eCommerce solution that’s built on top of Wordpress. It’s technically a Wordpress plug-in and was released in 2011 to add eCommerce capabilities directly to a WordPress website.

## WooCommerce Can Automate Most of your Ecommerce Operations
WooCommerce offers all the features you’d expect from a robust ecommerce Platform. In fact, 21% of eCommerce stores today are powered by WooCommerce, and that’s no accident. WooCommerce has a ton of great features. For starters, it’s easy to use, supports 100+ payment gateways, automates sales tax, simplifies shipping and fulfillment, and can be used to sell just about anything.

## Robust Features of WooCommerce
If you’re considering adding ecommerce capabilities to your site or want to explore updating your current store, the Fruition team can get you started. We regularly help our clients build eCommerce sites from scratch, integrate WooCommerce into existing websites, and maintain, optimize, and add features to existing WooCommerce stores. We can help you make the right decision for your customers and get your store where it needs to be: in front of the right customers.

Let's discuss WooCommerce for your business

Unlock eCommerce potential with our WooCommerce guide, ideal for WordPress site owners ready to enter the online selling market.

large_Fru_WooCommerce-1.png

medium_Fru_WooCommerce-1.png

small_Fru_WooCommerce-1.png

thumbnail_Fru_WooCommerce-1.png

Fru_WooCommerce-1.png

Quick Guide to Starting Your Online Store with WooCommerce

## Custom Plugin Development for Same Day Delivery API
It’s hardly un-common for our clients to come to us with a special need for a tool to help their e-commerce site function more smoothly. Nearly all online sites and stores have their own unique circumstances and will need help with any number of custom product ordering scenarios, CRM integration or other type of custom configuration. In every case the Fruition team does their best to answer the call through a variety of readily available extensions and plugins - and we have yet to be stumped. We are experts at finding the best solutions and configuring these to work on a variety of ecommerce platforms. Recently, we encountered a great example of one such special request for a custom shipping plugin for a client based in London, that wanted to be able to offer their local clientele an option for same day delivery within London. The delivery service they selected was able to provide everything they wanted – except for a way to manage and integrate the API into the ordering process on the site. The client came to us and asked if we can find a solution for integrating the shipping API into WooCommerce. After looking into what would be needed, we found that there was no existing plugin or extension and this would have to be a custom built solution requiring the development of a custom plugin to work with the client’s e-commerce platform (WooCommerce). Being a client with us has many perks, and in this case we were able to quickly determine the process requirements and propose a very reasonable development time and cost. In the end, we provided them with the exact solution they needed.

## Implementing the Custom Shipping API Integration
In brief, for those who are curious about some of the processes involved, the plugin works off of the WooCommerce code to create a new shipping method for the customer and also adds additional options to the products which can then tie the product to the shipping services inventory. This all happens through an automated and seamless process during the product ordering. After testing, we have launched the new plugin and are excited to help the client promote this new feature for same day delivery service to their customers. The ability to offer same day delivery to their customers gives them one more competitive edge to stand out in the online marketplace. If you have questions or need help with any ecommerce solution, contact us! Whether a new ecommerce build, transfer to new platform or help with a custom development project, we look forward to helping you make your online store the best it can be! Contact us to discuss robust solutions and custom development for Magento, WooCommerce or any other online store.

Streamline your store's operations with Fruition's custom Shipping API. Seamlessly offer Same Day Delivery options, specifically tailored for WooCommerce platforms.

Custom Same Day Delivery API Integration for WooCommerce

_**Updated 5/30/24**_

The State of Colorado has enacted the Information Technology Law (HB21-1110) in accordance with its commitment to equal access to information and services for all its residents. This law is aimed at ensuring that state and local government websites meet the requisite accessibility standards. This summary encapsulates the salient points of the law and the necessary steps government organizations should take to comply with its provisions.

The law mandates that all state agencies and political subdivisions make their websites accessible to individuals with disabilities, making sure that every Coloradan, regardless of their physical abilities, can access information and services provided by the government. The law takes its cue from the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), a set of international standards widely recognized in the digital industry. It requires all state and local government sites to meet as a minimum standard of accessibility WCAG 2.1 AA, helping to ensure that digital content is accessible to all.

All State agencies and local governments must be compliant with state standards by July 1, 2024. However, a recent extension provides a one-year grace period until July 1, 2025, for agencies who can demonstrate good faith efforts toward compliance.

**Steps To Meeting ADA Standards**

Colorado state and local government organizations need to take several critical steps:

1. **Conduct an Audit:** State and local government organizations should conduct an audit of their current websites and digital platforms to evaluate the level of accessibility. This audit should be thorough and cover all aspects of the site, including images, text, forms, and multimedia content.
 
2. **Identify and Plan:** Based on the audit, organizations should identify areas that need improvement and develop a plan to address the identified shortcomings. The plan should be comprehensive, detailing the changes to be made, the timeline for these changes, and the person or team responsible for implementation.
 
3. **Implement the Plan:** Organizations need to implement the plan. This may necessitate hiring or consulting with experts in digital accessibility and training staff on how to create and maintain accessible digital content.

4. **Monitor and Maintain:** Once the plan has been implemented, accessibility compliance work has only just begun. It is crucial to monitor and maintain the accessibility of the site on an ongoing basis. Changes in content, technology, and user needs will necessitate ongoing adjustments. Regular audits should be conducted to ensure continued compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.

**In Conclusion**

The Accessibility Law for Colorado State and Local Government is a vital step towards digital inclusion for all Colorado citizens. Government organizations should take active steps not just to comply with the law but also to ensure that their services are accessible to all Coloradans, affirming their commitment to equality and inclusivity.

**How Can Fruition Assist its Partners with Meeting Accessibility (ADA) Compliance Requirements?**

Fruition has extensive experience helping our clients’ websites meet Accessibility (ADA) Compliance requirements and is positioned to assist Colorado State and Local Government partners in meeting and exceeding these standards.

Our services are designed to bring your website's code and theme layer into compliance with ADA WCAG 2.2 AA requirements. We can work with you to determine the necessary effort to strive towards accessibility compliance, regardless of whether your website is in the building stage, newly launched, or already existing. While we do not provide legal advice, our services are tailored to align your digital presence with the highest standards of accessibility and inclusivity.

**Fruition Offers Two Levels of Accessibility Services for New and Existing Websites:**

**Accessibility Services For New Websites**

- **Basic Service:** Automated Scans and Remediation. As part of a new website build project, we will conduct automated scans and tests for compliance with WCAG 2.2 AA accessibility using third-party software. All issues revealed by the scans that violate WCAG 2.2 A & AA best practices will be remediated by our team before site launch. This service focuses on code, templates, and assets that are controllable within the building of the website but does not include UI/Design accessibility testing, or testing of third-party embeds, migrated content, or PDFs. It's important to note that the basic service approach does not guarantee that a website will be ADA-compliant at launch.

- **Premium Service:** Manual Review/Live User Testing and Remediations. Automated ADA compliance scans generally flag only 25% to 30% of the WCAG 2.2 A & AA guidelines. The remaining guidelines can only be tested via manual user testing using various screen readers and other accessibility tools. Premium service includes a manual review of a specified number of templates/components, review, feedback, verification, and consulting during Design, Development, and QA, and user testing upon completion of the site. Additionally, we provide conformance documentation and an Accessibility Statement.

**Accessibility Services For Existing Websites**
In addition to the New Website Build ADA compliance services, Fruition also offers Accessibility (ADA) Compliance services for existing websites, and/or post-launch to ensure your website remains compliant as your website evolves along with the ever-changing ADA standards. As your site is frequently updated with new content, images, alt-tags, menu, and link structures, it's important to maintain compliance.

- **Basic Service:** Automated ADA Scans. We recognize that ADA compliance is not a one-off task but an ongoing effort. We offer weekly, monthly, or quarterly Automated ADA scans as part of an ongoing engagement. The process includes an automated scan of the website to assess HTML pages, analysis of scan results, prioritizing remediations based on impact, and re-scanning to ensure the remediations are working. Again, automated scans will not ensure ADA compliance but will allow you to address readily identifiable gaps and work toward compliance.

- **Premium Service:** Manual Review ADA Audit. Recommended on a quarterly or bi-annual basis. As automated ADA compliance scans generally flag only 25% to 30% of the WCAG 2.2 A & AA guidelines, this service manually tests the remaining guidelines using various screen readers and other accessibility tools. The Manual Review Audit includes initial conformance documentation, proactive accessibility statement, automated and manual testing to WCAG 2.2AA, identification of issues, estimation of efforts to complete prioritized remediations, final round of automated & manual testing, QA review of remediated code implementation, meetings to review results, and final conformance documentation.

Alongside any effort you elect to undertake with Fruition with respect to ADA Compliance, we also recommend training your internal team members on ADA best practices for website management, designating an ADA officer responsible for managing ongoing efforts, and maintaining an ADA policy on your website.

Fruition understands the importance of ADA compliance and is committed to helping your organization meet and exceed the standards set by HB21-1110, ensuring a truly inclusive digital environment for all users.

If you need support in getting your site ADA compliant, Fruition is here to help. Contact us today to get started!

Source: [Colorado Information Technology Accessibility Law](https://oit.colorado.gov/accessibility-law)

Source: [HB24-1454 Grace Period Noncompliance Digital Accessibility](https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb24-1454)

The State of Colorado has enacted the Information Technology Law (HB 18-1189) in accordance with its commitment to equal access to information and services for all its residents. This law is aimed at ensuring that state and local government websites meet the requisite accessibility standards. This summary encapsulates the salient points of the law and the necessary steps that government organizations should take to comply with its provisions.

AI for Content Creation: Top 10 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Recent Posts

The Website Redesign Process: What to Expect Before You Start

Enhancing Website Accessibility with Fruition AI's Auto Alt Text Automation

AI for Content Creation: Top 10 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Fruition Achieves SOC2 and ISO 27001 Certifications with HIPAA Compliance Endorsement

Updated: Google Algorithm Updates Through 2-20-2025

Ben Smith

The Website Redesign Process: What to Expect Before You Start

Chance Carlin

AI for Content Creation: Top 10 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Emily Fournier

Enhancing Website Accessibility with Fruition AI's Auto Alt Text Automation

Brad Anderson

Transform Your Website with Our Proven UX/UI Design Process

Sallie Wright Serene

Outsource Digital Marketing with Confidence: A CEO’s Guide to Overcoming Common Challenges

Jim Collins

Fruition Achieves SOC2 and ISO 27001 Certifications with HIPAA Compliance Endorsement

Brad Anderson

A Complete Guide to Amazon Ads for 2025 Success

Rachel Clark

2025 Social Media Ad Trends: Where Your Investment Should Be Heading

Ben Smith

Get the latest from Fruition

How to Check Image Copyrights: 5 Simple Steps

Ben Smith

Ensuring Uninterrupted Digital Operations for Airports in the Face of Cyber Threats

Chance Carlin

2025 Guide: Optimize Your Business with Google Business Listing and Local SEO

Ben Smith

Quick Guide to Starting Your Online Store with WooCommerce

Chance Carlin

Custom Same Day Delivery API Integration for WooCommerce

Ben Smith

Colorado Accessibility Law: Compliance for State & Local Websites

Jim Collins