Doritos stole the show!

Each year I look forward to Super Bowl for three reasons: Food, Football and Funny Commercials! This year I was a little disappointed, but the Doritos commercials were the funniest and most memorable. But my question is, what makes an advertisement effective?

Take a second and think about how many commercials you have seen in the past year. How many do you really remember? I came across an advertising company online called "The James Group" and thought their four points were right on the money: There needs to be a word hook, character hook, repeatable theme and a consistent brand layout.

Word hook: These are catchy and are created to "hook" the target audience with a simple word or statement. An example is MasterCard's "Priceless!"

Character hook: This is using a hero, villain or victim when advertising the product/service. The most recognized hero in advertising is Ronald McDonald! Today, only Santa Claus is more recognized by children in the United States.

Repeatable theme: This uses the tactic of making the target audience feel like they are on the inside and have a connection with the product. It is supposed to create a familiar feeling. Like the the "Got Milk?" ad; it is a repeatable theme that many recognize.

Consistent brand layout: This idea of consistency is that it builds trust with the consumer. A wonderful example is that of the apple for ipods.

So, by making sure the advertisements are focusing on at least one of these key points, they will be memorable and worth the money!

Oh and by the way...GO SAINTS!