I was just doing a little checking up on some news this morning and BAM! There it was. I’m all for exposure and getting the word out, but damn…that’s really in your face. I hate to say it, but we’re seeing it more and more. Integrated background art, concurrent ad placements, etc. are all starting to rear their “ugly” heads.
I think the New York Times example is clearly an attempt at survival. The traditional newspaper business model is deteriorating before our eyes and they need to figure out a way to capitalize online.
In this particular situation I have to wonder whether users will accept such overwhelming ad placements for the access to free content. I think this is the primary battle being waged by such companies as Facebook, YouTube, and eventually Twitter. How does one monetize the traffic? Because, let’s face it…charging users who now expect stuff for free isn’t going to fly.
I, for one, will be watching to see how things play out.