Digital Marketing

Evolution of Online Marketing A Journey Through Time

Evolution of online marketing has been a captivating journey, transforming from rudimentary methods to sophisticated strategies. This exploration delves into the fascinating history, highlighting key milestones from the early days of the internet to the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future. We’ll uncover how businesses have adapted to evolving consumer behavior and technologies, ultimately shaping the digital landscape we know today.

This overview explores the progression of online marketing techniques, from the initial methods employed in the 1990s to the sophisticated strategies utilized in the present day. We’ll examine the rise of , the emergence of social media, the evolution of content marketing, the mobile-first approach, personalization, influencer marketing, and the integration of AI. Each phase reveals how online marketing has adapted to the ever-changing digital environment.

Table of Contents

Early Stages of Online Marketing

The dawn of online marketing was a fascinating period, marked by experimentation and a rapid evolution of strategies. Early pioneers navigated a largely uncharted territory, using rudimentary tools and a deep understanding of emerging internet technologies to connect with potential customers. This era laid the foundation for the sophisticated digital marketing landscape we see today.The initial focus was primarily on building online presence and establishing a digital footprint.

Businesses were keen to capitalize on the growing internet user base, albeit with a very different understanding of online behavior compared to today’s standards. The internet’s potential as a powerful marketing channel was just beginning to unfold.

Early Online Promotion Methods

Early online marketing strategies often relied on simple website creation, email marketing, and basic online advertising. Companies were eager to showcase their products and services, but the methods available were significantly different from modern techniques.

Tools and Technologies of the 1990s, Evolution of online marketing

The internet in the 1990s was a much simpler place compared to today. Web pages were largely static, and interactions were limited. Basic HTML, early web browsers like Netscape Navigator, and limited online advertising options were the key tools available. Search engines were rudimentary, and their algorithms were quite different from today’s sophisticated models.

Examples of Early Online Businesses

Early e-commerce pioneers like Amazon and eBay utilized early online marketing strategies to establish their brands. Amazon, for example, focused on a comprehensive online catalog and secure payment processing to establish trust with customers. eBay capitalized on online auctions and a user-friendly platform to create a thriving marketplace. These examples highlight how businesses adapted to the limitations and opportunities of the time.

Evolution of Online Marketing Techniques (1990s-2000s)

Year Marketing Technique Description
1990s Basic website creation Companies created simple websites to display their products and services.
1990s Email marketing Businesses used email newsletters and promotions to connect with customers.
1990s Early banner ads Simple banner advertisements on websites were the primary form of online display advertising.
2000s Search Engine Optimization () Early strategies focused on optimization and link building.
2000s Paid search advertising Businesses started leveraging pay-per-click (PPC) advertising on search engines like Google.
2000s Social media (early stages) Social media platforms like MySpace and Friendster started emerging, although their use for marketing was nascent.

Rise of Search Engine Optimization ()

The dawn of the internet brought with it a new frontier for businesses: the online marketplace. Companies quickly realized the potential of digital presence, but navigating this new landscape required innovative strategies. Early online marketing efforts were often rudimentary, lacking a clear understanding of how to attract and engage online audiences. This evolved dramatically with the rise of search engine optimization ().Search engines became the primary gateways to information, and businesses recognized the critical need to be visible in search results.

This realization propelled the development of sophisticated techniques, fundamentally altering how companies approach online visibility. The intricate dance between search engine algorithms and marketing strategies became a defining characteristic of the digital age.

Evolution of Search Engine Algorithms

Search engine algorithms, the complex sets of rules that determine search results, have undergone significant transformations. Early algorithms focused primarily on matching, making it relatively easy for marketers to manipulate results. However, as search engines evolved, so did their algorithms, becoming more sophisticated and nuanced. These advancements included factors like page content relevance, user experience, and website authority.

This shift forced marketers to adapt their strategies, moving beyond simple stuffing to more holistic approaches.

The evolution of online marketing is fascinating, constantly adapting to new technologies and user behaviors. Think about how crucial online resources are now, even in crisis situations like the recent Palisades fire evacuation. A helpful tool in such a situation is a map of evacuation routes, like the map palisades fire evacuation which shows the affected area and safe zones.

This real-time information highlights the importance of dynamic online resources, a key aspect of the ever-changing landscape of online marketing.

Comparison of Past and Current Tactics

Early tactics often involved stuffing, creating low-quality content focused solely on maximizing density. This approach, while effective in the early days, often resulted in poor user experience and penalties from search engines. Current best practices emphasize creating high-quality, user-centric content that naturally incorporates relevant s. Emphasis is placed on site architecture, technical , and building high-quality backlinks, all aimed at improving the overall user experience and establishing site authority.

Impact on Business Visibility

has profoundly reshaped how businesses approach online visibility. Instead of relying on traditional advertising methods, companies now focus on organic search results, which are perceived as more trustworthy and reliable by users. This shift in strategy has led to a more data-driven approach to marketing, requiring businesses to track key metrics and adapt their strategies accordingly.

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Key Stages of Development

Stage Key Characteristics Marketing Strategy Changes
Early (pre-2000s) stuffing, simple site structures, little emphasis on user experience. Focus on density, basic website presence, limited understanding of user behavior.
Rise of algorithm refinement (2000s-2010s) Search engines became more sophisticated, penalizing spam and prioritizing quality content. Emphasis on creating high-quality content, building backlinks, and improving site architecture.
Modern (2010s-present) Focus on user experience, technical , mobile-first indexing, and content marketing. Implementation of user-centric design, optimization for mobile devices, focus on building brand authority and creating valuable content.

Social Media Marketing Emergence

The digital landscape underwent a seismic shift with the rise of social media platforms. These platforms, initially conceived as social tools, quickly transformed into powerful marketing channels, reshaping how businesses connect with customers and build brands. Their impact on online marketing has been profound, demanding adaptation and innovation from marketers to remain relevant and effective.Social media platforms offered unprecedented opportunities for direct engagement with target audiences.

Businesses could interact with customers, build relationships, and foster a sense of community. This direct interaction was a significant departure from traditional marketing methods, which often relied on intermediaries or mass communication. This new era required marketers to develop fresh strategies and understand the unique dynamics of social media interactions.

Introduction of Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram emerged in the early 2000s, initially focused on connecting individuals and sharing personal content. However, these platforms quickly attracted businesses seeking new avenues for reaching potential customers. The ease of use and the ability to connect with individuals directly resonated with both consumers and marketers, leading to a rapid expansion of social media marketing.

Evolution of Social Media Marketing Strategies

The strategies used in social media marketing have evolved considerably since the early days. Initially, many businesses focused on simple broadcasting—sharing updates and promotions. However, as social media platforms matured, a shift towards more interactive and engaging content became evident. Businesses began to understand the importance of building communities, responding to customer feedback, and creating authentic brand narratives. Today, social media marketing strategies encompass a wide range of tactics, including influencer marketing, paid advertising, and the use of social media analytics to track campaign performance.

This evolution has been driven by the need to adapt to platform changes and customer expectations.

Key Social Media Platforms Shaping the Online Marketing Landscape

Several social media platforms have played a pivotal role in shaping the online marketing landscape. These platforms, with their unique characteristics and user bases, have provided diverse opportunities for businesses to connect with their target audiences.

Growth of Social Media Platforms and their Influence

Social Media Platform Year of Launch Estimated Active Users (2023) Impact on Online Marketing
Facebook 2004 2.91 Billion Established as a cornerstone for connecting with a global audience, crucial for reaching large segments.
Twitter 2006 450 Million Provided a platform for real-time updates, crucial for news and breaking announcements. Effective for engagement and quick responses.
Instagram 2010 2 Billion Strong visual focus; ideal for showcasing products and building brand aesthetics.
LinkedIn 2003 875 Million Emphasizes professional networking; critical for B2B marketing and building industry credibility.
YouTube 2005 2.5 Billion Dominates video content; valuable for showcasing products, tutorials, and engaging with audiences through video marketing.

The table above provides a snapshot of the significant social media platforms and their influence on online marketing. The evolution of these platforms has led to new strategies and approaches, creating a dynamic environment for marketers to reach their target audience effectively.

Content Marketing Strategies: Evolution Of Online Marketing

Content marketing, once a relatively nascent approach, has become a cornerstone of successful online strategies. Its evolution reflects the shifting landscape of digital engagement, moving beyond simple promotional tactics to establish meaningful connections with audiences. This evolution is marked by a continuous adaptation to audience needs and a sophisticated understanding of how content can be leveraged to drive desired outcomes.Content marketing has transformed from a mere vehicle for product promotion to a powerful tool for establishing authority and fostering trust.

It’s no longer sufficient to simply push information; instead, marketers now prioritize creating valuable, engaging content that resonates with their target audience, positions them as experts, and ultimately encourages conversion. This evolution demands a deep understanding of audience needs and a commitment to delivering high-quality content that provides real value.

Evolution of Content Formats

The way we consume and interact with content has drastically changed over time. Early content marketing primarily relied on basic text-based formats. This evolution has seen a gradual shift towards more engaging and interactive formats. The increasing demand for visual appeal and the rise of mobile devices have played a significant role in this transformation.

  • Early Days (Text-Centric): Content was largely confined to blog posts, articles, and basic website copy. The emphasis was on providing information, but the engagement potential was limited. Examples include early -driven content focused on density rather than user experience.
  • Rise of Visuals (Images & Videos): The introduction of images and videos injected dynamism into content marketing. Visuals made content more engaging and memorable, especially on social media platforms. Infographics, for instance, became a popular way to present complex information in a digestible format. Consider how product demos on YouTube can influence purchasing decisions.
  • Interactive Content (Quizzes, Polls, and Interactive Stories): Content marketing has evolved beyond static formats to include interactive elements that encourage audience participation. Quizzes, polls, and interactive stories foster engagement and allow for direct audience feedback. This approach builds a stronger connection with the audience and allows for deeper insights into their preferences.
  • Personalization (Customized Content): Modern content marketing recognizes the value of tailoring content to individual users. Personalized recommendations, tailored email campaigns, and dynamic website content are examples of this evolving trend. This personalized approach improves user experience and significantly increases conversion rates.

Changing Role of Content in Attracting and Engaging Audiences

Content’s role in attracting and engaging audiences has fundamentally changed. It’s no longer simply about pushing promotional messages; rather, it’s about creating valuable experiences that build trust and authority. Content must provide real value to the audience, addressing their needs and providing insights that go beyond simple product information.

Content Format Early Approach Modern Approach
Text Basic articles, blog posts focused on optimization In-depth articles, long-form content, thought leadership pieces
Images Stock photos, basic product images High-quality, visually appealing images, infographics, product demos
Videos Limited use, primarily product tutorials Explainer videos, behind-the-scenes content, engaging storytelling
Infographics Rarely used Popular format for presenting complex data in a visual manner
Interactive Content Rare Quizzes, polls, interactive maps, simulations
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Mobile-First Approach

Evolution of online marketing

The rise of smartphones and tablets has fundamentally reshaped the online landscape. Consumers now interact with businesses primarily through their mobile devices, demanding a seamless and optimized experience. This shift necessitates a fundamental change in marketing strategies, moving away from a desktop-centric approach to one that prioritizes the mobile user. This evolution has driven the need for a mobile-first approach in online marketing, requiring adaptation and innovation to reach and engage audiences effectively.

Online marketing has come a long way, from simple banner ads to sophisticated AI-powered strategies. One key aspect of this evolution is the rise of AI agents, like those found at best AI agents for business. These agents can automate tasks, personalize customer experiences, and analyze data to optimize campaigns. This intelligent approach is shaping the future of online marketing, promising even greater efficiency and effectiveness in the years ahead.

Impact of Mobile Devices on Online Marketing Strategies

Mobile devices have significantly impacted online marketing strategies by altering consumer behavior and expectations. Users now expect instant access to information, products, and services, regardless of location. This constant connectivity has created a new paradigm for engaging with potential customers, demanding optimized websites, responsive designs, and targeted mobile-specific campaigns. The impact extends beyond individual interactions; it has reshaped entire business models, prompting the need for mobile-first strategies.

Adaptation to the Mobile-First Environment

Marketing strategies have adapted to the mobile-first environment by focusing on delivering a superior mobile experience. This involves ensuring websites are responsive, loading quickly, and easy to navigate on smaller screens. Mobile-specific landing pages and targeted advertising campaigns are crucial components of this adaptation. Further, marketing teams are employing location-based services, push notifications, and in-app marketing strategies to reach their audience where they spend their time.

This adaptation requires a deep understanding of user behavior on mobile devices.

Rise of Mobile-Specific Marketing Techniques

Mobile-specific marketing techniques have emerged to cater to the unique characteristics of mobile devices. These techniques include location-based marketing, which allows for targeted advertising based on a user’s geographic location. Push notifications are another powerful tool, enabling businesses to communicate with users directly on their mobile devices. In-app marketing, integrated within mobile applications, provides a direct channel for product promotion and engagement.

These strategies capitalize on the mobile platform’s unique features and capabilities to maximize engagement and conversions.

Desktop vs. Mobile Marketing Strategies

Feature Desktop Marketing Mobile Marketing
User Experience Often focuses on extensive content, complex layouts, and large images. Prioritizes speed, simplicity, and intuitive navigation. Optimized for touch interaction and smaller screens.
Content Formats Can include long-form articles, videos, and downloadable resources. Favors concise messaging, short-form videos, and easily digestible content.
Call to Action (CTA) May include multiple CTAs placed strategically on the page. Emphasizes a clear and prominent CTA, often located prominently on the screen.
Advertising Typically relies on banner ads and display advertising. Employs location-based advertising, push notifications, and in-app advertising.
Measurement Focuses on website traffic, page views, and conversions. Tracks app downloads, in-app engagement, and mobile conversions.

This table highlights the key differences between desktop and mobile marketing strategies. These distinctions are crucial for businesses to adapt their approaches to effectively reach their mobile-first audience. Mobile marketing necessitates a focus on a different set of metrics and strategies, tailored to the unique characteristics of the mobile user experience.

Personalization and Targeting

Online marketing has undergone a dramatic transformation, moving from broadcasted messages to highly personalized experiences tailored to individual customers. This evolution has been driven by the vast amount of data available and the sophisticated analytical tools that allow marketers to understand customer behavior with unprecedented accuracy. Understanding these patterns has led to more effective campaigns, improved customer relationships, and ultimately, increased conversions.This shift towards personalization and targeting is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how businesses connect with their audience.

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It’s no longer enough to simply advertise a product or service. Marketers need to understand the unique needs and desires of each customer and deliver tailored messaging that resonates with them. This sophisticated approach requires a deep understanding of data analysis and the ethical use of tracking technologies.

Data and Analytics in Understanding Customer Behavior

The ability to gather and analyze data about customer behavior has revolutionized online marketing. Marketers now have access to a wealth of information about customer preferences, purchase history, browsing habits, and demographics. This detailed information allows them to create targeted campaigns that resonate with specific segments of their audience. For instance, a retailer might analyze customer purchase history to identify trends in buying patterns and offer personalized recommendations for related products.

Data analytics tools, like machine learning algorithms, enable businesses to identify patterns and predict future behavior, allowing for proactive and anticipatory marketing strategies.

Evolution of Personalized Marketing Strategies

Personalized marketing strategies have evolved significantly from simple email campaigns based on demographics to sophisticated algorithms that consider real-time interactions. Early forms of personalization often relied on basic segmentation, such as grouping customers by age or location. However, modern approaches leverage machine learning to analyze vast amounts of data and create highly granular customer profiles. These profiles allow marketers to deliver targeted content, product recommendations, and offers that are highly relevant to individual customer needs.

For example, an e-commerce platform might use a customer’s browsing history and past purchases to suggest complementary products or offer exclusive discounts.

Role of Cookies and Tracking Technologies in Enhancing Targeting

Cookies and other tracking technologies play a crucial role in enhancing online targeting. These technologies allow marketers to track user behavior across websites and platforms, building a comprehensive profile of their online activities. This data allows for the delivery of tailored advertisements and content that align with the user’s interests. However, the use of these technologies also raises important ethical considerations regarding user privacy and data security.

It is essential for marketers to adhere to privacy regulations and obtain explicit consent for data collection and use. The use of sophisticated methods, like contextual advertising, which targets ads based on the content a user is viewing, can significantly enhance the relevance and impact of personalized marketing efforts. Examples include targeted advertisements appearing on news websites related to a user’s previous searches for specific products.

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Influencer Marketing Evolution

Evolution of online marketing

Influencer marketing, once a niche tactic, has exploded into a central pillar of modern marketing strategies. Its evolution mirrors the broader shift towards authenticity and trust in online interactions. Initially, it relied heavily on celebrity endorsements, but has since diversified into a multi-faceted approach involving various types of influencers and engagement strategies.Early influencer marketing strategies were often characterized by a top-down approach, relying on well-known celebrities to endorse products or services.

This often lacked the tailored, relatable feel of modern influencer marketing, which increasingly emphasizes niche communities and authentic engagement.

Early Influencer Marketing Tactics

Early influencer marketing largely focused on celebrity endorsements. These campaigns often involved large-scale, mass-media advertising featuring prominent figures promoting products. There was a significant lack of focus on community building or targeted messaging. The engagement strategies were less interactive and often relied on the celebrity’s pre-existing reputation rather than fostering genuine relationships with their audience.

Modern Influencer Marketing Approaches

Modern influencer marketing has undergone a dramatic shift. It now embraces a bottom-up, community-focused approach. Instead of relying on a few high-profile celebrities, brands collaborate with micro-influencers and niche experts who resonate with smaller, more targeted audiences. Engagement strategies are highly interactive, utilizing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to facilitate two-way communication between influencers and followers.

Strategies for Engaging Influencers

Effective influencer engagement involves a nuanced approach. Brands should carefully select influencers whose values align with their brand identity and target audience. This process often involves a combination of research and relationship building. A clear understanding of the influencer’s audience and content style is critical. Payment structures and campaign objectives need to be clearly defined upfront, ensuring transparency and mutual benefit.

Building lasting relationships with influencers is key to maximizing long-term results.

Measuring Influencer Effectiveness

Measuring the effectiveness of influencer marketing campaigns requires a multi-faceted approach. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, social media engagement, and sales conversions can be tracked. Qualitative metrics, such as brand mentions and positive sentiment, are also important. A well-designed tracking system is crucial to evaluating the ROI of influencer marketing efforts.

Comparison of Early and Modern Tactics

Characteristic Early Influencer Marketing Modern Influencer Marketing
Influencer Type High-profile celebrities Micro-influencers, niche experts
Engagement Strategy One-way communication, mass media Interactive, two-way communication, community-building
Target Audience Broad, mass audience Niche, highly targeted audiences
Measurement Limited, primarily based on media reach Comprehensive, utilizing multiple KPIs (website traffic, engagement, sales)
Relationship Building Limited or nonexistent Emphasis on building long-term relationships

Artificial Intelligence and Automation

The digital landscape is rapidly evolving, and artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a pivotal role in reshaping online marketing strategies. AI-powered tools are automating repetitive tasks, personalizing user experiences, and driving data-driven decisions, leading to more efficient and effective campaigns. This shift marks a significant advancement in how businesses interact with their customers online.AI’s impact on online marketing extends from campaign planning to customer service, making the process more dynamic and responsive to changing market conditions.

This intelligence-driven approach enables marketers to optimize their efforts across various channels, enhancing the overall ROI.

AI-Driven Automation in Marketing Tasks

Automation is key to AI’s influence on marketing. AI tools can handle a wide array of tasks, freeing up human marketers to focus on more strategic initiatives. These tools can automate tasks such as email marketing, social media posting, ad targeting, and content creation.

  • Email Marketing Automation: AI algorithms can segment audiences, personalize email content, and optimize send times for improved open and click-through rates. For example, a company might use AI to send different email campaigns to different customer segments, tailoring the content to their specific interests and needs.
  • Social Media Management: AI tools can schedule posts, monitor brand mentions, and engage with followers in real-time. This automated engagement can significantly boost brand awareness and customer interaction.
  • Ad Targeting and Optimization: AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to identify the most effective target audiences for advertisements. This allows for precise targeting, minimizing wasted ad spend and maximizing conversion rates. Real-world examples include dynamically adjusting ad copy and bids in real-time based on user behavior and performance metrics.
  • Content Creation: While AI cannot fully replace human creativity, it can assist in content generation, particularly for repetitive tasks such as creating product descriptions or social media posts. This allows marketers to produce more content more efficiently.

Impact on Efficiency and Effectiveness

AI significantly impacts online marketing campaigns by enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. By automating routine tasks, AI frees up human resources to focus on strategic decision-making, leading to better outcomes. Data analysis capabilities, powered by AI, provide valuable insights into customer behavior, campaign performance, and market trends. These insights allow for data-driven adjustments and improvements to campaigns in real-time.

AI Tools in Different Campaign Stages

The following table demonstrates how AI tools are utilized across various stages of online marketing campaigns.

Campaign Stage AI Tool Application
Planning Predictive modeling to forecast campaign performance, identify target audience segments, and optimize budget allocation.
Execution Automated content creation, personalized email campaigns, targeted advertising, real-time campaign monitoring and adjustment.
Analysis Data analysis to track campaign performance, identify trends, and optimize future strategies. Detailed reporting on key metrics like conversion rates and ROI.

Emerging Trends and Future Outlook

The landscape of online marketing is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors. Understanding these emerging trends is crucial for businesses to stay competitive and effectively reach their target audiences. This section delves into the anticipated future directions of online marketing, exploring the potential impact of new technologies and providing examples of how these trends will reshape strategies.

The Rise of AI-Powered Personalization

AI is rapidly transforming online marketing, enabling hyper-personalization of customer experiences. AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to understand individual customer preferences, behaviors, and needs, allowing marketers to tailor content, offers, and campaigns with unprecedented precision. This leads to more effective engagement and conversion rates. For example, Netflix’s recommendation engine utilizes AI to suggest movies and shows based on individual viewing histories, driving customer satisfaction and retention.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Integration

AR and VR technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent in online marketing, creating immersive and interactive brand experiences. Companies can use AR to allow customers to virtually try on clothes or visualize furniture in their homes, enhancing engagement and providing unique value propositions. VR can be used for virtual tours of products, immersive brand storytelling, and interactive training programs, increasing customer understanding and brand perception.

The Metaverse and its Marketing Potential

The metaverse, a persistent, shared virtual environment, is emerging as a new frontier for online marketing. Brands are beginning to explore opportunities to engage with customers in virtual worlds, creating immersive experiences, interactive events, and virtual showrooms. This trend allows for innovative ways to interact with consumers and establish a unique brand presence. Examples of early adoption include brands utilizing virtual events within virtual worlds to engage their audiences and build communities.

The Growing Importance of Ethical and Sustainable Marketing

Consumers are increasingly conscious of ethical and environmental issues. Brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility are gaining significant market share. Transparency and authenticity are crucial, and online marketing strategies should reflect these values. For instance, companies using eco-friendly packaging and promoting fair labor practices are increasingly attracting customers. This trend shows a shift in consumer values, impacting marketing strategies.

Data Privacy and Enhanced Security Measures

Data privacy regulations are becoming more stringent, demanding increased security measures and transparent data handling practices. Companies must prioritize data security and privacy to build customer trust. Compliance with regulations like GDPR and CCPA is critical. Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to significant penalties and reputational damage.

Closing Notes

In conclusion, the evolution of online marketing is a dynamic and continuous process. From the simple banner ads of the past to the sophisticated AI-driven campaigns of today, businesses have continuously adapted to meet the needs of their customers in the digital sphere. This journey has been marked by innovation, adaptation, and a relentless pursuit of understanding and engaging online audiences.

The future of online marketing promises even more exciting transformations as technology advances and consumer expectations evolve.

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