ABSTRACT

This research aims to understand the role of aesthetics in the production of electronic newsletters. In this study, AUN’s weekly newsletter (AUNthisWEEK) was put under the microscope in an attempt to examine the effect some of its design features have on readers. Users are known to patronize that which the find appealing to any of their senses. The persistent use of familiar design features is likely to bore readers and gradually diminish their numbers. To prevent this, multimedia designers must constantly work to improve the functionality and aesthetics of electronic content. The standard of design in modern electronic platforms is continuously improving. Because there is competition in the market, these platforms have no choice but to out-design their competitors. However, AUNthisWEEK lacks that competition but still seems to satisfy its readers. This study intends to use Abraham Maslow’s self-actualization theory as a framework to help explain some of the research questions. A survey will be used to gather data that will be analyzed by simple percentages. At the end of this study, the aim of answering the research questions will have been met fully. This study hopes to reveal any blind spots that might be present in how the newsletter uses aesthetics. It will also recommend ways to improve any irregularities that may arise from this study.