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Vectors translate reality into data
A vector is a representation of numerical points, such as in a three-dimensional coordinate system with X, Y and Z. With vectors, you can perform various calculations, such as determining the distance to a restaurant in Amsterdam or identifying which city lies below sea level.
In the context of AI, vectors can also represent words, known as embeddings. Embeddings allow you to define meanings and semantics. For example, you can create an embedding of the flavour profile of a dish: salty, sweet, bitter, sour, and umami. The values of these numbers are determined during model training. This enables you to capture the flavour profile of recipes and compare them: which recipes are exceptionally sweet, and which recipes are similar to each other.
Recipes are also described in countless dimensions using vectors, such as spiciness, crumb likelihood, texture, cuisine, preparation time, ingredients used, etc. Each dimension allows you to compare or group different recipes together. This is done by measuring the distance between vectors along the dimension you are searching on. These vectors are stored in a vector database. The more dimensions you have, the more complex and specific comparisons and groupings you can make with vectors. The ability to convert a piece of text into a vector and perform various calculations, such as assigning weights and synonyms, enables natural language processing (NLP).
When you combine a vector database with an LLM model like ChatGPT, you can achieve some particularly interesting things. The main advantage is gaining control over the data that the LLM model operates with.
Taking control of your data with vectors
ChatGPT is limited by a knowledge cutoff to a specific timeframe: GPT 3.5 until January 2022 and GPT 4.0 until April 2023. While users can provide temporary inputs for current answers, the model remains based on data up until that date. Updating the model with new data is time-consuming and costly: training the GPT-3 model, for example, was estimated to cost $12 million, and the GPT-4 model even more than $100 million. The big question then is how a company can make its business information accessible and up-to-date through an LLM model without having to retrain or fine-tune it. The answer lies in dividing the tasks.
An LLM model is essentially a smart language building block that can be added anywhere. A vector database is a separate building block that can be connected to an LLM model, just like a “standard” database with product information, for example. This combination of tasks is called retrieval augmented generation (RAG). Based on the input, you retrieve pre-selected information from the (vector) database, and then use this information with the LLM. The (vector) database can be kept up-to-date with, for example, the three most relevant pages of your website, the latest energy prices, or the availability of your products. This way, you not only keep the data up-to-date but also maintain full control. This allows you to steer the success of your LLM model yourself.
The value of semantic search
Vectors and embeddings make data understandable and interpretable, enabling semantic search. This unlocks various business applications:
Vectors can be applied anywhere there is interaction with data, information, and knowledge. Extensive textual documentation, such as terms and conditions or manuals, can be unlocked using vector databases to provide specific answers based on complex queries. The versatility of vectors opens the door to crucial information, enabling knowledge-intensive organisations to optimise their operational processes and add more value to their services.
And the beauty of vectors? Organisations can implement them quickly and create added value.
Implementing the vector database in practice
For the technical aspect, you’ll need someone with technical knowledge to create a simple application, typically a developer. Nowadays, there are many tools available, both paid and free. It’s a matter of making time and experimenting. Here’s what you’ll need:
An LLM model. You can use paid SaaS services from OpenAI and Azure OpenAI or run your own local LLM model, such as Meta’s LLaMA 2 or Mistral from France.
A vector database. There are both paid and free tools available, such as Pinecone and Weaviate, a Dutch open-source startup offering serverless, on-premises, and cloud options.
Using a pre-trained LLM model saves significant time. OpenAI recently introduced a user-friendly way to build your own GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) without coding. You can access the vector database directly via API or through a client provided by the chosen solution, such as the Pinecone client or Weaviate client. After connecting the client, creating an index, and adding vectors, you can perform your first “nearest-neighbour” search. According to Weaviate, you can get this quickstart up and running with test vectors in just 20 minutes.
Applying a vector database is not solely an IT task. Due to its various applications, the use of vectors and embeddings is becoming more integrated with an organisation’s operational and commercial processes. For example, providing better answers to customers online directly impacts the workload of the customer service department and customer satisfaction. Therefore, consider the application and the creation of added value as your starting point.
Best practices for vector databases
The design and construction of an LLM model are becoming easier with the availability of GPTs. OpenAI aims to encourage the creation of specific chatbots, and a marketplace for offering and consuming these chatbots is on the horizon, which will further accelerate innovation and application. To stay ahead of the competition, apply the following best practices to maximise the value of vector databases.
The vector database does not replace other databases. You can connect an LLM model to various databases, such as a product database, to provide direct answers for which semantic search is not required. For example, “Is this winter jacket available in size XXXL?” or “What is the availability?”. For search queries that require meaning and relationships, use a vector database.
Garbage in, garbage out. The results of a vector database depends on the quality of the data. The data must be accurate, well-organised, and properly transformed into vectors. The number of dimensions plays a significant role: the more dimensions you capture, for example, about recipes, the more specific questions you can answer. Such as the presence of gluten or peanuts. Therefore, use only high-quality data and focus on continuously improving it.
Vectors can represent anything. Vectors, as a numerical representation, can represent various things. When you assign meaning to a vector, it is called an embedding. For example, you can create a vector with the meaning of words, images, or sounds. This allows users to search for a specific image and request related images. This is how Google Photos enables searching uploaded photos based on subjects like cat, garden, or glass. It also offers possibilities for contextual embeddings and mathematical operations on numerical representations, such as squaring all the vowels.
Don’t make vectors too large. The size of the vector is an important vector. Smaller vectors result in higher output accuracy. Therefore, avoid creating vectors for entire pages or individual words. A good size for standard text is 100 to 300 words. Each FAQ can be created as a separate vector, allowing you to create smart pieces of information.
Store the URL as well. In addition to the vector, you can also store meta-data such as the URL of the page from which the text originated. This is useful for identifying the source when receiving negative feedback, for example. Consider the terms and conditions of an insurance policy: if they are updated, you will also want to update the vectors.
Dimensions come at a cost. Using vector databases with many dimensions can be expensive. As an organisation, you need to weigh the costs of additional dimensions against the accuracy of the results. Which questions do you want to be able to answer? And which ones are less valuable?
The human element remains central
The AI era has arrived. Every service and product can now be supported by a specialised AI chatbot that can answer a wide range of questions. With this advancement, not only does data and knowledge become more accessible, but the customer experience also improves. However, the key to success does not lie in complete automation and surrendering to technological capabilities.
Human input is essential to unlock the full potential of AI. The quality of the data used to train an LLM model and populate a vector database is at the core of this. If AI-generated content is used instead of human-written content, the quality of the output deteriorates significantly. A vector database does not inherently know that a pepper steak is spicy but doesn't crumble – a human needs to interpret that. Human input also plays a crucial role in the ethics within the AI landscape. Ethics and responsibility are inherently linked to the development and implementation of AI technologies. The ability to give meaning to specific words, understand cultural context, and make moral considerations is inherently human. Ultimately, the human touch is what makes or breaks your AI model – success is defined by your users.
Raymond Muilwijk
Technology Officer Belgium & The NetherlandsWith a distinct vision on - and experience in - strategy, enterprise & solution architecture, product management and software delivery, Raymond is the right man in the right place at the Center of Excellence. Responsible for iO's technology vision and acting as an accelerator of knowledge and innovation. Knowledge worth sharing, as the beating heart of any organisation.
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Dossier: B2B - Turning B2B challenges into solutions
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Dossier: successful innovation
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Dossier: The Opportunity Report
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Digitising a business: the most common mistakes and how to avoid them
How is it that only 30% of the companies are successful in adopting digital transformation? In large part because it affects every aspect of a business: people, processes, infrastructure, and customers. We walk you through the most common mistakes we see in digital transformation projects so you don’t have to make them yourself. Expert:Tom van Mierlo, Digital StrategistRead moreCase
How do you build a global B2B platform tailored to foodservice professionals?
How to build a multi-site, multi-language, global B2B platform for lead generation and online branding - iOLook at this client storyCase
How a down-to-earth audit paves the way to the ideal digital tools?
With an efficient platform audit, our experts helped Ebema make the most appropriate choices.Look at this client storyCase
How do you support expats moving around the world?
Gosselin, active in international relocations, wanted more leads to boost growth. Our experts helped to bolster their digital presence.Look at this client storyCase
How to optimise and increase the conversion rate in specific target audience groups?
Maximizing ROI: iO's Approach to Boosting Conversion Rate in Beobank's Campaigns. Read the full story here.Look at this client storyCase
How to combine rebranding and site redesign for a better user experience?
Creating a Cohesive Platform: Assuralia's Rebranding and Site Redesign for Enhanced User Experience Read the story here.Look at this client storyCase
How do you convert festival- goers into active members of your community?
From Festival Wristbands to Online Accounts: Converting Festival-Goers with Effective Paid Media. Read the story here.Look at this client storyCase
How has fresh branding contributed to a stronger position in the market?
For Prowise, an interactive display and educational software expert, iO designed a new WordPress website complemented by a new brand voice and copy.Look at this client storyCase
Repositioning a meat brand in full transition
Discover how iO helped Imperial transform into a future-proof food brandLook at this client storyStack
iO: Your Shopify Partner for the best (online) shopping experiences
Discover how iO can elevate your e-commerce success with a tailored Shopify platform. From seamless integrations to limitless connectivity, we provide full support from technology to marketing, ensuring optimal growth and conversion.Read moreStack
Work smarter in the cloud with Google Cloud Partner iO
Google Cloud Partner iO helps organisations harness the power of the cloud for storage, analytics, development, and more.Read moreWhat we do
Scalable and cost-effective e-commerce strategies – iO
Thinking about expanding your e-commerce activities? Your partner in e-commerce strategy and implementation - iORead moreWhat we do
Partner in Digital Transformation
We support organisations towards a digitally oriented and data-driven organisation. From strategy to optimisation.Read moreWhat we do
Conversational & community management: meeting your customer
Conversational & community management is our way of forging a direct connection between you and your client, through effective targeting and creativity. Find out how we can help you.Read morePress
iO develops a secure version of ChatGPT: AiO
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AI without measurable impact? Nothing more than an empty gimmick for your business
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iO brings the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ digital twin to life with AI
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iO appoints Marco Merola as Managing Director on Campus Herentals
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4 out of 10 Belgians are digitally vulnerable
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iO helps KNMI keep the Netherlands safe in terms of weather and climate in 2024
Read moreWebinar
AI adding value to your business processes
When you understand what AI can and cannot do, you can use it purposefully. But how do you translate the possibilities of AI into the specific context of your daily business operations? In this webinar we cut through the hype, share insights, learnings, first proof-points and more great reasons to believe that AI isn't just part of the hype cycle, but is essential for every organisation.Read moreWebinar
From branding to brand experience: how to create a coherent brand experience
In today's crowded marketplace, consumers are faced with a multitude of options. It's vital that your brand not only stands out but is also seen as positive and consistent. Additionally, you must be able to adapt seamlessly to market changes, all while maintaining your credibility and authenticity. Are you interested in discovering how to achieve brand experience excellence? Watch the recording now.Read moreWebinar
Webinar: Increase your online impact with strategic SEO
Is your website not being properly found by relevant visitors? Is your SEO traffic not generating enough conversions? But do you think you already have an SEO-friendly website? Then it's time to switch from tactical to strategic SEO. Find out how during our webinar on 23 August.Read moreWhitepaper
Event-triggered multichannel marketing
Event-triggered marketing, the process of identifying, prioritising, categorising, monitoring, optimising and executing, is the most effective exercise multichannel marketers can do to reach audiences at the right moment. In this whitepaper we take you through five quintessential steps for event-triggered multichannel marketing.Read moreWhitepaper
Customer Data Platforms (CDP)
A Customer Data Platform collects your customers’ data and is mainly at home in the more ‘mature’ marketing departments of the organisation. A CDP combines customer data from different platforms and hands it back to you in a 360° package. This whitepaper illustrates how a CDP gets assembled, where its added value lies CDP can be for your organisation and which conditions best serve a CDP.Read moreWhitepaper
MACH - how do you know if it's right for your business?
Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native SaaS and Headless have secured their place in the business world. These concepts have existed in their own right for some time and are already fairly well known, but the umbrella term MACH is new. Will it soon be mentioned in the same breath as Cloud and SaaS? And when will it be worth investing in it? Find out in this white paper.Read moreWhitepaper
Headless systems
A headless platform offers a lot of new possibilities for companies. It fits into a digital landscape that connects your customers with your business processes. But what exactly does it mean? And can your company handle the complexity of headless systems? In this white paper we will separate the facts from the fiction and guide you through your first steps in the headless world.Read moreWhitepaper
Selecting and deploying the right marketing automation platform
Through marketing automation, organisations like yours can easily identify anonymous online visitors and convert them into qualified leads. It automates repetitive marketing tasks — effectively eliminating them from your daily operations — allowing you to focus on what matters.Read moreWhitepaper
No more marketingcookies: calculate the impact on your sales and visitors
Soon, third-party cookies will disappear. Use our calculator and get an estimate of the potential loss of sales and website visitors. You will also get tailored advice on the next steps to take to minimise that loss. Go directly to the calculator via the button below or scroll down for more background information.Read moreWhitepaper
Composable Commerce: hype or here to stay?
The world of online commerce is becoming increasingly complex. Businesses need to be able to create appropriate and unique customer journeys across multiple channels. But this is proving to be quite a challenge for those still using traditional commerce platforms. Luckily, the world of online commerce is also constantly developing. When new and greater challenges arise, fresh solutions are created. Solutions like composable commerce.Read moreWhitepaper
Get more insights into the effectiveness of media with Marketing Mix Modelling
Digital marketing offers enormous opportunities in the field of data-driven working. We often fail to take advantage of these opportunities. That's means you miss out on a lot of opportunities to maximise the impact of your budget.Read moreWhitepaper
How to build an effective content marketing strategy
Producing content is a tactic everyone seems to rely on these days. Many organisations are creating content today — they have blogs, are active on social media, and might even publish their own magazine. But the underlying, supporting strategy? Something you rarely come across.Read moreWhitepaper
The key insights from Corporate Klooien – Back to Tomorrow
If you were to start all over again tomorrow, would you end up where you are today? In the 2023 edition of Corporate Klooien, we worked with professionals from influential organisations to explore their ideal future scenarios. We examined how they can deliver value and determine the right priorities in their specific situations. We did this using our own Corporate Alt Delete method.Read moreWhitepaper
Corporate Alt Delete – Rewrite your organisation’s founding story
Corporate Alt Delete is a book that bridges the gap between two worlds within an organisation: Team Horizon, thinking in opportunities, and Team Business, focused on current results and business value. This book invites you to breathe new life into the old founding story of the organisation, enriching it with today's market knowledge and business capabilities. Why read Corporate Alt Delete?Read moreWhitepaper
Whitepaper: How to unburden your business with ‘first time right’ marketing execution
Ideally, as a (Digital) Marketing Manager, you focus on developing and executing your strategy to achieve your organisation's goals. But what if your strategic focus is constantly disrupted by operational issues?Read moreBlog
What makes a successful self-service portal?
A self-service portal is a great way to offer your customers better service and set up your sales processes more efficiently. We explain what a self-service portal is and what you need to make it a success.Read moreBlog
Everything on B2B self-service portals
An online environment to place orders, contact customer service and searching information is a given in B2C. Luckily, we also see an increasing number of B2B companies investing in these kinds of portals. We’ll explain what a B2B self-service portal is and what the benefits for both companies and customers are.Read moreBlog
The power of self-service in transportation and logistics
For organisations in transportation and logistics, it’s no longer enough to just get your shipments from A to B on time. Both private and business customers expect (demand) a top-tier service level these days. In this article, we’ll explain how a self-service portal can offer optimal service in the logistics industry.Read moreBlog
Investing in a self-service portal? There are 3 clear benefits for your business
Does your organisation spend a lot of time providing your customers with information and support about services? For example, scheduling delivery or maintenance appointments, contract management, changing customer data or taking orders? In most cases, these common interactions are all related to information that is connected to your services or products. And it is precisely these interactions that you can digitise effectively in a self-service portal.Read moreBlog
Opinion piece: Is ChatGPT the key to creative success in the digital era?
Artificial intelligence is nothing new under the sun. We ask our smart speakers what the weather’s like today, use smart translators and let algorithms decide our choice of entertainment. The general public is clearly ready to accept AI as an everyday part of life. One example of an AI tool that is becoming increasingly popular is ChatGPT.Read moreBlog
How do you choose the best digital partner for your Umbraco Platform?
Choosing the right digital partner for your Umbraco platform is an important step in realising your online goals. Want to make an informed choice, but are uncertain about what you should prioritise? We are here to help you.Read moreBlog
Forget Headless: Operational Excellence is Next-Gen E-Commerce
In uncertain times, most entrepreneurs choose to operate from a safe position and focus on easy wins and consolidation. But with this strategy you miss out on opportunities. What can we offer to withstand the unpredictable, changing consumer needs and economic and social turmoil? Our Software Architect Bavo Janss went back in time and made up the current state of affairs. He says that Operational Excellence is the answer to most of the big questions coming at us today. Read on to learn how composable commerce can help us prepare for the future.Read moreBlog
HubSpot announces new Sales Hub and CRM features at INBOUND 23
Elevate your sales journey and maximise data efficiency with HubSpot's Sales Hub 2.0 and Smart CRM.Read moreBlog
How to choose an appropriate data analytics platform?
A data analytics platform extracts data from websites and apps and processes it into actionable insights for your business operations. At the beginning of 2023, Google Analytics still had a market share of over 85% in our region and the choice was often an easy one. However, after a series of complaints and questions about its compatibility with GDPR legislation, Google Analytics is balancing on the edge of legality. Consequently, the following question arises: what should you pay attention to when choosing another data analysis platform?Read moreBlog
AI tools that add real value to your business processes
Technology is in a constant state of change. The great evolution of recent years has been AI. Today, it's a powerful tool that can radically change the way we solve problems and create value. But how should we really look at AI? And how can we make sure it becomes more than just an empty gimmick?Read moreBlog
4 tips to develop a successful measurement plan
More and more organisations want to measure the return on investment of digital platforms accurately. But how do you develop a successful measurement plan?Read moreBlog
The future of AI: which 5 trends make their mark on 2024?
We are standing at the beginning of a new economic era with AI and automation as driving forces. Customer interaction is radically being transformed, and the rise of generative AI heralds one of the biggest revolutions ever. As far as AI is concerned, the near future is still a bit unpredictable, but one thing is certain: companies that really want to make a difference should resolutely opt for a digital strategy built upon resilience, productivity and efficiency. Let’s delve into the five most remarkable AI trends for 2024.Read moreBlog
Work smarter, not harder: your guide to masterful productivity with AI
Are you tired of all the grand promises surrounding AI? Do trends come and go without leaving a lasting impact? Are you yearning for a down-to-earth answer to the question, "What can I truly gain from AI in my daily work?" Our Art Director and AI pioneer, Gijs guides you in this blog interview. Why can he only guide you? Because there's no one-size-fits-all approach. AI is tailor-made, but it can significantly simplify and enhance your work. Within minutes, promises Gijs, you can achieve powerful mass production. His practical tips might just transform your daily workflow or, at the very least, encourage you to rethink it. Discover how in this interview.Read moreBlog
Google introduces Interaction to Next Paint as a new Core Web Vital
From March 12, we welcome a significant update in the world of web performance with the introduction of Interaction to Next Paint (INP) as part of the Core Web Vitals. But don't worry, you don’t have to be a web developer to understand: we’ll explain the importance of this update in plain language.Read moreBlog
Historical data export - Universal Analytics
Deadline for exporting Universal Analytics: 1st of July 2024 After the 1st of July 2024, it will no longer be possible to access data in Universal Analytics. Therefore, it’s essential to take timely action and export the data before that day. By exporting the data before the access is closed, you can gain valuable insights, store the data securely and take any further actions. It is wise not to do this at the last minute, as there may be obstacles, such as errors in extraction or technical challenges. To avoid potential problems, it is advisable to transfer the data in time to environment where it can be stored securely. That way, you can later use the data for further analysis or transformation purposes. By acting now, you can ensure that you don’t lose the valuable data and are well prepared for the future. So don't wait until the last minute - make sure you export the data from Universal Analytics before 1 July to a secure environment, where you can continue to use it.Read moreBlog
How to create an AI copywriting assistant with custom GPT
Is AI the big monster some make it out to be? The one waiting in line to take over our job of content marketeer? One thing’s for sure: artificial intelligence is no hype. It’s here to stay, and it’s up to us to deal with it. At iO, we’re always looking at new ways to create value. AI turns out not to be a solution, but rather a means to an end. In this blog post, we explain how we use an AI copy assistant to write large volumes of copy in a cost-effective way.Read moreBlog
Migrating to Sitecore XM Cloud: The step towards a Composable DXP
XM Cloud is the CMS of Sitecore’s new Composable DXP. It is a further development of their original CMS, but packed and serviced completely different. It’s SaaS, less hassle to maintain, quicker and easier to develop on, a lot easier to work with for content editors, but still as powerful and versatile as before. So when starting a new Sitecore implementation, choosing XM Cloud over the original Platform DXP is a no-brainer. But what about migrating your existing implementation to XM Cloud? There is no set upgrade path and your starting position greatly influences the desired route to take, but also the business case behind such a migration. In this article I will share my view on the important differences, challenges, benefits, caveats, possible approaches for a migration roadmap, and everything you would like to know and consider before embarking on this journey.Read moreBlog
Why is always-on gaining ground over ad hoc campaigns?
In the marketing optimisation of larger iO clients - such as Brussels Airport and Lidl - we see a shift from ad hoc campaigns to always-on. There are a few logical explanations for this trend. And both the elimination of cookies and the focus on the customer experience (CX) have a lot to do with it.Read moreBlog
Conversational search: what is it and why do you want it?
Conversational search in the form of an AI chatbot lets your website visitors interact with your content, resulting in a better customer experience. Conversational search is an advanced search method that uses natural language processing to understand search queries and provide relevant results. Instead of entering search terms, users can formulate searches as they would in a normal conversation.Read moreBlog
What is search intent? And why is it important for SEO?
When you look something up on the Internet, you always do so with a specific intention. Whether it's to gather information, compare products or actually make a purchase. Either way, you want to see results that match your intent as closely as possible. This intent - called search intent - is a crucial factor for both Google and marketers.Read moreBlog
iOS 18 and RCS: a gamechanger for brands and marketers
With the recent launch of iOS 18, the messaging service Rich Communication Services, or RCS, is finally widely available. This can have a huge impact on how brands and marketers reach their customers. In this article, we dive deeper into the ins and outs of RCS and why at iO, we believe that it will provide better experiences.Read moreBlog
Marketing budget allocation for 2025: data driven or a roll of the dice?
For many marketers, allocating budgets for the year ahead is a real headache. Will you carry your budget over from last year – even though technology is evolving at lightning speed and the marketing world could look completely different tomorrow? Or will you follow your intuition and take a chance? Fortunately, data modelling exists allowing you to allocate your budget with the certainty that you are spending it in the right place, and at the right time.Read moreDossier
Dossier: Brands & society
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Dossier: Get a taste of AI – Discover the endless possibilities of AI
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How to measure the value of innovations faster and more clearly
In 2024, you will be less likely to make long-term investments. ROI has become a more important factor in innovation compared to recent years. We share ways that will help you validate innovations faster and gain management’s support. Expert: Uilke Duinstra - Service Line Director Strategy at iORead moreVideo
Challenger Stories: Brandt & Levie turns the meat industry on its head
For Brandt & Levie, responsible production is not an afterthought, but the core business. The Amsterdam sausage maker produces animal-friendly meat according to its own recipe — exclusively from well-kept pigs. An impactful story about sustainability in an industry that sometimes struggles to find it.Read moreVideo
Challenger Stories: Natuurhuisje protects local biodiversity
Natuurhuisje is not just a booking platform for holiday homes, it's a full-fledged climate company. Nature is at the heart of everything they do, and it's — in their own words — their responsibility to protect it. The booking platform is merely a means to that end. That's why Natuurhuisje donates part of its revenue back to local projects to improve biodiversity.Read moreCase
How do you simplify ordering medicine online?
Do you want to offer services online in healthcare? Make the application process easier with an app.Look at this client storyCase
How to transform the largest film festival in the Netherlands into an online experience?
Moving The Netherlands’ biggest film festival online Converting their website into an interactive streaming platform meant that the Rotterdam International Film Festival could celebrate their 50th anniversary - even when confronted by COVID restrictions.Look at this client storyCase
How to use social networks to modernise your digital communication?
Modernizing Automotive Digital Communications: Unleashing the Potential of Social Networks. Read the story here.Look at this client storyCase
How do you bring years of delicious creativity to life?
With creative always-on and ad hoc campaigns, our experts help Manna Sauzen grow into a leading Belgian brand.Look at this client storyCase
How do you launch a completely new brand for a global leader in marine recreation?
Read how we worked with Brunswick to create a full branding and international go-to-market strategy to launch their latest brand Navan.Look at this client storyCase
Finding, customising and ordering the perfect promotional gift in as few clicks as possible
Find out how iO developed one powerful and scalable e-commerce platform for the web shops of all Favorite Gifts' brands. Read the case study.Look at this client storyCase
How to present a unified brand story for multiple companies within the same group?
How do you tell a clear online story that pulls traffic towards your website if you represent multiple businesses? Read the case and find out.Look at this client storyCase
How do you make customers salivate for your brand again?
Find out how we helped cheese brand CAMBOZOLA reactivate its existing customers and attract younger generations. Read the case.Look at this client storyCase
Impacting the traveller and environment through technology
Brussels Airport: a look at the digital platforms iO built for the ultimate passenger experience.Look at this client storyPage
Verschil chatbot, bot en robot
Robots, chatbots, bots. Drie termen die erg op elkaar lijken, maar erg kunnen verschillen. Het zijn weliswaar alledrie technologische vorderingen in de samenleving, maar het is belangrijk om te weten wat ieder kan betekenen voor jou en wellicht je bedrijf.Read moreWhat we do
Reach your users with better persona and journey research
iO helps you find the best channels to reach your customers and leads – with in-depth research on buyer personas and customer journeys.Read moreWhat we do
Understand your audience with market and consumer research
If you know your consumer, you can answer to their needs better. iO helps you with in-depth insights from market and consumer research.Read moreWhat we do
Service design for quality services and products
Develop, test and improve your services and products with service design. This will help you improve the user experience of your most demanding users.Read moreWhat we do
How our strategists help you with new product development
Our experts help you launch new products and services that solve a problem for your target audience.Read moreWhat we do
A marketing strategy that works
With a strong marketing strategy, you will reach your business goals. Our experts are happy to guide you along the way.Read moreWhat we do
Convince customers and employees with your value proposition
Discover how organizations with a clear employee and customer value proposition (EVP & CVP) stand their ground. Our experts will be happy to help you.Read moreWhat we do
Let's develop an innovation strategy
Developing innovation strategy is key for success in today's ever-evolving market. Together, we develop an innovation strategy to create more relevant value.Read moreWhat we do
Organising and managing effective digital marketing projects | iO
We help you with optimal project management, coordination and execution of your entire digital marketing project. Discover how iO can help you.Read moreWhat we do
CLM and loyalty to reward regular customers
CLM and loyalty is a win-win situation: customers benefit from their loyalty and you get data flows and a smoothly running business.Read moreWhat we do
Media buying: the key to successful advertising
Marketing is so much more than a slogan. Our experts allow your message to shine with strategic media buying.Read moreWhat we do
Technology & security audit, for proper digital protection
How do you grant your organisation lasting protection? With a clear overview of the weaknesses, vulnerabilities and security risks in your digital ecosystem. Read how a technology & security audit can help your business case.Read moreWhat we do
Data management & data warehousing: go further with human insights
Bring order in the chaos of big data with data management & data warehousing. The iO experts will help you on your way.Read morePress
iO creates future-proof look for Assuralia
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11.11.11 chooses iO as digital partner
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iO study: majority of retail chains missing out on local SEO benefits
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iO focuses on talent: Wouter Dolle becomes HR Director in the Netherlands
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iO launches magical end-of-year campaign for Brussels Airport
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Manna boosts brand awareness with a wink
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Lidl Belux selects blended agency iO as digital partner
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iO helps companies tap into their innovation potential
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Amnesty International Vlaanderen and iO put a human face on hope with ‘the power of the people’
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Nagelmackers strengthens long-term relationships with a brand-new platform
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Brussels Airport Company and iO create the ultimate traveller experience
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Golf.nl app 2.0 makes golf accessible to everyone
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Amnesty International calls attention to human rights violations in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Read moreWebinar
SEO & TikTok: the dynamic duo for digital success
From libraries to Google to TikTok...in just a few decades, our source of information has shifted to unexpected places. Today, a whopping 40% of young people use TikTok as their primary source of information. Did you know that this platform is increasingly focusing on its own search function? This makes TikTok SEO an essential part of your digital strategy.Read moreWebinar
Corporate Alt Delete - give your organisation an innovation boost
How do you keep your business dynamics fresh and boost the innovation potential and that pioneering mindset in your organisation? Corporate Alt Delete invites you to take a fresh look at your organisation and jointly rewrite your story. Corporate Alt Delete is a book, a workshop, a mindset, and now also a webinar.Read moreEvent
Content Marketing & Web Editing Congress - People for content, content for people
Will everything soon be done by AI? And how will we still speak to each other's hearts? Spoiler: the human touch remains crucial. That's why this year's Content Marketing & Web Editing Congress revolves around humans. Thursday, November 14, 2024, we will gather more than 300 content professionals from all kinds of industries and organizations around the theme: people for content, content for people. Are you also interested in creating - with the help of AI – high quality content with and for people? Don’t miss out, get your ticket today. Get your ticket nowRead moreWebinar
Webinar | Will your organization be ready on 28th June 2025 for the EU's Digital Accessibility Law?
Will your organization be ready on 28th June 2025 for the EU's Digital Accessibility Law? Today, for your organization or business to thrive, a digital presence is essential. However, this online presence also brings about a growing need for digital accessibility. Moreover, the EU expects your organization to be digitally accessible by mid-2025. Discover why this is important and how to approach it during our webinar on 22nd August.Read moreEvent
Enhance your municipality's digital services with smart solutions
Do you want to elevate your municipality's digital services? Save the date and join us on November 25th to discover how you can use digital tools work more efficiently and better serve the residents and businesses in your municipality.Read moreWebinar
Webinar: How to easily gain complete control over the Woo publications of your organisation
With the introduction of the Open Government Act (Woo), the disclosure of information has become of greater importance. It’s wise to have a solid process and powerful digital tools in place to help your organisation comply to the Woo. But where to start? In the webinar ‘How to easily gain complete control over the Woo publications of your organisation’ we’ll show you how to set up this in a sufficient and user-friendly way.Read moreWebinar
Webinar: How to easily gain complete control over the Woo publications of your organisation
With the introduction of the Open Government Act (Woo), the disclosure of information has become of greater importance. It’s wise to have a solid process and powerful digital tools in place to help your organisation comply to the Woo. But where to start? In the webinar ‘How to easily gain complete control over the Woo publications of your organisation’ we’ll show you how to set up this in a sufficient and user-friendly way.Read moreEvent
Email Marketing 101 in 2025
Do you want to send emails that your target audience doesn’t just open, but also remembers? Emails that hit like your first sip of coffee early on a Monday morning. Then sign up for our event and discover how to make your emails the highlight of everyone's inbox in 2025. You’ll learn how to set up effective campaigns, what AI can do for you and how to increase your conversion rates. Please note places are limited, so reserve your spot in time.Read moreWebinar
How to become a Social Brand - Building your business with social media
Learn how to move from merely being present on social media to making an impact with an effective social strategy.Read moreWebinar
Discover what's new in HubSpot: your quick guide to the INBOUND '24 updates
With over fifty new features every month, the HubSpot express train shows no signs of slowing down. Last month at the annual INBOUND event in Boston, you could explore all the latest updates and get an exclusive preview of the roadmap for the coming year. Couldn't make it? Sign up quickly for our free webinar to get a concise overview of all the highlights from INBOUND '24.Read moreWhitepaper
The significance of data in digital marketing
Data help the marketeer implement digital marketing techniques in customer communication. But how do you use that data, exactly? And how can you enjoy the full force of data? In this whitepaper, we will show you how to optimise your customer and prospect communication through segmentation and personalisation. Moreover, we’ll show you how AI supports these processes.Read moreWhitepaper
The Opportunity Report: take advantage of the latest developments in strategy, marketing and technology
How do organisations stay ahead of the pack in a constantly evolving world? With a collection of expert insights in a single guide, to make the most out of new market trends, emerging technologies and upgraded industry standards. This Opportunity Report is created and curated by professionals across marketing, strategy, content, and technology, using their common vision on what will shape the world, the market or their field of expertise.Read moreWhitepaper
Get the most out of your social media marketing
Many companies use social media to reach their target audience. Too few companies use social media to engage their target audience. A shame really. Because engaging content is the key to success on social media.Read moreWhitepaper
Your channel mix only has value if you manage it effectively
To make your online business run smoothly, there are several aspects you can focus on. One of them is your channel mix. But how do you know if your mix is the right one? And do you stick to your initial choices or is it better to adjust your mix regularly? Channel management provides answers to these questions. Channel management involves monitoring and adjusting the entire channel mix of your business or client based on predetermined goals. You work on all aspects that ensure better results, at every stage of the funnel.Read moreWhitepaper
Building brands with content
Brands are built with advertising, and content then adds depth to the brand, right? Not if you ask Aart Lensink. As a content expert, he helped several brands tell strong stories, and now he's sharing his knowledge on building brands with content in this e-book— packed with examples and with a concrete step-by-step plan.Read moreWhitepaper
Download the "2023 Local SEO Benchmark Report"
For the 2023 Local SEO Benchmark, we analysed nearly 100,000 business locations in 36 cities in the Netherlands and Belgium, across 14 different industries. Curious about how the retail sector in the Netherlands and Belgium is doing in terms of Local SEO? Find out in our 2023 Local SEO Benchmark Report . Some key conclusions of the 2023 Local SEO Benchmark Report:Read moreWhitepaper
Increase your webshop turnover
Webshops have reached the status of shopping standard in the digital age. Users are just a few clicks away from their favourite items. Anywhere, at any time of the day, from the comforts of home. This is why online advertising on digital channels has become key to webshop owners: channels allowing you to maintain your margins and successfully activate consumers throughout the purchase process.Read moreWhitepaper
Sales, leads, goals: your guide to Performance Marketing
Performance marketing is a branch of marketing where you focus on results. Which results? How can you measure it and - more importantly - how do you achieve it? This is different for every organisation, but the potential of performance marketing to deliver results? That’s universal. The efficient combination of leads, sales and targets is crucial.Read moreWhitepaper
Get more revenue from Google Shopping with Google CSS Managed Service
In 2017, Google was fined €2.4 billion by the European Commission for abuse of power. The internet giant was pushing comparison websites (Comparison Shopping Services, or CSS) lower in search results with Google Shopping. That fine was bad news for Google, but good news for organisations looking to make more online sales.Read moreWhitepaper
Download the all-in-one social media checklist
For many organisations, social media is still a Pandora's box. Yes, they are useful online channels, and yes, we might need to have a presence there. But how exactly do you tackle that? What do you need to take into account? This helpful social media checklist will take you a long way.Read moreWhitepaper
Employer branding insights - How to recruit talent in 2024?
A tight job market and a short attention span from your target audience, who are also bombarded with content on a daily basis. Does recruiting new talent sometimes feel like a lost battle to you? We believe it doesn't have to be! Break through your target audience's content overload: invest in in-depth content to reach them and strengthen your employer brand. How can you successfully recruit and retain new talent for your brand? Discover it in "From Employer Branding to Recruitment - Insights 2024".Read moreWhitepaper
How to successfully develop a platform
Facebook is a media company that does not create content. Airbnb has turned the hotel industry upside down without owning any accommodation. Two well-known examples of fast-growing platforms that enable transactions and bring users and products together. The main factor for success in this is their appeal to the right users and adding value by solving problems, providing convenience or introducing new services. They do this using a very strong User Experience (UX) and Developer Experience (DX).Read moreWhitepaper
7 strategic considerations for building powerful platforms
For many companies, digital platforms are the backbone of their operations and critical to exceptional customer experiences. This white paper offers strategic insights and practical solutions to address digital challenges such as agility, scalability and security. Download now to take your digital platform to the next level and seamlessly align with your business goals.Read moreWhitepaper
The CTO guide to a composable architecture
Instead of depending on one big software suite, the ‘composable approach’ enables organisations to customise their IT infrastructure by selecting and integrating the most suitable components for their specific needs. However, composable is not a universal solution. In this whitepaper we break down the composable concept, explain the core principles and its potential impact on your organisation’s digital ecosystem. We help you determine a realistic timeframe for transitioning to a composable architecture and evaluate whether your business is ready to embrace composability. Finally, we explore diverse migration strategies for a smooth and seamless transition.Read moreBlog
3 trends in content marketing for 2024
Users are becoming increasingly mobile: they're freely moving from channel to channel, looking for the content they want to consume. So keeping an eye on trends and taking full advantage of them is more important than ever. After all, trends offer a perfect opportunity to be creative. But what can we expect in 2024? In this blog, you'll discover three trends you can address to increase your impact with your target groups.Read moreBlog
Bing: a new search engine gateway to your target audience
Google is the unequivocal search engine market leader (and probably will be for a while). However, when it comes to search queries, there’s a challenger to that monopoly: Bing by Microsoft. In the last few months, Bing made some significant strides, moving from 1 in 20 search queries to almost 1 in 5. That growing influence and Bing’s market share are some aspects you should leverage in your digital strategies. You can ignore 5% of your potential visitors, but ignoring 18% of the queries that lead to your business would probably have a significant impact on your business – and not in a good way.Read moreBlog
3 valuable SEO insights from Friends of Search 2024
As an SEO specialist I had the opportunity to attend Friends of Search, a well-known SEO and SEA conference in Amsterdam. The event attracts at least 600 visitors annually and guarantees thought-provoking talks, an exciting award show, and a networking moment. I was immediately impressed by the international expertise presented by the other attendees during this eleventh edition, held on 21 March 2024. Discover 3 valuable SEO insights that stuck with me.Read moreBlog
Why WordPress is the perfect CMS for marketers
At iO, we partner with some major players and market leaders in marketing and technology. One of these partners is WordPress, world's largest Content Management System (CMS). There are several reasons why WordPress tops the list of CMS platforms. For one, the platform has a lot to offer for all its target audiences. In this blog, we list its main advantages for marketers.Read moreBlog
Drupal Starshot announced: 5 things you need to know
Earlier this month, Drupal founder Dries Buytaert took the stage during the annual DrupalCon North America in Portland (Oregon, USA). He delivered what some call the biggest Drupal news in a long time: the official announcement of Drupal Starshot. Being the largest Drupal partner in the Benelux, we at iO would like to shed some light on this upcoming launch.Read moreBlog
Drupal sets new standards with Starshot
iO and Drupal go way back. We have been using the CMS since our early days, so it is fair to say it holds few secrets for our developers. In recent years, the CMS market has evolved enormously, with new systems springing up like mushrooms. And even though many did not survive, there are still a lot of new CMS systems standing strong today. An unusual situation for Drupal, but with the announcement of Drupal Starshot, the answer is now finally here.Read moreBlog
Why a seamless partner experience is crucial for your organisation
The fact that a flawless digital experience is crucial to consumers, is not new — every day we experience this ourselves when using apps or ordering things online. Less known, but just as crucial, is the partner experience (PX). Especially for financial institutions (such as banks, insurers or payment companies) a seamless PX is invaluable. Friso Geerlings, Technology Director at iO, explains why this is the case and how you can safeguard your PX.Read moreBlog
Content marketing has become communication (and that’s bad news)
Does content marketing still serve a purpose in 2024? Patrick Severein (Head of Content and Strategist) raises some questions.Read moreBlog
Here’s how to write better with AI
As a writer, should you embrace or fear generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot and Gemini? The former for sure, the latter perhaps too. In any case, they make you an offer you can't refuse. So, hoist these rambunctious AI sailors on board and put them to work, but above all remain the captain of your ship.Read moreBlog
Four steps toward a flawless customer experience: the Double Diamond model
Good customer experience – say, the positive feeling that occurs and sticks when people interact with your brand – starts with a strong strategy. It requires lots of guessing, thinking, and doubting. Not to mention: hours of deciding and designing how to make it happen. So, how do you develop a strategy tailored to your organisation and goals? At iO, we use the Double Diamond model. It’s our creative guide to thinking from a problem-solver perspective. From product design to UX and far beyond, the Double Diamond model helps solve complex issues efficiently. In this blog post, we shed some light on the model, its pillars, and its possibilities, so that you can start using it to create flawless customer experiences that stick.Read moreBlog
Drupal 11: innovative features for better UX, performance and development
Drupal recently launched the latest version of its unsurpassed CMS: Drupal 11. As a Certified Drupal Partner, our 130-strong Drupal team is eager to get started helping companies find their way around. After all, Drupal 11 offers a lot of new features that improve the user experience, increase performance and streamline development processes.Read moreBlog
The energy transition is enormous, how do you make it personal?
How do you explain the energy transition? iO and Enexis developed a permanent campaign with smart tech and several storylines.Read moreDossier
Dossier: SEO strategy
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Dossier: E-commerce
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Dossier: Infinite Opportunities
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Dossier: Cookieless future
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Dossier: Video marketing
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Dossier: Marketplaces
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Dossier: Google Analytics 4
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Dossier: Public Brands
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Dossier: Marketing automation
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Dossier: Holiday marketing: how to score as a brand with Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas
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Dossier: Maximize your marketing efforts with HubSpot
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Dossier: Drupal. Why big brands rely on Drupal CMS.
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Dossier: Composable, the key to flexible business architecture
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Infinite opportunities: Daan Simonis (Perfetti Van Melle)
Creativity isn't just useful for building a strong campaign — it's essential. Daan Simonis (Global Media & Digital Marketing Director at Perfetti Van Melle) explains why this is the case and how a creative idea has a strong impact, especially on paid media platforms.Read moreVideo
Infinite opportunities: Wies De Graeve (Amnesty International)
Amnesty International shines a light on issues that would otherwise remain in darkness. According to Wies De Graeve (Director Amnesty International) creativity is essential for this. It helps people see that there are solutions to the world's problems —and how they can help.Read moreVideo
Are you fed up with boring marketing too?
Our attention spans are shorter, we skip commercials, and we click from video to video all the time. When consumers are bombarded with an avalanche of content every day, how can your brand stand out? Ruth Nys explains how to do creative content marketing without falling into the same old boring marketing tactics trap. Expert:Ruth Nys, Strategy Director ContentRead moreVideo
Transforming technology into a catalyst for innovation
How fast can you launch new products and services, scale up or scale down sales channels, or provide a better customer experience? The technical complexity of a business often determines its innovation speed. We look at how to transform the 5 key blockers in technology into accelerators for your business. Expert:Raymond Muilwijk, Center of Excellence Lead TechnologyRead moreVideo
Video: Leaving no one behind digitally (David De Block)
In his talk at the 2023 BAM Marketing Congress, David De Block (Public Services Director at iO) talks about e-inclusion — or what it means to leave no one behind digitally.Read moreCase
How do you disrupt the traditional golf world with an AI golf rules exam??
NGF and iO change the rules: from antiquated exam to groundbreaking experience with AI. Discover their story.Look at this client storyCase
How can you teach children about the dangers of social media?
The tool will help children learn about the impact of high screen time on their mental and physical health.Look at this client storyCase
How to manage a range of websites while meeting client expectations?
Enhancing Digital Content Management for D'Ieteren Automotive's Websites? Read the full story here;Look at this client storyCase
How to future-proof and secure a European dealer intranet?
Discover how the JLR Gateway, built in Drupal, acts as a central hub for dealer communication, processes, and collaboration.Look at this client storyCase
Freedom, self-reliance, and user-friendliness
Discover how the online presence of Firda was revamped with a new Drupal platform. With seamless integrations, simplified forms and an improved design.Look at this client storyCase
How a virtual museum highlights Flemish heritage
How do you develop a virtual experience platform that takes your customer experience to the next level?Look at this client storyCase
Realising growth through marketing
How iO convinces travelers to choose Brussels Airport for their next trip. Discover the marketing campaigns.Look at this client storyCase
Clear communication & vision for stakeholders
Communication, internal & external, is important for Brussels Airport. Read here how iO supports the airport in this.Look at this client storyCase
How we put Brussels Airport on the map with influencer marketing
iO takes Brussels Airport to new heights with influencer marketing. Read how we did it.Look at this client story