Balmung wrote: ↑Mon Mar 29, 2021 7:56 am
I'm looking into fantasy map making software since 2019 and just last weekend I stumbled upon OWM. I guess it was a post on reddit (I searched for the source, but couldn't find it). From my point of view, the name and the logo are not an issue - it's the visibility, because I really searched for the right tool for my needs and OWM was never shown to me until now.
I tried/looked into some other tools, but here is why I don't use them:
Wonderdraft: Max. map size is DIN A2 and has no vector support.
Inkarnate: Web-based.
Campaign Cartographer: Antiquated.
DEIOS: Not released yet and a commercial license costs 150€ per year; which is insane.
I'm here because OWM supports vector assets, is able to create a DIN A0 sized map and has a good licence model. But I'm also here, because my contact at twitter was kind and helpful, which I really appreciate.
I wouldn't get too hung up on the name change idea. Easy to remember and catchy names work well for most companies and there is a reason so many companies have one.
I worked 10+ years as a senior digital analyst and it really is quite simple; branding, images and so on affects sales funnels. Getting those right does not mean all is well and good, but it is a step in the right direction. The current logo is terrible but that can be easily fixed without a name change. Just hire an artist. I know because I have hired multiple for my own projects.
No the main thing right now is visibility. And think for companies such as these a Kickstarter is the best way to get attention. But doing it half-heartedly would be a missed opportunity. It should be dressed up in new swanky images, new branding, a great video and some good stretch goals.
And since development resources are limited and this is not a main project for the devs, I think focusing on assets and a few new cool core features would be a great way to get attention. Some of the other tools have tons of cool assets. I think if the right artist could be found for this project, it would help propel OWM much higher.
Once the Kickstarter is getting close to ready OWM should reach out to all the mapping bloggers etc. And follow up with a marketing campaign online.
Oh and running a Discord and keeping your super fans close (and entertained with contests) would be a good start as well on a path to more recognition. You need those people to share their work and the word of mouth.
Oh and I agree with you about the other tools. I did the same analysis when I came to OWM. I just think a lot of potential users won't even know why vector graphics is important as a map maker. Just one of many things that could be explored as a topic on YouTube.
OWM hasn't been good enough to show of its virtues and garner attention.
It is great to hear more YouTube stuff is planned. I really think the net should be cast wider and more topics be included. Including interviews with some of the many Twitch and YouTube map folks.
I cross my fingers and hope that OWM will get more love and attention from the devs.