Over the past few weeks, I have spent more time than I care to confess learning what makes a Web comic tick. Apparently there’s a lot more to it than I had originally thought, but that is OK. No question about it people, I’ve done a lot of growing, learning, and even danced a jig or three as I’ve watched the hit counter beginning to climb. A pivotal moment for me was receiving feedback from a widely-syndicated comic artist that gave me a piece of advice that instantly helped me to improve my comic’s layout.

“Matt, the artwork is not as important as it’s hyped up to be. Put your heart and soul into the punch line, the rest will follow.” I will never forget those words. And by God, I am going to do just that. I realize that some of the comics are not as funny as we all might want them to be, but I promise that they are getting better. One thing that you should know about me by now is that I never give up, EVER. The comic coming out for Friday afternoon will hopefully show off some of the new humor that I am striving for. Just think “iPod dance commercial.” ;o)

Numbers are an amazing thing

I realize that my style of doing things is not for everyone, but there is simply no escaping the percentages, folks. In the past three weeks Phil, the IT guy has grown twelve-fold right before my very eyes. Now keep in mind the only promotion that I’ve given this comic has been mainstream, not even targeting the tech crowd as much as I should be.

Having said everything that I stated above, here in the coming weeks I’m going to really begin pushing a media campaign that will ’secretly’ begin the groundwork for a content project that is going to give Web comics the leg-up they so desperately need. After studying everything that I could about OnlineComics.net, WebComics.com, Ucomics.com, and even Tapestry, I found a variety of problem areas that I could rectify almost instantly. While I cannot get too deep into the details right now, you can rest assured that it’s on the way very soon. If you have a Web comic and want to be put on my ‘list’ for more info, feel free to drop me a line. Best part is, there is no cost to anyone. I would encourage you to get in touch with me ASAP before you get left behind. I already have a few prospects, and would love to have you on board, too!

In closing today’s Gnomereport, I wanted to share a parting thought with you. It is something that Chris P. has taught me by watching how he has done things during the course of my two(ish) years here at the ‘Gnome.’ Basically, if you don’t like where a current trend is headed - change it. Think about it. If you don’t get it, you will in the days to come. See you next week!

Let’s get digital!