Here is an interesting article about the (effectiveness) problems with online (banner) advertising.
We have written several articles about effectiveness. At Flat World Design, we find that in a lot of cases, properly deployed promotional products can work much better for top-of-the-funnel marketing.
To follow the thought experiment in the article, close your eyes and try to recall that nice pen you have … or your keychain – and the brand / logo on it?
What do you think?