The full online annual report is provided as a microsite, with content navigation and presentation that is adapted and optimised for the online format for both desktop and mobile. This format is user friendly and easier to read on a screen. This type can also be present as a section on the corporate website, clearly marked as the annual report.
The advantage of an online report is that it can reach a larger target audience just by being available in an online format. It is easy to find information via search engines, to share specific articles, as well as the full annual report. This way, the reports get a longer life, and the content that companies spend so much time and effort on can reach more people. The online report is also accessible and readable on mobile phones, especially when compared to PDFs. Another advantage is the option to use more formats for content, such as video and interactive tables and charts.
The use of video is increasing in general, and many companies are taking the opportunity to create videos for the annual report. These often include business leaders providing their view on what the company has achieved and what they are focusing on in the future.
Regardless of whether you have a microsite or if the annual report is integrated in the corporate website, it is easy to identify how the content is being consumed by looking at user analytics.