Is Your Mobile Web Strategy Up To Par? 5 Ways to Make Sure You’re Reaching All Mobile Users
by Josette Millar
Smart phones are changing the way people get information, interact with organizations, and make purchases. One of the greatest strengths of mobile technology is the ability for companies to “showcase” products to target markets. From a business standpoint, implementing an effective mobile web strategy is not a luxury, it is a necessity.
If you haven’t already begun planning your mobile web strategy, you are already behind. Here is a look a look at some interesting stats regarding mobile marketing:
- According to Cisco, by the end of 2013 there will be more mobile devices on the planet than people.
- According to the IDC Worldwide New Media Market Model Forecast, by 2015 there will be more people accessing the web using mobile devices than wireless computers.
- According Statista, there are over 160 million smartphone users in the United States, with the number set to grow to nearly 200 million by the year 2016.
The world is becoming crazy for mobile technology. It should be no surprise that the convenience of being able to buy things on the go is quickly becoming the preferred choice on the market. Here are five ways you can ramp up your mobile web strategy.
1. Information Apps
Apps are a great way to connect with customers by keeping them updated on upcoming deals, new products, and keeping good customer service. According to Pew Internet, 72% of smart phone owners used their phones when they were inside stores to gain information that was not otherwise available to them. The breakdown:
- 46% of them phoned a friend
- 28% researched product reviews
- 27% used their smart phone to compare prices.
So you can develop an app that offers specific location information, a “virtual store” where customers can compare prices, or give them access to mobile vouchers, interactive maps and deals.
2. Vouchers
Mobile vouchers are an extremely effective way to improve storefront traffic. Customers can just give a flash of the smart phone at the register and be on their merry way. Mobile vouchers are redeemed up to 10 times more traditional vouchers, according to Juniper research.
3. Mobile Payment Processing
Customers can use mobile technology to buy products, saving them time in the checkout aisle and simplifying the buying process.
4. Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs are not new to the retail world, but mobile technology makes it easy for consumers to participate in programs. Returning customers spend more than first-time customers, and mobile loyalty programs can allow for mobile tracking of points. This makes redemption a piece of cake when it comes time for holiday shopping.
5. Facebook
According to IDC, smart phone owners check Facebook 14 times a day. This means that you should seriously consider utilizing Facebook’s Promoted Posts, and Facebook Offers to drive in customers. The Pagers Manager App is a simple tool available through Facebook that allows you to post photos, comments and edit ad campaigns all from your phone.
We live in the digital age and the world is in a constant state of flux. Businesses will have to keep up with the latest trends to stay competitive. You simply need to determine how you can best benefit and then utilize the technology in that manner. As with any plan, your mobile web strategy will take some time to develop, but you should see results relatively quickly. Do your homework and start benefiting from mobile technology today.