New Digital Media

In a world full of smartphones, augmented reality (AR) campaigns are a very smart and unique way for brands to engage with consumers.

Instead of watching a television commercial, looking at an ad in a magazine, or seeing a quick web ad before your YouTube video, AR lets consumers actually interact with the brand.

Whether consumers are test driving a new car model, learning a new recipe, or playing a game, AR campaigns resonate with consumers in a way that most other ad platforms fall short. The ad becomes a game, versus just promotional material. And the product still comes across, which is, of course, the point of advertising.

More and more brands are starting to integrate AR campaigns into their ad budgets.  ABI Research estimates the market for augmented reality in the US will reach $350 million in 2014, which is up  from only $6 million in 2008.  

Check out which brands have put out clever AR campaigns that got people talking. 

When it comes to mobile marketing, not all strategies are created equal. While many brands have attempted to connect with users through a mobile device, not all have been successful.  The following guide offers everything you need to know to create a successful mobile marketing campaign.

1. Make a mobile-friendly site.

Your website should not only look good on laptops and PCs, but it should also be user-friendly and visually appealing on mobile devices as well. With more and more users purchasing goods through their mobile devices, you need to make sure your mobile site is on point and ready for use at all times.

 2. Offer incentives.

People appreciate discounts and special offers. Offering QR codes such as coupons and discount codes gives your customer a reason to buy your product or visit your store. For example, if Mondays are the quietest nights at your restaurant, offer a free dessert or a discount code for that night’s meal. Offering a mobile coupon makes it so that you are always in your customer’s pocket. Having the coupon on their mobile device as opposed to having to print it will make your customer more likely to stop by and enjoy a burger.

3. Utilize social media.

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest are all great social media tools that allow you to connect with your users on a more personal level. The best part: all of these websites are available as an app that is easily accessible on a person’s mobile device.  Not only are these websites beneficial for engaging with fans, but they also give your brand enough visibility to gain new followers. Use social media to thank your fans for their support by offering them incentives and asking for feedback.

4. There’s an app for that.

Make an app for your company. Apps are easy to access, are always with your customer, and remind them that you exist. Use apps to connect with your social community to announce new products and features and to offer them special discount codes and promotions.

5. Don’t be a spammer.

People hate spammers just as much as they love discounts. Remember that once your brand has a reputation of being a spammer, it’s extremely difficult, if not impossible, to clear your name. Instead of going mobile crazy and sending multiple campaigns to your users, define your goals and develop a clear strategy that has clear messaging and is relevant to your market.

Developing and executing a successful and strategic mobile marketing campaign can be tough, but with proper planning and a little bit of patience, it can make a huge difference in your brand’s success.

Only 6??? ;)

Only 6??? ;)

In a world full of smartphones, augmented reality (AR) campaigns are a very smart and unique way for brands to engage with consumers.

Instead of watching a television commercial, looking at an ad in a magazine, or seeing a quick web ad before your YouTube video, AR lets consumers actually interact with the brand.

Whether consumers are test driving a new car model, learning a new recipe, or playing a game, AR campaigns resonate with consumers in a way that most other ad platforms fall short. The ad becomes a game, versus just promotional material. And the product still comes across, which is, of course, the point of advertising.

More and more brands are starting to integrate AR campaigns into their ad budgets.  ABI Research estimates the market for augmented reality in the US will reach $350 million in 2014, which is up  from only $6 million in 2008.  

Check out which brands have put out clever AR campaigns that got people talking. 

Gamification is "the use of game mechanics and game design techniques in non-game contexts" (mashable.com) and it's a huge trend in marketing right now, as well as an idea that is being embraced in health, education and non-profit sectors.

Examples of gamification are:

- Badges to reward participation (e.g foursquare)

- Assigning missions and using levels of achievementImposing time limits Points

- Rewards and leaderboardsMaking everyday tasks fun by turning them into a game.

I keep reading blogs and white papers about the power of gamification. The researcher in me wants ot pin point the draw and see which use has the most impact for retention and learning. From our initial research, I suspect an element of public recognition may be key.

I keep reading blogs and white papers about the power of gamification. The researcher in me wants ot pin point the draw and see which use has the most impact for retention and learning. From our initial research, I suspect an element of public recognition may be key.