Technology has become so much a part of many people's live that they hardly consider that the devices they use daily can be powerful marketing tools. Businesses still use radio, television and print to bring their messages and products to the public. In the past two decades savvy companies have also reached out to their current and potential customers through the internet and the myriad of ways people now connect to it.
As types of smart devices have proliferated, the rapidly changing ways that marketers can reach other businesses and individuals to purchase products and services have multiplied as well. Every app downloaded and registration completed online results in a pathway to the consumer's mind and pocket book. Every time a smartphone beeps, a tablet is opened or a new fitness device is strapped on, the sellers of these devises have the potential to make another connection and to share that portal with other marketers.
Business must use these conduits wisely, working at all times not to just become part of a noise that deafens consumers to what they offer, but to be relevant and appealing. If a company has its print, traditional-media and classic-internet strategies in place it needs to be constantly on the alert for the new technologies turning up in the very marketplace to which they will soon be directing their users.
As new ways to engage the consumer evolve, marketing strategies must keep up both with the opportunities and the complexities. Consider the following niches that are currently experiencing great growth. How your business decides to use them to spread the word about what you offer in services and products will likely determine your destiny.
Wearable Technology
No longer simply a desk top, a laptop, a tablet or a smartphone, personal attire is expanding the areas where business can communicate with the customer. Glasses, watches, lanyards and fitness bands are all ways to take your business directly to the consumer when they are actually in a location or state of mind to buy or use what you have to offer. Staff using these devices can also locate stock and answer questions quickly.
The first hurdle will be making such marketing helpful while unobtrusive, taking into consideration the scale of the screen and the desire of wearers to experience things without constantly being refocused. The advantages to both consumer and marketers can be enormous, allowing each partner to use data to find the solution for a range of issues from which over the counter medication they should use to what country to visit on your next holiday. Suggestions, discounts and personalized itineraries can all be devised by the marketer and communicated to the customer across all platforms based upon information gleaned from the wearable technology.
Transportation Technology
Personal and business vehicles are ready to become the device of choice and necessity for millions. Already integrated into the navigational and entertainment platforms by mobile devices, this technology will continue to move forward. As the consumer drives through the day, marketers can inform and encourage when the car and, of course, its passengers close in on brick-and-mortar establishments that can immediately meet their needs. Alternatives available elsewhere at more attractive prices or having a more specialized fit can also be communicated.
Home Technology
Every system running in a home, every appliance and even furniture and accessories have the potential to leverage smart technology to make each more efficient in delivery and in cost. For companies that work in the industries of heating and cooling, utilities and major appliances, the opportunities are huge. Marketing maintenance and repair services as well as upgrades are an obvious fit. Power companies can get a better idea of when customers wash their clothes or charge their devices. As consumers interact with their smart microwave or refrigerator, food and beverage providers can use the data to better pinpoint offers while the homeowner can access information about where to buy needed materials and ingredients at the best prices.
As the cost of these new technologies begins to drop the marketers who have been studying the trends will be able to launch and refine their plans. Wait and be passed up by those who kept adapting.
