HAVING YOUR OWN SMS BUSINESS LOCATOR
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 26th May 2010 at 10:30
Those who are aware of your brand will want to find your business when the time is right. Very often this can be during a lunch break or shopping spree and if your business is not readily available its likely they will settle for an alternative or move on to something else.
A number of our customers have found great success in SMS business location campaigns. Your prospects send a text message saying "find YOUR_BUSINESS" to 87474 which in turn directs them to your bricks and mortar business.
The response message might contain directional information or your business address. Either way all mobile phones will be able to send and receive through your SMS location campaign and your opt in list can only grow.
This kind of SMS service is perfect for franchises such as restaurants, hotels, clubs, retailers and estate agents. The common factor being they all have a well known brand and a local place of business.
Public service providers can also benefit from this approach, for instance finding your nearest hospital or surgery during a minor crisis.
This SMS service will drive more footfall to your business and give you an opportunity to release a high quality press release that media publishers will review and spin a number of times.
Your going to get media exposure, an increase in revenue, viral lead generation through word of mouth and your brand will become more visible.
How SMS business location works
A number of our customers have found great success in SMS business location campaigns. Your prospects send a text message saying "find YOUR_BUSINESS" to 87474 which in turn directs them to your bricks and mortar business.
The response message might contain directional information or your business address. Either way all mobile phones will be able to send and receive through your SMS location campaign and your opt in list can only grow.
Which businesses benefit from SMS location campaigns?
This kind of SMS service is perfect for franchises such as restaurants, hotels, clubs, retailers and estate agents. The common factor being they all have a well known brand and a local place of business.
Public service providers can also benefit from this approach, for instance finding your nearest hospital or surgery during a minor crisis.
How SMS location will benefit your business
This SMS service will drive more footfall to your business and give you an opportunity to release a high quality press release that media publishers will review and spin a number of times.
Your going to get media exposure, an increase in revenue, viral lead generation through word of mouth and your brand will become more visible.
Tags: Sms business locator, Text message locator
TOP 10 BROADCASTING TIPS
Posted by Peter Ratteler
Friday 14th May 2010 at 14:42
- Only send relevant offers. The most important aspect of any SMS broadcast is the content within the message, and more importantly, the relevancy of the message to your target audience. High relevancy will give you a high conversion rate.
- Refine your lists. Lists should be refined to remove any failures (messages which were not delivered) from previous marketing sends, as well as any customers that have previously opted out.
- Remove duplicate numbers. Most mobile marketing platforms automatically remove duplicate entries in uploaded lists. This prevents the same marketing message being sent to a customer twice which can lead to unnecessary costs.
- Only send to mobile numbers. As with removing duplicates, most modern SMS platforms also strip out landline numbers. In the UK, numbers starting 07 are reserved for mobile phones.
- Tailor your message. Think about the target audience and tailor it to their needs based on other customer information collected such as date of birth, or last product or service purchased.
- Personalise each message. If you have managed to collect a customer's name - use it to make your broadcasts more personal.
- Calculate the best time to send. Try to think about when your customer will be most likely to take action on the message.
- Measure the response. If you are planning to broadcast to a large amount of customers, why not try several messages test messages on a smaller.
- Stagger the send. In most cases a promotional marketing message will a call to action such as "Visit our new website here..." or "call our sales hotline now on 0800..". If this is the case, make sure you stagger your broadcast to help manage your workflow as you won't be able to meet the demands of the customers.
- Use long messages. It is sometimes difficult to get your offer across in 160 characters so look for a provider that allows you to send long messages.
Tags: Broadcasting strategies, Broadcasting tips
DEMOGRAPHICS, LEVERAGE FOR YOUR SMS CAMPAIGNS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 11th May 2010 at 08:49
SMS demographics are human characteristics of a given population. For example a female demographic might be 47% of your users, or the demographic for users between 18 and 23 might be 62% of your overall mobile user list.
A good starting point is determining what human characteristics are most useful to your business. So if you offer men's toiletries and your brand is designed for modern and mature business men you will want to target men for direct sale, females for partners gift ideas and the age range of 25 to 40.
Later in this blog we will explain how you can match your demographics with winning promotions and incentives.
Demographics allow you to group your audience into smaller audiences, making your message and scent of information more relevant and appealing.
Many psychological studies have shown that the more applicable the message is to a recipient the higher the chance of conversion will be. Not only will you receive higher conversion rates but you will end up spending less on messages and staff wages.
At this point you should have a list of target groups and some idea of how your business and brand can appeal to each one.
Don't restrict yourself to one promotion for each demographic. Send a couple of messages unravelling the appeal and relevance of your brand.
Message 1: "Hi David, our new fragrance launches this Sunday and we are giving free samples outside the London eye"
Message 2: "Thanks for coming along on Sunday David, as a reward you can show this message at any store and get 50% off your next purchase"
Message 3: "David, get a friend along to our champagne and fragrance party at the London eye and be entered into a free prize draw to win a DBR9"
Yes the venues are expensive and the give away events are very generous, but you will get a great response and almost certainly some sort of media coverage. The viral concepts of this approach could be massive as you will be tapping into word of mouth lead generation.
In conclusion you need to:
Building demographics
A good starting point is determining what human characteristics are most useful to your business. So if you offer men's toiletries and your brand is designed for modern and mature business men you will want to target men for direct sale, females for partners gift ideas and the age range of 25 to 40.
Later in this blog we will explain how you can match your demographics with winning promotions and incentives.
Why demographics are useful?
Demographics allow you to group your audience into smaller audiences, making your message and scent of information more relevant and appealing.
Many psychological studies have shown that the more applicable the message is to a recipient the higher the chance of conversion will be. Not only will you receive higher conversion rates but you will end up spending less on messages and staff wages.
Using demographics with SMS
At this point you should have a list of target groups and some idea of how your business and brand can appeal to each one.
Don't restrict yourself to one promotion for each demographic. Send a couple of messages unravelling the appeal and relevance of your brand.
Message 1: "Hi David, our new fragrance launches this Sunday and we are giving free samples outside the London eye"
Message 2: "Thanks for coming along on Sunday David, as a reward you can show this message at any store and get 50% off your next purchase"
Message 3: "David, get a friend along to our champagne and fragrance party at the London eye and be entered into a free prize draw to win a DBR9"
Yes the venues are expensive and the give away events are very generous, but you will get a great response and almost certainly some sort of media coverage. The viral concepts of this approach could be massive as you will be tapping into word of mouth lead generation.
In conclusion you need to:
- identify human characteristics applicable to your brand
- create call to actions to attract your demographics
- follow up with a promotional message including a relevant incentive, e.g. a discount, voucher or free offer
- include WAP site links, contact details and clear language in all correspondence
Tags: Demographic marketing, Demographics, Grouping users, Profiling, SMS groups
TODAY'S PRINT ADS - SMS COUPONS AND VIRTUAL VOUCHERS
Posted by Peter Ratteler
Thursday 6th May 2010 at 14:21
From the thinner appearance of magazines and newspapers today, it is easy to tell that traditional print advertising is in decline. Print advertising is simply less effective than it once was, so there aren't as many ads filling up pages. Print ads are expensive and readership is down. The same situation is also found in network and television advertising. Advertisers are pulling back on their TV ad budgets, and are starting to invest in other media. Large advertisers see that 80% of people who own a mobile phone depend on texting as much as they do phone services, and corporate monies are now being directed at mobile web users.One of the most significant tools of advertising to mobile web users are coupons and vouchers. Consumers are clamouring for deals. Due to both the current economic climate and a reliance on the internet about products and services, both major branders and small companies are driving traffic to their products with these SMS applications. The whole concept makes perfect sense. If a company has a data base of 10,000, for instance, they can send out a coupon or voucher for a product or a service they want to push that day. Statistics say that there is an approximate response rate of 10%, plus the bonus from any friends who tag along. It's true viral marketing in that regard.
For a business, the expense of creating and sending the text message is far less than newspaper or radio ads, which have to be scheduled far in advance, and require assorted manpower to create and run. With a SMS coupon or voucher, it can be created that day if need be, and can be sent with the one mouse click. It is an excellent way to reward existing customers and to reach new ones. And, it's all paperless. In the world of marketing, many already understand that acquiring new customers is more expensive than retaining existing ones.
It usually costs three to six times more to add a new customer than it takes to keep one. If a merchant or a service offers a way to save money, it is far easier to keep the old ones and gain new ones at the same time. The additional ability to announce deals through social media not only spreads the word about the popularity of coupons and virtual vouchers, it generates needed buzz - and that's free advertising. These offers also reach people who have previously been difficult to reach. Take the pre-paid mobile phone user, for instance. Because there has been a lack of information and contact details, this large segment of potential customers have been largely ignored. Latching on to them via a mobile number is a whole new market for advertisers. Virtual vouchers and coupons can also help keep consumers brand loyal.The ability of family and friends to gift credit or products to a family member via a mobile is increasingly important because they are instant, and the flexibility of mobile marketing with these items can be customized for appearing at the right time. Combined with mobile web searching for products or items, coupons and virtual vouchers prove irresistible to the consumer looking for deals. If they can find a pair of shoes with an on-line search, and receive a voucher for a particular brand, they'll seek out the shop or website in order to use it. GPS based apps are increasingly used for just this purpose. Coupons and virtual vouchers aren't the only tool in mobile web marketing, but they are at the top of the list.
Tags: Print ads in decline, Sms coupons, Virtual vouchers
SMS INSURANCE QUOTES
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 28th April 2010 at 12:34
Millions of people are walking away from their desktops and shutting their laptops because the average Internet user is starting to access the Internet through their mobile phone.So what does this mean for Insurance businesses using quotes to generate leads and become more competitive?
- Your website needs to be as mobile Internet friendly as possible
- You need to deliver a quote directly to their phone
- They should be able to reply to the quote
Reworking your website for mobile Internet
Ideally your site should be available in WAP and smart phone friendly formats. If you can't afford to pay for WAP development or mobile web designers then do what you can in house to make it possible for as many mobile users to access and use your website.
Google, Bing and Yahoo are all investing millions of dollars on mobile Internet development because they have noticed a considerable shift in Internet use from computers to mobile devices. If you can be one of the first in your industry to meet mobile surfers needs would that add value to your service? Without a doubt.
It is important to note that normal Internet users should still have an enjoyable experience on your site - it is your virtual shop window after all.
Getting your quote to their phone
Our SMS gateway allows your developers to integrate your desktop and mobile website into our 2 way messaging systems quickly. We have kept it as simple as possible with a single call that authenticates your business and sends the message. Contact us to discuss the SMS gateway in more detail.Typically messages sent through the gateway take between 1 and 5 seconds, occasionally network availability and traffic will affect delivery times, but as a rule messages are received in seconds. Imagine filling out a quote form and moments later your phone buzzes with a great price, would that instil confidence in your service? Certainly, its a positive user experience which is a great starting point.
What happens when they reply to you quote?
If they want to know more or have some reservations they can reply to your message or follow an enclosed WAP link. Replies to our SMS service are stored in your Text Works account inbox and by default you will receive an email or text notification which can be set to go to your support or sales staff.
Tags: Insurance quote, SMS insurance quote, SMS quotes, Text message quote
CLOTHES SHOPPING THROUGH SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 22nd April 2010 at 09:23
ShopText is the new rage and high street retailers are maximising their potential by combining general media with text message call to actions.
Imagine opening a magazine and seeing the perfect top, you just have to buy it now - well if its ShopText enabled you can! Simply text whatever the order number is to the given shortcode and you will receive a message enquiring about address details and finally an SMS receipt.
And this isn't just restricted to retailers - anyone can use this technology to get the most leverage out of their advertising programs by allowing people to shop through their mobile phones.
If you interested and want to chat some more why not email us using support@thetextworks.com.
ShopText in action: https://www.shoptext.com/main/index.action?view=about
Imagine opening a magazine and seeing the perfect top, you just have to buy it now - well if its ShopText enabled you can! Simply text whatever the order number is to the given shortcode and you will receive a message enquiring about address details and finally an SMS receipt.
And this isn't just restricted to retailers - anyone can use this technology to get the most leverage out of their advertising programs by allowing people to shop through their mobile phones.
If you interested and want to chat some more why not email us using support@thetextworks.com.
ShopText in action: https://www.shoptext.com/main/index.action?view=about
Tags: Text shopping
MASTERING THE SECRET SAUCE!
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 15th April 2010 at 09:56
What is the secret sauce? Well before we can go down the rabbit hole lets just review some of the basics of SMS mobile marketing.
Its just not enough these days to fire out SMS broadcasts to thousands of people. Mobile users are desensitised to half hearted SMS marketing. Lets be honest here, if you received a generic text message would you follow its call to action or WAP link? I wouldn't thats for sure!
The secret sauce will change your life and make you millions! Well no, maybe not.
But it will boost your sales, help you understand your audience and keep people interested in your promotions. Ask yourself how much would you spend to generate new leads?
So what is the secret sauce? Personalised text message marketing.
Imagine your on your way to work, your tired, you want to get a little something to perk you up but you hold off and save some pennies. Your mobile phone vibrates, you reach into your pocket and open a text message. "Hi Tim, do you need a boost this morning? Well come down to SOME ADDRESS and grab a free energy shot right now!" (111 characters).
Is this difficult to set up? No.
Do you need to perform market research, build demographics and be telepathic? No, nope and definitely not.
So how did we achieve this impressive effect and how hard is it to integrate this into your business?
No telepathy... Just 4 pence per message... Simply great response rates...
So the secret sauce really boils down to being personal, picking the right time of day and being geographically relevant. Our SMS competition attracted people who suffer from morning hunger, so we already knew they would appreciate a free energy drink before their day begins.
How would you react to this text message? Let use know by email.
- Get people involved in SMS competitions, opinion poles and other incentive based campaigns
- Touch base with new contacts and perhaps give them something in exchange for some personal details
- Group your users by age, gender and geography
- Send relevant promotions to each group in turn, the more relevant the better the conversion
The Secret sauce
Its just not enough these days to fire out SMS broadcasts to thousands of people. Mobile users are desensitised to half hearted SMS marketing. Lets be honest here, if you received a generic text message would you follow its call to action or WAP link? I wouldn't thats for sure!
The secret sauce will change your life and make you millions! Well no, maybe not.
But it will boost your sales, help you understand your audience and keep people interested in your promotions. Ask yourself how much would you spend to generate new leads?
So what is the secret sauce? Personalised text message marketing.
The secret sauce in action
Imagine your on your way to work, your tired, you want to get a little something to perk you up but you hold off and save some pennies. Your mobile phone vibrates, you reach into your pocket and open a text message. "Hi Tim, do you need a boost this morning? Well come down to SOME ADDRESS and grab a free energy shot right now!" (111 characters).
Is this difficult to set up? No.
Do you need to perform market research, build demographics and be telepathic? No, nope and definitely not.
So how did we achieve this impressive effect and how hard is it to integrate this into your business?
- We ran a competition giving away a free breakfast with the call to action "To win a fast food breakfast text WAKEUP to 87474"
- We put the call to action in shop windows and on leaflets distributed by hand
- When people entered we replied with "Congratulations! Reply with your name, then a space followed by your postcode to help us find a local fast food outlet" (124 characters)
- So now we know who they are and where they live
- Because our promotions were at a bricks and mortar location, participants will probably be local
- Next we picked 4 key locations near to our participants homes
- Tackling one location a day we set up a prominent well positioned stalls at 6:00am sharp
- At 7:00am we hit a button on our phones and hundreds of local people got the personalised text message - voila!
- Your SMS account is web based so there is no integration or installation - just instant access
No telepathy... Just 4 pence per message... Simply great response rates...
So the secret sauce really boils down to being personal, picking the right time of day and being geographically relevant. Our SMS competition attracted people who suffer from morning hunger, so we already knew they would appreciate a free energy drink before their day begins.
How would you react to this text message? Let use know by email.
Tags: Advanced SMS marketing
I WANT TO BUY A SHORTCODE BUT DON'T KNOW WHERE TO START...
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 13th April 2010 at 09:16
In recent months our customers have shown an increased interest in shared and dedicated shortcodes.
In response to your demands we have built a few new pages into our site.
At this time we are not selling shortcodes, merely offering the power to reserve a code until you find a reasonable price from a shortcode provider.
Once you have your shortcode our SMS gateway will be updated to run all your SMS messages through this new code.
In response to your demands we have built a few new pages into our site.
- The definition of shortcodes
- Using shortcodes to grow your business and make money
- Find available shortcodes using our search page
- Reserving dedicated shortcodes
At this time we are not selling shortcodes, merely offering the power to reserve a code until you find a reasonable price from a shortcode provider.
Once you have your shortcode our SMS gateway will be updated to run all your SMS messages through this new code.
Tags: Finding shortcodes, Shortcode purchase
5 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR SALES INCENTIVE PROGRAMME WITH SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 12th April 2010 at 08:22
It takes more than big prizes and glitzy launches to make a successful sales incentive programme. When your staff are back at base or out on the road, other priorities quickly take over. To achieve the increased sales you are looking for, you need to fight for attention to keep the incentive alive.
Text messaging using mobile phones has emerged as a very cost effective mechanism for promoting and running sales incentives. It is simple to operate, cheap, and can be used anytime, anywhere. If you don't have SMS software in house, there are excellent online platforms available. You should have no difficulty finding one that is easy-to-operate and meets your needs.
Here are 5 ways SMS can boost the success of your incentive programme.
1. Recording sales
A big advantage with SMS is that almost everyone has a mobile phone. This means that each member of your sales force can record their own sales by sending in a simple text. To do this you set up a short code for the promotion - either a number or a word. The sales person sends a text to the short code giving an order number or other unique code. For example the motor trade use car registration numbers for the cars they've sold and estate agents use the post code of the property they've let or sold. All entries are recorded automatically and can be downloaded for validation.
2. Communicating progress
SMS is two-way so you can set up automatic reply messages to acknowledge entries. You can also give people regular updates on their position in the programme. Most companies like to operate a league table showing how individuals are doing in relation to the top performers. This information too can be transmitted easily by text.
3. Promoting prizes
When you've invested in highly desirable prizes, you can use SMS to remind people what they stand to gain. Regular texts with snippets of information about a holiday destination or images of a car or gadget, can help to keep people hooked.
4. Saving costs
Text messages are cheaper than a stamp or phone call. And there's no paperwork involved - something that most sales people dread. It also takes less time to administer the programme at Head Office. Once set up, it will almost run itself, so you save on staff costs as well.
5. Saving time
Text is immediate. Your sales staff can text in details of their sales straightaway to meet daily, weekly or monthly deadlines. They can be certain the information has been received and get instant performance updates in return. There's no need to wait for the post or an email.
Incentives programmes using SMS don't need to be restricted to sales staff. You can use them for any team that's working to targets. Once you've tried it, you'll find that SMS adds a level of interaction and engagement that cannot be matched by any other medium.
Text messaging using mobile phones has emerged as a very cost effective mechanism for promoting and running sales incentives. It is simple to operate, cheap, and can be used anytime, anywhere. If you don't have SMS software in house, there are excellent online platforms available. You should have no difficulty finding one that is easy-to-operate and meets your needs.
Here are 5 ways SMS can boost the success of your incentive programme.
1. Recording sales
A big advantage with SMS is that almost everyone has a mobile phone. This means that each member of your sales force can record their own sales by sending in a simple text. To do this you set up a short code for the promotion - either a number or a word. The sales person sends a text to the short code giving an order number or other unique code. For example the motor trade use car registration numbers for the cars they've sold and estate agents use the post code of the property they've let or sold. All entries are recorded automatically and can be downloaded for validation.
2. Communicating progress
SMS is two-way so you can set up automatic reply messages to acknowledge entries. You can also give people regular updates on their position in the programme. Most companies like to operate a league table showing how individuals are doing in relation to the top performers. This information too can be transmitted easily by text.
3. Promoting prizes
When you've invested in highly desirable prizes, you can use SMS to remind people what they stand to gain. Regular texts with snippets of information about a holiday destination or images of a car or gadget, can help to keep people hooked.
4. Saving costs
Text messages are cheaper than a stamp or phone call. And there's no paperwork involved - something that most sales people dread. It also takes less time to administer the programme at Head Office. Once set up, it will almost run itself, so you save on staff costs as well.
5. Saving time
Text is immediate. Your sales staff can text in details of their sales straightaway to meet daily, weekly or monthly deadlines. They can be certain the information has been received and get instant performance updates in return. There's no need to wait for the post or an email.
Incentives programmes using SMS don't need to be restricted to sales staff. You can use them for any team that's working to targets. Once you've tried it, you'll find that SMS adds a level of interaction and engagement that cannot be matched by any other medium.
Tags: Communicating progress, Recording sales, Sales incentives, Saving costs, Saving time
GOVERNMENT SMS HEALTH ALERTS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH JOHNSON AND JOHNSON
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 18th March 2010 at 15:17
The USA government have teamed up with health specialists such as Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer to create health alerts specifically for pregnant women.
The service "text4baby" is targeting new mums and pregnant women with health related messages. Using the baby's due/birth date the service is guaranteed to be timely and concise.
Because some mothers are unable to attend all appointments or just cannot pay medical insurance the health standards and survival rate of children is in decline. To combat this worrying trend the US government have decided that SMS is the only way to assist and advise mothers.
The decision to use SMS as the main communication method came from the fact that pregnant women use SMS more than any other communication method; presumably because its cheap, instant and easy to use.
The health reminders are sent thrice weekly with helpful information, developmental advice, dietary information and other health related suggestions.
The service, just like our own default SMS reminder campaigns, only costs the standard network rate to enter. All resulting reminders are absolutely free to the end user.
The service "text4baby" is targeting new mums and pregnant women with health related messages. Using the baby's due/birth date the service is guaranteed to be timely and concise.
Because some mothers are unable to attend all appointments or just cannot pay medical insurance the health standards and survival rate of children is in decline. To combat this worrying trend the US government have decided that SMS is the only way to assist and advise mothers.
The decision to use SMS as the main communication method came from the fact that pregnant women use SMS more than any other communication method; presumably because its cheap, instant and easy to use.
The health reminders are sent thrice weekly with helpful information, developmental advice, dietary information and other health related suggestions.
The service, just like our own default SMS reminder campaigns, only costs the standard network rate to enter. All resulting reminders are absolutely free to the end user.
Tags: Johnson and johnson, Pfizer, SMS alerts
SMS REMINDERS CAN IMPROVE RETENTION BY 70%
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 18th March 2010 at 14:50
A local hairdresser near Brighton have used the SMS reminders service to increase their repeat visitation rate by 70%.
As with many services of this kind, the hairdressers clients were missing appointments and consequently having to reschedule and in some cases loose customer appointments. Forgotten appointments also meant some members of staff were without work for up to 3 hours, reducing profit margins exponentially.
By reminding their clients of their appointments they claim there has been an increased attendance resulting in a 70% reduction in losses.
What a great example - SMS marketing is not necessarily a gold mine, but it is a way to apply leverage to your business and amplify your efforts and marketing exponentially.
As with many services of this kind, the hairdressers clients were missing appointments and consequently having to reschedule and in some cases loose customer appointments. Forgotten appointments also meant some members of staff were without work for up to 3 hours, reducing profit margins exponentially.
By reminding their clients of their appointments they claim there has been an increased attendance resulting in a 70% reduction in losses.
What a great example - SMS marketing is not necessarily a gold mine, but it is a way to apply leverage to your business and amplify your efforts and marketing exponentially.
Tags: Hair dressers, Hair salon, SMS reminders
'SMS DOMINANCE TO CONTINUE' FROST AND SULLIVAN REPORT
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 18th March 2010 at 14:40
According to the research company Frost and Sullivan in the report "The Future of Messaging" text messaging will continue its prolonged dominance.
The report was compiled from 18 separate interviews of leading Telecom providers across the globe.
"Simple accessibility, ubiquitous network interoperability, ease of use, affordability and price predictability" were the words used by Ronald Gruia in reference to the SMS marketing medium.
With nearly 4 trillion messages sent globally every year and with this added accessibility, SMS is still the No.1 choice for mobile marketing professionals throughout the UK and beyond.
The report was compiled from 18 separate interviews of leading Telecom providers across the globe.
"Simple accessibility, ubiquitous network interoperability, ease of use, affordability and price predictability" were the words used by Ronald Gruia in reference to the SMS marketing medium.
With nearly 4 trillion messages sent globally every year and with this added accessibility, SMS is still the No.1 choice for mobile marketing professionals throughout the UK and beyond.
Tags: Why SMS is no.1
WHAT IS WRONG WITH MY E-MAILS?
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 3rd March 2010 at 09:28
You've just done an analysis of your latest e-mail campaign and discovered that your conversion rate has plummeted yet again. It leaves all marketers asking the same question. You've written the perfect sales letter and everything seems to be right with the message, but you still can't get a decent response rate.
It is not surprising when you think about it though, how many e-mails do you read every day? If you're anything like 98% of the population you will delete almost every e-mail without reading any more than the first few lines.
The poor response rate from e-mail advertising campaigns has led many direct copywriters back to snail mail. Of course, that's no real sure fire method either. Think of all the junk mail you get at home now, it would be fairly safe bet that most, if not all of it, ends up in the garbage.
So, if you're looking for the most modern up-to-date alternative marketing campaign, imagine how you'll feel when you orchestrate a successful strategy that can instantly target over 40 million people in the UK, instantly.
SMS marketing offers you this and a heck of a lot more. On average, text messages are read within a few minutes so you can create an instant impact.
The very fact that you're reading this means that you are looking for alternative and let's face it, sooner or later you're going to take advantage of the benefits that SMS broadcasting can bring to your business today.
Just take a look at what you can do:
And that's just for starters
One of the reasons SMS marketing works so well is that there was hardly anything in greater demand than easy, understandable, information about really important things. Time poor consumers these days want to get the important information fast. If you can give them the lowdown on any subject quickly and directly, if they're ready to buy they'll do it right there and then.
It's like an information version of fast food, except that the most modern technology allows you to personalise your campaign with tokens such as first name, last name or city. The pulling power this generates a leisure to become a mobile marketer in minutes.
One of the best things about mounting a mobile marketing campaign is that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg. Most companies will allow you a free trial, or you can design a test campaign that sends messages to as little as 1000 mobiles for a very reasonable price. You can dip your toe in the water and test results before you commit yourself to full campaign.
If you find a marketing campaign that meets your needs it's easy to expand and extend it as far as you want, and you can even build up a valuable database for future use. So when all is said and done and you want to get the real information you are looking for take the quiz at http://www.thetextworks.com/
It is not surprising when you think about it though, how many e-mails do you read every day? If you're anything like 98% of the population you will delete almost every e-mail without reading any more than the first few lines.
The poor response rate from e-mail advertising campaigns has led many direct copywriters back to snail mail. Of course, that's no real sure fire method either. Think of all the junk mail you get at home now, it would be fairly safe bet that most, if not all of it, ends up in the garbage.
So, if you're looking for the most modern up-to-date alternative marketing campaign, imagine how you'll feel when you orchestrate a successful strategy that can instantly target over 40 million people in the UK, instantly.
SMS marketing offers you this and a heck of a lot more. On average, text messages are read within a few minutes so you can create an instant impact.
The very fact that you're reading this means that you are looking for alternative and let's face it, sooner or later you're going to take advantage of the benefits that SMS broadcasting can bring to your business today.
Just take a look at what you can do:
- Generate subscriptions
- Send call to action messages
- Send special offers with Mobile coupons
- Use touch screen technology to interact with your customers
And that's just for starters
One of the reasons SMS marketing works so well is that there was hardly anything in greater demand than easy, understandable, information about really important things. Time poor consumers these days want to get the important information fast. If you can give them the lowdown on any subject quickly and directly, if they're ready to buy they'll do it right there and then.
It's like an information version of fast food, except that the most modern technology allows you to personalise your campaign with tokens such as first name, last name or city. The pulling power this generates a leisure to become a mobile marketer in minutes.
One of the best things about mounting a mobile marketing campaign is that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg. Most companies will allow you a free trial, or you can design a test campaign that sends messages to as little as 1000 mobiles for a very reasonable price. You can dip your toe in the water and test results before you commit yourself to full campaign.
If you find a marketing campaign that meets your needs it's easy to expand and extend it as far as you want, and you can even build up a valuable database for future use. So when all is said and done and you want to get the real information you are looking for take the quiz at http://www.thetextworks.com/
Tags: Email marketing failed, Sms versus email
SMS GIVES YOU WINGS!
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 23rd February 2010 at 15:40
Imagine a world where the weather takes a turn for the worse, the snow is falling and the wind is rising. Your phone buzzes, you reach for it and open a text message saying "WARNING: Extreme weather is heading your way! We advise you take cover for the remainder of this evening." How could you achieve this? Why is being that helpful good business? Being this customer conscious is priceless and conventional marketing could achieve this at a high price. I'm writing today to tell you its possible with just SMS text message marketing and at a fraction of traditional marketing costs.
Firstly I want to tell you I dislike nothing more than receiving random text messages that have nothing to do with me and are a complete waste of my precious time. I don't agree with spam advertising and they just don't have to do it! What I am going to show you today will mean you can achieve a huge conversion rate by contacting hundreds not thousands of prospects.
Text messages that present the solution to a consumers problem will be received positively nine times out of ten. People need guidance to be motivated so deliver the solution they have always wanted or need today and you will win a customer and maybe even a couple referral sales. I cannot repeat this enough, make sure they want your message before you send it.
A final note on the SMS technology - it is the best direct consumer marketing method because their mobile is always with them and the amount of messages read exceeds any other technology.
WHAT DO THEY WANT?
Before I go into the finer details of SMS marketing its worth figuring out what your business model can offer as an incentive to receive future messages and to get them opted into your campaign in the first place.
News and information - if you have content that will benefit your target audience why not promote a free SMS alert service through your website or any other existing promotional channels.
Incentives and rewards - competitions are very popular and loyalty schemes are rare but always receive a high response rate. You could offer them free drinks, software or even phone credit top ups. Anything your business can do to invite prospects to enter your campaign.
Fame and exposure - if you have a website or publish media why not use your readers thirst for fame to your advantage. Offer an SMS entry to a competition through your media channels punting an opportunity to "text the editor" or send in the "picture of the week". Publish their content freely and this will create an incentive for others to get involved.
TAKE YOUR TIME...
This is not going to work if your expectations are to convert a lead to a sale in a week or even a month. In fact some of the most powerful results have happened over the course of six months or so.
At the beginning keep giving them small rewards and updates, don't promote ANYTHING at first. Make sure they become accustomed with your messages and don't be afraid of only texting them once a month, daily texts will only achieve an quick user opt out from your campaigns.
Once you know they are willing and they have entered at least one of your SMS competitions or services you can start to include them in profiling and promotional messages. But wait! If you are thinking at this point I can start sending them all of my promotions - don't. Only send them one quality promotion that is as relevant to their needs as you can. At this time you may well know where they live, what campaigns they have entered and their age. Derive from this the most likely service they will be interested in and send them a message promoting a one of discount or special offer.
Really, and I cannot remind you enough, be gentle in everything you do - woo them don't hit them over the head with a promotional hammer. Get to know your prospects and help them selflessly. Gain their trust up until the point you are sure you understand what would make their life complete and deliver it to them. Convenience, trust and relevance will guarantee high conversion rates and at the cost of a couple of SMS's you can't go wrong.
The most successful customers failed miserably on their first attempt, learned from their mistakes and implemented appropriate changes into their future campaigns. Trial and error are key to long term repeat success.
Good luck and as always if you have any questions get in touch with an account manager.
Firstly I want to tell you I dislike nothing more than receiving random text messages that have nothing to do with me and are a complete waste of my precious time. I don't agree with spam advertising and they just don't have to do it! What I am going to show you today will mean you can achieve a huge conversion rate by contacting hundreds not thousands of prospects.
Text messages that present the solution to a consumers problem will be received positively nine times out of ten. People need guidance to be motivated so deliver the solution they have always wanted or need today and you will win a customer and maybe even a couple referral sales. I cannot repeat this enough, make sure they want your message before you send it.
A final note on the SMS technology - it is the best direct consumer marketing method because their mobile is always with them and the amount of messages read exceeds any other technology.
WHAT DO THEY WANT?
Before I go into the finer details of SMS marketing its worth figuring out what your business model can offer as an incentive to receive future messages and to get them opted into your campaign in the first place.
News and information - if you have content that will benefit your target audience why not promote a free SMS alert service through your website or any other existing promotional channels.
Incentives and rewards - competitions are very popular and loyalty schemes are rare but always receive a high response rate. You could offer them free drinks, software or even phone credit top ups. Anything your business can do to invite prospects to enter your campaign.
Fame and exposure - if you have a website or publish media why not use your readers thirst for fame to your advantage. Offer an SMS entry to a competition through your media channels punting an opportunity to "text the editor" or send in the "picture of the week". Publish their content freely and this will create an incentive for others to get involved.
TAKE YOUR TIME...
This is not going to work if your expectations are to convert a lead to a sale in a week or even a month. In fact some of the most powerful results have happened over the course of six months or so.
At the beginning keep giving them small rewards and updates, don't promote ANYTHING at first. Make sure they become accustomed with your messages and don't be afraid of only texting them once a month, daily texts will only achieve an quick user opt out from your campaigns.
Once you know they are willing and they have entered at least one of your SMS competitions or services you can start to include them in profiling and promotional messages. But wait! If you are thinking at this point I can start sending them all of my promotions - don't. Only send them one quality promotion that is as relevant to their needs as you can. At this time you may well know where they live, what campaigns they have entered and their age. Derive from this the most likely service they will be interested in and send them a message promoting a one of discount or special offer.
Really, and I cannot remind you enough, be gentle in everything you do - woo them don't hit them over the head with a promotional hammer. Get to know your prospects and help them selflessly. Gain their trust up until the point you are sure you understand what would make their life complete and deliver it to them. Convenience, trust and relevance will guarantee high conversion rates and at the cost of a couple of SMS's you can't go wrong.
The most successful customers failed miserably on their first attempt, learned from their mistakes and implemented appropriate changes into their future campaigns. Trial and error are key to long term repeat success.
Good luck and as always if you have any questions get in touch with an account manager.
Tags: Appropriate SMS messages, Reaching new leads
SMS MOBILE MARKETING FOR MEDIA BUSINESSES
Posted by Peter Ratteler
Friday 8th January 2010 at 17:03
Presently, media organisations such as radio stations, publishers, and TV stations use premium SMS as a way to generate revenue through audience participation, typically voting - think X-factor, Strictly, I'm a Celebrity... and who could blame them. With X-factor recently receiving 10m votes for the 2009 final, it's certainly lucrative. One issue that's always surrounded premium rate competitions is the uncertainty over cost to the audience. Wouldn't it be good if we could still have audience participation and make money for the organiser without it costing the audience an arm and leg? I think we can achieve this, but through a slightly different model - let me explain.
Lets pretend I'm a publisher producing a monthly magazine about the latest Computer Games, chances are my audience is primarily interested in new game releases, Consoles, news, and gaming peripherals. Secondary interests could range from Personal computers, gadgets, and general technology. Proof of this is the type of advertising in the magazine relating to these types of product. Now, once the reader has finished reading the magazine, how else can you contact them with advertising relating to them? SMS of course! If the reader has entered a competition, voted, or contacted the editor via an SMS campaign, you have a direct route to market back out to that reader with details on a product relevant to them.
To insure you have plenty of numbers to promote to, make entry to your call to action campaigns as cheap as possible to the end user, or charge a nominal value to cover operating costs, for example 25p. I spoke to the marketing director of a publishing firm this afternoon who agreed that in a few years, this will most likely be the approach taken by all publishers.
Now, sending the promotional messages. Media agencies, advertising firms, and brands are currently willing to pay up to 20 pence per message to send marketing messages or redeemable vouchers (think colour WAP vouchers, Web redeemable unique voucher codes). With the cost of sending free messages via such interfaces as The Text Works as low as 4 pence per message, you could be looking at a profit of 16 pence for every message sent. This starts to look interesting when you manage to build a list of 10,000 customers!
Let's look at an example. I'm a video game retailer looking to drive footfall to my store upon the release of a new computer game. The computer game company is set to run some high profile magazine, tv, and radio ads to drive sales. To cash in on this publicity, I need to drive potential customers to my chain of stores to buy the game.
I can do this by (1) broadcasting to my existing database of customers, or (2) working in conjunction with another company that already has a list of relevant numbers, providing of course they have permission (or opt in). The second option is where the publisher of computer game titles will make their money by charging me a per number rate for each mobile lead to which I will send my offer - providing of course they've built a mobile database!
Lets pretend I'm a publisher producing a monthly magazine about the latest Computer Games, chances are my audience is primarily interested in new game releases, Consoles, news, and gaming peripherals. Secondary interests could range from Personal computers, gadgets, and general technology. Proof of this is the type of advertising in the magazine relating to these types of product. Now, once the reader has finished reading the magazine, how else can you contact them with advertising relating to them? SMS of course! If the reader has entered a competition, voted, or contacted the editor via an SMS campaign, you have a direct route to market back out to that reader with details on a product relevant to them.
To insure you have plenty of numbers to promote to, make entry to your call to action campaigns as cheap as possible to the end user, or charge a nominal value to cover operating costs, for example 25p. I spoke to the marketing director of a publishing firm this afternoon who agreed that in a few years, this will most likely be the approach taken by all publishers.
Now, sending the promotional messages. Media agencies, advertising firms, and brands are currently willing to pay up to 20 pence per message to send marketing messages or redeemable vouchers (think colour WAP vouchers, Web redeemable unique voucher codes). With the cost of sending free messages via such interfaces as The Text Works as low as 4 pence per message, you could be looking at a profit of 16 pence for every message sent. This starts to look interesting when you manage to build a list of 10,000 customers!
Let's look at an example. I'm a video game retailer looking to drive footfall to my store upon the release of a new computer game. The computer game company is set to run some high profile magazine, tv, and radio ads to drive sales. To cash in on this publicity, I need to drive potential customers to my chain of stores to buy the game.
I can do this by (1) broadcasting to my existing database of customers, or (2) working in conjunction with another company that already has a list of relevant numbers, providing of course they have permission (or opt in). The second option is where the publisher of computer game titles will make their money by charging me a per number rate for each mobile lead to which I will send my offer - providing of course they've built a mobile database!
Tags: Media mobile marketing
TEXT MARKETING - WHAT IS IT?
Posted by Peter Ratteler
Friday 8th January 2010 at 16:01
Text marketing, or text message marketing as its more commonly know, is the process of contacting existing or potential customers with a marketing message contained within a text message. As a rule, marketing messages should only be sent to customers that have opted in to receive information by SMS, this could be a soft or hard opt in.
A soft opt in usually means that a customer has entered a related campaign, where the small print states something along the lines of "by entering this campaign you agree to receive future relevant offers from us or relevant third parties". A hard opt in asks the user to implicitly opt in by sending a message requesting permission to send future marketing messages.
Traditional forms of marketing, such as print, billboard, TV, and Radio can make use of mobile call to actions for customers to register an interest in the advertised product. This usually takes the form of call to action such as "Text KEYWORD to SHORTCODE to find out more!". Other forms of call-to-action can include competitions, texting pictures, sending views, or voting.
If you add a text response to any form of advertising, around 50 per cent of respondents will choose to make their initial contact by text if you give them the choice consistently - the key word here being consistency. Text Marketing will have the highest success rate if you target your customers with timely, relevant offers.
I recently helped plan and organise a broadcast on behalf of a music magazine. Previously, the magazine had run one or two SMS based competitions per month as a way to increase interaction with readers, and of course build a valuable customer database of mobile phone numbers. A targeted broadcast message was sent to all entrants from all campaigns, detailing a special offer on a music event which matched the profile of the magazine readers. What was the uptake? An incredible 25% - try getting that from any other form of marketing!
A soft opt in usually means that a customer has entered a related campaign, where the small print states something along the lines of "by entering this campaign you agree to receive future relevant offers from us or relevant third parties". A hard opt in asks the user to implicitly opt in by sending a message requesting permission to send future marketing messages.
Traditional forms of marketing, such as print, billboard, TV, and Radio can make use of mobile call to actions for customers to register an interest in the advertised product. This usually takes the form of call to action such as "Text KEYWORD to SHORTCODE to find out more!". Other forms of call-to-action can include competitions, texting pictures, sending views, or voting.
If you add a text response to any form of advertising, around 50 per cent of respondents will choose to make their initial contact by text if you give them the choice consistently - the key word here being consistency. Text Marketing will have the highest success rate if you target your customers with timely, relevant offers.
I recently helped plan and organise a broadcast on behalf of a music magazine. Previously, the magazine had run one or two SMS based competitions per month as a way to increase interaction with readers, and of course build a valuable customer database of mobile phone numbers. A targeted broadcast message was sent to all entrants from all campaigns, detailing a special offer on a music event which matched the profile of the magazine readers. What was the uptake? An incredible 25% - try getting that from any other form of marketing!
Tags: Text marketing explained, What is text marketing
SOCIAL NETWORKING AND SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 4th January 2010 at 09:41
Social networking on-line entails using a web 2.0 website to build a reputation and contact list through regular contact and participation. Social media sites are unique in that they allow their users to freely mingle and interact over vast distances with little to no constraints. Social media sites include Twitter, Facebook and Linked In. These three major players have monopolised the micro blogging, viral applications and contact building concepts being closely followed by various other websites of a similar nature.
Using business text messaging or bulk SMS as part of the social networking platforms is incredibly difficult because of the cost to the user versus the free on-line alternatives of communication.
Twitter has managed to include one way text messaging enabling their users to add micro blogs via text message. None of the social networks have fully realised the potential behind two way messaging, but as the competitive edge thins will they be forced to diversify their service offerings.
The future of social networking sites is unclear especially when you consider that the cost of maintenance and traffic to power these social realms is increasingly expensive and the profit sought from advertising has been tentative of late. The advertising element of Facebook shows that they are trying to monetise their services through advertising, why not offer an SMS mobile marketing service for businesses and professionals?
Its a great way to leverage social media especially when you consider a number of Internet marketers already have a formidable profile of contacts with targeted promotions, services and products being delivered direct to their wall or inbox.
Its amazing that they haven't considered allowing the ability to send SMS messages to contact, it is more instant and personal than the social networks and, if the profiling is accurate, the message will drive interest and draw brand attention. The long tail of SMS mobile marketing is always a sale, but its still one of the best ways to get your brand noticed.
Using business text messaging or bulk SMS as part of the social networking platforms is incredibly difficult because of the cost to the user versus the free on-line alternatives of communication.
Twitter has managed to include one way text messaging enabling their users to add micro blogs via text message. None of the social networks have fully realised the potential behind two way messaging, but as the competitive edge thins will they be forced to diversify their service offerings.
The future of social networking sites is unclear especially when you consider that the cost of maintenance and traffic to power these social realms is increasingly expensive and the profit sought from advertising has been tentative of late. The advertising element of Facebook shows that they are trying to monetise their services through advertising, why not offer an SMS mobile marketing service for businesses and professionals?
Its a great way to leverage social media especially when you consider a number of Internet marketers already have a formidable profile of contacts with targeted promotions, services and products being delivered direct to their wall or inbox.
Its amazing that they haven't considered allowing the ability to send SMS messages to contact, it is more instant and personal than the social networks and, if the profiling is accurate, the message will drive interest and draw brand attention. The long tail of SMS mobile marketing is always a sale, but its still one of the best ways to get your brand noticed.
Tags: Monetising social media, Social networks and SMS
NHL SMS CASE STUDY
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 21st December 2009 at 11:30
In essence this is a text message based NHL hockey game. Using a call to action, including a short code and keyword, participants can select a defender and attacker to compete in a virtual hockey stand off.
The strategy behind this SMS initiative was to engage fans building their familiarity with players identities and building interest in the competitive potential of one on one hockey stand off's.
As an added bonus participants were encouraged to tune into radio and television broadcasts. Fans can check the leader boards, rules and individual scores through mobile web pages.
To date close to 2400 fans have participated with a whopping 145,000 text messages sent so far.
Why not take a look at our business text messaging page and see how you can reach your customers and improve product attention today.
The strategy behind this SMS initiative was to engage fans building their familiarity with players identities and building interest in the competitive potential of one on one hockey stand off's.
As an added bonus participants were encouraged to tune into radio and television broadcasts. Fans can check the leader boards, rules and individual scores through mobile web pages.
To date close to 2400 fans have participated with a whopping 145,000 text messages sent so far.
Why not take a look at our business text messaging page and see how you can reach your customers and improve product attention today.
Tags: NHL SMS campaign
HARDWARE STORE SENDS TARGETTED SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 21st December 2009 at 10:11
A US franchise have successfully implemented a targeted SMS campaign. Using sms to send weather related promotional text messages to increase customer attention and brand identity.
The targeted promotions included recomendations and warning about extreme weather conditions - such as frozen rain, flooding and heat waves.
The text message recipients received a discount SMS coupon and other promotions instantly useable at their local Ace hardware outlet.
The offers also varied depending on the ZIP code; some areas suffered from icy conditions - so offering a discount anti freeze or salt for public walkways and roads.
The personalised SMS made people feel that the hardware suppliers understood them coupled with non product related SMS advice and tips dealing with the extreme conditions.
The targeted promotions included recomendations and warning about extreme weather conditions - such as frozen rain, flooding and heat waves.
The text message recipients received a discount SMS coupon and other promotions instantly useable at their local Ace hardware outlet.
The offers also varied depending on the ZIP code; some areas suffered from icy conditions - so offering a discount anti freeze or salt for public walkways and roads.
The personalised SMS made people feel that the hardware suppliers understood them coupled with non product related SMS advice and tips dealing with the extreme conditions.
Tags: Targeted promotions, Weather related SMS
USING MOBILE MARKETING TO MOTIVATE YOUR SALES TEAM WITH STAFF INCENTIVE SCHEMES
Posted by Peter Ratteler
Friday 18th December 2009 at 12:11
In the current economic climate what should retailers, business owners and sales managers be thinking with 2010 fast approaching? Primarily, generating more sales! The best way to achieve this is through staff incentive schemes, and one delivery mechanism for incentive schemes set to take off next year will be SMS.
Here's the theory... staff register to take part in an SMS sales incentive scheme by texting a keyword followed by their name, or employment number for example. Upon making a sale that qualifies for the scheme, they are given a unique code to text to determine their reward. A random reward is chosen and a confirmation sent back to the employee. At the same time, an email is sent to a fulfillment company to send the reward. In most cases, the process can be completely automated by use of e-vouchers as rewards.
Asda used SMS to increase take-up of its share incentive sharesave scheme to enable staff to join via SMS text message, in order to boost employee participation levels. Mike Hazelgrave, reward manager, said: "Around 97% of our colleagues have mobile phones, so we are definitely hoping that this boosts take-up of the scheme." In this case, Asda did well to recognize that the most widely used communication tool its staff used on a regular basis was the mobile phone!
Text-to-win campaigns have also been used in the past to incentivise retail sales staff to push products in store. Upon completion of a successful sale, the sales assistant is given a text to win code which enters them into a prize draw. Platforms such as The Text Works allow you to setup and monitor campaigns, confirm winners, re promote to the sales staff, and update teams on targets. This is also a great method to use for field based sales staff, keeping up momentum on the move.
Using SMS for your business incentive scheme has a number of advantages over tradition methods. It's easy and quick to setup, its affordable, it's scalable to the size of your organization and participants, and most importantly it's a new and fresh way to incentivise your staff to help drive sales in 2010.
Here's the theory... staff register to take part in an SMS sales incentive scheme by texting a keyword followed by their name, or employment number for example. Upon making a sale that qualifies for the scheme, they are given a unique code to text to determine their reward. A random reward is chosen and a confirmation sent back to the employee. At the same time, an email is sent to a fulfillment company to send the reward. In most cases, the process can be completely automated by use of e-vouchers as rewards.
Asda used SMS to increase take-up of its share incentive sharesave scheme to enable staff to join via SMS text message, in order to boost employee participation levels. Mike Hazelgrave, reward manager, said: "Around 97% of our colleagues have mobile phones, so we are definitely hoping that this boosts take-up of the scheme." In this case, Asda did well to recognize that the most widely used communication tool its staff used on a regular basis was the mobile phone!
Text-to-win campaigns have also been used in the past to incentivise retail sales staff to push products in store. Upon completion of a successful sale, the sales assistant is given a text to win code which enters them into a prize draw. Platforms such as The Text Works allow you to setup and monitor campaigns, confirm winners, re promote to the sales staff, and update teams on targets. This is also a great method to use for field based sales staff, keeping up momentum on the move.
Using SMS for your business incentive scheme has a number of advantages over tradition methods. It's easy and quick to setup, its affordable, it's scalable to the size of your organization and participants, and most importantly it's a new and fresh way to incentivise your staff to help drive sales in 2010.
Tags: Mobile marketing incentive schemes, Motivate staff with SMS
SMS TO THE RESCUE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 15th December 2009 at 09:47
SMS is being used as part of a new initiative to improve the supply of anti-malarial drugs in Tanzania's most remote regions. The 'SMS for Life' combines SMS campaigns with complex website tracking systems to monitor and distribute the medicine.
IBM and Vodafone visited various Tanzanian health institutions and decided to test the scheme over a 5 month period. 135 villages and over a million people benefited from the MatSoft system which sends automated SMS alerts prompting them to check drugs supplies on a weekly basis.
Peter Ward from IBM was quoted as saying "This is an example of a truly innovative solution helping solve a humanitarian problem." He went on to reveal "After spending time on the ground, we created a project plan, developed the application with Vodafone and Novartis and established the best way to deliver the pilot, working with the Tanzanian Ministry of Health. We expect other countries will also be able to benefit in the future."
IBM and Vodafone visited various Tanzanian health institutions and decided to test the scheme over a 5 month period. 135 villages and over a million people benefited from the MatSoft system which sends automated SMS alerts prompting them to check drugs supplies on a weekly basis.
Peter Ward from IBM was quoted as saying "This is an example of a truly innovative solution helping solve a humanitarian problem." He went on to reveal "After spending time on the ground, we created a project plan, developed the application with Vodafone and Novartis and established the best way to deliver the pilot, working with the Tanzanian Ministry of Health. We expect other countries will also be able to benefit in the future."
Tags: Anti-malaria, IBM, SMS aid, Vodafone
LOCATION BASED MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 15th December 2009 at 09:35
SMS mobile marketing is the best geotargeting medium available to marketers in 2009. The cost is measurable and you can guarantee to reach 99.9% of your targeted audience.
Whatever your reasons for targeting people within a given location you should always make sure they are opted in before sending any promotions. The following should make you more appealing to a specific geographical audience:
The major location based marketers are usually bricks and mortar businesses trying to drive prospects to their physical location. If you are looking to improve your on-line presence or drive traffic to your website use SMS promotions with WAP links to spark interest and offer rewards for their traffic.
Whatever your reasons for targeting people within a given location you should always make sure they are opted in before sending any promotions. The following should make you more appealing to a specific geographical audience:
- SMS Coupons - great for retail promotions
- Mobile web sites - Google and Bing are investing heavily in mobile Internet search, are you?
- Text for a download - Either sent via email or WAP push
The major location based marketers are usually bricks and mortar businesses trying to drive prospects to their physical location. If you are looking to improve your on-line presence or drive traffic to your website use SMS promotions with WAP links to spark interest and offer rewards for their traffic.
Tags: Geographical SMS, Location based marketing
CHRISTMAS TIME SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 14th December 2009 at 09:38
As the holiday season approaches it seems that a substantial amount of marketers are levering new and diverse marketing techniques including:
So how can you market with SMS and not contribute to the spammers of Christmas past?
The best recommendation we can make is give them something in exchange for permission to promote your brand or service. It's easy at this time of year to give away gifts or opportunities to win seasonal prizes such as hampers, toys and shopping vouchers. Football tickets at Christmas do not sell because it is out of season, so the more relevant and timely the better your response will be.
Whatever you do consider your audience first, your message second and your end goal last. If your attitude is what can I give them to get something back you've nailed the Christmas marketing spirit.
- Viral marketing
- Web 2.0 branding
- Interactive billboards
- and SMS mobile marketing
So how can you market with SMS and not contribute to the spammers of Christmas past?
The best recommendation we can make is give them something in exchange for permission to promote your brand or service. It's easy at this time of year to give away gifts or opportunities to win seasonal prizes such as hampers, toys and shopping vouchers. Football tickets at Christmas do not sell because it is out of season, so the more relevant and timely the better your response will be.
Whatever you do consider your audience first, your message second and your end goal last. If your attitude is what can I give them to get something back you've nailed the Christmas marketing spirit.
Tags: Holiday season marketing, Sms for christmas
MOBILE MARKETING - HOW IT CAN WORK FOR YOU
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 11th December 2009 at 14:03
SMS mobile marketing really IS for everyone. To prove this I will briefly illustrate how some business models that have NOT considered SMS mobile marketing might achieve instant and long tail responses.
Who is it for?
Anyone who offers a Business to Customer service allowing prospects to research and book holidays, flights or experience breaks.
What can SMS do?
How does SMS achieve this?
Small to medium enterprises within the retail industry can use SMS in and outside of their stores for customer interactivity and brand promotions.
How its done
Technical firms
Whether its web, telecommunication or computer related, SMS alerts can save you time and money.
Our SMS gateway API is easy to use and reliable. In house developers can easily implement this solution and send messages instantly.
Public safety and awareness
Weather warnings, defence related information, health and safety problems all can be sent to local residents, subscribers or emergency services. This is a great use of SMS, the instant delivery and response capabilities could save lives and inconvenience.
Financial services
This is most applicable to banks, debt collectors and insurance brokers.
More importantly SMS interactions and alerts are not restricted to any type of message flow. The trigger to start, continue or stop SMS mobile marketing campaigns can be anything you have set up or we can track.
How your campaigns work is up to you, our support team will walk you through WHAT our systems can achieve and anything more specialist will be dealt with by our on-site UK technical team. With The Text Works you really do have the power to innovate and interact like never before.
Travel agents
Who is it for?
Anyone who offers a Business to Customer service allowing prospects to research and book holidays, flights or experience breaks.
What can SMS do?
- Book tickets for flights, cruises and coaches
- Send ticket confirmations
- Hotel bookings
- SMS Holiday check list
How does SMS achieve this?
- Ticket booking - they can either text a shortcode, for example 87474, or reply to one of your promotional text messages with their destination and travel dates
- Ticket confirmations - a text message will be sent out confirming or declining their request applying instant feedback for a better all round service
- Hotel Booking - our service will convert their request into an instant email sent to a given address
- Holiday check list - timely reminders dependant on their journey, for instance inoculations, passport, currency and any other useful information
Retailers
Small to medium enterprises within the retail industry can use SMS in and outside of their stores for customer interactivity and brand promotions.
How its done
- Display keywords and shortcodes on product shelving, Point of Sale or other promotional material in store
- Offer discounts and information as an incentive to text into your campaigns
- Profile their shopping habits based on their SMS interactions (our system does this automatically)
- Send them a text message clearly stating how they can opt out at any time
- Start promoting supplier and third party products to your remaining users
Technical firms
Whether its web, telecommunication or computer related, SMS alerts can save you time and money.
- Hardware failure alerts straight to your engineers
- Allow text messages from customers reporting issues
Our SMS gateway API is easy to use and reliable. In house developers can easily implement this solution and send messages instantly.
Public safety and awareness
Weather warnings, defence related information, health and safety problems all can be sent to local residents, subscribers or emergency services. This is a great use of SMS, the instant delivery and response capabilities could save lives and inconvenience.
Financial services
This is most applicable to banks, debt collectors and insurance brokers.
- Send out large withdrawal and balance alerts
- Allow customers to request SMS mini statements
- Chase outstanding debts with SMS - if it is delivered they have no excuses
- Inform customers of their claim progress
More importantly SMS interactions and alerts are not restricted to any type of message flow. The trigger to start, continue or stop SMS mobile marketing campaigns can be anything you have set up or we can track.
How your campaigns work is up to you, our support team will walk you through WHAT our systems can achieve and anything more specialist will be dealt with by our on-site UK technical team. With The Text Works you really do have the power to innovate and interact like never before.
Tags: How mobile marketing works, Mobile marketing
LEON'S RESTAURANT SERVES UP APP, SMS ALERTS TO REACH CONSUMERS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 10th December 2009 at 17:30
A Tulsa based restaurant and sports bar have added a mobile marketing campaign to their local advertising mix. Leon's is based on the Restless Ribbon in Tulsa, USA and have found recent success with the text messaging promotions and notifications technology.
Using a short code and keyword visitors can sign up to receive SMS alerts, news and special offers wherever they are. The bar owner, Mr Lewis, said the campaign will continue to generate repeat business through informative and involving SMS messages. Another way they could use this service to generate revenue would be to convince local brewing businesses to promote their brands through their SMS subscription list.
Mr Lewis said "I want to reach my customers where they are... They can be shopping, working, attending a kid's sporting event, at the park or working out and still have access to my message on their phone." Mobile marketing is all about determining what they want, how you should promote it to a given audience and delivering that promotion at a given time.
Shortcodes and Keywords
Using a short code and keyword visitors can sign up to receive SMS alerts, news and special offers wherever they are. The bar owner, Mr Lewis, said the campaign will continue to generate repeat business through informative and involving SMS messages. Another way they could use this service to generate revenue would be to convince local brewing businesses to promote their brands through their SMS subscription list.
Why use SMS?
Mr Lewis said "I want to reach my customers where they are... They can be shopping, working, attending a kid's sporting event, at the park or working out and still have access to my message on their phone." Mobile marketing is all about determining what they want, how you should promote it to a given audience and delivering that promotion at a given time.
Tags: Leon's Tulsa, Pub SMS promotions
NEW YORK ALERTS US TO SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 7th December 2009 at 12:49
The NYSEMO, New York State Emergency Management Office, have set up an SMS service for New Yorkers to receive appropriate hazard alerts and notifications. Through the SMS web interface New York public sector staff can set up emergency alerts and private notifications for New Yorkers. It is claimed the service will help raise public awareness and obtain vital information for the emergency and local government services.
The service received 4.7 million subscribers with 2.3 million opting in to receive related promotional messages. The opt in population covers 64 college campuses and the the New York City University network. The subscription is free and allows subscribers to register one or more mobile devices to receive alerts and notifications.
The alert systems is said to include major road closures, weather warnings and state recommendations with regard to public safety, as well as notification for local governments and universities.
British government bodies could learn a lot from New York's modernisation, local governments could offer a text message support channel and subscriptions for public announcements.
The service received 4.7 million subscribers with 2.3 million opting in to receive related promotional messages. The opt in population covers 64 college campuses and the the New York City University network. The subscription is free and allows subscribers to register one or more mobile devices to receive alerts and notifications.
The alert systems is said to include major road closures, weather warnings and state recommendations with regard to public safety, as well as notification for local governments and universities.
British government bodies could learn a lot from New York's modernisation, local governments could offer a text message support channel and subscriptions for public announcements.
Tags: New York and SMS, SMS public alerts, Text message hazard notifications
NUMORO UNO FOR SMS PREVIEWS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 4th December 2009 at 10:05
Numo's SMS preview application has achieved 600,000 new registrations in the last two months. The application displays a preview of SMS messages of any inbound text messages.
The app is targeting Android and Symbian mobile devices, it is free and remains one of the most popular download at app stores. The app is available for download from Numo's website.
For those who are using SMS as a marketing tool this is not bad news - I promise! The previews, lets call them snippets, are just like a search engine result. The opening to your SMS message can give it context and appeal. So design you messages with this in mind, experiment with this application - for instance do attached images appear in the preview?
Developments and obstructions to existing strategies can be turned to your advantage and don't forget the iPhone allows SMS preview by default anyway, so make the first 8 words an encouragement to open the entire message.
The app is targeting Android and Symbian mobile devices, it is free and remains one of the most popular download at app stores. The app is available for download from Numo's website.
For those who are using SMS as a marketing tool this is not bad news - I promise! The previews, lets call them snippets, are just like a search engine result. The opening to your SMS message can give it context and appeal. So design you messages with this in mind, experiment with this application - for instance do attached images appear in the preview?
Developments and obstructions to existing strategies can be turned to your advantage and don't forget the iPhone allows SMS preview by default anyway, so make the first 8 words an encouragement to open the entire message.
Tags: Android, Numo application, SMS preview, Symbian
POSITIVE WEB SURVEY RESULTS FOR T-MOBILE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 3rd December 2009 at 15:37
Some really great news for T-Mobile recently as their mobile website has been ranked No.1 for the second year running. Global reviews announced T-Mobile the best of its assessed mobile phone websites this week.
Mobile web is still largely an untapped lead generation resource - so does this mean their success will be short lived, who knows. Another interesting factor derived from the Global reviews findings is that the mobile web development is not keeping pace with the vast growth and evolution of mobile related offerings.
With Google and Yahoo looking to dominate search for the mobile web will T-Mobile and similar industry leaders be able to rely on their mobile websites being a real web referral? Only time will tell.
The survey measured user experience on the T-Mobile, Orange, Vodafone, 3, Virgin, O2, Carphone Warehouse and Tesco mobile websites for a reasonable cross section analysis of the industries services.
They assessed each mobile service provider using the following criteria:
T-Mobile received a total score of 66%, O2 were a close second with 61% - an improvement on last years results. Vodafone are still in third position with 59%. I think all companies could invest in mobile web optimisation and facilitation - the question is can you afford to miss out on mobile?
Mobile web design is still the under dog
Mobile web is still largely an untapped lead generation resource - so does this mean their success will be short lived, who knows. Another interesting factor derived from the Global reviews findings is that the mobile web development is not keeping pace with the vast growth and evolution of mobile related offerings.
With Google and Yahoo looking to dominate search for the mobile web will T-Mobile and similar industry leaders be able to rely on their mobile websites being a real web referral? Only time will tell.
The criteria
The survey measured user experience on the T-Mobile, Orange, Vodafone, 3, Virgin, O2, Carphone Warehouse and Tesco mobile websites for a reasonable cross section analysis of the industries services.
They assessed each mobile service provider using the following criteria:
- content and tools
- customer support
- prospective customer information
- purchasing process
- site utility
The results
T-Mobile received a total score of 66%, O2 were a close second with 61% - an improvement on last years results. Vodafone are still in third position with 59%. I think all companies could invest in mobile web optimisation and facilitation - the question is can you afford to miss out on mobile?
Tags: Global reviews, T-mobile, Web survey
GREAT AMERICAN SMS CASE STUDY
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 3rd December 2009 at 15:20
Great American Country (GAC) recently set up a series of on-air SMS mobile marketing campaigns designed to generate interesting and increase attendance to the CMA music festival awards.
GAC TV promotions targeted country and music fans including a guest appearance from the "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood encouraging an increased user opt in rate. The promotions were aired twice an hour through their TV channel.
The results speak for themselves; they have achieved a high level of interest and a targeted demographic of interested mobile device users for future promotions and viral concepts. SMS mobile marketing still remains the most measurable, timely and user friendly marketing medium.
American Idol guest appearance increased opt in rate
GAC TV promotions targeted country and music fans including a guest appearance from the "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood encouraging an increased user opt in rate. The promotions were aired twice an hour through their TV channel.
34,000 mobile points of contact and 3,000 promotional opt ins
The results speak for themselves; they have achieved a high level of interest and a targeted demographic of interested mobile device users for future promotions and viral concepts. SMS mobile marketing still remains the most measurable, timely and user friendly marketing medium.
Tags: American Idol, Carrie Underwood, Great American Country TV case study
LITTLE CAESARS SMS CAMPAIGN
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 2nd December 2009 at 08:51
Little Caesars - Oklahoma, used sms to drive awareness of their in restaurant Curious George live show and provide highly measurable promotion for their brand.
They used specific TV placements to target individuals with a mobile sweepstake, SMS was perfect because it was instant and highly accessible for the user.
As an added bonus they also achieved a double opt in effect allowing little Caesers to promote future in house shows and other points of interest.
Their opt in rate was approximately 50 percent which is incredible for a first attempt at mobile marketing, don't be discouraged by any low results on your first attempt - the slightest change to a campaign can double your opt in rate.
This is another great example of television promotions and SMS interactivity forming a very strong symbiosis with this instantly interactive technology.
They used specific TV placements to target individuals with a mobile sweepstake, SMS was perfect because it was instant and highly accessible for the user.
As an added bonus they also achieved a double opt in effect allowing little Caesers to promote future in house shows and other points of interest.
Their opt in rate was approximately 50 percent which is incredible for a first attempt at mobile marketing, don't be discouraged by any low results on your first attempt - the slightest change to a campaign can double your opt in rate.
This is another great example of television promotions and SMS interactivity forming a very strong symbiosis with this instantly interactive technology.
Tags: Curious George, Little Caesers, SMS and television
NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU LAUNCHES SMS FRAUD TIP SERVICE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 1st December 2009 at 11:06
The National Insurance Crime Bureau have started using SMS as a channel for the public to report fraudulent activity. User are able to text FRAUD to TIP411 (87411) to report insurance fraud and car theft to the NICB.
This is a great example of another none profit organisation using SMS to improve their service making it simpler for people to stay in touch. The service is anonymous; mobile numbers are NOT stored. Responses are in real time increasing the NICB reply and response times.
MR Morris is reported as saying "Who better to report a suspected cargo theft than a trucker with a cell phone who can text the information anonymously?".
This is a great example of another none profit organisation using SMS to improve their service making it simpler for people to stay in touch. The service is anonymous; mobile numbers are NOT stored. Responses are in real time increasing the NICB reply and response times.
MR Morris is reported as saying "Who better to report a suspected cargo theft than a trucker with a cell phone who can text the information anonymously?".
Tags: National Insurance Crime Bureau, NICB, Non profit mobile marketing
EMAIL STRATEGIES RECYCLED FOR MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 1st December 2009 at 10:50
Email marketing has always been a favourite marketing method in the past and no doubt for the future. Email and mobile marketing have a lot in common, this article has some great information for email marketers. Using a variation on their advice I have compiled the following tips for mobile marketers;
This and more is possible with our web to SMS service. For a comprehensive introduction to our service see out mobile marketing live demonstrations blog.
- Customer Engagement
Use profile information from previous SMS campaigns to engage users with opinion poles, promotions and competitions.
- Stay on target
Always make sure your campaigns and promotions are as relevant as possible. One way to make sure participants are willing to spend money is to have them text in to start the campaign. That way you know they are interested in your offer, competition or opinion pole.
- Twitter
Use mini blogs like Twitter.com to promote campaigns, people share a lot of information very readily on social networks - can you afford to ignore them?
This and more is possible with our web to SMS service. For a comprehensive introduction to our service see out mobile marketing live demonstrations blog.
Tags: Email marketing, Email versus mobile, Mobile marketing
MOBILE MARKETING VERSUS MOBILE ADVERTISING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 1st December 2009 at 09:49
We have noticed a couple of blogs appear around the subject of mobile marketing and advertising. In short mobile advertising can be described as having a paid advert hosted on a mobile facing website or application. One or two blogs mentioned SMS messages as being "strictly" mobile advertising, and I wanted to discuss the distinction between sending an SMS advert and SMS mobile marketing.
If an SMS message is a stand alone advert then it is mobile advertising - I can't argue with that. But mobile marketing by definition is building a group/demographic of mobile device users from an array of mobile campaigns, sending them targeted messages and perhaps finishing with some follow up contact with other campaigns or promotions. SMS is one of the BEST ways to profile, promote and persuade mobile users.
My advice to anyone interested in learning more about mobile marketing is Google the term "mobile marketing" and have a look at the real industry news. SMS is still a core foundation to many mobile marketing success stories, from ABC's Heroes interactive initiative to Future Publishings editorial profiling campaigns.
We offer a free trial and live demonstrations of SMS mobile marketing. Don't just take our word for it, research and try it for yourself.
If an SMS message is a stand alone advert then it is mobile advertising - I can't argue with that. But mobile marketing by definition is building a group/demographic of mobile device users from an array of mobile campaigns, sending them targeted messages and perhaps finishing with some follow up contact with other campaigns or promotions. SMS is one of the BEST ways to profile, promote and persuade mobile users.
My advice to anyone interested in learning more about mobile marketing is Google the term "mobile marketing" and have a look at the real industry news. SMS is still a core foundation to many mobile marketing success stories, from ABC's Heroes interactive initiative to Future Publishings editorial profiling campaigns.
We offer a free trial and live demonstrations of SMS mobile marketing. Don't just take our word for it, research and try it for yourself.
Tags: Mobile advertising, Mobile marketing, The difference between mobile advertising and marketing
TOYOTA'S GIANT SMS CAMPAIGN
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 30th November 2009 at 09:58
Toyota took advantage of the Giants stadium attendance and vastly male audience by placing a promotional 2D bar code resulting in a 9.2% engagement of attendees.
Using Jagtag's mobile 2D bar codes fans could engage with Toyota in several ways;
This is a good example of marketers striking while the iron is hot. Timing and placement are key to the success of these campaigns. Online text messaging is exactly the same, make sure the time messages are sent is relevant and/or inoffensive and make sure the mobile phone users are likely to react positively to your promotions.
Using Jagtag's mobile 2D bar codes fans could engage with Toyota in several ways;
- receive a video message
- view special offers
- visit Toyota's mobile website
- and win Giants merchandise
This is a good example of marketers striking while the iron is hot. Timing and placement are key to the success of these campaigns. Online text messaging is exactly the same, make sure the time messages are sent is relevant and/or inoffensive and make sure the mobile phone users are likely to react positively to your promotions.
Tags: Giants, Jagtag, Toyota
SANTA'S SMS CAMPAIGN
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 30th November 2009 at 09:46
Santa Clause has turned to online text messaging instead of letters for all those good children this year. Santa has built a charitable e-commerce website where relatives can schedule personalised text messages from Santa. One dollar from all of the proceeds will go towards preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.
Each message costs $5.49 and should prove to be entertaining, engaging and an easy way to donate to charity.
Each message costs $5.49 and should prove to be entertaining, engaging and an easy way to donate to charity.
Tags: Christmas SMS, Santa clause
MMA REDEFINE MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 30th November 2009 at 09:17
MMA officially released a new definition of mobile marketing recently. They say that mobile marketing is "a set of practises that enables organisations to communicate and engage with their audience in an interactive and relevant manner through any mobile device or network".
Insisting that mobile marketing is so much more than spamming people with SMS coupons, MMA discuss the functionality and definition of mobile marketing at the Mobile Marketing Forum, LA.
You can read their press release from the forum here - prnewswire.com.
Insisting that mobile marketing is so much more than spamming people with SMS coupons, MMA discuss the functionality and definition of mobile marketing at the Mobile Marketing Forum, LA.
You can read their press release from the forum here - prnewswire.com.
Tags: MMA, Mobile marketing definition, PR newswire
CHILDREN IN NEED CHARITY SMS DONATIONS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 27th November 2009 at 10:27
Children in need raised £1.75 million through £5 SMS donations. Each donation debited from prepaid balances or added to users contracts. This SMS billing can be used in many ways but is well suited to charities because it is much quicker and easier to text a five digit number (shortcode) with a keyword than to phone a number and have a conversation.
Every penny of the SMS donations went to Children in need and raised a further £500,000 with gift aid alone. We are now offering discounts to charities who want to leverage SMS mobile marketing, so get in touch with our advisor's to discuss the opportunities and discounts available.
Every penny of the SMS donations went to Children in need and raised a further £500,000 with gift aid alone. We are now offering discounts to charities who want to leverage SMS mobile marketing, so get in touch with our advisor's to discuss the opportunities and discounts available.
Tags: Charity sms donations, Children in need
ENGAGE PROSPECTS WITH SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 27th November 2009 at 10:03
Before you send any messages its important to think about your engagement strategy from your target audiences perspective. Put yourselves in their shoes, would you like to receive a message saying "We are offering cars for even less, buy now!", no. You need to think outside the box, surprise them and make them feel like you understand them.
How do people achieve this? Here is a quick guide to customer attraction and engagement;
You might be saying at this point, why bother? Because we are seeing an exponential interest in SMS from all areas; retailers, marketers, publishers, broadcasters, hosting companies and many more. The Internet as a whole agrees on one thing - SMS mobile marketing will be widely used. Its success, like so many things, relies on your innovation and persistence and you need to be in it to win it (sorry for the cliché).
HAPPILY we are here to help, get in touch now or sign up for a free trial and have a play, if you get stuck you will have direct access to our support and marketing team.
Good luck with all your marketing campaigns and initiatives.
How do people achieve this? Here is a quick guide to customer attraction and engagement;
- Create a campaign to attract attention - for example a competition, auction, SMS coupon or other loyalty scheme
- Use Point Of sale, websites, emails, cold calling - anything you can think of to get the word out
- Group your new users by age, geography and interests (campaigns entered of answers to profiling questions)
- Build a promotional campaign to target EACH specific group
- Run your campaign right away or at a more appropriate time
You might be saying at this point, why bother? Because we are seeing an exponential interest in SMS from all areas; retailers, marketers, publishers, broadcasters, hosting companies and many more. The Internet as a whole agrees on one thing - SMS mobile marketing will be widely used. Its success, like so many things, relies on your innovation and persistence and you need to be in it to win it (sorry for the cliché).
HAPPILY we are here to help, get in touch now or sign up for a free trial and have a play, if you get stuck you will have direct access to our support and marketing team.
Good luck with all your marketing campaigns and initiatives.
Tags: Customer engagement, Customer interaction
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 26th November 2009 at 11:49
Why advertise with SMS?
Why not try
Don't underestimate how much credibility you can achieve by advertising an SMS mobile marketing campaign through mobile media.
- More accurate targetting
- Unprecedented opportunities to react to customers
- less expense than other forms of marketing
Why not try
- Advertising you SMS campaigns on mobile websites
- build a mobile website for ongoing promotions
- Sponsor a mobile application
Don't underestimate how much credibility you can achieve by advertising an SMS mobile marketing campaign through mobile media.
Tags: Accurate targetting, Cheap marketing, Why advertise with SMS?
MOBILE CONTENT NOT ALWAYS AVAILABLE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 24th November 2009 at 10:21
A Xiam Technologies survey indicated that mobile phone users are having difficulty accessing certain mobile content and how this is a barrier for a number of potential consumers.
80% of US and UK mobile device users at some time have had difficulty accessing mobile content. The major issues included slow search/download times, device issues and interface bugs. A whopping 27% said they could not access mobile content at all.
63% said they wanted to spend money on mobile content if only they could access it. Previous claims that there is not enough content for mobiles is no longer the case. One of the most popular services accessed by mobile users is weather content and apps, closely followed by social networking and games.
I think the key here is don't go mobile until your ready and test your content thoroughly; don't claim to be a mobile content provider until you can provide a version of the service for everyone. The negative attributions of a bold claim and poor delivery can stay with brands for years.
80% of US and UK mobile device users at some time have had difficulty accessing mobile content. The major issues included slow search/download times, device issues and interface bugs. A whopping 27% said they could not access mobile content at all.
63% said they wanted to spend money on mobile content if only they could access it. Previous claims that there is not enough content for mobiles is no longer the case. One of the most popular services accessed by mobile users is weather content and apps, closely followed by social networking and games.
I think the key here is don't go mobile until your ready and test your content thoroughly; don't claim to be a mobile content provider until you can provide a version of the service for everyone. The negative attributions of a bold claim and poor delivery can stay with brands for years.
Tags: Mobile content issues, Xiam Technologies
MOBILE MARKETING LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 24th November 2009 at 09:22
The text works is a UK based SMS mobile marketing service provider. Our standard support package, which is free with all SMS marketing packages, is UK based, friendly and guaranteed to respond within 24 working hours.
Because our comprehensive SMS mobile marketing interface is capable of any type of message flow there are a lot of concepts that may be unfamiliar to some. To get you up to speed and help you gain leverage in the mobile marketing world we are offering free live demonstrations over the phone.
To request a live demonstration email our mobile marketing help desk requesting a demonstration of the software, what you intend to achieve with it and your promotional experience to date. Once we receive your email a member of our support team will call you back within 1 working day.
Alternatively you could sign up for a mobile marketing free trial and get stuck in.
Because our comprehensive SMS mobile marketing interface is capable of any type of message flow there are a lot of concepts that may be unfamiliar to some. To get you up to speed and help you gain leverage in the mobile marketing world we are offering free live demonstrations over the phone.
To request a live demonstration email our mobile marketing help desk requesting a demonstration of the software, what you intend to achieve with it and your promotional experience to date. Once we receive your email a member of our support team will call you back within 1 working day.
Alternatively you could sign up for a mobile marketing free trial and get stuck in.
Tags: Live demonstration, Sms marketing demo, Sms marketing packages, Uk based support
BLUETOOTH ACHE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 23rd November 2009 at 10:26
Is Bluetooth a good mobile marketing method? Blismobile claimed their recent promotion was a success with over 205,000 downloads of their new film preview.
Sounds impressive? Not when you learn only 1% of the total commuters exposed to the bluetooth promotion actually downloaded the trailer. Blismobile claimed to use posters and promotions to opt in to this promotion, but in reality it seems they continually spam you with Bluetooth requests until you either download the promotion of turn Bluetooth off. Something else to bear in mind when promoting through Bluetooth; most mobile devices have it turned off to save power and have authentication to prevent unwanted requests.
Bluetooth is sadly a dying mobile marketing strategy and is not as controllable as SMS mobile marketing. The future of Bluetooth seems bleak.
Sounds impressive? Not when you learn only 1% of the total commuters exposed to the bluetooth promotion actually downloaded the trailer. Blismobile claimed to use posters and promotions to opt in to this promotion, but in reality it seems they continually spam you with Bluetooth requests until you either download the promotion of turn Bluetooth off. Something else to bear in mind when promoting through Bluetooth; most mobile devices have it turned off to save power and have authentication to prevent unwanted requests.
Bluetooth is sadly a dying mobile marketing strategy and is not as controllable as SMS mobile marketing. The future of Bluetooth seems bleak.
Tags: Bad marketing, Bluetooth
LA MOBILE MARKETING FORUM 2009
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 23rd November 2009 at 10:03
The 2009 Mobile Marketing Forum saw a decrease in attendance this year with only 300 visitors in total. But the atmosphere seemed more positive and competitors less defensive, a sense of collaboration for the greater good - public confidence in mobile marketing.
The forum was held in Sheraton, downtown Los Angeles and offered rich networking opportunities for mobile marketing service providers and specialists. There was a definite theme; how do we overcome the 2009 mobile marketing problems as an industry. Perhaps they have finally learned from the other technical industries such as hosting - global conferences that share valuable information to secure the future of the industry and prevent monopolization. Many people were asking "is this the year of mobile marketing?", clearly the industry leaders still feel mobile marketing has not peaked.
Some of the higher profile attendees included Tom Daly, CO of Coca Cola, and Louis Gump of CNN. The industry will need to be supported by the larger corporations to increase public opinion.
I've said it before and I will say it again people need to be bold and step into the mobile marketing world, it is an untapped resource for branding and service monetisation. Are you sure you can afford to not invest?
The forum was held in Sheraton, downtown Los Angeles and offered rich networking opportunities for mobile marketing service providers and specialists. There was a definite theme; how do we overcome the 2009 mobile marketing problems as an industry. Perhaps they have finally learned from the other technical industries such as hosting - global conferences that share valuable information to secure the future of the industry and prevent monopolization. Many people were asking "is this the year of mobile marketing?", clearly the industry leaders still feel mobile marketing has not peaked.
Some of the higher profile attendees included Tom Daly, CO of Coca Cola, and Louis Gump of CNN. The industry will need to be supported by the larger corporations to increase public opinion.
I've said it before and I will say it again people need to be bold and step into the mobile marketing world, it is an untapped resource for branding and service monetisation. Are you sure you can afford to not invest?
Tags: Mobile marketing forum 2009
SMS MOBILE MARKETING - THE ROAD TO SUCCESS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 20th November 2009 at 10:45
People keep telling me that SMS is complicated and some of the more cautious marketers are avoiding taking the bold step, it really is only as complicated as you make it.
You can see people texting in supermarkets, at their desk in work, on the train and so on. So why don't people see the potential behind active, relevant and personal promotions. There really is a method to reach any audience with mobile marketing, you just need to figure out the best approach.
Ok I apologise in advance this will get a little technical but bear with me this stuff really works.
Keywords, Shortcodes and the text message response
The keyword is a unique word often used at the beginning of a message sent to an active campaign, each keyword is recognised by the campaign and dealt with appropriately - for example you might text the keyword PLAY followed by your favourite song to a radio DJ requesting it be added to their play list.
The shortcode is the number they send and often receive messages from. We have set up such an example for you to see this in action our promotional message is "Why not text the word TEXTWORKS to 87474", this is an ACTUAL campaign and took me about 5 seconds to set up and you can try texting it now if you like. You will only be charged your standard network rate.
The message refers to the response from their initial text. Our response from the above campaign will be "Thanks for reading our company blog, we will continue to publish advice and news and look forward to working with you". Ok not the most exciting thing in the world but you get the idea.
So here's what I recommend you do, sign up for a free trial, login and verify your mobile phone number - don't worry we won't spam you in fact its our way of reducing the amount of spammer sign ups WE receive. Once we know you are a genuine user you will be able to login to our SMS mobile marketing interface and get started.
Now at this point I want you to take a deep breath, yes there are a lot of options and no you probably won't use all of them right away. Click "Campaigns", select the option "Text response" and complete the form, if you do anything wrong you will get an error and nothing bad will happen - I promise, remember its a free trial so nothing spent nothing lost.
Alternatively you might not want to sign up, that's fine - we thought some people might not so contact our support team making sure you include your phone number in the email if you want a call back. One of our guys will get back to you and walk you through a live demonstration over the phone.
Ok so what next?
Build a promotion that only you can offer and make it something they WILL need. Starbucks offered a holiday reminder service at their Point Of Sale (POS), a free SMS reminder people could opt into by texting "BREAK" plus the date to a shortcode. This is clever, give something for free to encourage the opt in then send them coffee related promotions - you know they like coffee anyway because thats where the promotion started, at the Point Of Sale in a Starbucks.
Next lets publicise your campaign, use email, media, leaflets or other paper based advertising and even Facebook or Twitter, use any method you think will reach your audience to get your promotion out there. And don't give up on your first try, Future publishing's initial promotions were not hugely profitable but they stuck at it and now they are monetising content, promoting third part products and interacting with a large audience to increase brand attention.
Most people need to speak to us before they jump into the fine art of mobile marketing, so speak to us even if you are not completely sure you want to add this to the mix, it will revolutionise the way your customers think and interact with you. I look forward to speaking to you and good luck!
You can see people texting in supermarkets, at their desk in work, on the train and so on. So why don't people see the potential behind active, relevant and personal promotions. There really is a method to reach any audience with mobile marketing, you just need to figure out the best approach.
Ok I apologise in advance this will get a little technical but bear with me this stuff really works.
Keywords, Shortcodes and the text message response
The keyword is a unique word often used at the beginning of a message sent to an active campaign, each keyword is recognised by the campaign and dealt with appropriately - for example you might text the keyword PLAY followed by your favourite song to a radio DJ requesting it be added to their play list.
The shortcode is the number they send and often receive messages from. We have set up such an example for you to see this in action our promotional message is "Why not text the word TEXTWORKS to 87474", this is an ACTUAL campaign and took me about 5 seconds to set up and you can try texting it now if you like. You will only be charged your standard network rate.
The message refers to the response from their initial text. Our response from the above campaign will be "Thanks for reading our company blog, we will continue to publish advice and news and look forward to working with you". Ok not the most exciting thing in the world but you get the idea.
So here's what I recommend you do, sign up for a free trial, login and verify your mobile phone number - don't worry we won't spam you in fact its our way of reducing the amount of spammer sign ups WE receive. Once we know you are a genuine user you will be able to login to our SMS mobile marketing interface and get started.
Now at this point I want you to take a deep breath, yes there are a lot of options and no you probably won't use all of them right away. Click "Campaigns", select the option "Text response" and complete the form, if you do anything wrong you will get an error and nothing bad will happen - I promise, remember its a free trial so nothing spent nothing lost.
Alternatively you might not want to sign up, that's fine - we thought some people might not so contact our support team making sure you include your phone number in the email if you want a call back. One of our guys will get back to you and walk you through a live demonstration over the phone.
Ok so what next?
Build a promotion that only you can offer and make it something they WILL need. Starbucks offered a holiday reminder service at their Point Of Sale (POS), a free SMS reminder people could opt into by texting "BREAK" plus the date to a shortcode. This is clever, give something for free to encourage the opt in then send them coffee related promotions - you know they like coffee anyway because thats where the promotion started, at the Point Of Sale in a Starbucks.
Next lets publicise your campaign, use email, media, leaflets or other paper based advertising and even Facebook or Twitter, use any method you think will reach your audience to get your promotion out there. And don't give up on your first try, Future publishing's initial promotions were not hugely profitable but they stuck at it and now they are monetising content, promoting third part products and interacting with a large audience to increase brand attention.
Most people need to speak to us before they jump into the fine art of mobile marketing, so speak to us even if you are not completely sure you want to add this to the mix, it will revolutionise the way your customers think and interact with you. I look forward to speaking to you and good luck!
Tags: Interactive channel, Mobile marketing fear, Sms mobile marketing
COORS LIGHT AND DADDY YANKEE BEER WITH SMS MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 19th November 2009 at 12:04
Coors light and Daddy yankee have teamed up to promote the beer and Daddy's latest single "Grito mundial" using and SMS competition, using radio and display cards with the call to action "text CLTIX to 98171" to enter.
The partnership benefits both of them after Daddy sold 8 million copies of the single and won over 35 awards including the Latin grammy. The target demographics were 21 to 35 year old of Hispanic origin. The potential prize for entering was a meet and great event with Daddy opting in mobile owners to other Coors related campaigns and promotions. The text works offers identical SMS mobile marketing campaigns and full life cycle support before, during and after campaigns to you maximum potential.
The partnership benefits both of them after Daddy sold 8 million copies of the single and won over 35 awards including the Latin grammy. The target demographics were 21 to 35 year old of Hispanic origin. The potential prize for entering was a meet and great event with Daddy opting in mobile owners to other Coors related campaigns and promotions. The text works offers identical SMS mobile marketing campaigns and full life cycle support before, during and after campaigns to you maximum potential.
Tags: Beer promotion, Coors light, Daddy yankee
MMA EDUCATION PLAN
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 19th November 2009 at 11:42
Mike Wehrs, President of MMA, unveiled the "Certified Mobile Marketer Program" in Los Angeles this week. The course provides marketers with the skill necessary for mobile marketing careers and increases the validity of mobile marketing as an industry in its own right.
The course is available to individuals and organisations helping them master industry related terminology and mobile marketing campaign management. The program consists of three tiers with courses aimed to produce comprehensive mobile marketing professionals at its conclusion.
Hopefully the spam-like reputation of mobile marketers will be softened by this certification and others like it.
The course is available to individuals and organisations helping them master industry related terminology and mobile marketing campaign management. The program consists of three tiers with courses aimed to produce comprehensive mobile marketing professionals at its conclusion.
Hopefully the spam-like reputation of mobile marketers will be softened by this certification and others like it.
Tags: Certified Mobile Marketer Program, MMA education, Mobile marketing association
HOW DO COCA COLA SELECT THEIR MOBILE MARKETING PARTNERS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 19th November 2009 at 11:16
Tom Daly of Coca Cola revealed key information relating to the selection process Coke use when selecting a mobile marketing partner. Coca Cola prides itself on the third party relationships and strives to improve productivity, strategies, creativity, competitive advantage and attract and retain talent.
"We're not buying structures, we're not buying the names of the companies on the card - we're buying access to people" - Tom talking to a group of mobile marketers. He went on to talk about their brand being under constant scrutiny, having employees who can communicate with and listen to their audience and their desire to pay for value not time. Tom is right everything they do is under scrutiny and despite their product being just a selection of beverages their reputation and public opinion is huge.
Tom even went as far as giving his email address out to the the audience, its tdaly@na.ko.com.
"We're not buying structures, we're not buying the names of the companies on the card - we're buying access to people" - Tom talking to a group of mobile marketers. He went on to talk about their brand being under constant scrutiny, having employees who can communicate with and listen to their audience and their desire to pay for value not time. Tom is right everything they do is under scrutiny and despite their product being just a selection of beverages their reputation and public opinion is huge.
Tom even went as far as giving his email address out to the the audience, its tdaly@na.ko.com.
Tags: Coca Cola, Coca cola mobile marketing partners, Tom Daly, Tom Daly's email address
CNN MOBILE SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 19th November 2009 at 10:42
CCN has formed a dual revenue model comprising of subscription and advertisers fees to maintain their mobile business and not become just another on-line media publisher.
Louis Gump, CNN vice president, said "We believe that at some point in time more people will get news from mobile than on-line". Clearly CNN do not want to miss the boat on the mobile content revolution.
CNN sees mobile as a core part of their future and say that they need to take action now and just start something. All media publishers are going to struggle with this transition and we too have seen an increase in the monetisation of Media content through SMS promotions and profiling. Speak to our support team for more information.
Louis Gump, CNN vice president, said "We believe that at some point in time more people will get news from mobile than on-line". Clearly CNN do not want to miss the boat on the mobile content revolution.
CNN sees mobile as a core part of their future and say that they need to take action now and just start something. All media publishers are going to struggle with this transition and we too have seen an increase in the monetisation of Media content through SMS promotions and profiling. Speak to our support team for more information.
Tags: CNN, CNN sustaining mobile, Louis Gump, Mobile content
MOBILE MARKETING WITH TWITTER, QR CODES AND VIRAL CONCEPTS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 19th November 2009 at 10:15
The Brazilian equivalent of Amazon.com, Editoras online, built a very effective strategy using Mobile Marketing in the form of QR codes.
Their employees placed 4000 QR codes at key locations throughout Sao Paola. When people used their mobile handsets to take a picture of the image (including the QR codes) their mobile handset were directed to a strategic selection of Twitter mini blogs they affectionately refer to as their "living book". Each tweet contained a viral call to action leading the reader to their Editoras on-line website.
Their ROI was massive and added to their brand reputation. The full details of their campaign an be seen in this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PG4thXVM2qk.
Their employees placed 4000 QR codes at key locations throughout Sao Paola. When people used their mobile handsets to take a picture of the image (including the QR codes) their mobile handset were directed to a strategic selection of Twitter mini blogs they affectionately refer to as their "living book". Each tweet contained a viral call to action leading the reader to their Editoras on-line website.
Their ROI was massive and added to their brand reputation. The full details of their campaign an be seen in this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PG4thXVM2qk.
Tags: Editoras online, Mobile marketing, QR codes, Twitter
95% OF DIGITAL BUDGETS INCLUDE MOBILE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 18th November 2009 at 11:32
95% of UK digital budgets are said to include mobile marketing. 73% of marketers believe there will be substantial mobile marketing growth over the next 5 years. There is said to have been substantial growth in MMS and video shortcode awareness with only 20% of marketers without any experience in 2009.
Many agencies are expecting to spend more on mobile marketing in the near future and a number already have a solidified mobile marketing strategy. Jon Mew, Head of Mobile at the IAB, said "It's extremely encouraging to see that agencies in the UK are adapting to the changing landscape, allocating bigger budgets to mobile and hiring more specialists to plan mobile campaigns."
Many agencies are expecting to spend more on mobile marketing in the near future and a number already have a solidified mobile marketing strategy. Jon Mew, Head of Mobile at the IAB, said "It's extremely encouraging to see that agencies in the UK are adapting to the changing landscape, allocating bigger budgets to mobile and hiring more specialists to plan mobile campaigns."
Tags: IAB UK, Jon Mew, Mobile marketing growth, UK digital budgets
10 REASONS WHY MOBILE HAS NOT REACHED ITS POTENTIAL
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 18th November 2009 at 11:21
An interesting article discussing the various reasons why mobile marketing and advertising has not peaked. Offering rich statistics and full length explanations Mark Jaffe writes with great confidence and knowledge on the subject of mobile advertising. He talks about how personal mobiles are, how they can be highly interactive and the communication ecosystem that can be achieved if you do it right.
All in all Mark is a great blogger and I after chatting to him on-line he is approachable and genuine. I recommend adding him to your RSS reader to keep up with general mobile marketing news.
Source: http://mobilemandala.com
All in all Mark is a great blogger and I after chatting to him on-line he is approachable and genuine. I recommend adding him to your RSS reader to keep up with general mobile marketing news.
Source: http://mobilemandala.com
Tags: Mark jaffe, Mobile mandala
80% SAY NO TO MONETISING MOBILE NEWS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 18th November 2009 at 11:09
Forrester research suggests that moving from free digital news to paid content is proving more unpopular than expected. The study shows 80% of US consumers will not access the content if it is not free, so its highly likely the UK will follow suit. Reducing readers by 80% means advertising exposure is reduced heavily and their current advertisement income will reach an all time low.
There are other ways to make money from content without loosing the vast majority of your readers. Keep your mobile news content free, instead find a way to encourage your mobile readers to opt into SMS campaigns. One way to do this could be publicising an SMS competition or opinion pole. Once our systems realise they are happy to receive promotional content a profile of each mobile owner will be constructed based on their responses. The profiles can be used to send relevant SMS messages from third parties. How much you charge for direct promotions is up to you, this strategy has and still works for major publishers, for instance Future publishing.
Our experienced team are highly experienced in developing marketing strategies with directors and innovators of business. Contact us to discuss this further.
There are other ways to make money from content without loosing the vast majority of your readers. Keep your mobile news content free, instead find a way to encourage your mobile readers to opt into SMS campaigns. One way to do this could be publicising an SMS competition or opinion pole. Once our systems realise they are happy to receive promotional content a profile of each mobile owner will be constructed based on their responses. The profiles can be used to send relevant SMS messages from third parties. How much you charge for direct promotions is up to you, this strategy has and still works for major publishers, for instance Future publishing.
Our experienced team are highly experienced in developing marketing strategies with directors and innovators of business. Contact us to discuss this further.
Tags: Free mobile news, Future publishing, Monetise content
CHARITIES CAN RECOVER WITH SMS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 18th November 2009 at 10:58
Charities are loosing out by not using SMS mobile marketing to raise funds, according to mobile payments firm paythru.
The whit paper 'Fundraising issues facing the charity sector, and why the mobile may be able to help' recommends that all charities should consider the personal approach that SMS offers to potentially 72 million mobile devices in the UK. The report also discusses other factors obstructing charities from reaching their potential. It seems charities are too reliant on existing donors, an absence of new regular donors during the recession and loosing regular donors as consumerism becomes the priority.
The study shows how SMS can open the door to younger generations encouraging impulse donations driven be television advertisements, media and web publications. Paythru claim the time to promote through mobile is now.
The whit paper 'Fundraising issues facing the charity sector, and why the mobile may be able to help' recommends that all charities should consider the personal approach that SMS offers to potentially 72 million mobile devices in the UK. The report also discusses other factors obstructing charities from reaching their potential. It seems charities are too reliant on existing donors, an absence of new regular donors during the recession and loosing regular donors as consumerism becomes the priority.
The study shows how SMS can open the door to younger generations encouraging impulse donations driven be television advertisements, media and web publications. Paythru claim the time to promote through mobile is now.
Tags: Charities, Charity marketing, Mobile marketing for charities, Paythru, Tertiary sector
BRONZE SOLUTION PERFECT FOR TANNING SALONS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 18th November 2009 at 10:46
Research shows that tanning salons are loosing credibility with recent accusations surrounding sunbeds and the increased risk of skin cancer. As a result more and more competing salons have turned to SMS mobile marketing to communicate the truth about sunbeds and inject positivity into their brand.
Businesses like tanning salons are perfect for this type of marketing as they have regular contact with their customers, their business relies on local trade and they can promote SMS campaigns at Point Of Sale. SMS mobile marketing is a lot more diverse than people think and the interactivity and impressionability can potentially separate you from your competition.
Businesses like tanning salons are perfect for this type of marketing as they have regular contact with their customers, their business relies on local trade and they can promote SMS campaigns at Point Of Sale. SMS mobile marketing is a lot more diverse than people think and the interactivity and impressionability can potentially separate you from your competition.
Tags: Bronze, Mobile marketing, Mobile phone marketing, Salon marketing, Sms advertising, Tanning salons
SMS MOBILE MARKETING INCREASES BRAND ATTENTION
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 18th November 2009 at 10:19
Branding products and/or services can prove challenging in a world of corporate giants, spammers and regulations. One thing the larger companies are not doing is SMS mobile marketing. SMS spamming is still a problem but imagine will receiving a promotional text message completely relevant to you. Are we saying we can make you psychic? no.
SMS competitions, loyalty schemes and opinion poles all ask the user for information, this information is stored and can be used to build very detailed demographics for brands. Many of our customers have achieved a great deal of success with viral text messaging, profiling and re-promotion of third party brands.
Our support team are available to offer advice and tell you how SMS can fit into your businesses promotions or monetisation of service. Contact us for more information.
SMS competitions, loyalty schemes and opinion poles all ask the user for information, this information is stored and can be used to build very detailed demographics for brands. Many of our customers have achieved a great deal of success with viral text messaging, profiling and re-promotion of third party brands.
Our support team are available to offer advice and tell you how SMS can fit into your businesses promotions or monetisation of service. Contact us for more information.
Tags: Brand attention, Brand awareness, Branding, Marketing brands, Mobile marketing brands
56 MILLION US MOBILE SOCIAL NETWORKERS BY 2013
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 16th November 2009 at 12:07
Social networking is one of the fastest-growing activities among mobile users domestically and worldwide, so marketers must follow the eyeballs and develop a mobile social strategy. It is the primary way people communicate with each other in 2009. Younger people are using technology to improve their friendships and grow their social networks on and off line.
SMS mobile marketing is still a very valid way to offer targeted promotions to the younger generations, current research shows that social networks are more tolerant of promotions and anything on their mobile phone is both opened and read more than email and social media sites.
SMS mobile marketing is still a very valid way to offer targeted promotions to the younger generations, current research shows that social networks are more tolerant of promotions and anything on their mobile phone is both opened and read more than email and social media sites.
Tags: Mobile social networkers, US mobile
BLACKBERRY LEAVES A MARK
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 16th November 2009 at 11:46
"I have an iPhone and thank God for that. One of my colleagues has a BlackBerry and I borrowed it for a story I was writing. It was the most miserable times of my life." say Gizelle of mobilenewsleader.com. He claims it took over one hour to download the BlackBerry app world, the Internet was slow, and the app he was reviewing took 15 minutes to download.
It seems that BlackBerry in functionality terms is more like a PC than a smart phone. Gizelle recommends using an iPhone over the BlackBerry.
It seems that BlackBerry in functionality terms is more like a PC than a smart phone. Gizelle recommends using an iPhone over the BlackBerry.
Tags: Blackberry, IPhone, Reviews
RAPPER GUCCI MANE PROMOTES HIS CD THROUGH MOBILE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 16th November 2009 at 11:40
Rapper Gucci Mane is using mobile to promote his new album, "The State vs. Radric Davis." Using twitter to advertise his shortcode and keyword Gucci tweeted "Txt DecemBURR to 484848 to hear a preview of 'Worst Enemy' from The State Vs Radric Davis, new album in stores DecemBURR 8th - RT!". Once again another example of leveraging the social media networks to achieve hype and promote mobile marketing campaigns.
To achieve this as an SME set up a twitter account and from the offset offer a link on your site and use it to support your customers. Once you have a number of customers following you and you know they are interested in your promotions you can set up a campaign with a keyword and a shortcode, why not try this with our SMS mobile marketing free trial.
To achieve this as an SME set up a twitter account and from the offset offer a link on your site and use it to support your customers. Once you have a number of customers following you and you know they are interested in your promotions you can set up a campaign with a keyword and a shortcode, why not try this with our SMS mobile marketing free trial.
Tags: Gucci Mane, The State vs. Radric Davis., Twitter mobile marketing
2014 THE NFC REVOLUTION?
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 13th November 2009 at 11:33
NFC or Near Field Communications is a short range wireless communication technology covering a range of approximately 100 centimetres. It is said that 1 in 6 mobile phone users will regularly use NFC by 2014. It offers significant benefits for businesses and mobile marketers with the ability to allow POS promotions through mobile phones.
There are some sales and promotional opportunities for mobile marketers, for instance offering loyalty rewards in the form of mobile vouchers for regular shoppers or perhaps referral scheme promotions.
Japan has taken to the technology without hesitation but it seems western society won't be ready till 2014 for the NFC payment revolution.
There are some sales and promotional opportunities for mobile marketers, for instance offering loyalty rewards in the form of mobile vouchers for regular shoppers or perhaps referral scheme promotions.
Japan has taken to the technology without hesitation but it seems western society won't be ready till 2014 for the NFC payment revolution.
Tags: Near Field Communications, NFC, POS promotions
THE FL INTERACTIVE MOBILE MARKETING TENDER
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 13th November 2009 at 10:48
FL interactive have Internet and mobile rights for 80 football clubs in The Football League, Premier League and Football Conference. Kieran Kilbride said "FLi is one of the largest football networks in Europe and its websites receive more than 120 million advertising impressions every month. This is a great opportunity for the right company to make a connection with our network's six million individual users."
The Text Works is not in a position to offer anything other than SMS mobile marketing so our vote goes to Piri Ltd. Piri offer WAP and SMS services with the added value of experienced support to implement, optimise and monetise mobile marketing campaigns and initiatives.
Whoever applies for this tender needs to be able to deal with a huge volume of WAP/mobile internet and SMS traffic. How they want to implement mobile marketing and what they expect to achieve from their campaign is not clear.
The Text Works is not in a position to offer anything other than SMS mobile marketing so our vote goes to Piri Ltd. Piri offer WAP and SMS services with the added value of experienced support to implement, optimise and monetise mobile marketing campaigns and initiatives.
Whoever applies for this tender needs to be able to deal with a huge volume of WAP/mobile internet and SMS traffic. How they want to implement mobile marketing and what they expect to achieve from their campaign is not clear.
Tags: FL interactive, FLi, Flinteractive.com, Football Conference, Kieran Kilbride, Mobile Marketing Tender, Premier league, The Football League
GOOGLE MOBS THE MOBILE AD WORLD
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 12th November 2009 at 10:54
Google announced acquisition of Admob, a mobile display advertising specialist, for $750 million ($450 million).
Research has shown the Apple's iPhone and Google's Android access the mobile web substantially more than other mobile devices. Admob was established in 2006 and boasts working with Coca Cola, Ford and Procter & Gamble.
Reference: Google turns to mobile
Research has shown the Apple's iPhone and Google's Android access the mobile web substantially more than other mobile devices. Admob was established in 2006 and boasts working with Coca Cola, Ford and Procter & Gamble.
Reference: Google turns to mobile
Tags: Admob, Google
SMS SPAM GIVES CONSUMERS INDIGESTION
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 12th November 2009 at 10:45
Mobilemarketingwatch.com released an article about the recent study by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA). It showed that SMS marketing users want to have more control over the messages they receive. The studies aims were to quantify the issues surrounding the "unwritten rules of engagement" within the realm of SMS promotions.
Companies levering SMS to promote brands are not being clear enough about the opt in process the DMA study found. Two thirds of users wanted to choose the time of day they received the promotions, others had no idea where the SMS came from or how they opted in.
The DMA advise that if you want to maintain trust you have to be explicit about the optin process and confirm opt outs instantly.
Reference: Consumers Seek Control Over SMS Marketing
Companies levering SMS to promote brands are not being clear enough about the opt in process the DMA study found. Two thirds of users wanted to choose the time of day they received the promotions, others had no idea where the SMS came from or how they opted in.
The DMA advise that if you want to maintain trust you have to be explicit about the optin process and confirm opt outs instantly.
Reference: Consumers Seek Control Over SMS Marketing
Tags: Direct Marketing Association, DMA, Mobilemarketingwatch.com, SMS marketing, SMS spam
UNDERSTANDING THE MARKETING MIX
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 26th October 2009 at 13:05
The term "Marketing mix" refers to the 4 P's of marketing; Price, Place, Promotion and Product. When marketing you need to build a long term strategy and often it helps to think about the mix and, just like in baking, the mix of ingredients is essential to the results.
Here is how each element of the marketing mix breaks down:
Price
Giving your customers the right price is always important, some things however cannot be lowered in price for example, wages, license fees and marketing tools. If you cannot get your prices any lower then you can still focus on value, spend less time focusing on the price and more time telling people why it is valuable - for instance we offer SMS advertising as a Value Added Service and we tell our customers about the money they can make and the customer experience improvements they will see.
Place
Location is a very important thing, having a shoe shop in an industrial estate is a mistake, having it on the high street set apart from competition is perfect. The same applies to the Internet, find a niche market either by geo-targeting or buying the right domain name, for instance if there is a demand in the UK for widgets make a website specifically for the UK and buy a domain like ukwidgets.co.uk.
Promotion
This refers to your promotional strategy and execution, very often this is a large part of any marketing campaign so requires more attention. Spend time researching what has worked for other similar industries and assess current trends and buzz to determine what works best for your products and services. Mobile marketing can help build market segments for targeted promotions, its easier than ever to profile subscribers in a natural way. Publishers use text the editor and campaigns, radio broadcasters use text the DJ and opinion poles, event organisers use viral promotions and retailers use loyalty schemes and discount SMS vouchers. However its done, the targeting process has been completely automated and prices are lower than ever.
Product
Adapting your product range or services to meet customer demands is a smart move, the best way to keep up with your customers is to speak to them. You could try email, setting up special events and other more direct approaches. I have always found cold calling to be a bit of a turn off, mobile marketing is highly appropriate because it reaches them wherever they are, it is less obtrusive than cold calling and the open rate is higher than traditional methods such as email.
It is expected that a huge proportion of SME's will adapt their marketing mix to include SMS, those that are strong innovators and get to grips with the technology early on will be the most successful.
The marketing mix should not be the same for all businesses, different products and industries require a different ratio. Contact us if you have any further questions or comments and good luck.
Here is how each element of the marketing mix breaks down:
Price
Giving your customers the right price is always important, some things however cannot be lowered in price for example, wages, license fees and marketing tools. If you cannot get your prices any lower then you can still focus on value, spend less time focusing on the price and more time telling people why it is valuable - for instance we offer SMS advertising as a Value Added Service and we tell our customers about the money they can make and the customer experience improvements they will see.
Place
Location is a very important thing, having a shoe shop in an industrial estate is a mistake, having it on the high street set apart from competition is perfect. The same applies to the Internet, find a niche market either by geo-targeting or buying the right domain name, for instance if there is a demand in the UK for widgets make a website specifically for the UK and buy a domain like ukwidgets.co.uk.
Promotion
This refers to your promotional strategy and execution, very often this is a large part of any marketing campaign so requires more attention. Spend time researching what has worked for other similar industries and assess current trends and buzz to determine what works best for your products and services. Mobile marketing can help build market segments for targeted promotions, its easier than ever to profile subscribers in a natural way. Publishers use text the editor and campaigns, radio broadcasters use text the DJ and opinion poles, event organisers use viral promotions and retailers use loyalty schemes and discount SMS vouchers. However its done, the targeting process has been completely automated and prices are lower than ever.
Product
Adapting your product range or services to meet customer demands is a smart move, the best way to keep up with your customers is to speak to them. You could try email, setting up special events and other more direct approaches. I have always found cold calling to be a bit of a turn off, mobile marketing is highly appropriate because it reaches them wherever they are, it is less obtrusive than cold calling and the open rate is higher than traditional methods such as email.
It is expected that a huge proportion of SME's will adapt their marketing mix to include SMS, those that are strong innovators and get to grips with the technology early on will be the most successful.
The marketing mix should not be the same for all businesses, different products and industries require a different ratio. Contact us if you have any further questions or comments and good luck.
Tags: 4 P's of marketing, Marketing mix
SMS IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE CHANNEL FOR COMMUNICATION
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 20th October 2009 at 11:27
A recent report from Forrester Consulting found that 74% of marketers said they preferred SMS as a marketing tool and 44% of a random internet user population said they would prefer to receive product information and general marketing via SMS. Other finding in the report also suggested that UK based companies are the best at multi-channel marketing strategies and developing relationships with potential customers.
Why might this be?
Other reports have suggest that by the year 2013 SMS will be widely used as a compliment to marketing campaigns.
Why might this be?
- SMS is highly measurable
- It is instant
- Messages are of a digestible length
- People have to opt in to messages so are more likely to show an interest in targeted messages
Other reports have suggest that by the year 2013 SMS will be widely used as a compliment to marketing campaigns.
Tags: Best communication, Best marketing channel, Sms is best
NBC - THE "HEROES" OF SMS MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 13th October 2009 at 11:11
For some time now NBC has enjoyed the new found success of their TV hit show Heroes. The series follows the lives of ordinary people gifted with extraordinary powers that corrupts some and purifies others descending them into a good versus evil showdown. Heroes have suffered from low ratings recently triggering NBC to make the leap into mobile marketing.
NBC are using interactive SMS in real time with TV broadcasts as well as offering $25,000 if they solve a mystery using various hints as the story unfolds. The marketing campaign includes:
Users could text "HPLAY" to 62288 at any time to start interacting, the number and keyword were promoted during Heroes broadcasts.
Stephen Andrade, NBC senior vice president of digital development and general manager said "Mobile is another device like the PC Web or interactive TV or anything else that can deliver digital content... It's small and portable and for us it makes sense to combine it in our overall marketing plans."
NBC have displayed tremendous marketing dexterity in years gone by and this campaign is no different. They have recognised that email and web cannot completely compliment television. Mobile is perfect as the viewer will have their mobile phone near them while watching the show, SMS is instant and quick to read. The interactive potential of mobile and television has not been fully realised but there is no doubt NBC have taken a huge leap.
NBC are using interactive SMS in real time with TV broadcasts as well as offering $25,000 if they solve a mystery using various hints as the story unfolds. The marketing campaign includes:
- graphic novels for mobile handsets
- a game of survival
- various snippets of Heroes
- a micro site
Users could text "HPLAY" to 62288 at any time to start interacting, the number and keyword were promoted during Heroes broadcasts.
Stephen Andrade, NBC senior vice president of digital development and general manager said "Mobile is another device like the PC Web or interactive TV or anything else that can deliver digital content... It's small and portable and for us it makes sense to combine it in our overall marketing plans."
NBC have displayed tremendous marketing dexterity in years gone by and this campaign is no different. They have recognised that email and web cannot completely compliment television. Mobile is perfect as the viewer will have their mobile phone near them while watching the show, SMS is instant and quick to read. The interactive potential of mobile and television has not been fully realised but there is no doubt NBC have taken a huge leap.
Tags: Mobile marketing and television, NBC, NBC marketing, SMS marketing, TV show Heroes
CUSTOMER SERVICE AND MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Monday 5th October 2009 at 14:47
Many of us have experienced poor service and inconsistent levels of support as customers. It is increasingly frustrating when you are unable to make any progress, especially when what your working on is time sensitive. This article aims to highlight some of the problems surrounding modern customer service and explain how our mobile solutions can solve these issues in a cost effective way.
Here are the major customer service failures that I have experienced in recent years:
99% of adults between the ages of 18 and 45 have a mobile phone at hand during working hours. Mobile phones allow them to read messages and respond instantly with the added benefit of being able to contact you while on the move. Here are some specific ways that our mobile solutions could improve your customer awareness and increase loyalty:
Speak to our mobile marketing specialists for more information.
All of our packages allow complete access to our range of messaging solutions. It requires no integration and little training. We offer live demonstrations on request. Once registered you can start using the interface instantly. If you do choose to plug our SMS gateway into you current support systems its as easy as copying and pasting a link.
As an added bonus we have developers available on the phone if your technical team have any questions or experience any integration issues.
Here are the major customer service failures that I have experienced in recent years:
- Poor quality phone and email service
- Language barriers on phone and in text
- Being put on hold due to lack of knowledge or being directed to the wrong department
- Lack of training causing delays
- Lack of manners
- Low customer awareness
- High level of training and manpower can be expensive
So how can mobile messaging solutions help?
99% of adults between the ages of 18 and 45 have a mobile phone at hand during working hours. Mobile phones allow them to read messages and respond instantly with the added benefit of being able to contact you while on the move. Here are some specific ways that our mobile solutions could improve your customer awareness and increase loyalty:
- Promotional messages sent directly to their phone
- Automatic account verification - mobile phone numbers are unique to each customer
- Offer a two way message flow for standard support enquiries
- Request a callback if no one is available or lines are busy
- Service status enquiries - such as network outages or similar
Speak to our mobile marketing specialists for more information.
How to implement mobile as a support channel
All of our packages allow complete access to our range of messaging solutions. It requires no integration and little training. We offer live demonstrations on request. Once registered you can start using the interface instantly. If you do choose to plug our SMS gateway into you current support systems its as easy as copying and pasting a link.
As an added bonus we have developers available on the phone if your technical team have any questions or experience any integration issues.
Tags: Customer service and mobile marketing, Customer service issues, Customer service problems, Mobile support, Quality control
MOBILE MARKETING DRIVES BMW
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 29th September 2009 at 13:19
As one of the first mobile marketing innovators BMW has set the bar for manufacturers looking to target a specific demographic on a service level. Like BMW 62% of companies are increasing their mobile marketing budget and in some cases disregarding all other marketing campaigns. Many marketing experts are realising that mobile offers a completely unique way to interact with their customer base and reach full sale potential.
The head of BMW digital media, Marc Mielau, made the call to start channelling marketing campaigns through mobile media channels and hasn't looked back. Most recently BMW promoted their 1 series saying they could "conquer young people through the mobile channel". BMW even launched Nokia mobile phones with preinstalled 1 series content and developed a downloadable racing game with customisable cars showing off the cars fresh rear design during game play. Mielau said "We got 75,000 downloads which - at that time - was an amazing success".
BMW avoided straight forward advertising through mobile marketing saying "advertising in not value!" BMW believe you can save time or kill time; save time when their busy and kill time if they are not. So they target the appropriate demographic and only deliver useful content rather than spamming their entire customer base with every campaign regardless of their current service needs.
One of their campaigns actually converted over 30% of their recipients to sale which is a huge success for any marketing campaign. Other successful BMW initiatives include:
BMW have followed a few simple rules to achieve success:
BMW for now are looking to continue servicing their clients through mobile innovations. It will be interesting to see what they come up with next.
The head of BMW digital media, Marc Mielau, made the call to start channelling marketing campaigns through mobile media channels and hasn't looked back. Most recently BMW promoted their 1 series saying they could "conquer young people through the mobile channel". BMW even launched Nokia mobile phones with preinstalled 1 series content and developed a downloadable racing game with customisable cars showing off the cars fresh rear design during game play. Mielau said "We got 75,000 downloads which - at that time - was an amazing success".
BMW avoided straight forward advertising through mobile marketing saying "advertising in not value!" BMW believe you can save time or kill time; save time when their busy and kill time if they are not. So they target the appropriate demographic and only deliver useful content rather than spamming their entire customer base with every campaign regardless of their current service needs.
One of their campaigns actually converted over 30% of their recipients to sale which is a huge success for any marketing campaign. Other successful BMW initiatives include:
- Texting German customers reminding them to fit winter tyres before the snow season with a call to action leading them to a local dealer
- A downloadable game following on from their Z4 TV adverts with the model spreading colour around a large canvas
BMW have followed a few simple rules to achieve success:
- Accurate targeting
- Viral concepts
- Appeal on a personal level
- Be helpful not annoying
- Optimise content for recipient technologies
- Use mobile as a service channel not advertising
BMW for now are looking to continue servicing their clients through mobile innovations. It will be interesting to see what they come up with next.
Tags: BMW, BMW 1 series, BMW mobile marketing, BMW Z4, Marc Mielau
MEASURING MOBILE MARKETING RESULTS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Friday 25th September 2009 at 14:10
Our team of developers have been working to improve our SMS interface and measurement tools. One of the main topics of discussion was making campaign responses more measurable and displaying the data in a meaningful way.
We have added the following features to our statistics engine to meet the aforementioned requirements:
We have added the following features to our statistics engine to meet the aforementioned requirements:
- Statistics can be restricted to a custom date range
- Users can view results by type of message, revenue, costs and profits
- You can view specific trends, for example popular days of the week or popular times
- Three dimensional graphs for all statistics
- View and download statistics in spreadsheet format
Tags: Flash statistics, Measuring marketing, Mobile marketing measurable, The Text Works Statistics
MOBILE MARKETING - MUCH MORE THAN JUST SENDING MESSAGES
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 24th September 2009 at 11:41
After some research and networking the general assumption seems to be that mobile marketing is simply broadcasting to a group of individuals that are likely to have an interest in a specific product or promotion. For example someone said "Sending offers or advertising through Mobile SMS is known as Mobile Marketing."
Other marketing professionals are saying that mobile marketing requires Bluetooth proximity alerts, picture messaging innovations and market driven mobile applications. Whilst all of this is true to some degree it is a very limited approach to improving brand attention, customer awareness and lead generation. Here are some recommendations to achieve maximum results when mobile marketing:
Some of the larger companies have spent a lot of resources on building viral mobile marketing campaigns on a grand scale, for example using billboards in times square allowing people to control a persons emotions by texting one or two keywords to a shortcode.
Most SME's are using the 6 steps in conjunction with advice from our team of specialists, but that doesn't mean you have to do the same. If you have an idea and want to sound it out contact us or try our free trial to make sure mobile is right for you.
Other marketing professionals are saying that mobile marketing requires Bluetooth proximity alerts, picture messaging innovations and market driven mobile applications. Whilst all of this is true to some degree it is a very limited approach to improving brand attention, customer awareness and lead generation. Here are some recommendations to achieve maximum results when mobile marketing:
- Publish a call to action to your audience with your shortcode and keyword, for example "Send TextWorks to 87474"
- When customers respond TheTextWorks interface will store their response and in turn send a custom reply
- Their numbers and messages will be stored in your database
- Build a list of customers from your interface
- Develop a viral or promotional message with a free or discounted offer
- Send your message
Some of the larger companies have spent a lot of resources on building viral mobile marketing campaigns on a grand scale, for example using billboards in times square allowing people to control a persons emotions by texting one or two keywords to a shortcode.
Most SME's are using the 6 steps in conjunction with advice from our team of specialists, but that doesn't mean you have to do the same. If you have an idea and want to sound it out contact us or try our free trial to make sure mobile is right for you.
Tags: Mobile marketing, Mobile marketing assumptions, Not just sending messages, Shortcode, Text keyword
RETAIL MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 23rd September 2009 at 17:27
What is it?
Retail mobile marketing consists of sending SMS text messages to customer mobile handsets to promote products and developing incentives to persuade customers to send messages using your designated shortcode and keyword. Some retailers use the two methods in conjunction and others use our service to simply broadcast a specific group of consumers.
Why do it?
Now more than ever retailers need to diversify their approach to promotional marketing. Mobile marketing is still fresh and allows marketers to:
Who does it?
Tesco joined forces with Marie Curie Cancer Care to "raise money on the move" linking to a mobile website for Marie Curie donations and news. Sainsbury's have started an in store viral marketing campaign to promote latest wine offers. Many other large and small retailers are adopting the mobile advertising initiative; see our case studies for more details.
How it's done
Build a strategy to encourage customers to text a shortcode to subscribe to news, events and special offers. Make sure you publish the shortcode and any other details clearly across all the usual channels, just like you would with emails and web addresses. You could even train staff to collect numbers at Point Of Sale by offering rewards or loyalty schemes. Make sure any participants know that they will be receiving promotional messages and allow them to unsubscribe at any time. Consider all of the above carefully when training retail staff.
Once you have an audience you can begin broadcasting strategic and even viral messages. Use as much information about your customers to determine if your messages are appropriate and avoid over messaging; spam will result in customers removing themselves from your database.
Contact us for any further queries or marketing advice, our UK support team will respond to your email within 1 working day. Real time demonstrations are available on request.
Retail mobile marketing consists of sending SMS text messages to customer mobile handsets to promote products and developing incentives to persuade customers to send messages using your designated shortcode and keyword. Some retailers use the two methods in conjunction and others use our service to simply broadcast a specific group of consumers.
Why do it?
Now more than ever retailers need to diversify their approach to promotional marketing. Mobile marketing is still fresh and allows marketers to:
- Reach thousands of customers in seconds
- Drive customer loyalty through promotions
- Gain insight into customers
- Improve marketing response rates
- Measure responses instantly
Who does it?
Tesco joined forces with Marie Curie Cancer Care to "raise money on the move" linking to a mobile website for Marie Curie donations and news. Sainsbury's have started an in store viral marketing campaign to promote latest wine offers. Many other large and small retailers are adopting the mobile advertising initiative; see our case studies for more details.
How it's done
Build a strategy to encourage customers to text a shortcode to subscribe to news, events and special offers. Make sure you publish the shortcode and any other details clearly across all the usual channels, just like you would with emails and web addresses. You could even train staff to collect numbers at Point Of Sale by offering rewards or loyalty schemes. Make sure any participants know that they will be receiving promotional messages and allow them to unsubscribe at any time. Consider all of the above carefully when training retail staff.
Once you have an audience you can begin broadcasting strategic and even viral messages. Use as much information about your customers to determine if your messages are appropriate and avoid over messaging; spam will result in customers removing themselves from your database.
Contact us for any further queries or marketing advice, our UK support team will respond to your email within 1 working day. Real time demonstrations are available on request.
Tags: Retail marketing, Retail mobile marketing
CUSTOMER SERVICE CLOSES THE GAP BETWEEN SMES AND CORPORATIONS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 22nd September 2009 at 12:36
If you are an SME or sole trader then you probably already know that customer service is essential to repeat business. Larger companies such as Google or Amazon envy your relationship between you and your customer. They are too busy handling the volume of new customers to afford the time and care you can offer.
It is highly likely that a relatively large number of customers have received poor customer service from large companies and a smaller company with the personal touch is exactly what they need. In fact you may find that a lot of burned customers will stay longer because of the personal support even if your products are not as beneficial. UK based businesses are increasingly appreciating being able to pick up a phone and speak to a UK specialist, they are turned off by non UK call centres who don't understand the product.
This is where text comes into its own. When used correctly it can be a powerful tool for customer service. It can help you gather and store information about your customers and their preferences, so that you can keep them informed about new developments and offers you know they will be interested in. It can also be used for 'live chat' giving your customers a direct link to support wherever and whenever they need it.
Here are some tips to improve your customer service:
A lot of SMEs are already taking customers away from large companies and some are beginning to work with other smaller companies within the same industry to oppose the larger corporations effectively.
Don't get left behind - network with other SMEs and be prepared to share information and resources to harden each other against those who could otherwise monopolise your market.
It is highly likely that a relatively large number of customers have received poor customer service from large companies and a smaller company with the personal touch is exactly what they need. In fact you may find that a lot of burned customers will stay longer because of the personal support even if your products are not as beneficial. UK based businesses are increasingly appreciating being able to pick up a phone and speak to a UK specialist, they are turned off by non UK call centres who don't understand the product.
This is where text comes into its own. When used correctly it can be a powerful tool for customer service. It can help you gather and store information about your customers and their preferences, so that you can keep them informed about new developments and offers you know they will be interested in. It can also be used for 'live chat' giving your customers a direct link to support wherever and whenever they need it.
Here are some tips to improve your customer service:
- Low paid support staff will not perform well
- Staff will treat customers as they are treated
- Understand your customers on a personal level
- Let your customer get to know you - for instance have a more personal blog and photos on about pages
- Go that extra mile
- Welcome your customers when they sign up
- Give customers the benefit of the doubt
- Do as much as you can to say yes
- Make sure your support staff are well trained and up to date
- If in doubt ask your customers - via text, email or online survey
A lot of SMEs are already taking customers away from large companies and some are beginning to work with other smaller companies within the same industry to oppose the larger corporations effectively.
Don't get left behind - network with other SMEs and be prepared to share information and resources to harden each other against those who could otherwise monopolise your market.
Tags: Amazon, Customer service, Customer support, Google, Networking, Sme's versus large companies
TELEMEDICINE - MEDICAL INFORMATION THROUGH MOBILE PHONES
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 16th September 2009 at 17:23
Telemedicine is the process of communicating medical information through mobile phones or email. It can be used for consultations and examinations; for example photos of ailments sent via mobile phones or web cams. If geography is a problem then one or more consultants can review a case remotely without expenditure of precious funds or time spent travelling.
Another effective application of telemedicine is video conferencing. Time sensitive and complex cases require a detailed conversation, video conferencing is more appropriate than email or text messages as it allows for a real time conversation, as opposed to turn based questions and answers.
Absentia care, or care from a distance, has existed for decades. In some cases medical communications and prescriptions have been sent via post. As technology has evolved so have the medical professionals.
Mobile marketing in the form of SMS is perfect for telemedicine for the following reasons:
Direct marketing to patients is frowned upon so if you decide to set up a campaign make sure all of the recipients are aware that they will receive promotional messages and avoid sending to many messages. Allow people to unsubscribe from marketing messages without being excluded from telemedicine subscriptions.
If in doubt do surveys and research on the internet, look at successful case studies and avoid repeating other companies marketing faux pas.
Another effective application of telemedicine is video conferencing. Time sensitive and complex cases require a detailed conversation, video conferencing is more appropriate than email or text messages as it allows for a real time conversation, as opposed to turn based questions and answers.
Absentia care, or care from a distance, has existed for decades. In some cases medical communications and prescriptions have been sent via post. As technology has evolved so have the medical professionals.
Mobile marketing in the form of SMS is perfect for telemedicine for the following reasons:
- Surgery registrants can be added to the gateway on mass
- Patient details can be attached to phone numbers within the interface
- Text messages are quick and easy to compose
- Messaging is cost effective and instant
- Automated messages can be set up for regular check ups and feedback
Direct marketing to patients is frowned upon so if you decide to set up a campaign make sure all of the recipients are aware that they will receive promotional messages and avoid sending to many messages. Allow people to unsubscribe from marketing messages without being excluded from telemedicine subscriptions.
If in doubt do surveys and research on the internet, look at successful case studies and avoid repeating other companies marketing faux pas.
Tags: Absentia care, Medical mobile marketing, Medicine, Sms medicine, Surgical consult, Telemedicine
COCA COLA - MOBILE MARKETING ON A GLOBAL SCALE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 16th September 2009 at 10:12
Back in 2007 Coca Cola stormed into the mobile advertising marketplace with click-to-video mobile ad technology. "Coke is eager to reach its customers on the mobile phone as it is a highly personal device." said Tom Daly, group manager for strategy and planning at Coca Cola. Around the same time Coke produced a WAP only social network called the Sprite yard. Subscribers text a short code and receive a link to register, they can follow the link, login and begin socialising through the WAP site. The idea was to offer free wallpaper, ringtones and multimedia promoting their recent brands alongside advertising their latest offers and products.
More recently Coca Cola positioned point of sale promotions encouraging consumers to text a keyword to a short code and in turn receive a free drink. A text based voucher code allowed them to claim a bottle of Dr Pepper, Sprite or Fanta through Paypoint technology. Coca Cola received great feedback from retailers and customers, and the campaign was said to be a complete success.
Somewhat predictably Coke further promoted the aforementioned brands in July 2009 by offering 50 pence credit with each purchase. All shoppers had to do was text a keyword to a short code from the drinks packaging and their phones contract or balance received credit within 48 hours. Once again sales peaked and their strategies proved to be sound.
Many other brands including Uniliver are already experimenting with coupon based promotions. Could mobile marketing work for you?
More recently Coca Cola positioned point of sale promotions encouraging consumers to text a keyword to a short code and in turn receive a free drink. A text based voucher code allowed them to claim a bottle of Dr Pepper, Sprite or Fanta through Paypoint technology. Coca Cola received great feedback from retailers and customers, and the campaign was said to be a complete success.
Somewhat predictably Coke further promoted the aforementioned brands in July 2009 by offering 50 pence credit with each purchase. All shoppers had to do was text a keyword to a short code from the drinks packaging and their phones contract or balance received credit within 48 hours. Once again sales peaked and their strategies proved to be sound.
Many other brands including Uniliver are already experimenting with coupon based promotions. Could mobile marketing work for you?
Tags: Click-to-video, Coca Cola, Coke, Dr Pepper, Fanta, Paypoint, Sprite, US retailers
WHAT IS MOBILE MARKETING?
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 10th September 2009 at 09:12
Mobile marketing is simply marketing through a mobile device. More specifically since the early 2000's, it means marketing material transported via SMS to mobile phones. SMS has become a legitimate marketing medium and has proven to be highly successful in recent years.
To achieve a successful mobile marketing campaign you should follow these steps:
Companies who have used mobile marketing include; The Guardian, BBC, Future publishing, Loot, The Big Issue, Ford, Jaguar, Volvo, Yahoo, The Ministry of Sound and many more. The vast majority of companies who have taken part in these campaigns have learned a lot about their customers, continued using the service and improved relationships with their target audience.
The future of marketing will include technologies such as mobile phones and it is predicted that by 2012, 70% of marketing campaigns will involve mobile marketing in some way. But for the time being it remains a fresh and acceptable way to stay in touch with customers and virally market new products.
To achieve a successful mobile marketing campaign you should follow these steps:
- Decide what you are going to advertise
- Determine who wants to learn about your products or services
- Sign up with an SMS service provider
- Build a relevant subscription list
- Compose viral and understandable messages
- Spend time reviewing your campaign results
- Learn from your mistakes and listen to your audience
- Go back to step 1
Companies who have used mobile marketing include; The Guardian, BBC, Future publishing, Loot, The Big Issue, Ford, Jaguar, Volvo, Yahoo, The Ministry of Sound and many more. The vast majority of companies who have taken part in these campaigns have learned a lot about their customers, continued using the service and improved relationships with their target audience.
The future of marketing will include technologies such as mobile phones and it is predicted that by 2012, 70% of marketing campaigns will involve mobile marketing in some way. But for the time being it remains a fresh and acceptable way to stay in touch with customers and virally market new products.
Tags: BBC, Ford, Future publishing, Jaguar, Loot, The big issue, The guardian, The ministry of sound, Volvo, What is mobile marketing, Yahoo
RECORD LABEL ADOPTS MOBILE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 10th September 2009 at 08:52
Record label Geffen recently developed a mobile marketing strategy to promote the girl band Mini Viva. The debut single, "Left My Heart in Tokyo" was released on the 7th September and sales are on the up. The marketing strategy was specifically designed for iPhone and iPod touch and targets the 13 to 24 age range. Using CPC advert links and CPM banner adverts distributed across Admob's social networks, mobile websites and applications the marketing campaign is set to appeal to young people more dynamically than previous promotions.
Colin Barrow, the Geffen UK President, says "Technology now enables acts to raise their profile and start a dialogue with their fans in many new and exciting ways. The mobile channel provided an ideal opportunity to reach Mini Viva's prospective fan base. By working with AdMob and promoting the single on iPhone and iPod touch devices, we're hitting a digital generation of music lovers that are becoming increasingly used to interacting with their favourite artists via technology."
As the music industry becomes increasingly saturated with new artists of all genres, top record labels are finding fresh and inventive ways of building accurate demographics of their target population and appealing to their consumerism on a personal level. Whether or not they decide that mobile is appropriate, marketers need to diversify their broadcasting medium to maintain high impact marketing and ROI.
Here are some useful guides for potential mobile marketers:
Colin Barrow, the Geffen UK President, says "Technology now enables acts to raise their profile and start a dialogue with their fans in many new and exciting ways. The mobile channel provided an ideal opportunity to reach Mini Viva's prospective fan base. By working with AdMob and promoting the single on iPhone and iPod touch devices, we're hitting a digital generation of music lovers that are becoming increasingly used to interacting with their favourite artists via technology."
As the music industry becomes increasingly saturated with new artists of all genres, top record labels are finding fresh and inventive ways of building accurate demographics of their target population and appealing to their consumerism on a personal level. Whether or not they decide that mobile is appropriate, marketers need to diversify their broadcasting medium to maintain high impact marketing and ROI.
Here are some useful guides for potential mobile marketers:
Tags: CPC, CPM, Geffen, IPhone, IPod touch, Left my heart in tokyo, Marketing ROI, Mini viva, Music mobile marketing, Record label
NISSAN AND YAHOOS JOINT VENTURE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 8th September 2009 at 08:55
Japanese car manufacturer Nissan and Internet giant Yahoo have joined forces through a mobile marketing exercise. The theme of the campaign is simplicity; using Nissan Micra, Pixo and Note models to illustrate the theme. Yahoo has created an application enabling their users to publish reviews of places to stay and city breaks on a global scale. Yahoo will promote its guides through mobile phones and online networks with the main focus being on Nissan's simplistic car design. Other car manufactures that have used mobile marketing include Ford, Jaguar and Volvo. What separates this campaign from previous efforts is that it is promoting two brands at once. It will be interesting to see how successful this joint venture is.
Ford marketed their new Flex model successfully in Dallas targeting a culturally broad spectrum of consumers in the barber shop and beauty salon trade using uVIP and bCODE technologies. Jaguar promoted its XF model advertising on mobile sites such as admob.com, Yahoo Mobile, cars.mobi and MSN.mobi.
Volvo set up a Switzerland based mobile marketing competition giving away a V50. To enter the competition entrants had to text "V50" followed by their postal codes to a dedicated short code. In response they received a special code and details of their nearest Volvo dealership. By visiting the dealership and presenting the code they were given respective prizes. In addition visitors were also entered into the Christmas draw for the V50 model.
Small to Medium Enterprises still have the opportunity to reanimate their marketing strategies through mobile for a reasonable price. The amount of companies using mobile based marketing is increasing and consumers are discovering new brands through these campaigns. Contact us for more information on mobile marketing and other initiatives to put your products in your target audience's hands.
Ford marketed their new Flex model successfully in Dallas targeting a culturally broad spectrum of consumers in the barber shop and beauty salon trade using uVIP and bCODE technologies. Jaguar promoted its XF model advertising on mobile sites such as admob.com, Yahoo Mobile, cars.mobi and MSN.mobi.
Volvo set up a Switzerland based mobile marketing competition giving away a V50. To enter the competition entrants had to text "V50" followed by their postal codes to a dedicated short code. In response they received a special code and details of their nearest Volvo dealership. By visiting the dealership and presenting the code they were given respective prizes. In addition visitors were also entered into the Christmas draw for the V50 model.
Small to Medium Enterprises still have the opportunity to reanimate their marketing strategies through mobile for a reasonable price. The amount of companies using mobile based marketing is increasing and consumers are discovering new brands through these campaigns. Contact us for more information on mobile marketing and other initiatives to put your products in your target audience's hands.
Tags: BCODE, Cars, Ford, Holiday reviews, Nissan, Phone application, UVIP, Yahoo
PREDICTIVE TEXT ENCOURAGES YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE IMPULSIVE
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 3rd September 2009 at 16:29
Predictive text is an input technology built into the majority of modern mobile handsets. It attempts to predict or offer a list of possible words within a few key presses. Traditional text messaging required multiple key presses to achieve certain letters, for instance pressing the "2" key 3 times would write the letter "c" but pressing it only once produced "a". Predictive text requires only 1 key stroke per letter, so the letters "c" and "a" would only require a single press of the key "2", the letter is only determined as part of a word when enough keys are pressed - for example pressing the keys "26868" produces the word "count", the following image shows mobile phone keys and their respective letters.
Recent studies have shown that more than 9 out of 10 sixteen year olds now own a handset and as much as 40% of school children own a mobile phone. Professor Michael Abramson performed various tests and found that a quarter of 11 to 14 years olds send more than 20 text messages per week. IQ type tests revealed that using mobile phones during early years actually altered the way young people think.
Hitting a few keys and seeing the desired result is said to cause young people to not think things through and become more impulsive. Abramson says that "The kids who used their phones a lot were faster on some of the tests, but were less accurate. The use of mobile phones is changing the way children learn and pushing them to become more impulsive in the way they behave."
Abramson assures us that texting does not produce enough radiation to affect their behaviour; it is predictive text that is to blame. Other similar research suggest that predictive text messaging as a whole actually improves young people's spelling, forcing them to use real English words instead of slang or abbreviations.
Recent studies have shown that more than 9 out of 10 sixteen year olds now own a handset and as much as 40% of school children own a mobile phone. Professor Michael Abramson performed various tests and found that a quarter of 11 to 14 years olds send more than 20 text messages per week. IQ type tests revealed that using mobile phones during early years actually altered the way young people think.
Hitting a few keys and seeing the desired result is said to cause young people to not think things through and become more impulsive. Abramson says that "The kids who used their phones a lot were faster on some of the tests, but were less accurate. The use of mobile phones is changing the way children learn and pushing them to become more impulsive in the way they behave."
Abramson assures us that texting does not produce enough radiation to affect their behaviour; it is predictive text that is to blame. Other similar research suggest that predictive text messaging as a whole actually improves young people's spelling, forcing them to use real English words instead of slang or abbreviations.
Tags: Impulsive teenagers, Michael Abramson, Mobile phone radiation, Predictive text, Traditional text
QR CODE MARKETING
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 2nd September 2009 at 14:20
QR codes are open format two dimensional bar codes developed by Denso-Wave in 1994. QR or Quick Response allows mobile phones with QR readers to access websites and messages simply by photographing a QR barcode. Most Japanese mobile handsets already have a QR reader installed by default. If you do not have a QR reader installed and your mobile handset is modern it's likely you can search for a QR reader application and install it for free.
The codes can be decoded at speed and are extremely reliable. Take a picture of the following QR code to see our website home page.
There have been literally hundreds of ways that businesses and individuals have promoted products and concepts through QR code marketing. Here are just a few ways that QR codes have been displayed:
In fact the Pet Shop Boys clearly display a QR code on their CD covers. Companies of all sizes are using the QR barcode technology from local decorators to electronic billboards in Times Square.
There are a tremendous amount of applications for this technology - it could be placed on designer clothing, public transport vehicles, television advertisements, search engine results and even restaurant crockery. The trick is to react quickly and be innovative.
Like all other technology this will evolve and become increasingly compact and accessible. But for the time being it still has the wow factor for consumers.
The codes can be decoded at speed and are extremely reliable. Take a picture of the following QR code to see our website home page.
How have QR codes been used?
There have been literally hundreds of ways that businesses and individuals have promoted products and concepts through QR code marketing. Here are just a few ways that QR codes have been displayed:
- Business cards
- Electronic billboards
- Fliers
- Websites
- Email marketing
- Confectionary decoration
- DVD covers
- CD covers
In fact the Pet Shop Boys clearly display a QR code on their CD covers. Companies of all sizes are using the QR barcode technology from local decorators to electronic billboards in Times Square.
Future application of QR codes
There are a tremendous amount of applications for this technology - it could be placed on designer clothing, public transport vehicles, television advertisements, search engine results and even restaurant crockery. The trick is to react quickly and be innovative.
Like all other technology this will evolve and become increasingly compact and accessible. But for the time being it still has the wow factor for consumers.
Tags: QR code, QR marketing, QR reader, Quick response barcode
THE BRITISH LOVE OF MOBILE PHONES
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 1st September 2009 at 14:04
The British love of mobile phones is set to grow with 1 in 5 people in the UK spending a quarter of their day on their mobile phones. Despite handset sales declining mobile phone use is at an all time high. The British Empire loves their mobiles so much that next to nothing can stop their compulsion to open a text message or answer an incoming call. A large number of handset owners obsess over the latest mobile phone peripherals, upgrades and applications.
There is said to be 200 million calls a day in the UK on mobile phones showing that information exchange on a personal and business level is centred on mobile phones. People seem to fear they will lose out if their mobile phone is off or if they don't have it with them wherever they go. The need to have a mobile phone at any time is so great that clothing manufacturers are adding mobile phone pockets to bags, trousers and jackets. Some mobile phone pouches even have a hole for handset headphones.
Mobile phones are a fashion commodity and with the aggressive competition between the mobile networks; they are forced to offer higher priced complementary handsets with lower priced tariffs. Access to the latest handsets on contract will only strengthen the bond between the average Brit and their phone.
Text messaging is on the up and recent studies suggest that mobile phone subscriptions will increase by one billion over the next few years. Current mobile phones are already more powerful than some desktop computers. Some of the handset features include a clock, thermometer, light meter, GPS, accelerometer and in some cases a compass. The kit packed into these tiny devices is more complex than some of NASA's lunar modules.
Mobile phones are future safe because the technology is open for developers to produce software and solutions for most handsets. Google blog suggests the following could be available to handset owners:
Smart alerts
Dynamically notifies you when something requires your attention, for example if you have passed your usual stop on a train.
Augmented reality
Making full use of the mobile phones devices to automatically predict relevant information without the users input. For example a phone might use the camera and GPS to scan the local environment, recognise a restaurant sign and proximity then preload its menu, price list and recent reviews.
Work tool
Mobile phones could become the one-stop-shop for your working day. They could replace your PC, Blackberry and Global Positioning Systems.
The future of mobile is secure with businesses discovering innovative ways to communicate with their current customers and win new business too. Long live the mobile phone.
There is said to be 200 million calls a day in the UK on mobile phones showing that information exchange on a personal and business level is centred on mobile phones. People seem to fear they will lose out if their mobile phone is off or if they don't have it with them wherever they go. The need to have a mobile phone at any time is so great that clothing manufacturers are adding mobile phone pockets to bags, trousers and jackets. Some mobile phone pouches even have a hole for handset headphones.
Mobile phones are a fashion commodity and with the aggressive competition between the mobile networks; they are forced to offer higher priced complementary handsets with lower priced tariffs. Access to the latest handsets on contract will only strengthen the bond between the average Brit and their phone.
Text messaging is on the up and recent studies suggest that mobile phone subscriptions will increase by one billion over the next few years. Current mobile phones are already more powerful than some desktop computers. Some of the handset features include a clock, thermometer, light meter, GPS, accelerometer and in some cases a compass. The kit packed into these tiny devices is more complex than some of NASA's lunar modules.
Mobile phones are future safe because the technology is open for developers to produce software and solutions for most handsets. Google blog suggests the following could be available to handset owners:
Smart alerts
Dynamically notifies you when something requires your attention, for example if you have passed your usual stop on a train.
Augmented reality
Making full use of the mobile phones devices to automatically predict relevant information without the users input. For example a phone might use the camera and GPS to scan the local environment, recognise a restaurant sign and proximity then preload its menu, price list and recent reviews.
Work tool
Mobile phones could become the one-stop-shop for your working day. They could replace your PC, Blackberry and Global Positioning Systems.
The future of mobile is secure with businesses discovering innovative ways to communicate with their current customers and win new business too. Long live the mobile phone.
Tags: Augmented reality, Britain and mobile phones, Smart alerts, Work tool
HOW TO BUILD A MOBILE MARKETING SUBSCRIPTION LIST ON THE WEB
Posted by Phil Robinson
Thursday 27th August 2009 at 16:31
The most important part of any mobile marketing campaign is having a long standing subscriber list; there is no value in acquiring a random selection of mobile numbers and spamming them intensively. It is thought that on average you must contact someone 7 times before they show any real interest, so you need to be sure your subscribers want to hear from you before sending any messages. Spend time identifying your target audience and their interests.
Before storing any information with the intent to distribute marketing or promotional material you need to tell them what they are agreeing to, making sure the checkbox is not ticked so they have to opt in.
Here are some suggestions to help you gather and collate subscriber information.
HTML subscription forms
Offer a web based subscription form to all site visitors with as little requirements as possible, I would recommend name and mobile number only.
Opt in opportunities
Whether it's purchasing a product, subscribing to news and site updates or contacting support you should include extra fields on your web forms to allow them to store their mobile number and opt in to your subscriber list.
Offer incentives
Potential subscribers will be more inclined to join in exchange for rewards. Determine what your audience will want and display offers clearly throughout your site and email newsletters.
If your business distributes paper based publications or you sell physical products or services you can offer incentives that are attainable if they text a keyword to your short code. If your customer responds to you, you know they are interested. Viral email campaigns can be even more convenient with either a simple text message or a colour WAP voucher.
Referral schemes and rewards
The ideal scenario is using existing subscribers to recruit others in exchange for affordable rewards. How you do this depends largely on the industry you work in, for example a hosting company could offer free web space that may never be used and is increasingly inexpensive.
Have a meaningful website
If your website is appropriate and has helpful content then other people may read what you have and subscribe to your mobile list on the basis that they are genuinely interested in what you have to say.
Optimise your website
Find a way to make your website content more appealing to search engines and descriptive to encourage searchers to click through when they do find you. This is a very specialist subject and we recommend you speak to your web master or consider employing a search engine optimisation expert.
Listen to your existing subscribers
Customer feedback, surveys and support channels are good ways to build a demographic of potential subscribers. Speak to people in relevant groups on networking sites and use forums openly to learn more about your target audience.
Once you have your subscriptions you can begin your mobile marketing campaign. We recommend at this stage you read about the available mobile marketing services for inspiration.
Profiling is a great way to determine genuine customer interest, and it's automated. For example, after 4 interactions, why not ask the customer if they would like to hear about special offers or promotions. If they respond positively you know they are interested.
Before storing any information with the intent to distribute marketing or promotional material you need to tell them what they are agreeing to, making sure the checkbox is not ticked so they have to opt in.
Here are some suggestions to help you gather and collate subscriber information.
HTML subscription forms
Offer a web based subscription form to all site visitors with as little requirements as possible, I would recommend name and mobile number only.
Opt in opportunities
Whether it's purchasing a product, subscribing to news and site updates or contacting support you should include extra fields on your web forms to allow them to store their mobile number and opt in to your subscriber list.
Offer incentives
Potential subscribers will be more inclined to join in exchange for rewards. Determine what your audience will want and display offers clearly throughout your site and email newsletters.
If your business distributes paper based publications or you sell physical products or services you can offer incentives that are attainable if they text a keyword to your short code. If your customer responds to you, you know they are interested. Viral email campaigns can be even more convenient with either a simple text message or a colour WAP voucher.
Referral schemes and rewards
The ideal scenario is using existing subscribers to recruit others in exchange for affordable rewards. How you do this depends largely on the industry you work in, for example a hosting company could offer free web space that may never be used and is increasingly inexpensive.
Have a meaningful website
If your website is appropriate and has helpful content then other people may read what you have and subscribe to your mobile list on the basis that they are genuinely interested in what you have to say.
Optimise your website
Find a way to make your website content more appealing to search engines and descriptive to encourage searchers to click through when they do find you. This is a very specialist subject and we recommend you speak to your web master or consider employing a search engine optimisation expert.
Listen to your existing subscribers
Customer feedback, surveys and support channels are good ways to build a demographic of potential subscribers. Speak to people in relevant groups on networking sites and use forums openly to learn more about your target audience.
Once you have your subscriptions you can begin your mobile marketing campaign. We recommend at this stage you read about the available mobile marketing services for inspiration.
Profiling is a great way to determine genuine customer interest, and it's automated. For example, after 4 interactions, why not ask the customer if they would like to hear about special offers or promotions. If they respond positively you know they are interested.
Tags: Dos and dont's, How it works, How to, Mobile marketing
PEPSI ARE USING MOBILE MARKETING AS PART OF THEIR MARKETING STRATEGY
Posted by Phil Robinson
Wednesday 26th August 2009 at 17:43
Pepsi have revealed recently that they use Mobile Marketing in their promotional strategies and marketing. Ugur Oglu says "The mobile channel allows us to target and reward our customers on a real time basis setting mobile aside from other forms of marketing".
Pepsi will be taking part in the 2009 Mobile Marketing forum in Germany. Others to attend include Coca Cola, Sony Ericsson, Nike, Lufthansa and Auto trader. The event starts on September 9th and is said to have attracted some of the giants of modern marketing.
Larger companies cannot achieve the same level of personalised support that SME's can, as such smaller companies have the opportunity to use mobile marketing on a personal level and secure a relatively large portion of the market.
Pepsi will be taking part in the 2009 Mobile Marketing forum in Germany. Others to attend include Coca Cola, Sony Ericsson, Nike, Lufthansa and Auto trader. The event starts on September 9th and is said to have attracted some of the giants of modern marketing.
Larger companies cannot achieve the same level of personalised support that SME's can, as such smaller companies have the opportunity to use mobile marketing on a personal level and secure a relatively large portion of the market.
Tags: Mobile marketing association, Mobile marketing forum 2009, Mobile marketing giants, Mobile marketing news, Pepsi
TOP TIPS FOR MOBILE MARKETERS
Posted by Phil Robinson
Tuesday 25th August 2009 at 17:19
Mobile marketing is a fairly new and high impact approach to communicating with an existing or potential audience. With that in mind we thought it might be helpful to write an introduction to do's and don'ts of mobile marketing.
DO: Think about your target audience demographic
There is nothing more annoying than receiving a text message, email or letter that is completely irrelevant and in some cases inappropriate. Know your audience and gather information from people who are likely to appreciate your marketing messages.
DON'T: Obtain a database of random mobile numbers
Such sources won't check that these users are relevant or that the mobile phones are still active. Further these users may well have been heavily spammed by other database subscribers.
DO: Use your messages to link to other channels
WAP/ Web Sites, Vouchers to push people to POS (Point Of Sale), WAP payment sites and Telephone booking lines.
DON'T: Broadcast to numbers which you don't have an Opt in from
If you don't have a Mobile Originating message or proof of terms and conditions from other data collection sources, steer clear of sending promotional messages to these numbers.
DO: Think about how to measure the response
Using unique codes and adding a call to action at the end of broadcasts for example.
DON'T: Lose sight of the value of mobile numbers.
Even running a free to enter campaign can be immensely valuable in terms of number collection. Each number collected can be profiled and used in telemarketing exercises to cross sell.
DO: Send relevant offers
You will get the best conversion from well targeted lists.
DON'T: Send irrelevant offers.
This is the quickest way to lose numbers from your existing customer database.
DO: Make it clear how to opt out of future broadcasts
All broadcasts should make it clear to customers how to opt out from future marketing messages. This involves detailing the short code to which to send the STOP command.
DONT: Just trust industry gurus - do extensive research
Build your own unique strategies and messages, the more personable and innovative your campaigns the more your customers will show interest.
DO: Make your terms and conditions, including pricing for all campaigns clear
Make sure at some point during your campaign that they agree to terms and you exclusively publish prices clearly. Hidden charges and small writing will cause customers to opt out.
DO: Stay alert and be ready to react
Regularly review your customers, competitors and marketing news and alter your strategy to increase its value.
DON'T: Become complacent at the first sign of success
If something works don't rely on it; try new things as well and make sure you don't get labelled as a spammer.
DON'T: Market to minors without parents' permission
This could cause lots of potential issues, make sure you know your audience and avoid offending your existing customers.
If you are new to mobile marketing we highly recommend reading the official Code of Practice before going any further. Good luck and happy hunting.
DO: Think about your target audience demographic
There is nothing more annoying than receiving a text message, email or letter that is completely irrelevant and in some cases inappropriate. Know your audience and gather information from people who are likely to appreciate your marketing messages.
DON'T: Obtain a database of random mobile numbers
Such sources won't check that these users are relevant or that the mobile phones are still active. Further these users may well have been heavily spammed by other database subscribers.
DO: Use your messages to link to other channels
WAP/ Web Sites, Vouchers to push people to POS (Point Of Sale), WAP payment sites and Telephone booking lines.
DON'T: Broadcast to numbers which you don't have an Opt in from
If you don't have a Mobile Originating message or proof of terms and conditions from other data collection sources, steer clear of sending promotional messages to these numbers.
DO: Think about how to measure the response
Using unique codes and adding a call to action at the end of broadcasts for example.
DON'T: Lose sight of the value of mobile numbers.
Even running a free to enter campaign can be immensely valuable in terms of number collection. Each number collected can be profiled and used in telemarketing exercises to cross sell.
DO: Send relevant offers
You will get the best conversion from well targeted lists.
DON'T: Send irrelevant offers.
This is the quickest way to lose numbers from your existing customer database.
DO: Make it clear how to opt out of future broadcasts
All broadcasts should make it clear to customers how to opt out from future marketing messages. This involves detailing the short code to which to send the STOP command.
DONT: Just trust industry gurus - do extensive research
Build your own unique strategies and messages, the more personable and innovative your campaigns the more your customers will show interest.
DO: Make your terms and conditions, including pricing for all campaigns clear
Make sure at some point during your campaign that they agree to terms and you exclusively publish prices clearly. Hidden charges and small writing will cause customers to opt out.
DO: Stay alert and be ready to react
Regularly review your customers, competitors and marketing news and alter your strategy to increase its value.
DON'T: Become complacent at the first sign of success
If something works don't rely on it; try new things as well and make sure you don't get labelled as a spammer.
DON'T: Market to minors without parents' permission
This could cause lots of potential issues, make sure you know your audience and avoid offending your existing customers.
If you are new to mobile marketing we highly recommend reading the official Code of Practice before going any further. Good luck and happy hunting.
Tags: Marketing advice, Mobile marketing tips
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