New Media can simply be summarized as digital technologies – this includes the Internet, mobile phones, mp3 players, & television (digital satellites & cable boxes).
Today’s world wide web has entered a stage called 2.0 – Web 2.0 allows the user to interact, add and subtract to spaces on the web mostly at no cost; thus, creating a virtual community! Just as important are search tools and directories that are becoming more target-oriented and specific; allowing Internet users to find the exact product/service they need.
Social Networking Sites, free video platforms like YouTube.com, and Blogs are the perfect example about how an Internet user can make his or her own imprint on the net for virtually no cost other than time.
How does marketing fit in Web 2.0?
New Media Marketers utilize digital platforms, create new ones, or enhance current ones to sell, promote, and communicate products or services.
Why New Media?
• Target marketing has never become so simple…web users search for a product/service and marketers can optimize their website to meet the need of consumer. Marketing will always be about the consumer; find what they want and deliver it to them.
• Simply people spend more time on the web… Also, we like to be a part of communities and this new Web 2.0 world gives us the freedom to join the type of community that most interests us. These thriving online communities are the perfect place for marketers to build a two-way relationship with their target audience, allowing the audience to ask questions and make suggestions – neither of which are possible in traditional marketing . For example, people join the Facebook page of their favorite TV show = a mutual beneficial relationship. More relationships mean more business.
• Adjustments, Maintenance, & Tracking – Do you ever wonder how Amazon or itunes sends you emails suggesting books or songs that you might like – that’s tracking – a bit scary, no? The Web makes it easier for marketers to track which ads work best, and which ads need enhancements.
• New Media marketing dollars bring greater returns with lower costs on the Web! Isn’t that the name of the game?
