In Focus

6 experts debunk mobile marketing myths

Introduction

Every once in a while an industry catches a tiger by the tail. And when that happens, its decision makers know enough to hold on for the wild ride that follows because it generally leads straight to the Mighty Profit Land.

But in the early stages of the ride, a number of myths usually crop up. While they rarely persuade key players to let go of the tiger's tail, they can create some misdirection and lead to some lost opportunities or just plain losses for the unwary.

This is happening now with wireless -- revenue growth has been beyond expectations, popularity of the devices and market penetration has been phenomenal and the ongoing surge in technological innovation and resulting new capabilities have been transformative.

Yet there are many who view the wireless field through dun-colored glasses, and who knowingly -- or not -- subscribe to one or more of the following palpably false myths, as highlighted and debunked by our industry experts.

 

Comments

Adrian Hall
Adrian Hall August 11, 2008 at 11:59 AM

Mobile advertising is a phenomenon that no one can afford to ignore. However, marketers, wireless carriers and ad networks need to tread carefully in order to ensure that ads are relevant to the end user. It is precisely because mobile phones are considered very personal devices that mobile advertising has the potential either to cause a backlash among consumers or to provide them with a valuable service. Showing users relevant and personalized ads based on contextual, behavioral and demographic targeting will be critical to the success of this nascent industry.

Adrian Hall, Bytemobile

Scotty Moore
Scotty Moore August 7, 2008 at 11:40 AM

I agree with Mark...The mobile brand relationship must be initiated by the user with a freebie. Typically offering free content, cash, or minutes has proven to open doors to building awareness and brand equity. (Resource: Recent Harris Interactive Mobile Advertising Research Report)

The Critical Advertiser
The Critical Advertiser August 6, 2008 at 10:59 AM

54 percent of U.S. users are willing to accept ads on their mobile devices, particularly if the ads bring them access to a subsidized service. No kidding? Advertising subsidizes free content and services? I always thought it was there to annoy me. Here I was busily trying to block, skip or ignore it while visiting my favorite website. But bring those ads to mobile and I'll TOTALLY pay attention!