In an era where smartphones and tablets are the go-to device for accessing the web, many businesses have not yet tapped into the full potential of these technological resources. This year, more people will use mobile technologies to get on the Internet than traditional laptops and PCs. While many IT companies developed websites and invest in a number of online promotional tools, more often than not, they have not optimized these pages to improve user experience for mobile users.
Broken forms and links, incompatible formats, lack of Flash and a variety of browser issues can severely inhibit the marketing value of company websites when prospects attempt to access them from their iPhone and other similar devices. When the information is difficult to access or download, or the experience is less than stellar, users may seek alternate sites or suppliers to get what they need.
In order to help solution providers overcome those obstacles, CompTIA created the Quick Start Guide to Mobile Marketing and hosted a well-attended educational session at ChannelCon. Ginger Clay of TruMethods walked the group through the issues and available options, and provided specific tips designed to help VARs and MSPs address their own organizational needs.
Some questions posed by the discussion included: Do your print materials contain QR codes or shortened URL links that give prospects a quick way to access your company website or download a whitepaper? Should your company develop an app to speed support?
If the business has an in-house expert with the skills to develop one, or the cost of building one is negligible, then it’s a no-brainer. Otherwise, each provider should evaluate the costs and advantages of an app. Third-party text-based programs are a great tool for providers to use at tradeshows or with specific promotional programs. They can be cost effective and an extremely engaging platform with millennials and mobile-friendly audiences.
Interested in learning more? Download the Quick Start Guide to Mobile Marketing.