According to the latest available statistics from Internet World Stats, only 10.5% of South African’s have access to the Internet via traditional mediums.
In order to plug this gap local business should make use of the 79.1% of South Africans who have mobile phones. Having web content and services accessible through mobile devices provides businesses with a major competitive advantage because customers are increasingly active on their mobile phones.
“It is important that your customer has immediate access to your site,” says Russel Stromin, Head Honcho of Strike Media. “Being available to your customer via a MobiSite enhances your service offering and strengthens your relationship with them as it provides information at any time, anywhere.”
“As mobile phones and users become more sophisticated, Internet access via mobile is growing at a rapid pace. Customer needs are changing,” says Stromin. “And for this reason the restriction of a PC or search for WiFi connectivity is not always convenient when trying to source information,” he adds.
“A MobiSite provides the customer with a convenient experience,” says Stromin. It is interactive and serves as a direct medium of customer communication. It is highly quantifiable and generates a measurable return on marketing investments.
“Customers want usefulness. When building a MobiSite; build it with the mobile user in mind to ensure an effective user experience. A key factor of a good MobiSite is context; therefore ensure the information used is relevant and concise. A MobiSite is an extension of your brand and should help customers’ better manage their time.”
With almost 80% of South Africans having access to mobile phones, having a MobiSite should be a non-negotiable. It serves as an excellent communications tool, which connects with customers, enhances loyalty and builds brand equity.
