The aspect that makes South Africa unique from other countries is the fact that it combines both third and first world countries into one domain. At the same time, many still existing in third world conditions have not limited their use of technology. While computers prove too costly for many earning minimum wage, smart phones are not. For this reason, SA's users are uniquely focused on mobile networking applications.
When defining a group of demographics, it is useful to compare regional characteristics and the kind of digital sites they use most often. Those who use smart phone applications most often tend to collect an hour's worth of interaction on them every day. That these networks are an economical alternative to instant messaging means they are an important medium for those targeting middle income groups.
Currently, Facebook is the fastest growing network in SA. City dwellers, professionals, and mid to upper income classes are the network's most common users. In contrast, professional networks are not growing quite as quickly. Those working in the white collar sector, particularly in finance, are typical professional digital network members.
There are several South Africa networking media that are focused on low income earners. They have been marketed through consumer products and have been able to generate an enormous following that poses a threat to some of the globe's most successful websites. Companies with target markets that fall within this group cannot compete without developing an integrated campaign that incorporates these kinds of applications, because their average membership features over a million daily users.
SA's digital users can be divided according to their locations. As an example, those living in Kwazulu Natal use mobile media more than others. This demographic often lives a laid back, sports-oriented lifestyle. Gauteng dwellers, in contrast, prefer professional networking sites. These demographics are typically higher income earners with fast-paced lifestyles and careers.
Picture sharing media are growing in popularity in all regions of SA. Video-based networking is more integrated into Western Cape life. This demographic is typically focused on obtaining a higher quality of life, although thriving careers are not unusual in this area. However, unlike Gauteng, Cape Town life is more sedate.
Networks in SA are growing far faster than in many other countries, with some sites demonstrating more than 100% growth in only a year. Corporations are a large part of this development, with brand managers using their own internal marketing departments to develop their social media campaigns.
Advertising executives with enough skill and talent to establish an effective digital campaign can easily gain ground against competitors. Competitive advantage is easier to achieve because SA's advertisers haven't yet developed enough skill to master this form of marketing. Despite the fact that SA's advertisers are some of the best in the world, advertising through social networks in South Africa hasn't been professionally perfected.
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