The growth of the web has substantially changed the way we approach and perceive not only relevant pieces of information but also places, objects, and even people. In recent years, the tech and business worlds have been discussing the potential of cloud computing technology and its impact on traditional business processes. The world changes rapidly and so do our habits, which makes the latest tech solutions essential for every modern business.
Considering all the changes in people’s behavior under the influence of the Internet, no business that is unable to adjust quickly to the latest trends can survive in a highly competitive market. The Internet of things (IoT) is the next big thing in business and it includes the following transformations:
The possibilities of information and communications services associated with devices (the ‘things’ in the IoT) present a compelling foundation for another technology revolution. Changing objects into services, from Google Glass and Apple’s iBeacon to consumer electronics and even the smallest office equipment such as pens and personalized USBs, makes the concept applies to a wide range of market sectors.
In a world that has become so small that even the most distant parts of the planet are stably connected, introducing new business models becomes a priority. Adoption of new technologies is a key to reaching the widest range of consumers that may well be scattered across different continents.
Even small businesses can now operate globally using web services that are getting more and more affordable. Customers’ requirements are various and this influences companies to innovate the ways they deliver their products or services. Brands are increasingly being built online because this is the place where most potential consumers search for information. Therefore, it becomes crucial for traditional product manufacturers or service providers to change the ways their product is represented, promoted, and delivered.
Marketing and IT departments become more tightly connected.
Increased collaboration between the marketing and IT sectors is one of the changes that many contemporary enterprises have experienced over the last several years. As customers increasingly move online, the focus shifts to using web apps and developing social media strategies. Positive customer experience equally depends upon a product itself and upon customer service. Advanced technologies have become a precondition for customer service teams to function smoothly, which is what triggers enhanced collaboration between the two seemingly unrelated departments.
Overall customer experience is greatly valued.
One thing that makes the era of hyper-connected users important for marketing is the fact that information travels faster than ever. A company’s reputation now can be shaken more easily, as users can at any point publicly express their dissatisfaction on social networks, blogs, or personal websites. However, they can also express their positive opinions the same way and this is why customer service needs to become every business’s focus. By establishing efficient ways of communication with customers and developing digital marketing strategies, a company can more easily position itself as a brand that cares.
Clearly, many things have changed with free information access and this is especially important for businesses because they are yet to experience some greater transformations. Outdated marketing strategies can no longer bring profit and the sooner the companies realize this, the more chance they stand to make their brands competitive in the global jungle.