Learn How to Create Hybrid Digital Marketing using Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) is bringing together physical and digital marketing in a way that has never been done before. By combining the physical and the virtual, brands are now able to create convenient, fast AR experiences that are just as technologically impressive as they are personal. Building on existing trends in AR marketing, a company can successfully navigate the marketplace and capitalize on a consumer base who are looking for as much value as possible.
Take Advantage of the AR Opportunities already here
The first step to building a successful digital marketing campaign using augmented reality is by utilizing the tools that are already in play. Research existing AR apps instead of developing your own augmented reality technology. Attempt to collaborate with existing AR platforms and reach out to creators to find out what value they may be able to add to your business.
Embed Product scanning into an AR Model
Imagine being able to take a picture of a product in-store and then, through an AR platform, be able to bring up product information, reviews, pricing, and other details. Retail might not be there yet but this is where things may be headed. All it requires is the ability to scan products, similar to how existing barcode scanning systems work.
Visualizations
Augmented reality is going to hit big as more corporate brands adopt it for visualization and product trials. Imagine being able to test home décor items in your home. Brands like IKEA, Wal-Mart, and others have the opportunity to provide full dimensional views of products as envisioned in a customer’s living space.
Keep the in-store Experience Fast and Easy
Provide customers access to maps or directions on where to find a specific product. Or, embed special tips or promotions that come up depending on where a customer is in-store.
Provide Check-in Incentives
A big struggle in retail can simply be getting customers to walk through the front door. Providing incentives to customers who enter your store physically and then check in may help in generating foot traffic on busy times of year. Provide a free product, a gift certificate, or a digital coupon. By starting small with this AR technique, it’s an easy way to engage with your customers.
AR/Digital Content
Building augmented reality content for consumers is another starting block that some entrepreneurs may consider for their brand. There are limitless opportunities to foster engagement through AR content, including interactive videos and proximity content.
Hybrid Physical-Digital Marketing is the future of Engagement
Augmented reality is still in its very early stages but from what we can tell, there’s a lot of very interesting opportunities to be mined here. There are small ways brands can begin taking advantage of AR today though some methods are more expensive than others. Providing consumers with more immersive experiences that blur the line between the physical and the digital many predict will heighten customer acquisition and improve retention. The important thing regarding AR is to consider what might appeal to your consumers. Instead of going with something cheap and gimmick-y, give them something valuable and something they need. Any brand that does this will reap the rewards!
