Trendwatch

Trends in interactive media is always an interesting topic. The interactive space is dynamic and constantly evolving. Once a tactic becomes proven in the marketplace, a hot new method bursts onto the scene.

The biggest story of 2009 is Social Media. This realm of the interactive universe is exploding like the big bang. The biggest winners so far are Facebook and Twitter. Other hits are online video in a social context such as YouTube and Vimeo. Here are some recent statistics to help illustrate this growing trend:

• Twitter received more than 8 million page views in February 2009, up from less than 5 million in December 2008.
• Whole Foods has more than 250,000 followers on Twitter.
• NetworkedBlogs claims more than 400,000 users on Facebook.
• In April of 2009, 152 million Google users viewed an average of 111 videos each.
• By 2013, 52 percent of Internet users are estimated to become regular social network visitors.

Another hot trend is the distribution of Rich Internet Applications. Widgets, Gadgets, and iPhone Apps are the primary drivers of this medium. These applications deliver functional benefits to the user and leverage the Internet to deliver up-to-date content. The overall user-experience is similar to a regular desktop application, but combined with the power of the Internet to deliver a “Rich” experience. Adobe recognized this trend and has released “Adobe Air” to aid in the development of custom Rich Internet Applications. Although this term is not well known, the public is consuming this form of interactive media like crazy. I see this trend continuing to grow as marketers realize the benefits of possibilities through this platform.

The two topics listed above are so huge, I feel it overshadows every other interactive tactic in use right now. That doesn’t mean other tactics are not as effective, for example search and email are proven tactics that EVERYONE should be utilizing in this economy. What I mean is the level of growth and buzz around these hot trends are quickly emerging, and everyone is clamoring to learn how to utilize these channels effectively. I do believe Social Media is a true trend and not a fad. Some social networks may dissolve like search engines in the late 90s, but the big players will be enormous. Rich Internet Applications are here to stay as well. I recognized this 8 years ago and developed a Rich Internet Application platform, Point-Click Technology that has proven itself in the marketplace (call or email for more information). Through this experience I am confident that this trend will continue to grow well into the future. So keep your eyes open and pilot some programs around these emerging tactics and discover what works for you while having fun during these exciting times.