POLL: Can Geolocation Provide a Boost to Your Business?

According to a Pew Research Center study released last November, only 4% of online American adults use location-based social media. It may not be many a substantial number now; however this technology’s reach is already expanding due to services offered by services offered by foursquare and Gowalla, among other location-based social networking websites and software for mobile devices offer the technology with social gaming elements attached.

Users find it fun, conversational, (and at times competitive) to let others know–by way of “checking in”–where they are in real-time with the associated place also noted. And clever entrepreneurs use geolocation services to build their customer base, brand awareness and loyalty (think: special discounts and advertising) as well as informal consumer research data. It’s to your advantage to be one of these savvy business owners.

Additional reporting by Damon Brown

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For more on how utilizing geolocation for your business, read “Square Biz” in the January 2011 issue of BLACK ENTERPRISE

 

Tell us what you think: How do you make the most of geolocation platforms such as foursquare and Gowalla? Share your experience and tips!