Monday, December 16, 2013

Local Trends In Social Networks In South Africa

By Cornelia White


Social networks in South Africa are developing quickly. The most popular networking site currently has over nine million daily users, while the most successful mobile networking app has more than seven million members. There are lesser known applications for smartphones that are generating significant attention from consumers, so those wanting to establish a marketing campaign in the country cannot do so without a thoroughly integrated digital extension.

South Africa's most unique facet is the fact that it combines first and third world communities. Another unusual characteristic is that many of its lower income earners use the kind of technology that is usually relegated to upper and middle income earners. Computers are not affordable for the entire population, but mobiles often are. This makes SA's mobile networking sites of particular importance.

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.

Multi media social networking sites are growing faster than any others in the country. Urban dwellers, and middle to upper income professionals are the most common members. Those who use dedicated professional networks are growing less rapidly. Their members are mostly white collar professionals, especially those working in the finance industry.

SA has a few networks that are generating significant attention from lower income groups. By marketing themselves on basic food items, these media are targeting a demographic that is large enough to detract from the usage of some of the world's most popular sites. Those marketing to this demographic cannot afford to ignore the lesser known mobile applications networkers are using locally, given that they have an average of a million daily users.

Digital users can be divided according to where they live. Natal dwellers, for example, prefer mobile networking sites. This is a target market with a sedate, sports oriented way of life. In contrast, those who live in Gauteng prefer using professional media. This group is known for its focus on high-powered careers. Their earning power is significant.

Picture sharing sites are increasing in popularity country-wide. Video sites are most popular among those living in the Western Cape. This market is usually focused on quality of life more than career, but many Capetonians sustain high incomes through their professions. More sedate lifestyles make these professionals more slow paced than Gauteng locals.

SA's developing networking sites have faster growth rates than those seen in most first world countries. Some sites have as much as 100% growth per year. This development is partially the result of corporate usage. Large companies are employing their own marketing teams to establish digital 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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