Industry Forecast for 2010: The Heavy Downpour of Social Media Continues
Although the economy isn’t the best, popular trends and ideas are still blooming. In 2009, Event Marketer recorded 67 trends. Of these 67 trends, there are close to 20 that they claim will drive the industry in 2010. And good news – budgets are up in 2010 ranging from 5% to 15% and there’s an increase in renewal of programs that took place in 2008.
It’s no surprise the hottest thing right now is social media technology. Companies are starting to create apps for both the iPhone and Blackberry that are a direct connection to their website or any other point of interest. Some other trends in 2010 are Strategic Brand Ambassadors, Hybrid and Digital Events, Influencer Upgrades and Transactional Elements, such as retail. Tactical Social Media is also becoming more and more popular. Since technology is playing a big role in 2010, companies are starting to create more video games as a way to attract others. For example, the Army has created a video game that is used as a recruitment tool. Anyone can play, and it’s while they are playing when recruiters begin to tell them how good they are in certain areas and how they would do great in the Army.
A few other trends include: more intimate parties, limiting throughput at events (aka having to wait in line), augmented reality, strategic nightlife, instant photo activation, on-site social media coaching, customization, Facebook events, real-time ROI measurement tools, content syndication, enhancement strategies, and portfolio rightsizing.
Like I’ve said before, technology is something that will continue to grow and change our world. It’s a way to communicate with people you may never have thought possible and a way to stay connected with the rest of the world. So throw on your galoshes and embrace it!
-Kiley Corban
