When Pokemon augmented reality mobile game launched, a group of young men and an absolutely intelligent lady paid attention to the potential of this engaging and online to offline mobile activation and what it could possibly deliver for the African society at large beyond gamification excitement. Realizing the limitations with Data/Internet with African nations they created a something I have termed the African Version of Pokemon.
How does it work? I HAVE NO IDEA. My mind reading ability just heard you say ; Huh?
Truth is I made up the story of these great innovators who didn’t look at how Pokemon can be launched in Africa but looked at the nitty gritty of the Game, its successes and areas we can incorporate to create/develop a version that is unique to Africa. I have for the last few weeks seen several articles about how Pokemon can be activated in various cities of the continent. But I ask myself why do we need to have it here really? Why can’t we just build our version that represents who we are and what we value most?
Stop rolling your eyes and thinking what is she on about. Yeah my mind reading ability again. Lets be honest, having an exciting argumented reality activation is the next big thing in the marketing world. Marketing directors and brand owners need to pay attention and tap into the solution that helps “bring their brand to life” .
But GSMA (Groupe Spécial Mobile Association) has captured my line of thoughts in a recent report “There is growing interest from consumers in home-grown solutions that directly appeal to local interests and cultures, and that address unique social and economic challenges faced by consumers in the region. For example, there are innovative solutions in the region that leverage the size and reach of mobile infrastructure, distribution channels, mobile payments and technologies to improve access to utility services for underserved communities”
I couldn’t have said it any better. Fancy and interesting is good but tailored solution delivery is GREAT! But hey I could be wrong in my train of thoughts. Ok no maybe you look at it from a different perspective.
I would really like to “hear” what you think.
