I know what you’re thinking — that mobile is confusing, mysterious and cluttered with hundreds of different platforms and solutions that seem to overlap one another. And you know what? You’re right, which is why we’ve sorted through some of the more important mobile marketing solutions you should know about and be aware of.
Some of these resources below are ad networks, which are companies you would call if you a) don’t have an ad agency, but b) want to run a mobile display campaign.
Other resources are do-it-yourself mobile promotions solutions, which are great if you want to leverage the power of mobile for your local coffee shop or bookstore.
And still other solutions are mobile app development tools — again, perfect if you’re a smaller company that doesn’t have an agency to work with.
Ready to get started? Here you go:
Mobile App Development Solutions:
MobileRoadie: This is an app creator that allows anyone to create and manage their own iPhone app, Andriod app, iPad app or mobile website. The mobile website version is free. Mobile apps and iPad apps range from $99 per month to $299 per month
ShoutEm: Want to build a mobile app quickly and easily? Then you should check out ShoutEm which allows you to design, develop and launch your mobile app with a minimum of fuss. This is perfect for anyone interested in an easy solution for mobile app development.
Mippin: These guys want everybody to have an app, and we mean everybody. If you’re a real estate agent, interior designer, accountant or even a large organization, Mippin may be the platform for you.
Mobile Promotions Providers:
Heyo: This is a platform that allows you to create contests, promotions, or special offers that drive traffic, leads and sales to your business. Their templates allow you to create mobile-optimized promotions that look great on a desktop or a smartphone.
Foursquare: You probably think you know about Foursquare already, but they’ve recently done a make-over which should help them continue to stay in the game. If you’re looking for a simple way to drive customers to your retail location, check ’em out. They’re doing some interesting stuff.
ThumbPrize: This platform allows you to create mobile coupons, mobile sweepstakes, mobile photo contests and mobile lead capture events that can help you grow your sales and revenue. If you’re interested in using mobile as a promotional tool for your local business, check these guys out. (Side Note: The ThumbPrize website was down when I tried to visit it while writing this post. If, by chance, the entire company is down, my apologies. I believe they’re still in business, but in the fast-changing world of mobile, you never know.)
Mobile Ad Networks:
4INFO: This is a company that provides highly-targeted mobile ads — and we mean targeted — as in down to the household level. Better still, they overlay purchase data so that advertisers can send messages to (for example) people who have purchased your product in the past. We use them for some of the clients of 60 Second Communications.
Millennial Media: If you’re a large, well-known brand with plenty of budget, you’re in good hands with these guys. They have a sophisticated platform and offer full-service support — assuming you have the bling. If you’re a smaller company with a limited budget, you can use some of their self-serve tools to accomplish many of the same tasks.
AirPush: Another well-respected mobile ad network with a wide variety of options and functionality. Winner of the “Best Mobile Ad Network” award at the Mobile Excellence Awards.
The Bottom Line: Mobile is here to stay and if you’re not using it to grow your business, you’ll be left in the dust by your competitors. Check out the solutions above. And let us know about your favorite mobile solutions providers in the comments section below.
Jamie Turner is the CEO of the 60 Second Marketer and 60 Second Communications, a marketing communications agency that works with national and international brands. He is the co-author of “How to Make Money with Social Media” and “Go Mobile” and is a popular marketing speaker at events, trade shows and corporations around the globe.