The Downside of E Marketing

Nowadays, the use of the internet and social media have increased immensely as every individual has their own smartphones. They look for products, search for their reviews, browse websites, watch tutorials and then make an online purchase. This has encouraged companies to promote their products and services through online platforms. However, there are some disadvantages of e marketing which are highlighted below.

Inaccessibility and Privacy Concerns

Online marketing has enabled companies to target and reach global customers. However, there are some areas where brands cannot reach out, not because of geographical inaccessibility but due to poor or no internet service, especially in rural areas. Also, if the advertisement is for the illiterate or elderly people i.e. an advertisement of cigarettes then the digital marketing is not the best tool. E marketing also brings security and privacy concerns. In order to gain consumer trust, brands have to safeguard customers' information and data. If they fail to provide data security then they might lose them. Thus, it is essential to use vulnerability scanners to identify and prevent security issues.

Technological Dependency

For digital marketing to be successful, you have to invest in technological devices and gadgets as everything entirely depends on them. Moreover, you cannot reach out to those who are not technologically savvy and cannot use such devices. Sometimes, customers face multiple issues at the same time i.e. page loading speed is too low, website is unable to function, or search engine optimization is inadequate. As a result, companies lose their website traffic because customers turn towards other brands who are excellent in terms of service and quality, provide seamless experience and hardly go through technical malfunctioning.

Global Competition and Negative Customer Feedback

Companies can reach and target people worldwide via online platforms, so there has been a rise in global competition which means brands have to come up with new ways to attract customers. They have to devise strategies to compete and stand out against a number of competitors who target the same audience. Another issue with e marketing is that brand reputation can be damaged quickly if your customer service is poor and you do not timely deal with their issues. Customers will immediately react by posting negative comments and reviews about the company on social media. Sometimes, individuals spread rumors or engage in anti-brand activities to harm the brand image. This is also called cybersquatting.

Maintenance Cost and Piracy Issues

E marketing decreases the number of expenses of a company but the company still has to invest in technology and gadgets. Other than that, they will have to recruit technical specialists to handle their digital marketing channels. Another drawback is that competitors are always keeping an eye on your strategies and tactics. So, when you are successful in your promotional tactics, it is more likely that they will imitate your ideas.

Putting it all together, every brand that seeks help through digital marketing will face the negative consequences. In spite of that, brands must engage in e marketing activities and seek technical assistance because online marketing gives a competitive edge to businesses. 

 

 

The Trends in Ecommerce

Shoppers these days can buy anything from anywhere. Thanks to the ecommerce facility that has eliminated the barriers of time and distance. Undoubtedly, ecommerce has greatly reduced friction in the buying process by offering convenience and a compelling experience to both buyers and sellers. Amazon, Walmart, Flipkart and eBay are among the soundest companies that are relying on social media platforms to gain the attention of their target market. 

This article discusses some of the trends that will be shaping ecommerce in the coming years.

1. Prioritizing Personalization for Customers

Marketers have an in-depth understanding of their customers and they know that they demand products, services and experiences that are in line with their needs or preferences. Thus, companies are utilizing their customers’ data efficiently by tailoring it to an individual's needs. They are following a customer centric approach by going for personalized marketing campaigns, customization of products and through product recommendations. There will be more focus on personalization in the years ahead as technologies such as Artificial Intelligence will be upgraded with time. This will help companies to deliver highly focused experiences to individuals. 

2. The Use of Voice Powered Technology

Virtual Assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri and Google Home have added a spark by making customer interaction with the ecommerce platforms more versatile. Customers don’t have to touch the screen for order placement or while searching for different items. This voice activation feature for online buying is still new and has a massive room for improvement.

3. Social Media Platforms for Marketing

In order to target new markets, attract more customers and to increase online selling, it has become inevitable for companies to rely on social media platforms. Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Pinterest are using shopping features through which their users can directly make a purchase with the help of their profiles. Businesses should come up with content that is both indulging and shareable so that their customers end up making a purchase. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality VR) have provided an immersive shopping experience to customers. They can virtually try on clothes, makeup or accessories and even check and place furniture in their homes before making the final purchase. This can lead to a higher level of customer satisfaction and can further increase brand engagement. So, incorporating such technologies will benefit both the company and its customers.

4. Increase in Mobile Usage and Introduction of Chatbots

Mobile ecommerce is becoming more and more popular as a growing number of people are using mobile devices to browse and shop from different websites. So, companies should create mobile friendly apps and websites and focus on marketing strategies that are mobile specific. Almost every business that is operating online is using chatbots that are backed by Artificial Intelligence. This is a quick, personalized and efficient way to solve customer queries and reply to their frequently asked questions.

5. Socially Responsible Customers

Customers are well aware of the fact that their actions positively or negatively contribute to the environment so they look for brands that value sustainability or prioritize green marketing and take full responsibility for their actions. While managing their ecommerce platforms, businesses should also strictly adhere to strategies that minimize the environmental impact in the long run.

Leaping to conclusion, ecommerce businesses must embrace the latest technologies to better connect with their customers and to earn a name in the highly competitive industry.

 

 

Cloud Computing in Pakistan

For all the techno geeks and computer savvy individuals cloud computing is not a novel term. It has got a nod from many companies around the world and almost 90% of them are making use of this technology. In Pakistan, businesses from all sectors have seen an upward turn since the adoption of cloud computing. In recent years, the IT sector is growing exponentially and the future seems quite reassuring and momentous.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing refers to the use of the internet in order to deliver computing services which include both applications as well as tools such as software, data storage, networking, analytics, databases, servers, intelligence etc. It is a safe repository that companies use as a backup in case there is a malfunction or other issues in the local storage system or their hard drives. You can save and have access to your data and files through a remote database. This data can only be retrieved if your devices have internet access and a well-functioning software program. For many businesses it is a top preference because of its performance, efficiency, cost effectiveness (minimizes operating cost), security, speed and productivity.

Having numerous benefits, cloud computing is a boon to businesses. Its trend is surging in Pakistan because of its competitive edge, adaptability in terms of capacity and autonomous backup system. There are different types of cloud computing including public, private and hybrid. Public clouds are controlled by third party businesses who manage and operate its overall infrastructure as well as hardware and software. It is not owned by the users and provides internet storage and services through a remote server. There are several examples of public clouds including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud. On the other hand, private cloud as the name suggests, provides services to its specific clients and is solely reserved for single users which are mostly businesses. They are given isolated access, however the ownership or the location rule no longer applies as many such organizations are coming up with their off premises infrastructure. There is another type of cloud computing which is an amalgamation of both public and private clouds known as the hybrid system. This system provides better security, enhances flexibility, and helps users to take maximum advantage of the infrastructure.

Advantages of Cloud Computing

Companies are always in imminent danger when it comes to data security, especially in Pakistan where there is an influx of cyber attackers that pose a potential threat. Every company needs cybersecurity teams for the protection of their sensitive data. For this purpose, many cloud providers offer features that secure their apps, data and infrastructure. They have set stringent policies to mitigate such threats. Another advantage is that it saves users storage spaces on their devices, laptops or desktops. In case of hard disk failures, disaster or other issues, its backup and recovery feature allows individuals to immediately retrieve and access files, data, music or photos. This data and information can be recovered easily from the cloud provider's network because it is available there in the form of expendable sites. Users cannot just have access to their files but they can also keep file records by storing them on Google Drive. 

One benefit of cloud computing for large businesses is that it has saved their costs and increased their productivity by eliminating different expenses. Before cloud computing, companies had to spend huge sum of money on capital such as hardware, software and on the hiring of  IT specialist to operate and manage infrastructure and server centers. Now they don’t have to waste their time on setting up all this. They can utilize this time by directing their efforts towards achieving other business objectives. Some of the largest cloud computing services have a global network with well protected data centers. They are continuously updated according to the most recent version of computer hardware. This boosts performance and helps to achieve greater economies of scales.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing

Despite the fact that cloud computing provides security against cybercrimes and sensitive information such as financial data is protected by encryption, in case you lose the encryption key that means all your data will be lost too. There can be many technical mishaps and defaults such as natural disasters or power blackouts etc. If there is power failure in one city then users in other geographical areas would be curtailed from using cloud computing services. Another issue with cloud computing in the corporate sector is that when a number of people handle and access the portal, they end up making accidental mistakes that are carried forward and disrupts the whole system.

On the whole, cloud based applications are being used in various sectors of Pakistan including telecom, health, education, manufacturing, banking etc. It has empowered employees to share data with each other regardless of time and place. From tracking employee activities to holding meetings everything can be done digitally which ultimately boosts company’s productivity and helps them to generate revenue streams.

 

Future of the Internet

The ubiquitous internet technology has motivated businesses to break new grounds around the globe. It has become so sophisticated over the years that you no longer have to rely on wired connections. The initiation of wireless hubs have helped us to connect a number of devices to the web. Though the security vulnerabilities are growing each day, there is no need to fret about it since computer scientists are plunging in to make it fast, efficient and safe for us to use. Now let’s see what’s happening at the back end and what the future of the internet would be like.

Data explosion and the way towards innovation

In recent years, spectacular developments have taken place that have increased the usage of the internet. We see everyone carrying a mobile device, online shopping has massively expanded and the fiber optic cabling is almost everywhere. For the upcoming applications, low latencies and fully secure transmission will be a need. Technologies like virtual reality require massive volumes of data and side by side needs low latencies. Most of the data centers and businesses are adopting a scale out approach in order to grow and fulfill their requirements. To make the most out of it, data centers are depending more on automation by using robots that work in geographically inaccessible locations or extremely confined areas. Some are even using light impulses for communication instead of fiber optics. There has also been a rise in quantum cryptography to prevent data from being hacked.

Internet of things (IoT)

The number of devices connected are more on our planet as compared to the population of people. The introduction of video doorbell systems and microwaves with voice response features have eased our lives. But designers of such connected devices have to keep in mind individual's privacy and security vulnerabilities that they have to face. The entire internet relies on the internet protocol (IP). Protocols that are in use require standardization so that bits can be structured and interpreted as they passed along the internet infrastructure.

We have already entered into an era where everything is connected through the internet so efficient data processing and security has become crucial. Also, the existing technologies need more development and the infrastructure, software and services must be updated.

 

 

Marketing Techniques that Small Businesses Should Use

In order to create presence in the market and to secure a wide customer base small businesses have to use different marketing techniques. At each and every stage of their business cycle they have to use tactics accordingly. Companies have to keep in mind whom they want to reach out through their promotional material, especially when they are struggling with budget constraints. It is essential for them to take each step wisely and use inexpensive ways for advertising such as guerrilla marketing. Let’s explore the different marketing techniques that can be of help for them. 

1. Posters and Flyers

When you use a variety of different channels you are able to gain more exposure. While visiting a mall or some other public places, you must have seen free bulletin boards which the brands can use to promote and market their products. Make sure your poster is visible and you use removable tabs so that customers can avail discounts. You can also target your campaigns in the area where most leads were generated. Companies should come up with a poster that is very eye-catching and has vivid images. You should use memorable phrases that people find entertaining and are able to recall when they need something that is related to your product or service or what you are selling. Flyers are another cheap way of advertising your business. Once you are clear about the areas you want to target, you can easily distribute flyers either through mailboxes or by door to door visit. While making flyers keep the content short and add only the relevant information such as the products or services you are offering or contact information. You can offer and mention discounts, free trials or appraisals, coupons or other promotional offers to attract the customers.

2. Referral Networks

Customer referrals are very valuable for a business as it leads to customer retention. This means companies can offer discounts, perks or other rewards to its existing customers for recommending their brand to others through positive word of mouth. This helps them to grow their customer base, increases brand engagement and enhances the reputation of the company when more customers show interest in their product. 

3. Value Additions

The special and improved features that a brand offers along with its product or service are powerful selling points that must be mentioned when coming up with advertising material. Value addition helps companies to deliver value to its customers and increase their level of satisfaction. It also distinguishes you from your competition. Some examples are referral rewards, guarantees, offering discounts or point cards to loyal customers or those who make repeated purchases.

4. Follow ups

Getting feedback from your customers is important to see where you stand and what perception they hold about your products and services. The best way to get their response is to propose follow up questionnaires, ask about how your advertising campaign is going and if it satisfies them or not. Here is a list of questions you can ask:

·       What made them choose your company?

·       How did they come to know about the product?

·       What satisfied them the most?

·       Which alternative companies will they prefer?

5. The Internet

Creating your online presence has become crucial to meet the expectations of your tech savvy customers. Internet technology has made it easier for them to search for a brand, its reviews or the list of products it offers before making a buying decision. Having a website and a social media presence (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) will keep you in the eyes of the customers when they regularly see your ad campaigns and your page comes in their suggestion list. Companies also need search engine optimization skills and content management systems to raise their website ranking and to enhance the digital experience of their customers.

The above discussed marketing techniques will surely take your business to an incredible peak if you wisely incorporate them while keeping your goals, budget and target audience in mind. 

 

 

 

Hyper Connectivity In Our Daily Lives

Modern technology has lured us with lofty promises. Business world is reaching skyscraping heights by adopting hyper connectivity. As we go back in time, almost two decades ago we did not have access to the internet or devices that connect us today. There was no such impulse to check social media feeds every now and then. But today we can't imagine life without these gadgets and the internet. We can control so many devices from our smartphones such as television or the air conditioning. The internet of things, artificial intelligence and smartphones with advanced features are some examples of hyper connectivity. It is hard to believe that still two thirds of the global population is not connected through the internet. Companies like Google and Facebook are coming up with new ways to deliver internet and connect to the areas where there is lack of internet availability. Balloons in space and solar powered planes are being introduced to provide fast internet services all around the globe. This will be the biggest technological achievement in the coming years. 

What is hyper connectivity?

We are living in a world where almost everything is connected and interrelated, whether it is machine to machine, human to human or human to machine interaction. Likewise, hyper connectivity is a broad term that refers to the interconnection between multiple devices, information systems or the data. This high tech communication ensures that you are always connected to social networks or various other information sources with the help of the internet.

Hyper connectivity has many benefits in our daily lives. If we talk about from a supply chain perspective, it saves money, you can respond quickly in situations that demand your attention and it also increases efficiency. For example a disruption can occur in the logistic process due to several issues such as technical or mechanical faults and failures, weather conditions, political unrest, traffic congestion etc. With a well-connected logistic chain you can track and monitor the changes and communicate with your logistic team so that the best possible route can be taken in real time for the delivery of goods or products. You can make better decisions and improvements can be made accordingly.

Communication adds flexibility in your business processes too. Hyper connectivity enables you to communicate with your customers through multiple ways and have access to massive amounts of their data. This allows you to serve them according to their changing demands. For example you are able to decide what will be the best time for you to launch the product in the market. When your digital infrastructure is connected well and covers all the business data from various aspects, your machine learning system is able to produce more valuable insights. However, when everything depends on a single system you open doors for hackers. When you deal with customer and employee data you have to adopt a comprehensive privacy and security approach.

All in all, the world is moving towards the age of hyper connectivity and it is very clear that this technology has too much potential for individuals and businesses if they adopt it with care.

 

Uses and Benefits of Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that enables users to create a secure, encrypted connection over the internet between their device and a server. The server can be located in a different geographical region than the user and is typically managed by a third-party provider. VPNs are used to protect sensitive data and online activities from prying eyes, censorship, and cyber threats. In this blog, we will discuss the uses and benefits of VPNs in detail.

Uses of VPN

Secure Remote Access

A VPN allows remote workers to connect securely to their company's network and access internal resources as if they were physically present in the office. This means that employees can work from anywhere while keeping their communications and data secure.

Privacy Protection

A VPN encrypts all the data that is transmitted between a user's device and the VPN server, making it difficult for anyone to intercept or eavesdrop on the communication. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks, where data is often transmitted without encryption, leaving users vulnerable to hackers and cybercriminals.

Bypassing Censorship

VPNs can be used to bypass government censorship and access blocked content. For example, citizens in countries such as China, Iran, and North Korea use VPNs to access the internet freely without fear of government surveillance or censorship.

Geo-restriction

VPNs can also be used to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in certain regions. For example, streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime offer different content libraries in different regions, and a VPN can be used to access the full range of content available on these platforms.

Torrenting

VPNs are often used by people who engage in peer-to-peer file sharing, also known as torrenting. This can be risky as it involves downloading files from other users' computers, and there is always a risk of downloading malware or copyrighted material. A VPN can help protect users' privacy and anonymity while torrenting.

Benefits of VPN

Security

A VPN provides an extra layer of security by encrypting all the data that is transmitted between a user's device and the VPN server. This makes it difficult for hackers, cybercriminals, and government agencies to intercept or eavesdrop on the communication.

Privacy and protection against Cyber Threats

A VPN helps protect users' privacy by masking their IP address and location. This means that their online activities cannot be traced back to their device, and they can browse the internet without fear of being tracked or monitored. VPNs provide protection against cyber threats such as hacking, phishing, and malware attacks. This is because a VPN encrypts all the data that is transmitted between a user's device and the VPN server, making it difficult for cybercriminals to intercept or steal sensitive information.

Anonymity

A VPN provides users with anonymity by allowing them to use the internet without revealing their real IP address or location. This is especially important for people who live in countries with strict censorship laws or who engage in activities that may be considered illegal or controversial.

Access to Blocked Content

A VPN allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in their region. This means that users can watch their favorite TV shows and movies from anywhere in the world, without being limited by their physical location.

Faster Connection

VPNs can sometimes improve internet connection speeds, especially for people who live in areas with slow internet connections. This is because a VPN can route traffic through a server that is located closer to the user, reducing latency and improving download and upload speeds.

Cost Savings

VPNs can help users save money by allowing them to access services and content that might be more expensive in their region. For example, users can use a VPN to access cheaper flight tickets or hotel bookings that are only available in other countries.

Flexibility

VPNs are flexible and can be used on a variety of devices, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This means that users can protect their online activities on multiple devices, making it easier for them to stay secure and protected at all times.

Improved Productivity

VPNs can improve productivity by allowing employees to work from anywhere while keeping their communications and data secure. This means that employees can collaborate with colleagues, access internal resources, and work on sensitive projects without fear of cyber threats.

Customer Satisfaction

VPNs can improve customer satisfaction by allowing businesses to provide secure and reliable services to their customers. This means that customers can trust that their data and online activities are protected, leading to increased loyalty and repeat business purchases.

In conclusion, VPNs are essential tools for anyone who wants to protect their online activities from prying eyes, censorship, and cyber threats. Additionally, VPNs can improve productivity, flexibility, and customer satisfaction, while also helping businesses comply with regulations and protect sensitive data. With so many benefits, it is clear that VPNs are here to stay and will continue to be an important part of our digital lives for years to come.

 

 

Connect SharePoint 2010 virtual machine to Internet

Learn how to connect your SharePoint 2010 virtual machine to Internet. This excerpt was taken from book Installing and Configuring SharePoint 2010 2nd edition that can be downloaed free from http://walisystemsinc.com site.

http://walisystemsinc.com/sharepoint/art/connect2Internet/Connect_virtual_machine_to_the_Internet.pdf