Politicians + Target Audiences = Smartphone Apps

Today in class we discussed the topic of Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC). We learned about how companies and organizations are learning that the traditional methods of advertising, promoting, marketing, and fundraising have come and gone. Businesses have realized that they must change their tactics if they are to successfully connect with their target audiences.

After talking about the issue today, I found an interesting article that details how some Canadian politicians are using; or how they plan to use, mobile applications to their advantage. Within the last couple of years, the number of elected officials - at all levels of government - who have a Twitter account or Facebook page has exponentially grown. Personally, the Twitter-verse is what opened the door for me to recently have meetings with one of our City Councillors as well as our local MP. Politicians have understood that effectively using social media can make their constituents feel connected.

However, this article goes on to explain that iPhone apps are allowing politicians to do one thing that they can't really do via Twitter; ask for money. It explains how Tim Hudak, Leader of the Ontario PC Party, has used an iPhone app to connect with his target audience. To quote the article, which can be found on Wireless Industry News:

iPhone apps that allow wireless users to donate money to charities, recent earthquake victims in Haiti and Chile or to participate in political polls are transforming things in a very positive way for politicians who are savvy in social media and Internet forums. Canadian Heritage Minister James Moore, who is considering signing up for a smartphone application, says "there's a whole new generation of people out there that need to be reached, and you're only going to do it by adapting and recognizing the habits in which they consume information." And he's not alone. Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak says he has become the first Canadian politician to launch an iPhone application. The free download can transmit policy positions, videos, photos, news, information on coming events in a specific location or city, etc.

And oh yes, let's not forget this: it can also ask you to make a donation to his party...

For far too long, younger generations have been too apathetic when it comes to letting their voices be heard. Hopefully, what we are seeing is the beginning of a cultural shift in the world of Canadian politics; and I look forward to what the future has in store.