The norm today is more likely that IT companies look towards the enterprise sector and, more recently, the small and medium sector for adoption trends. But a recent Gartner report states that consumers` adoption of technologies will lead any adoption by corporate users by an average of 18 to 24 months.
Consumers are beginning to "feel at home" with mobile technology and are now leveraging it in their homes, according to research firm International Data Corporation (IDC). Specifically, IDC`s findings from its study "Mobilising the Consumer: 2003 Survey Results" show that personal use of mobile devices, technology, applications and services is on the rise as many previously business-focused solutions have been extended or repositioned for the home.
Major drivers of consumer technology adoption are mobile phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs). According to IDC, mobile phones continue to be a big part of consumers` lifestyles. In Africa, mobile subscriber numbers increased by over 1 000% between 1998 and 2003 to reach 51.8 million. Mobile user numbers have long passed those of fixed-line, which stood at 25.1 million at the end of 2003.
The adoption of a PDA is often a natural progression from the use of a mobile phone, particularly as the content becomes richer, more user-friendly and appropriate for consumers.
But, keeping up with this segment of trendsetters is key to the success of mobile technology evolution and adoption within the home and office. IDC rates the home as "the next big thing" and also believes that understanding the usage patterns and buying intentions of consumers who are mobile, is key to tapping a red-hot market segment.
Consumers are a diverse market with ever-changing needs.
Samantha Galliet, HP mobile product manager, Axiz.
What makes this undertaking more complex is that consumer needs change as they move through major life stages. Understanding these changing needs is critical for mobile technology vendors looking to penetrate key customer segments.
According to IDC, as consumers advance through different stages of their lives, their interest levels, usage patterns, spending habits and brand preferences for mobile and other technology products and services constantly change.
An example of this is the recent uptake of PDAs within the mature market. The launch of the Sasol-sponsored e.Birds field guide, which features plates (950 species), distribution maps, text, an electronic log and a digital sound recorder as well as audible bird calls, has reinvigorated a hobby and introduced a new market segment to the wonders of mobile technology. But it doesn`t end there. Once comfortable with this software, users often move on to other applications included on the PDA and become loyal mobile technology users.
Consumers are a diverse market with ever-changing needs. Understanding this, and tapping into it, could result in more than just success in the home but at the office as well.
Axiz sponsors ITWeb`s channel industry portal, a one-stop information resource on changes and challenges in the channel. Other issues covered in this section include the distribution agreements and rights that revolve around the supply of products, services and solutions to corporate SA.
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