Companies are able to communicate with their fan base, and potential fans, using smart phone apps like Foursquare. Unfortunately, these apps were built mainly for retail locations, restaurants, events, etc. – establishments that could offer a special or deal for checking in. Since B2B companies were rarely able to create an incentive for consumers, they were left out of the game.
While preparing his SoLoMo presentation for SxSW, Dave shared an awesome concept enabling B2B businesses to share and involve community members with their existing relationships with local non-profits. While the functionality of Foursquare isn’t going to change any time soon to officially accommodate this concept, companies can use the app as-is to make it happen.
Our relationship with the folks at SpayMemphis.org embodies the concept. All you need to do be near LunaWeb and check-in using Foursquare. That’s it! Your check-in nets SpayMemphis.org five bucks. Now, what would that look like if a few hundred of your best friends did the same?
People will participate in the deal because it’s so easy to help a local non-profit, but by doing so they are also becoming more aware of LunaWeb, and the services offered by SpayMemphis.org. It’s turning the Foursquare check-in into a Facebook “Like”. It also removes disdain from those guilty of a “drive-by check-in”. It’s a win-win-win.
Our next step is to enable the community member to donate directly to Mid-South Spay & Neuter Services after checking-in, and find out more about their service, learn how to volunteer.
We hope that this idea will be copied, embellished upon and used throughout Memphis. The attendees of the SxSW session definitely took note, but were hopeful the idea will take off here in Memphis. So far, the concept has been very well received.
