With the pinpoint tracking and targeting achievable through rich e-mail, the online advertiser may soon approach the status of the proprietor of the neighborhood general store some 100 years ago, who knew everything about every customer who walked in the door, and thus was prepared precisely to supply everything that customer might possibly need or want. To whom the Video E-Mail was forwarded, and more. Speaking of friends and family, viral marketing, the slang by which this pass-along effect is known, will continue to grow as marketers learn how to use this powerful tool. According to Jupiter research, almost 60 percent of consumers visit Web sites based on the recommendation of a friend. Nothing is more credible and targeted than a recommendation from someone you know.
Rich media provides a tantalizing dramatic message that begs to be shared with friends.
It is no surprise that rich media is turning online window shoppers into buyers, according to a recent study released by Yankee Group, in which it presents current case studies of how audio and video are being used to enhance the online selling process, The research suggests that individuals who sample audio and video clips online, such as in a Video E-Mail or other rich media, are more likely to be buyers. The study reported that almost 30 percent of Internet shoppers have watched some form of video online in the previous three months. Almost two-thirds of that group were also online buyers within the last three months. One company that targets specifically targets the automotive industry with rich media technology is ExpandMail. To A Friend feature.