The Gartner Group predicts that always-on wearable computing and communication devices will become commonplace by 2010. Consequently marketing information systems in 2010 will likely be diffused throughout every part of human endeavors (commonly referred to as pervasive computing) and process information from common household and office devices (commonly referred to as ubiquitous computing).
To systematically develop successful ubiquitous computing solutions, requires an understanding of how to implement value added systems that go far beyond the successes of the opportunistic first generation electronic storefronts. There must be a more sophisticated understanding of electronically engineered digital retail marketing opportunities brought forth by the integration of mobile telephones, personal digital assistants, the internet, television, and computing.
Specifically, this research focuses on furthering the conceptual foundation and methods required to systematically analyze and develop ubiquitous IT-based business solutions that enable promotion and customer relationship management. This research integrates the use of emerging information technologies and IT architectures to enable:
- Mobile retail marketing;
- Integration of mobile applications with existing (web, TV, and print) efforts;
- Loyalty marketing;
- Customer relationship management;
- Heightened brand awareness;
- In-store targeting of customers;
- Increased product performance; and
- Mass customization and market differentiation.
Collectively, Procter and Gamble, Home Depot, and 3com are providing $250,000 to facilitate this project.
For more information contact:
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Dr. Joanne E. Hale
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0226
jhale@cba.ua.edu
205.348.0854
205.348.0560 (fax)