Influx

If we could fast forward to 2012 and take a look at Twitter, what might we see?

If hundreds of brands start to realize the amazing potential of the space, we could start to see something very interesting happening.

If Twitter truly becomes the “pulse of the planet”, then brands will have the opportunity to continually listen to the pulse and respond to its needs.

Could we see a situation where people start using Twitter to get brands to bid for their custom?

If a person wants to fly from SFO to Paris, do several airlines provide that person with real-time pricing if they are prepared to book on the spot?

If a person asks the crowd for a recommendation for a digital camera- do brands and retailers respond with suggestions and pricing offers?

Twitter could become the commercial pulse.

If this happens Twitter could have a chance to make money, perhaps twice- by charging brands to be on the medium and also by getting a slice of the transaction.

I am sure there are lots of things standing in the way of this development, not least consumer resistance and wear-out because of the multiple contacts they start having with brands.

However, if it’s done right and the consumer emerges as a winner because they’re in control and because they get deals, it could happen.

It’s obvious to see that the ramifications could be considerable, with marketers radically changing their departments and their spending plans as a start.

Posted by Ed Cotton