2009 Digital Trends

Digital Marketing Lab have been canvassing the web to bring you the hot digital predictions for 2009.

The Australian interactive media association has predicted that Australian businesses will spend $17.9B online in 2009. The economic downturn is having a very positive effect on the industry as companies strive to find more cost effective marketing channels. In addition as online now represents 1 in every 4 dollars earned the impact of online is hard to ignore.

So where will some of this spend go? Some of the latest Australian trends are detailed below;

Going Mobile
Q3 2009 marks the introduction of the Google Android phone to the Australian market. In addition since its launch in July 2008, the iPhone has sold close to 200,000 iPhones (although this qty has not been confirmed by the manufacturer.). It looks as though the mobile pitch is hotting up – and for those looking to get first mover advantage in mobile marketing, 2009 could be the year to get serious about mobile.

More Advanced SEO Techniques
Australian companies have caught up with the SEO phenomenon however as more and more companies optimise their site content and conduct external link building activities the fight for the top position rages. In 2009, the best of the best will look beyond the basics, to leverage and integrate social media, blogging and SEO to gain competitive advantage.

Micro-Blogging Takes Hold
There seems to be considerable debate about the impact that Twitter and other micro-blogging applications have had over the past year. In September, Hitwise released intelligence showing a 518% increase year on year in the number of aussie’s tweeting. In 2009, businesses will start to more effectively utilise this tool and the intelligence that Twitter can provide.

The Rise Of Niche Social Networks
The astronomical growth of Facebook, My Space and Bebo might hit maturity over the next 12 months in Australia with the introduction of niche social network sites. With introduction of Ning globally and Rapport in Australia companies and online communities now have access to create their own social websites and social networks. The take up of this trend in Australia may be a bit too premature to call, but none the less its one to watch over the coming year.