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Recent studies show that nearly 40% of adults face challenges in using modern technology effectively. The Repocket team has compiled an insightful article on revealing how entrepreneurs can tap into this market while making a positive impact.
Money making on Simple solutions for the tech-challenged!
“The Internet is just like any marketplace, filled with opportunities to make money. Yet it requires a nuanced understanding of potential buyers, their needs, and how to meet them,” says Jason Adler, a seasoned software engineer at Repocket.
Harnessing The Power of Simplicity
In an ever-complicated digital world, a large segment of the online populace struggles to keep up, often categorized as “dumb” users. However, this is by no means negative labeling; it merely underscores a significant gap in digital literacy. Rather than exploiting their lack of knowledge, entrepreneurs can build a successful online business by addressing their unique needs and make a profit in the process.
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Jason Adler identifies three crucial requirements of this consumer group:
Simplified services and products
“Online tools or platforms with user-friendly interfaces are a hot commodity amongst folks who lack advanced digital skills. Creating a software or app that simplifies complicated processes can win the business of this population.”
Duolingo, for example, gained popularity and financial success partly due to its user-friendly and engaging interface. By gamifying the learning process, Duolingo made language learning accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.
Step-by-step guides
Adler mentions budding potential in the content creation industry if it targets this cohort’s needs. “People with lesser digital literacy often opt for essential “how-to” guides. Bloggers, vloggers, and influencers focusing on creating such content may find a loyal following.”
A good example of this is Pat Flynn, a well-known entrepreneur, blogger, and podcaster, recognized for his work in online business and passive income strategies. He is the creator of Smart Passive Income (SPI), a website and podcast where he shares “How to” guides for running an online business and generating passive income.
Personalized support
With ‘Dumb’ users forming a significant part of the target audience, businesses can rake in profit by offering personalized customer service. The additional help for a fee or even as part of the company’s core product can drive customer satisfaction, inspire brand loyalty and, hence, increase revenue.
Apple provides personalized support through its Genius Bar in Apple Stores, where customers can receive help and advice tailored to their specific Apple products and needs.
Technologies Tailored to Ordinary Users
Another way to monetize the needs of naive users is developing technologies or digital products explicitly oriented towards them. Jason Adler offers, “One needs to design, develop, or distribute technologies that are baked with an understanding of a layman’s needs.“ He cites the example of smartphones or tablets, which often come with simplified interface options for older users.
These technologies should be simple to understand and use, with clear instructions or guides. Furthermore, he advises, “while creating these technologies, it’s important to maintain empathy for your users and their experience.“
Leveraging Ignorance: Emulating Ancient Business Tactics
Adler touches upon age-old business tactics: the use of scarcity and exclusivity. Limited-time offers and exclusive deals conjure up a sense of urgency and desperation among users, prompting quick purchases. These sales strategies work wonderfully in the digital era too.
Ethical Monetization: An Irreversible Trend
Although the prospect of quick money-making might be tempting, it’s important not to exploit users’ lack of knowledge. Ethical decision-making in business is not just a moral obligation, but it can also build trust and result in long-term profitability. What entrepreneurs shouldn’t lose sight of is the notion that “Good business isn’t about taking advantage, but about providing value,” Adler reminds us.
Ultimately, it is vital to strike a balance between monetizing and meeting the needs of naive or ‘dumb’ users. With a well-strategic approach, it’s quite possible to create a digital landscape where businesses can profit without exploiting these unsuspecting users but by genuinely helping them navigate the digital world. Delving into the demands and expectations of ‘dumb’ users and providing them with valuable products and services can indeed prove to be a smart move online.
“Wisdom often comes dressed in simple garb,” Adler concludes, emphasizing that valuing all kinds of users, including ‘naive’ ones, could be the key to unlocking a persistently profitable and sustainable online business.
Credit: https://repocket.co/
