I decided to do a little experiment and test just how Social Media tools can really influence a consumers decision to purchase. I could have used my blog to prove this point, but I needed almost instantaneous responses from people who form part of my online network. I decided the best place would be Twitter, as it acts like an instant messaging platform.
The Question:
On Twitter: (I am) looking for decent wireless internet.. MTN 3G, Vodacom 3G or iBurst? Anyone got some advice for me?
This question was broadcast to the 68 followers on Twitter, as well as the 500+ friends I have on Facebook due to the fact that Twitter is integrated with my Facebook account.
The Result:
Twitter Responses: 4
Nic Haralambous: I use vodacom usb modem on contract. works like a charm almost everywhere. Even in Grahamstown.
Eve Dmochowska: I am also using vodacom USB modem. Fab.
Uno de Waal: MTN drops the whole time. go with vodacom. very stable and a great interface (mtn’s one sucks).
Simone Puterman: I was using iBurst and then the company switched me to vodacom 3G 3months ago. Initially the 3G drove me nuts but it seems to have improved – not sure if it is weather or just in the Illovo area. My experience of 3G in Grahamstown sucked, though. it depends where in the town.
The 4 people that did respond to my question are highly respected people within the South African blogging arena, they do have lot of influence. They’re opinion will without certainty influence my decision when it comes to subscribing to a reliable 3G service provider.
Facebook Responses: 2
The Conclusion:
Vodacom received 4 positive and 1 negative comments. iBurst received 1 mention and 1 positive comment. MTN received 1 negative comment. While the answers were directed at me, in full public view, they are also visible to the followers and friends of people who responded to me on Twitter and Facebook. The influence hasn’t stopped at me, it could quite possibly be influencing a spectator (or many more) to our conversation.
Tags: Social Media, social networking
Part of your analysis is missing, the section where Twitter is recognised as the app of all communication apps