Categories
Business

How geospatial data helps you build your server infrastructure

Location is one of the essential components that make up any hosting offer. Choosing the right location can contribute to various aspects of your website’s optimal operation. Today we want to analyze exactly in which ways, and how the geospatial data can be helpful in this task.

The importance of server location

When you browse the internet, you might have always had the impression that the websites you visualize pop up just from nowhere. That they are contained somewhere within the vast network of cables but without a concrete localization, with no option to answer exactly where a website is located. However, the case is just the opposite: every website can be traced back to a particular server upon which it is hosted, and every server is housed at a particular data center which is in turn located at some particular place. And the choice of this place is not occasional.

A website is located at a physical place and it has to cover a physical distance which requires a physical amount of time. The more distance, the more time. This time interval is referred to as latency and what we do when we organize our server infrastructure is to minimize the latency for everybody who is likely to access our website. In other words, make so that the server is as close as possible to all parts of your target audience.

Benefits of the right location

Benefits of the right location are presented by:

  • Customer contentment: Nothing is as annoying as a page that loads hundreds of years. When encountering such a website, you are likely to leave the website for good and look for another one. On the contrary, a site that loads smoothly and in no time is likely to leave a very positive impression if the rest of the aspects are fine. The more your visitors are satisfied after visiting your website, the more the probability that they stick, which results in more customers and more revenues.
  • SEO rankings: The other and less direct side of your website’s promotions relies heavily on the former more direct aspect. Indeed, page load speed is one of the criteria that are posed by search engines. The better page load speed you can offer, the better chances you have. Another point why location positively contributes to your site’s search engine optimization is that search engines also have the inclination to show in the first place the sites that are hosted physically closer to a particular visitor. Since it’s easier to get various services as long as their head office is located not far from you, the logic behind this is also pretty clear.

Choosing the proper location

To choose the proper location you have to make up your mind about where your target audience is to be. If your products target a particular country, then you just have to opt for the location that is directly in that country or in the next closest country to this region.

If you are not sure so far, in which country your target audience is to be located, you should apply a series of approaches and market research to figure out where your services will be most in demand. In this case, you’ll require the geospatial data related to the search request and choose your location based on it. If your target audience cannot be limited to a single country or a particular dense geographical region, what can help you is a Content Distribution Network

CDN

Content Distribution (and Delivery) Network abbreviated as CDN is an auxiliary service related to hosting that makes your website accessible to a more geographically distributed audience. A CDN is a network of interconnected servers that help deliver content to more remote visitors of your website omitting latency. This is achieved through caching. Some parts or just the whole content of your website is cached that is stored on the servers of the CDN, so the users can view it with much less latency. Besides that, a CDN gives a range of additional benefits, like reducing the load on your main server and optimizing the bandwidth consumption.

Gather the geospatial data about where your target audiences are supposed to be and choose a CDN service that can cover it at best.

There are many CDN offers available, some are connected to other services, and some offer just pure CDN. Keep in mind what exactly you want and how much you can afford to pay since offers can vary a lot in terms of services provided and price.

Conclusion

Geospatial data can provide valuable hints on what location will be the best one for your main servers as well as on how to organize your CDN infrastructure. Location is an aspect not to be neglected during the choice of a web hosting solution, so pay close attention to it. We hope that the information provided was helpful, thank you for your time!

Categories
Marketing & Advertising

What Is Ad Fraud? How Location Data Can Detect Ad Fraud

Online programmatic advertising is a huge, multi-billion dollar per year industry. Ad spend in this area is expected to reach over $300 billion next year. As well as this, other forms of online advertising are expecting similar growth.

The ease of programmatic ad buying and the vast growth of the market has lead to a rise in ad fraud that has infected the advertising ecosystem. Some estimates state that up to $42 billion will be wasted in 2019 due to fraudulent ads.

Some measures have been taken to protect against some basic types of ad fraud. But to counter more sophisticated fraud, advertisers need a more robust solution to counter the huge amount of ad fraud that exists in the industry.

Location could be this solution. Understanding device location and historical behavior can help to identify fraud better than other methods. In this post, we’ll look at the ways that advertisers can use location data to reduce ad fraud and limit the damage from malicious actors in the advertising ecosystem.

What is ad fraud?

Ad fraud is the practice of fraudulently impersonating online advertisement impressions, clicks, conversions or other KPIs in order to generate revenue.

Eliminating ad fraud with location

Does the device exist?

The first step is to identify if the device is a real device and not an emulator. Emulating a device is a common way of faking ad impressions and clicks. In some cases, emulators can even generate IP addresses to pass as a real device.

In this case, location needs to be more precise; the ad inventory needs to combine with sensors to verify that the device exists.

 

Are the ads landing where intended?

Let’s say that you have a campaign running in the US, and you are only targeting devices in the US. You can use location data to map where the ads are being delivered to the device. If there is a considerable disparity between targeting and delivery, then it’s highly likely that some of your campaign inventory is fraudulent.

Identifying fraudulent inventory is essential as often devices can change or move, and the targeting solution will not update these. But other times, audiences can contain bad inventory, deliberately including devices that don’t meet the criteria. This is why you should always carefully vet your data and audience providers.

 

Countering smarter ad fraud

What about eliminating the more intelligent fraud? Some ad fraudsters are generating fake IP addresses to spoof IP location monitoring.

Using a powerful location SDK can eliminate this. An SDK uses many signals to identify device location with greater accuracy correctly. Subsequently to trick a location SDK into registering a click in a fake location is much harder to do than a simple IP trick.

 

What about click farming?

In some cases, fraudsters will pay a real person to click and interact with specific ads in several different locations. Sometimes these devices are kept in one place; other times, they are the person’s personal device.

Location data associated with a device can be used to see if the device moves and behaves like a regular device. Understanding if a device stays in one place and combining this with other fraud detection methods, such as time to install, can dramatically increase the identification of ad fraud.

 

Towards a version of location ad fraud detection.

Integrating precise location into your ad stack can have a substantial positive impact on your ability to detect ad fraud. But using location data in a more traditional way can also help to understand if clicks and conversions are being bought.

For example, location-based attribution is the process of measuring if an exposed device eventually visits a physical location. This can also act as a way of vetting audiences and inventory.

Location data has many powerful applications across the advertising ecosystem. Detecting ad fraud is another application that allows advertisers and marketers to use location to reduce wasted budgets and identify partners that may be supplying them fraudulent inventory.

Categories
Business

Top Factors to Consider When Choosing a College

Like many high school seniors, you must have gone through tons of emails, texts, brochures, and social media posts of different colleges. After all, colleges must attract a massive number of students each term. A college is an important academic institution since it prepares you for university. Herein, you find your calling and choose by choosing a certain profession for life. 

But wait right there! How do you choose the best college? With plenty of online options, finding the right one can be an overwhelming experience. Especially when there’s nobody around to help you, it can be very daunting. Choosing a college is more like taking one step towards knowing yourself more. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a college:

  • Academic Majors Available

Do you know what you have to study? Do you have a perspective on your future already? If yes, check all the colleges that offer your preferred majors. But if you’re a little unsure, it’s alright! Ensure that a college has a variety of majors being offered. This way, you can explore all the fields and see what fits your long-term goals. 

Don’t succumb to any pressure that is coming from your family. Explore your options and see your path. Keep in mind that students switch their majors very often after the first term. This is because they’ve not understood a subject they chose. Or, they might have explored a better option. 

  • Location

This old-school real estate mantra is still applicable in today’s time. Here’s what you need to follow when looking for your college:

  • Is it an urban or a rural area?
  • How close is the transportation to get home?
  • Is it close to your family?
  • What’s the climate like?

For example, if you are repulsed by high weather, you need to look for a place with an average climate. But if you want the location close to basic amenities, you’ll have to shortlist areas close to shopping centers, eateries, and hospitals. The location should be as such that it is close to every facility, which is important. 

  • Affordable Cost of Attendance

The higher the cost of education, the tougher the implications on your life. So it’s an important factor to choose when you’re looking for the best college. Find out how much tuition fee you’ll be paying to the institution. It’s important that you set a budget. And also don’t forget to compare the rates of the same course being offered by various colleagues. 

This will be an easy way to find a college that fits your needs. Secondly, we recommend you consider all the options available. Don’t let the sticker price of a certain college scare you. It’s always a good idea to ask about financial aid and scholarships. Very often, they will bring the tuition cost to a certain level. Wait until they approve of it, so you can decide on joining this place. 

  • Check For National Accreditation

The easiest way to check this is to follow guide to nationally accredited online colleges. It’s an easy way to rest assured about choosing a college that is recognized by your state. Choose a well-reputed college. Go through the student reviews online. 

They will help you weigh the pros and cons of choosing a college. There are tons of fake colleges online, so beware of them. Choose a college that has all the necessary certifications issued by the state. Don’t suddenly choose a certain college in the pursuit of saving money. 

  • On-Campus Facilities

You’re going to spend more than half of your days at the campus. So it should have all the basic amenities. Your college should feel like a second home. Secondly, if you wish to stay in the hostel, looking for a campus with all the basic facilities will become imperative. Here’s what a college must have:

Dining Halls and Restaurants

What kind of meals are available? Are there any restaurants at the place? Do they provide customized meals? 

Residence Halls

What kind of halls are available? How much do they cost? What does the apartment look like? 

Recreation Opportunities

Do they offer fitness classes? Do they have a gym with state-of-the-art equipment? 

Categories
Business

The Most Essential Things To Consider When Traveling To Different American States

Traveling is a learning experience that opens your mind and broadens your thinking capacity. When you visit new places, you can interact with local culture and meet new people. It can help you learn new skills and think from a different perspective.  

 

However, traveling itself can be tough. You have to manage your finances, ensure safety in the new place, and find a place to sleep and eat. This is easy when you are fully loaded financially. With a limited budget, you have to manage everything perfectly.  

 

Here is what you should keep in mind while traveling from one state to another. 

Ensure Personal Safety

When you are traveling to different states in America, you should be vigilant about your safety. While most cities are safe for tourists during the day, you should avoid going out alone at night, especially in areas that are dark and empty. 

 

The major parts of the cities that are great tourist attractions are mostly well-lit and policed. While some parts of the town may not be safe from thieves and burglars. Therefore, when traveling alone, you should consider the safety of your personal belongings and yourself as well. 

Manage Your Budget Wisely

When you are traveling a long distance on your own, budget is your limiting factor. You have to decide your every move by keeping in mind the money you have left. You should plan everything for the trip before starting the trip. You should know that you have enough money to get you back home safely. Start saving up for your trip to give yourself some extra money. You should consider a credit builder credit card to help you during the trip. You can build your credit for some time, and this card can work perfectly fine wherever visa cards are accepted. This way you will not have to carry hard cash with you. 

 

You can save up on your budget by choosing public transport to travel in the city, instead of renting a car. You can also look for hostels and cheaper hotels for accommodation instead of going to a five-star hotel room. Choose exploration over luxury when you are traveling for fun. 

Have A Travel Insurance

Every traveler should have travel insurance. Travel insurance can cover your loss during traveling. You might need medical attention during the trip. A doctor’s consultation fee can go sky-high. If you are asked to go through a series of medical tests, or you have to take medicines, the medical bills can put a strain on your travel budget. Travel insurance can help you get this money back through the claim. 

 

Travel insurance policies may also cover the loss of personal belongings during traveling such as passports, laptops, cameras, money, etc. having an insurance policy can help you stabilize your financial situation. 

Beware Of State Laws

When you are traveling to different states of America, you should be familiar with the state laws. The laws are different in different states and may make you a law-breaker with small mistakes. You do not have time and energy to clarify yourself in the courts by breaking any law unintentionally. While you can not learn every law that each state has different from the other, you should know the basics that you may encounter in your daily life.

 

For example, every state has different sales tax laws. You should know these sales taxes before shopping in different states. Similarly, every state has a different tipping policy. Waiters in the US earn through the tips. Therefore, it is mandatory to leave handsome tips with every meal you get. For example, you may leave a dollar for the bartender every time you get yourself a drink. Similarly, leaving up to 15% of the bill as a tip for the waitress at the coffee shop can help you avoid angry hosts. 

Pack Your Bags Lightly

Every traveler should pack light. Whether you are hitchhiking your trip, going on public transport like a train, bus, or an airplane or you are taking a road trip in your car, make sure you are packed lightly. If you are packed heavily, your luggage might create interference in your otherwise smooth trip. Make sure you have all the valuables such as a camera, laptop, money, and mobile phone in your hand carry.

 

Pack only a few sets of clothes and a few pairs of your comfiest shoes. Do not forget a hat, sunglasses, and your water bottle. You should have things that you need in your daily routine. However, try not to bring things that can be reused, such as clothes that can be washed. You should keep your important documents such as your passport and money in safe pockets to avoid unforeseen situations in public areas. 

 

Categories
Business

Everything You Need to Know About Life Insurance Payout

There’s no running away from the fact that every day unfolds something new and life is unexpected, so one must be prepared for the worse. This is where life insurance kicks in to save the day. However, our primary focus will be on the life insurance payouts for this feature alone. 

For your information, a life insurance payout is sent to the person’s beneficiary listed on the policy after their death. 

Here, they either receive the payment in installments or put it into an interest-earning account. So if you have been looking for some valuable information on this subject, you have come to the right spot. 

Before we dive deeper into the crux of this discussion, let’s begin with formal instruction on life insurance and how it works. 

 

What is Life Insurance, and How Does it Work?

Life insurance works like a conventional auto or a home insurance plan in simplest terms. You choose a policy and decide to pay the amount over a certain time. You begin to pay the annual premium in return for a certain coverage amount, which is needed at a certain time. 

But, if you pass away during the policy’s lifetime, your beneficiaries will receive a death benefit, which equates to the coverage amount. The only demarcation between life insurance and the rest of the policies is that they allow you to accumulate the cash value around the policy, which can be used in various ways. 

You need to understand that there are two kinds of life insurance plans:

  • Term Life Insurance

These policies are elaborate since they provide coverage over a long period, which usually ranges between 1 to 30 years. Premiums are similar to policy durations, and your beneficiary will receive the payout if you die during the covered term. 

But, you earn zero cash value with the term life insurance. Not to forget, a payout is provided in case of your death. Thus, making it similar to the other form of life insurance policies. 

  • Whole Life Insurance

This is acknowledged as the most common permanent life insurance plan, which will remain intact with you for life. Assuming that you are hands-on with making the premium payments. Cash value will start building up on your policy while you’re still alive. 

And you get to borrow this amount for personal use and can withdraw funds anytime you want. However, withdrawing funds will have a negative impact on the death benefits, which are provided to the beneficiaries. 

 

What Are The Life Insurance Payout Options?

Once a person has died, their beneficiaries have to file a claim that will be collected as a death benefit. Most insurance companies will take a few days or even weeks to process the claim form once they have received the deceased’s death certificate. 

However, if a fraud has occurred, the insurance company will stand an absolute chance to take the benefit of the doubt. Once the claim has been approved, the beneficiaries will have a choice on how they receive the death benefit. Here are the most common options for them:

  • Specific Income Payout

In this option, your beneficiaries will be allowed to receive the payout in monthly installments over a certain time. This way, they can rest assured that the amount doesn’t run out anytime sooner. 

For example, if the beneficiary has to receive $30,000 every year over 20 years, the total death benefit will amount to $0.6 million. And the life insurance company will keep the money secured in the interest-earning account, so your taxes will be collected automatically. 

  • Lump-Sum Fixed Amount

Beneficiaries who choose this option are entitled to the entire death benefit in one fine payment. This is a risky option, especially for those who mishandled money a lot. So when looking for how life insurance payout work, you also need to consult a financial expert on managing your funds. 

This will be a good option to take care of the funds received at once. Secondly, a bank account balance will hardly cover around $250,000, so placing the money in different accounts will be essential. 

  • Annuity

Also known as life income payout, this is a grant for the beneficiaries for life. Not to forget, the insurance company will ask for the ages of your beneficiaries when they file the claim. They do this to determine the payment amount that will accumulate at the time of the person’s death. 

Therefore, the death benefit amount, which remains at the end, will go back to the insurance company when the beneficiary has passed away. Thus, making your death payment more flexible and larger than before. 

  • Retained Asset Account

If the insurance company offers this option, the policy proceeds can be stacked in the interest-bearing account. The beneficiary will receive a checkbook in case they need urgent cash. And also, the insurance company will guarantee the proceeds In the account. 

Even if the balance exceeds the typical $250,000 limit, you will still be notified. This way, the beneficiaries can rest assured about receiving the sum on time. 

Categories
Data

How Big Data Can Improve The Supply Chain

Big data has become the power that organizations need to harness to move their company forward at high speed. By the year 2020, the amount of data available in the world is estimated to be roughly around 44 zettabytes. Collecting all these datapoints will do no good unless it is utilized through the proper channels.

Various organizations from across the world are harnessing big data to create better business models and execute faster development strategies. Big data is playing a pivotal role in reducing operational costs through statistical and predictive analysis. In Supply Chain Management (SCM) too, there is a lot of data available. When this data is put together to create meaningful operations, it can make the entire supply chain more feasible.

While some organizations have identified what big data could do for their supply chain systems, there are a lot of companies which are yet to explore the possibilities. Here are some of the most crucial aspects through which big data can help to groom the SCM.

 

Be on Top of Your Demand

Predictive analysis is a huge part of making use of big data. With a considerable amount of data at their disposal, companies can avoid inevitable redundancies in their operations all the while making efficient use of the stocks. There are a lot of ways through which the predictive analysis with big data can help.

Companies can identify retailers who may need some stock sooner and the retailers who take longer to complete the stock order. Companies can analyze their orders and see if the cost of supplying the stock to some regions may be too higher than what they could afford. Companies can even predict which of their loyal customers may switch to their competitors and which of their competitors’ customers are looking to explore other options.

Much can be gathered from the predictive analysis of these datasets and enable companies to take precautionary measures and be ready for any potential surprises.

One good example of a multinational company using big data for the supply chain is PepsiCo. Replenishing the stocks of retailers is of significant importance for a customer-oriented product supplier like PepsiCo. Therefore, they make use of big data to predict the retailers’ stocks based on the data of the inventory they have, the time needed for the shipment, and the volume required to be shipped. This has helped PepsiCo to ensure that their products are never out of stocks from their retailers’ and at the same time, ensure that there is no high wastage. This has also been applied to retail, where the demand of designer swimsuits is predicted to ensure delivery in peak times.

In short, the predictive analysis with big data for supply chain helps companies to make the right volume of stock available to the right people at the right time.

 

Be in Control of Your Operations

Even when the external factors seem to be out of control most of the time, with big data analysis, you can be in control of your supply chain operations.

One significant problem that many supply chain managers face is the problems they face on the journey between the moment the product leaves their warehouse to the time it reaches the retailers. This is where a lot of external obstructions can affect delivery. When the data for the entire supply chain operations is collected over several years and updated frequently, companies can avoid and find a roundabout better way to ensure that the supply chain is not affected by these out-of-hand disturbances.

Moreover, analysis of big data will also enable companies to find better supply chain routes that are optimal and profitable. Based on the demand, expected revenue, the geoanalytics, and available modes of transportation, the analysis can to create improved and efficient ways of managing the supply chain, reducing cost and decreasing delivery time.

 

Be on The Constant Path of Innovations

Innovation is a necessary part of the supply chain, and big data doesn’t just stop at helping supply chain manageability, they also provide new avenues for achieving better efficiency.

You can idetnify new delivery channels that could half the cost or merge existing delivery channels for better optimization. For an organization to improve, they have to be continually innovating, and big data plays a significant role in these innovations.

Accenture found that including big data in their supply chain operations led to a 2.6x times increase in their supply chain efficiency. This consists of the innovations in the SCM through multiple channels.

A good portion of getting the best out of a big data or analytics company for SCM is by innovating as the company progresses. These innovative ideas can also help the supply chain managers in decision-making, having better control, and minimizing their problems.

Leveraging the data available at hand prevents unexpected supply chain issues and streamlines supply chain operations. Companies can save a great deal of money, cut down the time spent on managing the supply chain, and further assisting in future expansions.

 

Categories
Business

Microsoft Azure for Students: Building Skills for the Future

Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing service created by Microsoft for building, testing, deploying, and managing applications and services through Microsoft-managed data centers. It provides a range of cloud services, including those for computing, analytics, storage, and networking. Users can pick and choose from these services to develop and scale new applications or run existing applications in the public cloud. Azure is commonly used as a platform for hosting and deploying applications, particularly in the context of serverless computing. Azure is out here revolutionizing the way we learn, and we’re all for it!

But before we dive deep into that, let’s talk about something equally important for students – paper writing. Yes, we know it can be the bane of your existence. All those late nights, the frantic last-minute scrambling, and, let’s not even get started on the anxiety of grades. This is where a professional service can be a lifesaver. Particularly for those in the challenging field of healthcare, a paper writing helper can help tackle those daunting essays and research papers, giving you more time to focus on honing your future-ready skills.

 

Okay, But Why Should Students Even Bother?

“Wait a minute,” you might ask, “Why should I, a student, care about a business tool?” Well, we’ve got three compelling reasons that might just make you rethink:

  1. Job Market Realness. Calling all future tech wizards! Cloud computing is the talk of the town, and the tech world just can’t get enough of it. And guess what? Azure is a big player in this game. If you’re dreaming of a tech career, having Azure in your skillset might just make your resume the star of the show.
  2. Freebies! Yes, you heard that right! Who doesn’t love free stuff, right? Azure is out here offering free services for students. So, you can experiment, learn, and grow without worrying about your wallet. That’s what we call a win-win!
  3. Practical Magic. Azure isn’t just about burying your head in books and theory; it’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting down to business. With Azure, you learn practical skills to solve real-world problems. From coding to machine learning, it’s like a digital tool kit for the modern world.

What’s In It For Me? The Student Edition

So, you’re intrigued by Azure. We like that! But what exactly does it offer you as a student? Here’s the scoop:

  • Education Central. Think of Azure as your digital library filled to the brim with rich learning resources. It’s got everything from in-depth courses that take you on a deep dive into the world of Azure to handy ‘how-to’ guides that help you navigate this new terrain.
  • Hands-on Labs. Azure’s interactive labs are like your playground for learning. It’s a place where you can experiment, make mistakes, learn some lessons, and grow. Because let’s face it, the best lessons often come from our biggest blunders!
  • Certifiable Genius. Feeling confident about your Azure skills? Why not show them off? Azure offers certifications that you can earn to prove your mettle. And trust us; employers will be all over you like bees on honey.

Future-Proofing Your Skillset

But let’s dig a little deeper. What skills can you learn? Here’s a detailed rundown:

Cloud Basics

Ever wondered how all your favorite apps store and manage their data? Well, it’s all thanks to cloud computing. With Azure, you’ll get down with the nitty-gritty of cloud computing, understanding the types of cloud services and how they drive business success.

Data Science & AI

Data is the new gold, and Azure is your pickaxe. With Azure, you can learn how to harness the power of data for decision-making and crafting AI solutions. And trust us, it’s as cool as it sounds.

Software Development

Ever dreamed of creating your app or maybe even a game? Azure can make those dreams come true. You’ll get your hands dirty with coding, app development, and even game development. We’re talking major bragging rights here.

DevOps

Azure also gives you a peek behind the curtain of the software world with its DevOps services. You’ll learn how software development and IT operations join forces to deliver continuous, high-quality results.

 

How Can You Rock Your New Skills?

So you’ve done it – you’ve climbed the Azure mountain, and you’ve got this amazing toolbox of skills. What’s next on the agenda? Where’s the party at? This is where the fireworks start. You get to put your new skills to good use. Here’s the lowdown:

  • School Swag: Ready to take your school projects from meh to epic? With Azure, your academic research is going to hit new heights. Handle huge data like a pro, simulate to your heart’s content, and drop some jaws in your next presentation. Profs won’t know what hit ’em!
  • Start-Up Spirit: So you’ve got an idea that could be the next Uber or Airbnb? Well, guess what? Azure has your back. Its massive infrastructure can help turn your brainchild into reality. Who knows, you might even end up being the next big tech maverick!
  • Internships & Jobs: Picture this: recruiters tripping over themselves to interview you. Sounds good, right? Well, that’s the power of having Azure skills on your resume. Your foot’s already in the door in the tech world.

Strutting into the Future

Azure isn’t just another item on your CV; it’s your ticket to a future where you’re the boss. The tech scene is shifting faster than quicksand, and with Azure, you’ve got your boots strapped on and you’re ready to sprint. So, fellow students, it’s time to lace up, take the plunge into Azure, and start scaling up. The tech world is watching with bated breath, and it’s ready to cheer you on!

Before You Take the Plunge

Before you dive headfirst into the Azure pool, let’s hit you with a few golden rules to get you swimming smoothly:

  • Explore! Azure is like Disneyland for tech heads. Take your sweet time, try out different rides (read: services), and find your happy place.
  • Practice! Books are great, but there’s nothing like getting your hands dirty. Dive deep into practical skills – that’s what sets you apart from the crowd.
  • Network! Find your tribe online among fellow Azure explorers. You’d be surprised how much you can pick up from each other.
  • Stay Curious! The only constant in tech is changing. Keep learning, stay hungry, and don’t shy away from new experiences.

Wrap It Up

Microsoft Azure for students ain’t just another app on your phone. Nope, it’s like a power-up in a video game, turbo-charging you straight into the future. Wanna create an app that’s hotter than TikTok? How about setting up a tech empire that makes Zuckerberg nervous? Or maybe you just wanna learn some crazy cool stuff? Well, Azure’s got your back on all fronts.

“But hold up,” I hear you say, “what about all those monstrous research papers I need to write?” Well, here’s where the superheroes of the essay world swoop in – the best research paper writing services. Imagine, while you’re out there flexing your new Azure muscles and being all kinds of awesome, these maestros are busy tackling those paper beasts for you.

So, what’s the hold-up? Time to take a leap into the Azure universe and let it propel you into an epic adventure. Opportunities are knocking, peeps! Time to grab them and rock on!

Categories
Business

12 Education Marketing Trends to Keep an Eye on in 2023

The realm of education marketing is in a constant state of evolution, with new trends and technologies continuously reshaping the landscape. In a world where students are increasingly tech-savvy and digitally connected, education institutions must keep up with the latest marketing trends to effectively reach and engage their target audience. 

 

The rise of digital technology has opened new avenues for communication, from personalized emails to AI-powered chatbots that can answer a student’s plea to “who can write my term paper.” In this article, we will explore seven education marketing trends that are expected to dominate in 2023, from the use of video content to enhanced website user experiences and the rise of AI. 

 

As the landscape continues to change, understanding these trends will be key for educational institutions looking to stand out and connect with prospective students in a meaningful and impactful way.

 

Personalization in Marketing

 

Personalization has become the cornerstone of effective marketing, and the education sector is no exception. From personalized emails to targeted advertisements, schools, and universities are using data-driven insights to tailor their marketing efforts to prospective students. This trend is expected to continue in 2023, with an increasing number of educational institutions leveraging AI and machine learning to deliver personalized marketing messages.

 

Increased Use of Video Content

 

Video content is an effective tool for education marketing, capable of conveying a large amount of information in an engaging manner. Schools and universities are increasingly using video tours, student testimonials, and educational content as part of their marketing strategies. The year 2023 will see the proliferation of video content in education marketing, with an increased emphasis on live video sessions and interactive video content.

 

Social Media Engagement

 

Social media has emerged as a critical platform for education marketing. It allows schools and universities to engage directly with prospective students and their parents. The trend of using social media for education marketing will continue to grow in 2023, with an increased focus on platforms like Instagram and TikTok that are popular among younger audiences.

 

Enhanced Website User Experience

 

An educational institution’s website is often the first point of contact for prospective students. As a result, institutions are investing in enhancing the user experience of their websites. This includes intuitive navigation, mobile-friendly design, high-quality content, and easy-to-use application portals. In 2023, we can expect to see continued emphasis on website user experience in education marketing.

 

Artificial Intelligence and Chatbots

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing education marketing. AI-powered chatbots, in particular, are increasingly being used to engage with prospective students, answer their queries, and guide them through the application process. This trend is likely to intensify in 2023, with more educational institutions adopting AI and chatbot technology in their marketing efforts.

 

  1. Focus on Lifelong Learning

 

With the increasing pace of technological change, there is a growing demand for lifelong learning opportunities. Educational institutions are responding to this demand by offering more flexible and accessible learning options, such as online courses and professional development programs. In 2023, marketing these lifelong learning opportunities will become a key focus for educational institutions.

 

Data-Driven Decision Making

 

Data is playing an increasingly important role in education marketing. Schools and universities are using data analytics to understand prospective students’ behavior, track marketing campaign performance, and make informed decisions. The use of data in education marketing will continue to grow in 2023, with institutions leveraging advanced analytics tools to drive their marketing strategies.

 

Rise of Influencer Marketing

 

Influencer marketing has proven to be effective in various sectors, and education is no exception. Educational institutions are increasingly collaborating with influencers, especially those who appeal to young audiences, to showcase their offerings and reach prospective students. This trend of using popular online figures to influence prospective students’ decisions is expected to grow in 2023.

 

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences

 

As VR and AR technologies become more accessible, their use in education marketing is expanding. Virtual tours of campuses, AR-enhanced prospectuses, and VR class experiences are just a few ways these technologies are being utilized. These immersive experiences offer prospective students a unique insight into an institution and its offerings, making them a strong marketing tool.

 

Emphasis on Sustainability 

 

Sustainability is a growing concern among students and parents, and educational institutions are responding to this by promoting their sustainability initiatives. Whether it’s sustainable campuses, green programs, or research in sustainability, showcasing these efforts has become a key part of education marketing. This trend is expected to continue growing in 2023 as students increasingly consider an institution’s commitment to sustainability in their decision-making process.

 

Mobile-First Marketing

 

With the ubiquitous use of smartphones, educational institutions are adopting a mobile-first approach to their marketing efforts. This means optimizing all content, from websites to emails, for mobile viewing. The use of mobile apps for marketing is also on the rise. As more and more prospective students use their mobile devices for information gathering, this trend is expected to dominate in 2023.

 

Podcasts and Audio Content

 

The popularity of podcasts and audio content has been steadily increasing, and education marketers are taking note. Universities and schools are producing podcasts to share knowledge, discuss campus life, or delve into subjects related to their programs. They are even utilizing this format to guide students to the best paper writing services available. This format allows institutions to engage with prospective students in a more personal and in-depth manner. In 2023, we can expect to see greater adoption of podcasts and audio content in education marketing.

 

In conclusion, education marketing is evolving rapidly, driven by advances in technology and changes in student behavior. By keeping an eye on these trends, educational institutions can stay ahead of the curve and effectively reach and engage with prospective students.

Categories
Marketing & Advertising

5 Ways In Which Big Data Is Changing The World Of Marketing

If there is a ‘silver bullet’ to marketing, it would be data. 

Data is the raw material marketers need to make sense of things so that they can do their job with precision and purpose. There’s a million marketing tools and templates available on platforms such as Notion, but this understanding is what empowers marketers to understand their customers, based on the actions they take, revealing their most authentic intentions.

In a recent survey, 40% of brands plan to expand their data-driven marketing budgets, while 88% of marketers used data to enhance their understanding of the customer. Quite clearly, data is slowly becoming to marketers; what oxygen is to humans.

In this article, we’ll look into how data is revolutionizing the world of marketing. If you’re a marketer, you’ll get some robust insights into how data-driven marketing is shaping the future of your profession. So let’s get into it!

 

Personalization Of Marketing Campaigns 

Imagine being greeted by your first name the second you visit a website. Or receiving an email addressed to your name with a list of your favorite products. Better yet, being notified about ordering your groceries every week with personalized recipe recommendations. Are you impressed yet?

That’s precisely what data-driven marketing enables you to do. By collecting critical pieces of data about customers at various marketing touchpoints, like their name, contact details, what they’re interested in, what they’d like to hear about and who they want to hear from, marketers are empowered to be strategic in all their campaigns.

Amazon, for instance, uses customer data to analyze their historical purchases to show them product recommendations based on their shopping habits. They’re able to showcase customized product pages to appeal to customer interests, so they’re more likely to buy. These customized product pages could include customized product recommendations, and even personalized pricing to induce customers to buy.

Capitalizing on customer data is excellent for both customers who receive personalized communications, and marketers, who make a positive impact on the bottom line!

 

Predictive Analytics

HIstorical customer behavior is one of the best ways to predict how customers are likely to behave in the future. For instance, if you’re a grocery store, and a customer has always been health conscious his whole life, ordering sugar free granola bars for the last three years, the chances are that he is going to continue ordering them from you in the near future.

When customer purchases become predictable, businesses can capitalize on this information by ‘automating’ their sales. Essentially, they’d offer the customer a chance to make ‘repeat purchases’ based on the predictability of their shopping behavior.

Building on the Amazon example, they’ve recently obtained a patent on a system called “predictive dispatch” to send products to customers even before they buy it! This is a real game-changer for Amazon, and it’s customers. Amazon can stabilize their revenue, and customers purchase products without having to put any effort into actually making the purchase.

And with the rise of tools that can help access public data, it’s easier to say “what is web scraping, and how can this provide data that will boost my marketing”.

 

Customer Segmentation

Customer segmentation is the act of ‘clustering’ customers into groups to identify unusual patterns. For instance, your data may reveal that customers from a particular city are more likely to buy your products than others. Or you may discover that customers belonging to a specific age demographic purchase different products from you when compared to other age groups.

Tools like Tamoco can be extremely useful to gather location data to help you segment your target audience. For example, Tamoco collects information based on location to further segment your audience based on specific interests, how many times they’ve visited a location, common preferences, and demographics including age, gender, and even home and work location.

These insights can be golden opportunities for marketers to create bold campaigns that optimize their return on investment. By clustering customers into specific groups, they can create separate marketing campaigns for each segment, making their content highly relevant.

While there are several techniques marketers use to segment data, the overarching goal is to identify anything of interest that helps them boost revenue and meet their goals. With effective customer segmentation, marketers can:

  • Identify who their most profitable and least profitable customers are.
  • Predict future customer patterns.
  • Improve their marketing focus by creating relevant content.
  • Build loyal relationships.
  • Price products differently.
  • Develop better products based on customer interests.

Inevitably, high-quality data is the precursor to doing segmentation well. That’s why businesses must continue to invest in collecting high-quality data so that all segmentation efforts can be fruitful.

 

Optimized Paid Campaigns

By collecting data about customers, social media platforms like Facebook and Linkedin make it possible for marketers to customize paid ad campaigns, at scale. What this means is that they can create separate ad campaigns for specific groups of prospects, for paid campaign success.

Additionally, big data makes it possible for marketers to conduct “remarketing” campaigns. Remarketing campaigns are ads that literally ‘follow’ your customers online, wherever they browse, once they’ve visited your website.

Chasing customers online with your paid ads can be an effective strategy when executed well. As per the ‘rule of 7’ in marketing, a prospect needs to be exposed to your ad for a minimum of 7 times before they decide to take action on it.

That’s why some marketers are looking to focus on specific platforms, such as LinkedIn marketing.

While big data makes it possible to chase customers with paid ads, it’s important not to make your customers feel stalked when creating remarketing campaigns. You should endeavor to expose your ads to customers by spacing out the time of exposure, so your ads appear more natural, and don’t come across as being pushed onto prospects!

 

Your Business Size Doesn’t Matter Anymore

Whether you’re a big business with over 500 employees, or a small business with under five employees making category specific products like an underwire bikini top, software tools make big data easily accessible to all. That’s the beauty of marketing on the internet!

You can be just as effective at marketing no matter what size business you are, because success in this game is dependent on how well you utilize the data to your advantage. While the size of your marketing budgets may certainly have a role to play in the extent of your success, you can still achieve a high degree of precision in your marketing campaigns and acquire customers rapidly, with big data being your marketing backbone.

Free online tools like Google Analytics have made it possible to collect and analyze big data in real-time. Small businesses need not spend money on buying expensive tools to get a deeper understanding of who their customers are since google makes it easily affordable. Before the ‘big data era,’ this was impossible to do.

 

Wrapping It Up

Big data makes the future of marketing very bright! With high-quality data being collected in real-time, and the availability of technologies like machine learning and AI, the world of marketing is up for massive changes. It’s no surprise that only the sky’s the limit to what sophisticated marketers can achieve in the near future!

 

Ryan Gould
Vice President of Strategy and Marketing Services

Elevation Marketing

From legacy Fortune 100 institutions to inventive start-ups, Ryan brings extensive experience with a wide range of B2B clients. He skillfully architects and manages the delivery of integrated marketing programs, and believes strongly in strategy, not just tactics, that effectively align sales and marketing teams within organizations