I had the opportunity to talk with Checkpoints CEO Todd Dipaola about the future of mobile, interacting with consumers at point of purchase, and making mobile check-in apps relevant for the consumer. Mobile is the buzzword around SXSW but how can we leverage this technology to introduce consumers to products and win their loyalty?
Checkpoints is trying to do just that. If you aren’t familiar with Checkpoints you should, um, check it out. It has gained a substantial user base since launching in 2010, suggesting that consumers are eager to be rewarded for everyday actions. The app grants users points for checking-in at locations and then scanning featured products. Points can then be redeemed for gift cards, prizes and other incentives. Checkpoints also integrates game mechanics into its interface, further enticing users to interact with the app and invite friends.
Why does it standout among the sea of point of sale (POS) apps? The app focuses on brands not brick and motor locations, making it a potential powerhouse for consumer packaged goods. Unlike Foursquare, which rewards individuals for visiting an establishment (usually frequently), Checkpoints rewards the consumer for learning about different products while shopping.
Don’t get me wrong – I love Foursquare and think it has the potential to successfully work with consumer-packaged goods. But, as Dipaola pointed out, we aren’t always inclined to check-in at the grocery store, drug store, or other hum-drum places. This makes it harder for the routine products to capitalize on the action of checking-in.
Checkpoints aims to reach the busy shopper looking for a more informed, engaging and fun shopping experience. The potential for partnering with this type of app is the ability to reach a consumer when they are in the aisle debating between your product and a competitor.
There is no doubt the world of mobile is evolving and evolving fast. As a Digital Strategist I’m always on the hunt for technology that helps the consumer pick out my client’s brand from among the crowd. Checkpoints has the potential to make a mark as a POS app and it’s one I plan to watch. What mobile apps have caught your eye?