When online goes offline

Social media is coming full circle with the launch of a new product that brings it offline.
Dublin- and Blackpool-based firm Blue Apricot brings social media in-store and at events with social media display screens.

Darren Fenton, managing director, Blue Apricot, is hoping to replicate the success this technology has had in the US, in Ireland. He says it can engage potential customers.
“In the process you get to build your marketing lists, social networks and overall e-marketing campaigns.”
The screens provide a mix of applications, user interface design and content management controls.
The idea is that they bring digital signage to life by offering streaming links to social networking sites such as Twitter, Foursquare and Facebook.
The screens can show live streaming from the sites, but content is filtered so only positive messages are shown.
For example, the in-store screens will advertise when customers who check-in to a business online can get a discount.