Out of 10 million people that attempted to shop or purchase items via mobile commerce last year, almost 8.5 million of them had some type of problem during the transaction. A survey conducted last year by a leading market research firm, showed that mobile technology is woefully lacking, and businesses still need educated on mobile commerce platforms.
Technology has created the illusion of a highly advanced civilization; that’s why most consumers have no patience or tolerance when it comes to glitches and poor performance with our electronic devices. Everything had a breaking in period when it was introduced. As we progressed, those glitches became less frequent, and performance improved.
When cable and satellite for television first emerged, it was full of problems; now, most issues are minor. It was the same with the internet and cell phones. In the beginning there were several issues that needed corrected; these services are now (mostly) problem free.
This is where mobile commerce comes in. Technology has advanced enough that we expect near perfection from it. In the survey that was conducted, three quarters of the respondents felt there was no reason why mobile purchases and banking couldn’t be completed without errors and lost connections.
Well over half of the respondents said if they did have an issue with a mobile transaction, they would most likely take their business to another mobile site; even if it meant buying a different brand. With over half of the population predicted to be using a Smartphone this year, it’s time for businesses and developers to get serious about mobile commerce.
Around two thirds of consumers are shopping via their mobile device. Well over a quarter of people are using their mobile device to do banking and other financial activities. Almost as many people are conducting travel arrangements; by buying tickets, and booking hotel rooms.
Consumers are demanding to have a mobile lifestyle, and they expect their mobile transactions to be fluid and flaw free.