Beacon technology has been used repeatedly in the retail space to better engage with smartphone-carrying technology, and now it is being used in the Mumbai slums. This Google-backed beacons project advertise local markets. The Industrial Design Centre, Indian Institute of Technology and Swansea University are also part of the digital project.
With an objective to improve the visibility of Mumbai slums to smartphone users, the project specifically focuses on Dharavi -- one of the biggest slums in Asia. Jewelry, leather products, pottery and textiles can be found there, resulting in a $1 million USD manufacturing and retail sector. The beacons give local merchants the opportunity to compete with giants like Amazon among mobile users.
This is an example of how inexpensive hardware can be used to emerging technologies and help developing communities compete.
Slum Beacon Projects
Beacons are Helping Mumbai Slums Compete in Retail and Manufacturing
Trend Themes
1. Beacon Marketing - The use of beacons in marketing initiatives are driving higher customer engagement and are a cost-effective way to improve visibility in emerging markets.
2. Smartphone Retail - Increased use of smartphones is pushing the retail industry to adopt technology that better meets the needs of mobile users.
3. Community Empowerment - Empowering communities in developing markets is becoming increasingly important and technology is a cost-effective means of achieving this.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retail companies are adopting beacon technology to provide personalized shopping experiences and improve customer engagement.
2. Manufacturing - Manufacturing companies need to leverage innovative technologies to remain competitive in their industries.
3. Technology and Development - The increasing proliferation of technology has the potential to empower communities in developing markets and enhance economic opportunities.