Unlike a physical store out in the real world that is positioned in a specific neighborhood or city, online applications are readily accessible to a global audience. Although an app may be targeted to a specific demographic with different expectations and needs, (i.e. tween girls, 18 to 35-year-old males, or working mothers) the great expanse of the Internet means that your reach is always global. It is essential that your company consider the currency and payment preferences and requirements of an audience that spans far and wide. Overlooking these aspects can be a missed opportunity to monetize willfully paying audiences.
It’s clear as online gaming has increased globally over the last several years that games are enjoyed universally among people everywhere who seek entertainment and engaging, interactive experiences. While cultural norms may differ from country to country, social experiences are part of daily human experience and are necessary for people to thrive. It’s not surprising that the relatively new genre of social gaming is rapidly expanding and attracting audiences everywhere. If you have an entertaining and engaging online game, it is very likely that users in more than one country are already playing it. If you are building apps on social networks, then there is no question: your user base is already global.
It is important to remember your international audience not only when it comes to language and content preferences, but also when it comes to currency and payment methods. Users are looking to purchase virtual goods with the payment method most comfortable and accessible for them – whether that is with a credit card, bank transfer, mobile phone or cash. Currency exchanges and regulations must also be taken into account when providing a fluid payments experience for the end user. We recommend looking for comprehensive payments solutions that provide full coverage across international markets without corrupting the user experience. We here at Social Gold focus on providing a comprehensive payments solution to ensure the most seamless payments experience for local and international users.
Additionally, just as games and social experiences are universal, so is the desire to have a frictionless payments experience. When playing a game online, users enjoy being engaged in gameplay—why disrupt this enjoyable experience? Remember, engagement is the key behind monetization. That’s why Social Gold offers seamless in-app and in-Flash payments. Players remain in the game while they complete their purchase, which results in greater retention and repeat purchases.
Remember your valuable international user base when it comes to payments and make sure they are provided the best possible payments experience no matter where they live.
