Often, upon meeting clients trying to promote a particular social marketing cause, I am asked to provide specific examples of engaging “viral” online campaigns. The first thing that usually comes to my mind is the use of simple online games (usually created in Flash) such as the one used in the Darfur is Dying campaign. Put simply, this is a web-based, viral video game that provides a window into the experience of the 2.5 million refugees in the Darfur region of Sudan. It is designed to raise awareness of the genocide taking place in Darfur and empower college students (the target audience in this case) to help stop the crisis. Interestingly enough, this game has garnered the attention not only of students, but of older adults as well. Why? Because online “social marketing” games are designed to be simple, fun and ENGAGING. It’s that engagement that allows the message to really be heard. See for yourself.
There are numerous other examples of using online games for Social Marketing purposes that I can think of, here are a few off the top of my head:
Have fun and don’t forget to send them to your friends!