18 March 2009
Internet users divided on effects of the credit crunch on the digital sector
Almost one third (31 per cent) of Internet users believe that the digital sector will take a greater proportion of limited marketing budgets in the face of the credit crunch, but a similar number (30 per cent) feel it will suffer the same as other sectors, according to new findings released today.
The digital economy poll carried out by user experience consultancy, Webcredible, reveals that while many internet users hold faith with the widespread predictions of continued digital growth, several still believe that the digital sector will not escape the worst of the economic effects that are blighting other sectors.
The research polled more than 1,100 online users between December 2008 and February 2009 on how they felt the digital sector would be affected by the credit crunch. Given the relatively low cost and quick results offered by digital channels, many reports have predicted that the digital sector will continue to grow even in the face of the current economic climate. However, it seems Internet users are undecided.
17 per cent of respondents thought that digital would thrive as other sectors felt the pinch, as opposed to 10 per cent who went completely against most predictions and said that digital would suffer worse than other sectors. 12 per cent of those polled felt that the credit crunch would have no affect on the digital sector.
Trenton Moss, Director at Webcredible comments, “The effects of the credit crunch on consumer, business and marketing spend are undoubted and while many have predicted that digital will escape the worst affects, some Internet users appear to be unsure of this strength.”
“If used appropriately, digital channels do have the potential to provide businesses with lower cost campaigns and more measurable returns. However, although it would seem that digital has more potential than other sectors, it is very difficult to predict the long-term affects of the global economic crisis.”
The digital economy research polled 1,118 visitors to the Webcredible website between December 2008 and February 2009.
About Webcredible
Webcredible is a user experience consultancy, offering a range of usability, accessibility and design services for websites, intranets, mobile devices and applications. The UK-based consultancy researches, designs and builds interfaces to support user requirements & business goals.
With a long list of global clients in the private and public sector, including AIRMILES, uSwitch.com, eBay, the BBC and the World Health Organisation, Webcredible is widely regarded as one of the most respected consultancies in the user experience industry.
