geofencing

Definition

Using GPS or RFID to create virtual geographic boundaries that trigger targeted marketing when someone enters the area. It's like having an invisible fence that alerts you to send ads to anyone who walks past your competitor's store.

Example Usage

Our geofencing campaign targets anyone within 500 feet of a Starbucks with ads for our coffee shop, which is ethical because it's digital.

Origin

Location-based marketing technology that became practical in the early 2010s with smartphone GPS ubiquity

Fun Fact

70% of marketers plan to increase geofencing spend, because apparently following people around physically wasn't enough.

Source: Mobile marketing and location-based advertising terminology

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See “geofencing” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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