The plan we wrote as a result of our research in Nepal
The next phase(s). Timeframe: 6 months.
Phase 1
We emphasize on exporting our knowledge about Social Media by giving workshops and provide cases / literature. Here’ s a short indication: why Social Media, how can we use it, what channels are available, listening is essential, who to follow and why do we follow, within what context lies our content, how can we reach the (new) target groups and how do we maintain long term relationships, when do we NOT use it, and how can different disciplines strengthen each other? New marketing efforts (e.g. virals like the Riksja race we have done in 2009) runs parallel with the use of Social Media.
The initial actors involved will be local entrepreneurs in Kathmandu and at least one NGO. We have a list of entrepreneurs that are also on our Kathmandu map (Magic 7). In the future this can grow to more actors. The more actors involved the stronger the Social Media network, especially related to Western organizations like SNV and other potential parties who’s social identity can be spread throughout the web as well. This increases exposure and carrying capacity.
Social Media is one of the tools used to create capacity building between different parties. In this phase we will determine a clear framework of all parties involved. From social to commercial.
Phase 2
The second element of the project is product development. The new products are suitable for niche markets with money to spend. Minimizing impacts and also suitable for the Nepali low season. The offer can be divided into three markets:
1. Company travel / teambuilding / "The game"
2. Up scaled market / yuppie’s / experiencing the different thing / adventure
3. Wellness / health market
The trips do not necessarily have to be 'socially marketed' meaning that we can market our products also towards those people who lack affinity with third world development. Although the green and social character of the new products are essential marketing tools we can also promote the new trips commercially (and innovative). Thus being open towards a wider target group in our opinion. We do not sell ‘building new schools’ in which we narrow the list of potential travelers, no we sell something awesome and from there local communities can build their own school.
In our product development and documentation we take into account where large communities on the web are active to integrate Social Media. E.g. in this context serving Dal Baht after a long mountain hike can be used as a tool to penetrate social communities with a keen interest in healthy and biological food in relation to our wellness tour.
Goal of the new trips is to create revenue for all actors involved and therefore stimulating the multiplier effect. Economic development is the best means of development work in our opinion. Besides that a percentage of every Euro spent will flow directly into social goals that will be determined during the first phase of the project preferably in cooperation with the SNV. The products itself are distinctive and emphasize on the beauty and strengths of the Himalaya and Nepal
Phase 3
Documentation of the project and new products (video, film and in writing), SEO (Search Engine Optimalisation), a new and informative website and the further implementation of the Magic 7 map. In this phase we also test what we have taught in phase 1 and give feedback. Here we integrate the different communication channels in relation to the products and our documentation. We only use local experts.
Phase 4
Launch in Holland Holland Holland Holland
Every trip sold (at least the first 3 years) in Holland
