Author: Jennifer Brazer

Scarcity

Scarcity is something that everyone understands, whether they realize it or not because everyone has experienced its impact. The core economic dilemma of scarcity is that the world has finite – or scarce – resources to fulfill unlimited wants. People are forced to judge how to deploy resources as effectively as possible to meet as many of their objectives as possible.

For example, only a fixed amount of wheat is cultivated each year. Some favor bread, while others prefer beer. Because of the wheat shortage, you can do only a limited amount of good. How do we calculate the amount of flour for bread and beer? One solution to this challenge is a market system based on supply and demand.

Supply and Demand

Supply and demand are the driving forces in a market system. For example, if many individuals desire to buy beer, the demand for beer is said to be high. You can charge a higher price for beer and generate more on average when you use wheat rather than flour to manufacture beer.

It may hypothetically lead to a situation in which more people start brewing and, after some production cycles, there is too much beer on the market – beer supply expands – that beer prices plummet.

While this is an oversimplified and extreme example, the supply and demand idea helps to explain why last year’s popular product cost half as much as this year’s.

Costs and Benefits

Cost and benefit concepts are tied to the economy’s rational choice (and reasonable expectations) theory. When economists argue that people act rationally, they suggest making decisions with the best benefit-to-cost ratio in mind.

Breweries will recruit more personnel to brew more beer if there is a tremendous demand for beer, but only if the cost of beer and the volume of beer they sell justify the higher expenses of their salaries and the resources needed to produce more beer. Similarly, the consumer will purchase the most excellent beer available, but not always the best-tasting beer in the shop.

The notion of costs and benefits may be used in various decisions that aren’t financial. Daily, college students undertake cost-benefit analyses, focusing on the classes they believe are most crucial to their success. It may also include lowering their time studying subjects they think aren’t as important.

Everything is in the Incentives

If you’re a parent, manager, teacher, or someone in a supervisory role, you’ve undoubtedly previously had the opportunity to provide a reward—or encouragement—to raise the chance of a specific outcome.

Economic incentives explain how supply and demand encourage businesses to give customers what they want while urging consumers to save their limited resources. When client demand for a product rises, so does the market price, incentivizing manufacturers to produce more to command a higher price. When the cost of raw materials or inputs for a product rises, and manufacturers restrict supply, the price they charge for the product increases, and buyers are incentivized to conserve their consumption, which is superb and reserved.

Stock and Flow

Stock and flow are two variables that differ primarily in their relationship to time.

The stock is a precise amount at a single point in time, which may have accumulated through time. The flux is a monetary sum expressed over some time, usually in the form of a charge.

You may describe the principles of inventory and flow using the following example: suppose you have a monthly rent payment of $1,000. This rent would be the cash flow, denominated in dollars ($1,000), over a while (1 month), which we may describe as $1,000/month. However, you were in debt the previous month and discovered that you only had $985 to pay your rent.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

The traditional method of accounting dates back to 1495 and was designed by an Italian monk. It is still the basis of most accounting programs but no longer suits today’s entrepreneurs. Below are the seven reasons you should no longer work with the traditional accounting method.

Many people ask me: Do you like doing bookkeeping? Most people would answer this question smiling “No!” without thinking twice. But I’ve been doing the job of an accountant for 18 years, and I can give a single answer here:

YES, I love the job of an accountant: It’s not just the company’s figures but also how these are created and what develops from my work. The statistics I prepare can have a significant impact on management’s decisions. I am also fascinated by how you can adapt processes so that the accounting department can remain lean despite the excessive growth of a company.

The Traditional Tasks of the Accountant are Automated

That’s why I’ve been thinking about how the job of an accountant has changed in recent years and how this could change in the future. The Oxford University study “The Future of Employment” inspired me to do this. Here, some scientists have asked themselves which jobs are easiest to automate and thus fall victim to automation with the help of computers the quickest. It turned out that the position of an accountant is one of the most vulnerable. Of the 702 job profiles examined, it is ranked 671! He’s far behind when it comes to job security.

In the age of Industry 4.0, the fear that new technologies will increase the unemployment rate of accountants is a constant source of discussion. But the more digitization progresses, the clearer it becomes that this fear is invalid. On the one hand, technological progress makes many traditional activities superfluous. At the same time, however, there is also an endless range of new fields of activity requiring more highly qualified workers.

Accounting for the Future Includes Controlling Strategic and Entrepreneurial Thinking

It also applies to bookkeeping: in the future, employees in the finance department will no longer have to type in invoice numbers and bank information or laboriously fill out Excel spreadsheets. Thanks to digital accounting, companies save significant time and money. With the right software, a lot of manual work becomes superfluous.

But why do you need an accountant at all? The answer: because accounting 4.0 will not make the profession die out, but rather change it. For complex bookings, the expertise of professionals will continue to be in demand in the future. In addition, the accountant will have to take on tasks such as checking and monitoring the system and digital maintenance.

In summary, the following points could include the future work of the accountant:

• Develop strategic action plans
• Formulate forecasts for future developments
• Check and optimize computer-controlled processes

According to many different forecasts, the new way of bookkeeping will prevail. The accountant will, therefore, take on more responsibility in data analysis and management consulting. In conjunction with the appropriate accounting software, the accounting system can relieve the accountant of numerous tasks depending on the range of functions.

In my forecast for the future, I have identified two megatrends in future bookkeeping. These two megatrends are:

• Cloud
• Automation

Combining these two trends will offer entirely new accounting methods in the future. In recent years, I have studied all these topics and successfully implemented them in many projects.

Nowadays, accounting can and should be done differently. With the new accounting method, ‘Entrepreneur Oriented Accounting,’ you as an entrepreneur are once again central. With this, you meet the requirements of the Tax Authorities, you understand your accounting yourself, you enter everything correctly and definitively in one go, and the reports provide you with real-time information.

All reports, even the annual report, come from the accounting system at the touch of a button. Jortt invented Entrepreneur Focused Accounting, which is suitable for all companies, from freelancers to general partnerships, BV, and partnerships with a turnover of up to $12 million annually.

Therefore, I believe the accounting profession is not dying out – no, it is changing. It may be massive for some, but the change must be accepted with the help of technology and translated into new areas of responsibility. Complete Controller is a perfect example of that. We shattered the accounting industry with our forward-thinking business model. You can learn more about us and how to thrive financially on our website and blog.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Do not trade stocks at random, but try to follow a strategy. If you have a plan, you have something to follow that signals buying, selling, or sitting still in the boat. Of course, you should edit or change your strategy over time if you notice that it does not work.

Below, we list five common strategies for beginners in stocks. Of course, there are more strategies simultaneously as many experienced stock traders mix different approaches. But these are excellent bases to start.

Strategy 1: Invest in Companies You Believe in

It may sound simple, but it is not a completely stupid strategy: buying shares in companies you believe in and know about. Are you interested in, e.g., cars and the automotive industry – why not buy shares in that sector? Ask yourself a few questions, in this case for companies in the automotive industry:

• How do I think the automotive industry will develop soon?
• Is the company prepared for changes in the automotive industry?
• What are the company’s strategy, goals, and results?
• Are the company’s services or goods popular?

An important reason this is a good strategy is that you will be more easily interested in news in something you are interested in. It will be more accessible but also more fun to keep up with.

Strategy 2: Copy a Pro

Pros that you can copy. Another common strategy is trading the stocks simultaneously and at the same price as a professional. As a beginner, why should you analyze and study stocks when some are already professionals?

By making the same buy and sell at the same time, you achieve, in theory, the same results as the pros. Several platforms, such as eToro, let you automatically copy a professional for a low platform fee. Buy and sell are done automatically and simultaneously as you follow the professional set.

Strategy 3: Buy Shares with a High Dividend

Use a strategy to buy shares in companies with a high dividend, preferably in companies with a history of raising their dividends to shareholders yearly.

It is easy to check before buying shares in a company. Go to the company’s website to know how often and how much the dividend is usually.

Compare with other companies to get an idea of whether the company has a high and frequent share dividend compared to similar companies.

Strategy 4: Own Shares in Investment Companies

Investment companies have a history of doing well on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. Therefore, it is an excellent strategy to buy shares in these companies. An investment company’s business concept is to own shares in other companies. It works much like a fund but with ownership in a slightly smaller number of companies.

Investing in investment companies is an excellent way to spread your risks. Perfect for you who have just started stock trading. Some examples (but there are many more) of investment companies on the Stockholm Stock Exchange:

• Investor – holds shares in companies in telecom, electronics, and industry
• Industries – owns the most prominent Swedish companies within, among others. Finance, telecom, and industry
• Ratos – has shares in medium-sized unlisted companies in the Nordic region

Strategy 5: Invest in Small Companies

Another good strategy for beginners is to invest in smaller companies. Why? Well, because small companies usually grow faster than larger companies, which can lead to the share rising in value more quickly.

Many experts do not analyze smaller companies either, which may mean you can find undervalued companies here.

Go too slowly than the opposite. When you start trading stocks for beginners, avoiding big mistakes that can cost money while the motivation may run out is more important.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

By: Jennifer Brazer

Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.

Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen

Planning Your Social Media Marketing Strategy: 5 Key Tips

A social media marketing strategy is your roadmap for using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to achieve specific business goals through targeted content, engagement tactics, and performance tracking. This comprehensive plan combines audience research, platform selection, content creation, and analytics to build brand awareness, generate leads, and drive conversions.

Social media users have exploded from 970 million in 2010 to 5.24 billion in 2025—a 5.4x increase that transforms how businesses connect with customers. As CEO of Complete Controller for over 20 years, I’ve watched countless businesses struggle with scattered posting and vanity metrics, only to discover that strategic planning transforms their social presence from a time drain into a revenue engine. This guide reveals the five essential elements that separate successful social strategies from digital noise, giving you the framework to build authentic connections, measure real ROI, and create content that converts followers into customers.

What is a social media marketing strategy, and how do you build it?

• A social media marketing strategy is a documented plan that outlines how your business will use social platforms to achieve measurable goals
• Define clear objectives aligned with business KPIs like lead generation, brand awareness, or customer retention
• Research and map your target audience’s demographics, behaviors, and platform preferences
• Select the right mix of platforms based on where your audience spends time and engages most
• Create a content calendar that balances educational, promotional, and engagement-focused posts

Audit and Define Your Audience

Your social media marketing strategy starts with knowing exactly who you’re talking to—not just basic demographics but the deeper motivations that drive their decisions. Generic audience definitions like “millennials interested in business” waste your time and budget.

At Complete Controller, we discovered our most engaged followers weren’t just looking for bookkeeping services—they craved financial education that empowered them to make better business decisions. This insight shifted our entire content approach from service-focused posts to educational content that positions us as trusted advisors. The result? A 300% increase in qualified leads within six months.

Deep audience research tactics

• Use social listening tools to track what your target market discusses, complains about, and celebrates online
• Analyze competitor audiences through Facebook Ads Manager’s Audience Insights to identify gaps in the market
• Conduct quarterly surveys asking pointed questions like “What’s your biggest financial challenge this month?”
• Track engagement patterns to identify which content formats (video, infographics, text posts) resonate most
• Monitor comments and DMs for recurring questions that reveal unmet needs

FreshBooks exemplifies the power of knowing your audience intimately. They grew from 300,000 to 750,000 users in one year by using Twitter not just for promotion but for genuine relationship building—sending charity donations, gifts for new parents, and personalized responses that made customers feel valued.

Align Content with Business Goals

Your best practices for social media marketing must connect directly to measurable business outcomes. Every post, story, and campaign should serve a strategic purpose beyond likes and shares.

Higher education brands on Instagram achieve a 2.1% engagement rate—6x higher than the platform’s 0.36% average. Why? They create content that serves their audience’s specific goals: campus life glimpses for prospective students, achievement celebrations for alumni donors, and career resources for current students. Each piece of content maps to a distinct objective.

Goal-Aligned Content Framework:

Business Objective	Content Types That Convert	Measurement Metrics
Brand Awareness	Behind-the-scenes videos, employee spotlights, industry insights	Reach, impressions, follower growth rate
Lead Generation	Free tools, downloadable guides, webinar registrations	Click-through rate, conversion rate, cost per lead
Customer Retention	User success stories, exclusive tips, loyalty rewards	Engagement rate, repeat purchase rate, customer lifetime value
Thought Leadership	Industry analysis, trend predictions, expert interviews	Share rate, media mentions, speaking invitations

Strategic Content Mapping Process:

1. Identify your top three business priorities for the quarter
2. Assign specific social media KPIs to each priority
3. Create content themes that ladder up to these goals
4. Develop a 70-20-10 content mix: 70% value-add education, 20% shared content, 10% promotional
5. Test different content formats weekly and double down on top performers

Master Platform-Specific Execution

Each social platform operates like a distinct country with its own culture, language, and customs. Your social media marketing strategy must adapt to these unique environments while maintaining brand consistency.

Data reveals that 28% of global marketers cite Facebook as the platform delivering the highest ROI, followed by Instagram at 22% and YouTube at 12%. But these averages mean nothing if your audience lives elsewhere. A B2B software company might find LinkedIn delivers 10x the ROI of Facebook, while a fashion brand sees TikTok outperform all other platforms combined.

Platform strategy breakdown

LinkedIn – The Professional Powerhouse

• Post frequency: 1-2 times per weekday
• Optimal content: Case studies, industry insights, company milestones
• Engagement tactics: Comment on industry leader posts, share employee achievements
• Unique feature: LinkedIn Articles for long-form thought leadership

Instagram – The Visual Storyteller

• Post frequency: 1-2 feed posts daily, 3-5 stories
• Optimal content: Behind-the-scenes glimpses, product showcases, user-generated content
• Engagement tactics: Use all 30 hashtags, create saveable infographics, host live Q&As
• Unique feature: Reels for maximum organic reach

TikTok – The Trend Engine

• Post frequency: 1-3 times daily
• Optimal content: Educational tips, trending audio adaptations, authentic moments
• Engagement tactics: Jump on trends within 24 hours, collaborate with micro-influencers
• Unique feature: Spark Ads to amplify organic content

X/Twitter – The Conversation Hub

• Post frequency: 3-5 times daily
• Optimal content: Industry commentary, quick tips, breaking news reactions
• Engagement tactics: Join Twitter chats, create thread tutorials, respond within 1 hour
• Unique feature: Twitter Spaces for audio conversations

Starbucks mastered platform-specific execution through their TikTok Spark Ads campaign. They promoted user-inspired drinks like the Churro Frappuccino, turning customer creativity into viral menu items. This social media engagement techniques approach generated millions of views while making customers feel like co-creators of the brand.

Integrate AI Strategically

Artificial intelligence transforms your social media marketing strategy from guesswork into precision targeting. But success requires balancing automation with authentic human connection.

AI tools now handle tasks that once consumed hours of manual work. Content creation platforms generate caption variations in seconds. Predictive analytics forecast which posts will perform best before you hit publish. Chatbots handle initial customer inquiries 24/7. Yet the brands winning with AI understand it amplifies human creativity rather than replacing it.

AI integration framework

Content Creation Enhancement

• Use AI to generate 10 headline variations, then apply human judgment to select the winner
• Create initial drafts with AI, but inject brand personality through manual editing
• Generate hashtag suggestions based on trending topics in your industry
• Develop content calendars using AI-predicted optimal posting times

Advanced Analytics Applications

• Track sentiment analysis across all brand mentions to spot reputation issues early
• Identify micro-influencers whose audiences match your ideal customer profile
• Predict viral potential of content before posting using engagement pattern analysis
• Monitor competitor strategies and identify content gaps to exploit

Smart Automation Rules

• Set up chatbots for FAQ responses but transfer complex issues to humans within 5 minutes
• Automate posting schedules while manually crafting timely responses to trending topics
• Use AI for initial audience segmentation but validate with human insight
• Deploy social media analytics tools for reporting while maintaining human interpretation of data

The Human Touch Differentiator

While AI handles data processing and pattern recognition, human creativity drives emotional connection. Your team should focus on:

• Crafting stories that resonate with audience values
• Responding to comments with empathy and personality
• Making strategic decisions based on AI insights
• Building genuine relationships that automation cannot replicate

Measure, Iterate, Optimize

Your social media marketing strategy lives and breathes through constant refinement. Static plans fail because platforms evolve, audiences shift, and what worked yesterday might flop tomorrow.

The most successful brands treat their strategy as a hypothesis to test rather than a rulebook to follow. They measure obsessively, adapt quickly, and view failures as data points rather than disasters. This approach to effective social media campaigns separates thriving social presences from abandoned accounts.

Performance tracking system

Daily Metrics (5-minute check)

• Engagement rate fluctuations
• Follower growth/loss
• Top-performing content
• Customer service response time

Weekly Analysis (30-minute review)

• Content theme performance comparison
• Hashtag effectiveness
• Audience demographic shifts
• Competitor activity changes

Monthly Deep Dive (2-hour session)

• ROI calculation by platform
• Customer journey mapping from social to sale
• Content audit identifying patterns
• Strategy pivot recommendations

Optimization framework

A/B Testing Priority List

1. Caption Length: Test short vs. long-form captions monthly
2. Posting Times: Experiment with off-peak hours for less competition
3. Content Formats: Compare carousel posts, single images, and videos
4. Call-to-Action Placement: Test CTAs at beginning, middle, and end
5. Hashtag Strategies: Mix branded, niche, and trending tags

Rapid Iteration Process

• Launch micro-campaigns lasting 1-2 weeks
• Measure results against specific KPIs
• Scale successful elements immediately
• Document learnings in a shared knowledge base
• Apply insights across all platforms

Performance Benchmarks by Platform

Platform	Good Engagement Rate	Excellent Engagement Rate	Red Flag Rate
Instagram	1-3%	3-6%	Below 0.5%
Facebook	0.5-1%	1-2%	Below 0.1%
LinkedIn	1-2%	2-5%	Below 0.5%
TikTok	3-9%	9-17%	Below 1%

Human-Centric Strategy in an AI-Driven World

Technology scales your reach, but human connection drives conversion. The most sophisticated AI cannot replicate genuine empathy, creative storytelling, or the spark of authentic personality that makes brands memorable.

Successful social media advertising strategies balance efficiency with authenticity. They use automation for repetitive tasks while reserving human energy for meaningful interactions. This approach creates sustainable growth without sacrificing the relationships that fuel long-term success.

Building authentic connections

Emotional Resonance Tactics

• Share failure stories alongside success to build trust
• Celebrate customer wins as enthusiastically as your own
• Address criticism with grace and genuine concern
• Create content that acknowledges real struggles your audience faces
• Use humor appropriately to show brand personality

Community Building Essentials

• Host monthly live Q&A sessions with leadership
• Feature customer stories in your main content calendar
• Create exclusive groups for your most engaged followers
• Respond to every comment within 24 hours
• Remember returning commenters and reference previous conversations

Authenticity Markers

• Behind-the-scenes content showing real work moments
• Employee takeovers revealing different perspectives
• Unfiltered responses to industry events
• Admission of mistakes with lessons learned
• User-generated content featured prominently

Small Business Implementation Roadmap

Limited resources demand strategic focus. Small businesses cannot compete with enterprise budgets, but they can outmaneuver larger competitors through agility, authenticity, and targeted execution.

Your social media marketing for small businesses should maximize impact while minimizing overwhelm. This roadmap provides a structured approach to building your presence without burning out.

Phase 1: Foundation (Days 1-30)

Week 1-2: Audit and Setup

• Document current social media assets and passwords
• Analyze competitor presence on top 3 platforms
• Define 3 SMART goals for the next quarter
• Choose 2 primary platforms based on audience research

Week 3-4: Content Planning

• Create brand voice guidelines with example posts
• Develop 30 days of content using the 70-20-10 rule
• Design 5 template graphics for consistent branding
• Set up basic analytics tracking systems

Phase 2: Launch and learn (Days 31-90)

Month 2: Controlled Experimentation

• Post consistently according to platform best practices
• Test 3 different content themes each week
• Engage with 10 relevant accounts daily
• Track performance metrics weekly

Month 3: Optimization

• Double down on top-performing content types
• Eliminate lowest-performing posting times
• Refine hashtag strategy based on reach data
• Build relationships with 5 micro-influencers

Phase 3: Scale and systematize (Days 91+)

Sustainable Growth Tactics

• Batch content creation in monthly sessions
• Implement scheduling tools for consistency
• Create standard operating procedures for common tasks
• Test paid advertising with $100 monthly budget
• Develop partnerships with complementary brands

Resource Allocation Guide

Business Size	Time Investment	Budget Range	Platform Focus
Solopreneur	5 hours/week	$0-100/month	1-2 platforms
Small Team	10 hours/week	$100-500/month	2-3 platforms
Growing Business	20 hours/week	$500-2000/month	3-4 platforms

Conclusion

Building a winning social media marketing strategy requires more than posting regularly and hoping for engagement. Success comes from understanding your audience deeply, aligning content with business goals, mastering platform nuances, leveraging AI wisely, and constantly refining your approach based on data.

The social media landscape will continue evolving, but these five foundational tips remain constant. Start with one platform, perfect your approach, then expand strategically. Your audience craves authentic connection and valuable content—deliver both consistently, and growth follows naturally.

Ready to transform your social media presence into a powerful business asset? The experts at Complete Controller combine financial expertise with digital marketing insights to help you build strategies that drive real ROI. Visit Complete Controller to discover how our comprehensive business solutions can amplify your social media success and overall business growth.

FAQ

How do I create a social media marketing strategy from scratch?

Start by defining clear business goals, then research where your target audience spends time online. Choose 1-2 platforms to focus on initially, develop a content calendar mixing educational and promotional posts, and establish metrics to track success. Begin posting consistently while analyzing performance weekly to refine your approach.

What are the best tools for monitoring social media analytics?

Native platform insights (Facebook Insights, Instagram Analytics) provide free basic data. For comprehensive tracking, Sprout Social and Hootsuite offer unified dashboards, competitor analysis, and team collaboration features. Google Analytics helps track social traffic to your website, while tools like Canva maintain visual consistency across platforms.

Which social media platforms work best for B2B marketing?

LinkedIn dominates B2B with 80% of social media leads coming from the platform. Twitter/X works well for real-time industry discussions and thought leadership. YouTube excels for product demonstrations and educational content. Even platforms like Instagram can work for B2B when showcasing company culture and behind-the-scenes content.

How can I integrate AI into my social media strategy?

Start with AI-powered scheduling tools that predict optimal posting times. Use ChatGPT or similar tools to generate caption variations and hashtag suggestions. Implement chatbots for initial customer service inquiries. Deploy AI analytics to identify trending topics and predict content performance, but always maintain human oversight for brand voice and sensitive interactions.

What’s the difference between a social media plan and a strategy?

A social media strategy defines your “why” and “what”—your goals, target audience, platform selection, and success metrics. A social media plan outlines the “how” and “when”—your content calendar, posting schedule, and specific campaign details. Strategy provides direction while plans detail execution. You need both for success.

Sources

• Backlinko. “Social Network Usage & Growth Statistics (2025).” February 2025. https://backlinko.com/social-media-users
• BU PRLab. “5 Tips to Successful Social Media Marketing.” March 2022. www.bu.edu
• Hootsuite. “Social Media Trends 2025.” May 2025. www.hootsuite.com
• MarketingProfs. “How a Company’s Word-of-Mouth Strategies Grew Its User Base 150%.” 2009. www.marketingprofs.com/casestudy/2009/9371
• National Institute of Standards and Technology. “Artificial Intelligence.” www.nist.gov/topics/artificial-intelligence
• Pew Research Center. “Social Media Fact Sheet.” www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/social-media
• Sprout Social. “80+ Must-Know Social Media Marketing Statistics for 2025.” February 2025. www.sproutsocial.com
• Sprout Social. “Social Media Marketing: What It Is and How to Build Your Strategy.” February 2025. www.sproutsocial.com
• Statista. “Instagram Brand Post Engagement 2024, by Vertical.” April 2025. www.statista.com/statistics/795367/most-popular-verticals-instagram
• Statista. “Socials with Highest ROI for Global Marketers 2024.” March 2025. www.statista.com/statistics/1284484/social-media-platforms-highest-return-on-investment
• TikTok for Business. “Starbucks Case Study.” 2023. ads.tiktok.com/business/en/inspiration/starbucks-1090
• Triangle Direct Media. “5 Key Elements of An Effective Social Media Marketing Strategy.” www.triangledirectmedia.com
• Web.com. “Top 8 Social Media Marketing Trends in 2025.” January 2025. www.web.com
• Wikipedia. “Social Media Marketing.” en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socialmediamarketing

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

New buying behaviors and marketing trends have developed during COVID-19 and the various events in 2023. The year changed a lot, and more brands focused on online strategies. At the same time, more consumers are using the Internet to shop for products. Brands, therefore, need to know the new marketing trends for the coming years, so what are these recent trends?

In 2023, the labor market changed radically, and many companies had to start rethinking and thinking new. In addition, it has become increasingly common to work from home. With that, everyone has been forced to become more digital, both in their marketing and communication, internally and externally. Some of the trends that became more prominent in 2021 were that companies live-streamed more, companies have more online customer meetings and conferences, social media has become hotter, and selling online via various platforms. This article addresses a few trends that have changed marketing in 2021 and beyond.

 

Live Streams

The most significant trend in social media was live streams. Many influencers started streaming live, while their views increased when most were at home. For example, thoughts on Facebook and Instagram doubled in one week in Italy during COVID-19.

Then, most of the events were live-streamed. For example, famous artists turned live concepts into live streams last year. These factors contributed to a massive increase in live videos, and users became more accustomed to these features on social media platforms.

 

User-Generated Content (UGC)

The content created by users is called user-generated content (UGC). Brands get this content, publish it on different platforms, and usually mention the creator. While user-generated content is not new, more brands will use it in 2021 to improve engagement and build trust with the target audience.

User-generated content includes reviews, video reviews, blog posts, and photos. In some cases, brands find content from users on social media to share or publish on their profiles.

 

Easy-to-Consume Content

Many brands have gone online in recent months due to COVID-19 and have concluded that their followers want easy-to-consume content. Unfortunately, easy-to-consume content is passive, short, and to the point.

For example, 55% of Americans listen to podcasts, and it mentioned newsletters 14% more during COVID-19. Podcasts and newsletters are two types of content that are easy to consume and help brands reach their target audience.

 

More Brands Use Stories

Stories are an engaging type of content that includes both images and videos. More than 500 million users a day watch stories on Instagram. Facebook has also developed a similar feature to motivate its users.

The trend is that stories will continue to dominate social media for several years. Regarding marketing, 96% of marketers will continue using accounts over the next six months, and 36% of brands already use stories to market their products.

 

Social Trade will Continue to Grow

Many brands have used social media to market their products for several years. However, many platforms have created new or improved previous features that help us sell products directly on social media.

Instagram allows us to tag and buy products directly in the app without leaving the platform. It makes the process much easier and improves the user experience. Facebook also has a feature that allows you to set up a store.

 

TikTok Continues to Attract Influencers

TikTok has over 800 million users, 600 million of whom are active. It means that almost 75% of all users are happening every day. So, it’s perfect for influencers who want committed followers who help them get bigger sponsorship deals.

TikTok also has a Creator Fund for users in the US and Europe. It rewards the best creators and motivates them to continue producing good content for their followers.

 

Video is the Key for Influencers

Many influencers focus on videos in 2021, and all trends indicate that video will be the key in the future. For example, TikTok uses short videos, while Instagram and YouTube have introduced features with both short and long videos.

A video is a great tool to market offers from their sponsors and explain their products. The live-streamed video also provides many views and shows the way for more engagement. We expect to see more creative videos with even more commitment.

 

Conversation Marketing

You can use chatbots to automate conversation marketing and make it more personal. Chatbots can, for example, answer more straightforward questions about products on social media and thank customers.

According to a study, 35% of consumers want to see more chatbots from brands. The main reason is that they need help finding what they need, and they have no problem getting help from a cure instead of an actual person.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Understanding the Income Statement

An income statement shows you a company’s profit and loss over time. These were again commonly known as profit and loss statements.

An income statement usually shows:

• Income
• Cost of Goods Sold
• Total profit
• Expense
• Profit for tax
• Tax
• Net earnings

Income is the money a company takes out; subtract the cost of goods sold to find the total profit. Subtract the expenses from the total gain and arrive at the result before tax (EBT). Payments may include marketing, advertising, promotion, general and administrative costs, interest charges, depreciation, and amortization, spreading the cost of assets over time. The tax amount is subtracted from EBT to calculate a company’s net income or loss.

You can use these numbers differently to understand a company’s financial health.

What Can You Do With It?

Your profit and loss statement is an annual dipstick in the engine of your company. Is the net profit on par or below it? You want to maintain or even increase a positive result. You will have to adjust and act if there is a shortage. It is essential to talk to your financial advisor about, for example, cost aspects, price calculations, and purchasing benefits. You can also compare your data with that of entrepreneurs in your industry. Collect them from your trade association or bank.

Financing

Financiers like banks can extract valuable information from the profit and loss account and balance sheet. They do this with calculation formulas (key numbers). A financier needs these key figures to know whether your business is healthy. To assess this, a financier looks at your turnover and purchase data. He compares your figures with those of other companies in your industry.

Are you looking for financing? Then, make sure you have a realistic profit and loss account. Also, create a ‘B scenario’ with 15% less turnover. Purchasing and variable costs are adapting. The fixed expenses, such as rent and personnel, remain the same. Then, ask yourself whether you still have enough profit left below the line. Also, keep your budget in mind.

Financial insight

With your profit and loss account, you get financial insight. Use several calculation exercises from the Annual Accounts Manual, section ‘information about key figures.’ Or enlist the help of an expert such as a bookkeeper or accountant. With knowledge about your figures, you are a good discussion partner for them and, for example, financiers.

Evidence for the tax authorities

You pay tax on your company’s earnings. How much depends, among other things, on the profit and the type of tax, income or corporate tax, and the tax regulations. You also have an administrative obligation. After checking your administration by the tax authorities, they determine the assessment. Do you have a correct profit and loss account? Then, you pay the correctly owed tax rate via an appraisal. An incorrect presentation of your profits will lead to a profit estimate by the tax authorities. In practice, this turns out to be unfavorable for you.

Profit statement inquiry

Investors can use income statement inquiry to calculate financial ratios that can compare the same or one company to another each year.

To illustrate, you can compare a company’s profits to its competitors by looking at total, operating, and net profit margins. Alternatively, you can compare one company’s earnings per share to another to show whether shareholders could earn EPS if each company shared net income. As part of the top line of revenue, each line of the up and down analysis report is called a vertical analysis. For example, you can use it to represent the relative size of various fees. Horizontal analysis helps you compare the same numbers in more than two periods and identify trends. Use horizontal analysis to show a profit before tax over the past three years.

Income statement conditions

The income statement has some limitations. Capital structure and cash flow are factors that make a company thrive or disrupt the use of quotes, which is the income statement’s limitation.

To illustrate, a company needs to estimate the depreciation of an asset. You can’t know the lifespan of a computer, copier, or business jet in advance. Or, if they face lawsuits, they must assess how they should be prepared to carry out their duties. By their very nature, estimates are interpretable.

Secondly, the limitation of the income statement is the deliberate over-or underestimation of numbers. Estimates are essential and may occur by accident, but they can also be made deliberately to increase or decrease metrics such as revenue or profit fraudulently.

Accounting rules can also be restrictive. It affects the number used in the comparison. When comparing income statements, consider that many companies may use the first-in, first-out (FIFO) principle to value inventory, while others may use the last-in, first-out principle. 

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Fintech is an emerging industry that is challenging traditional financial services through innovation. Fintech is challenging big banks with innovations like mobile telephony and big data. With hundreds of millions of investments, year-round mega-tech events, and business accelerators designed to launch start-ups on the global stage, Dubai has established itself as the leading Fintech hub in the region. The UAE accounted for 46.8% of fintech investments in the area in 2020. During this period, the Emirates raised a whopping 67.9% of funding.

To attract start-ups, especially in technology, you must create an attractive ecosystem allowing them to access this sector. It has access to regulation and financing, and Dubai, an international financial center, has created a $250 million FinTech investment fund. It is where our business accelerator program begins, where we enable start-ups to pitch their solutions to more than 30 financial institutions.

The Main Goal of Financial Technologies:

1. To increase the availability, quality, and range of financial services.
2. Reduce risks and costs in the financial sector and the cost of services for consumers.
3. Support the development of competition in the financial market.
4. Ensure the security and stability of banking processes.

An Overview

1. The total number of investments in Fintech in the world lags far behind the number of investments in 2019, which was at 168.5 billion US dollars. As of mid-year, the total investment in Fintech worldwide was around $30 billion.
2. The largest share of total investments in Fintech as of the middle of the year is in the Americas, where assets amounted to $14 billion. Total fintech investment in the Asia Pacific was $9 billion in H1 2018, and fintech investment in the EMEA region was $4.2 billion.
3. The Americas and countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are currently on track for a new record annual growth in fintech investment. At the end of the first half of 2019, North and South America attracted $9.3 billion in US investments in VC, Asia – $6.6 billion, and Europe – $5 billion.
4. Corporate investment in VC remained strong, accounting for $15.1 billion in fintech investment globally. In the first quarter of 2019, the United States recorded a record value of transactions involving venture capital companies, which exceeded $3.2 billion; the value of transactions in the subsequent quarter amounted to almost the same amount.
5. M&A activity has declined across all world regions, with a particularly sharp decline seen against the backdrop of the mega M&A activity in 2019 and 2020. In the first half of 2021, the volume of M&A transactions amounted to USD 5.2 billion; in the second half of 2022, it was $8.9 billion.
6. Global investment in cybersecurity surpassed the 2019 record of around $600 million to reach $900 million.

Big Data

During quarantine restrictions, the development of the regulatory framework and government fintech acceleration programs accelerated. It was reflected in the growing attention to digital platforms, neo-banking, contactless payments, and Wealthtech class solutions. In Europe, there was a good dynamic in the Regtech solutions market, and in Southeast Asia, there was a good dynamic in cryptocurrencies and blockchain. In all regions, there is a trend of increasing attention to solutions for digital identification, security, and fraud prevention in financial transactions; there has been another growing attention to cloud platforms.

The Central Asian market is similar in the increased attention of regulators and government agencies to the development of Fintech. It contributes to the growth of interest, attraction, and the emergence of new solutions. However, investments are relatively modest, venture approaches are still not used so often, and the market continues to complain about conflicts between the requirements of various legislators and regulators, hindering its development. However, we can expect the emergence of new players, at least in the banking market, as early as next year.

Robotization

It is the automation of financial processes using robots and computer programs. For example, using robotization in banks has reduced the time for receiving applications from customers, simplified and accelerated customer risk assessment procedures, reduced the number of bank branches, and so on. In the future, banks will strive to ensure that office people solve only non-standard client tasks beyond machine algorithms and receive the top products and services online.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Your company indeed has huge office expenses but is not aware of it. How do you reduce paper consumption in your company? We believe that many costs are necessary when they are not, and proving to be an indicator that the processes in our company are not entirely efficient, in addition to not taking care of the environment.

To be responsible for paper consumption, reduce expenses, and have fast, efficient, and modern workflow and workflow management processes, you must start by reducing paper consumption.

Tips to Reduce Paper Consumption in Your Company

Printing paper is expensive. Toner, ink, paper, light, computer costs, and, above all, slow down your processes when working.

A small gesture like printing a document that does not need to be printed can become thousands of dollars, especially when you have many employees, printers, and several departments working with these completely obsolete systems.

In this regard, you should put some tips in place to reduce spending on paper and paper printing.

1. Make your invoices online with my management

First, you don’t need to print all the invoices you do with Excel. You can do them in your billing software, where they will be secure, and you will have automated backups to keep your data safe and protect its privacy.

Making invoices online will make the process easier. You will waste less time and be able to work more professionally.

2. Do not print your emails if it is not necessary

Printing emails is another one of those bad habits that end up affecting many companies. Printing a document or email to show it to an employee at another table, not even to our department head, is unnecessary.

We must get used to taking advantage of new technologies. Suppose all the information is in the cloud and is accessible to authorized people with a few clicks. In that case, everyone can check the data online, and there is no need to print reports or documents generated online, which can be read online.

3. Understand that information is constantly changing

Today, the changes are vertiginous. What may work today may not work tomorrow. For this reason, we must realize that the data must be accessible in real-time and reduce our dependence on the “photo finished” since what matters is today’s data, which could change utterly next month.

It is much more efficient and appropriate to the needs of the company to have a dashboard from which we can monitor our company’s performance indicators, which will help us have a greater awareness of the reality we face.

4. Manage your catalogs online

Large databases, inventories, and catalogs should be virtual. Our management program lets us update the information more quickly, and you will integrate the data with other data. At the same time, the data we save in Excel files will usually not be interconnected.

We must get used to working with software that facilitates integration since large companies’ databases involve managing much information and many details. Data can change, so what we have printed today and tomorrow may have no value because everything is outdated.

5. Virtualize your relationships with suppliers and customers

Through your internet, you can share information with suppliers and customers without printing documents to send them. The practical thing is not to work with each client differently but to have a standardized and automated system that helps you manage your work processes well. You can quickly control the creation of delivery notes, invoices, and other commercial or accounting documents using cloud management software that makes your job easier.

6. Virtualize your business; enter the digital transformation

Your company needs to prepare for the future. Companies that do not will be left behind. Technology is increasingly present in our lives. Therefore, if you have a traditional company and you have been making your invoices through Excel or other office software, it is time to rationalize all administrative work.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Certain situations lead us to make appointments for candidates to buy a property that becomes unproductive if you have not considered the potential buyer’s profile or have not accessed (or have not been able to access) information that previously served to know Housing in depth.

These hours and hours lost teaching a home that does not convince the client (or escapes its possibilities) can be avoided and reused to find the right property if we previously applied a series of filters before visiting the home. How do you ensure the best buyers for each floor?

How to Set Filters to Find Candidates to Buy a Property

The first thing is to divide and establish the actions and tools that automate these processes to the fullest. The maximum “time is money” should be a priority in any real estate agent, and any system or tool that serves to make the client who obtains the information he needs will mean considerable savings not only in visits but also in meetings, queries, emails sent, calls, etc.

Therefore, we must classify the filtering system through automatisms (tools and information visible from the web or portals) and the information provided by the client (budget, family situation, priorities.

Automatic Filters to Find Candidates to Buy a Property

We understand by automatic filters those that fall into the first category: the information or software that allows any interested party to know the property to the fullest so that without having to mediate any agent, they can assess whether the visit to the house can be productive or does not fit your interests.

Every property must have basic information such as the number of rooms and how they distribute the square meters of each of them, the exterior and interior rooms, and the height of the house. But also information beyond the address, the price, and the items described that might be advantageous or restrictive, such as the type of land, if there is a community elevator, the community fee, insulation, air conditioning, an elevation plan, etc.

All this must accompany tools that clarify/detail all this information, such as high-quality images, videos, etc.

For a greater degree of satisfaction and filter, virtual tour software allows the client to be the one who visits at will and with a degree of detail that corresponds to reality.

Mortgage calculators and automated chats (robots that answer questions through predetermined FAQs) are other elements that add to this first filter, including automatisms.

Personalized Attention Filters to Find Candidates to Buy a Property

Although all the tools described help (and much) this filtering in search of the ideal candidate, the management, and ultimately, the approval of a profile as valid must come from the agent. The sooner you make sure of it, the less time you will spend in the gestation of the sale, and with more determination, it will ensure you close it satisfactorily.

For this, the agent should not work as one of those bots or as a clerk or administration employee without further ado: we must escape the desire to fill the appointment schedule and ensure that each of them is arranged with a high probability of being able to close the sale.

For this, a previous personalized questionnaire can be used to find out if they are suitable candidates or if, from our experience, we feel that they are not facing the desired property. In the latter case, we must avoid rejection “just because” and advise them or kindly recommend another property in our portfolio.

This is the case, for example, of mortgage expenses: many clients make their calculations by adjusting their budget to the one indicated on the property file without considering key factors such as mortgage expenses, commissions, entry amount, etc. This dance of numbers can cause that at the time of having decided on the property, they do not reach what is necessary, causing frustration to both parties: the client who sees his ideal property escape and the agent who sees a sale escape as much as he had everything to close it. About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

By: Jennifer Brazer

Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.

Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen

Building Community Through Augmented Reality Innovation

Augmented reality community building transforms physical spaces into interactive hubs where people connect, collaborate, and create shared experiences that strengthen social bonds. As the founder of Complete Controller, I’ve spent over 20 years helping businesses leverage technology for growth, and I’m witnessing AR’s incredible power to turn passive audiences into engaged communities. The data speaks volumes: 73% of community organizers report higher engagement when using AR, while global mobile AR users are projected to reach 1.19 billion by 2028. This article reveals how AR innovation is reshaping human connection, from civic planning to social gatherings, and provides actionable strategies for launching your own AR community initiatives.

What is augmented reality community building, and why does it matter?

• Augmented reality community building uses AR technology to overlay digital elements onto real-world environments, creating immersive shared experiences that foster deeper connections and collaborative action
• AR breaks down geographical barriers by allowing remote participants to engage with physical spaces through their mobile devices
• Communities using AR see up to 60% higher engagement rates and 45% greater retention compared to traditional methods
• Unlike virtual reality, AR enhances rather than replaces real-world settings, making it accessible across diverse age groups and abilities
• Organizations gain data-driven insights through AR analytics, tracking user behavior to optimize experiences and measure community impact

The Foundation: How AR Transforms Community Engagement

Augmented reality fundamentally changes how people interact with spaces and each other by adding digital layers to physical environments. When Pokémon GO launched in 2016, it demonstrated AR’s potential by bringing 232 million users into real-world locations for shared experiences. Modern AR applications build on this foundation by adding civic purpose and sustainability goals.

AR community building works through three core mechanisms. First, it creates persistent digital overlays that transform everyday spaces into interactive canvases. Second, it enables real-time collaboration where multiple users can simultaneously interact with the same digital elements. Third, it provides immediate feedback loops that reward participation and track collective progress toward community goals.

Creating immersive experiences through gamification

Gamification drives AR engagement by turning community participation into rewarding experiences. Music festivals using AR navigation apps reduced crowd congestion by 30% while increasing attendee satisfaction through interactive maps and artist information overlays. Retail spaces leverage AR with 55% of applications in 2024, achieving 40% higher conversion rates than non-AR experiences.

The success stems from AR’s ability to blend digital rewards with real-world actions. Leaderboards, achievement badges, and collaborative challenges motivate continued participation. Communities report that AR scavenger hunts and location-based challenges increase event attendance by 83%, particularly among younger demographics who expect interactive digital experiences.

Encouraging participation through accessibility features

AR democratizes community involvement by removing traditional barriers. Voice-controlled AR interfaces enable visually impaired users to participate through audio descriptions of virtual elements. Location-based AR works effectively even without high-speed internet, as offline-first apps store content locally for rural deployment.

When co-designed with community input, intuitive icon-based interfaces show 92% adoption rates across age groups. This inclusive approach transforms AR from a tech-focused tool into a universal platform for connection, particularly valuable for mobility-challenged individuals who can engage with civic planning from home.

Case Studies: AR Community Building in Action

Real-world implementations demonstrate AR’s transformative impact on community engagement across diverse contexts and scales.

Project Portland: Empowering civic participation

Portland’s groundbreaking AR app enabled residents to reimagine public spaces through interactive design challenges. Over 1,200 community members submitted proposals for abandoned lots and hazardous areas, visualizing sustainable park layouts and eco-friendly solutions through their smartphones. The gamified approach included sustainability-themed competitions that rewarded innovative designs with recognition and prizes.

The project’s success led directly to the city’s $2 million waterfront revitalization, with AR-generated proposals informing final design decisions. Participants reported feeling more connected to their community and empowered to influence urban development, demonstrating AR’s capacity to transform abstract planning processes into tangible civic action.

Oslo’s youth tree-planting initiative

Norway’s capital engaged youth in planning the placement of 100,000 trees through an innovative AR application. Over five weeks, participants used iPads to visualize virtual trees in real locations, testing different configurations and learning about urban ecology. The initiative achieved remarkable results: 89% of participants reported improved understanding of urban planning concepts, while 85% felt stronger community connections.

Technical challenges emerged during implementation, particularly with GPS accuracy affecting tree placement precision. These limitations highlighted the importance of robust location tracking systems for outdoor AR applications, leading organizers to implement beacon triangulation for improved accuracy in future projects.

Waterfront redevelopment success sories

Multiple cities have leveraged AR for waterfront revitalization projects, allowing residents to visualize proposed changes before construction begins. AR overlays show planned walkways, green spaces, and community facilities in their actual locations, generating more informed public feedback than traditional 2D renderings. These implementations typically see double the public approval rates compared to conventional planning presentations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your AR Community Project

Starting an AR community initiative requires strategic planning and phased implementation to maximize impact while managing resources effectively.

Identifying opportunities and setting goals

Begin by analyzing your community’s specific needs and digital readiness. Survey potential participants about smartphone ownership, comfort with technology, and preferred engagement methods. Pilot projects typically start at $5,000-$20,000, with costs reducing by 40% through reusable frameworks as you scale.

Define measurable objectives aligned with community values. Whether increasing civic participation, fostering cultural exchange, or promoting environmental awareness, clear goals guide technology choices and design decisions. Successful projects start small, often with 50-100 early adopters, before expanding based on feedback and results.

Choosing the right tools and platforms

Platform selection depends on your audience and objectives. Unity with AR Foundation provides cross-platform compatibility for iOS and Android devices, essential for community-wide adoption. For city-scale projects, specialized tools like Augmentecture offer urban planning features including 3D mapping and infrastructure visualization.

Consider development complexity versus user experience. While custom apps offer maximum control, existing platforms like Instagram and Snapchat provide AR creation tools that reduce technical barriers. Many communities achieve strong results using hybrid approaches, combining social media AR filters for awareness with dedicated apps for deeper engagement.

Designing for accessibility and inclusivity

Universal design principles ensure AR experiences welcome all community members. Implement multiple input methods including touch, voice, and gesture controls. Provide text alternatives for audio content and visual descriptions for graphics. Test with diverse user groups including seniors, people with disabilities, and non-native speakers.

Cultural sensitivity matters in AR design. Avoid assumptions about technological familiarity and provide multilingual support where needed. Community co-design sessions generate valuable insights about local preferences and potential barriers, leading to higher adoption rates and sustained engagement.

Tracking Impact: Metrics for AR Community Engagement

Measuring AR effectiveness requires both quantitative data and qualitative insights to understand the full community impact.

Key engagement metrics to monitor

Track user behavior through built-in AR analytics measuring dwell time, interaction rates, and completion percentages. Successful AR experiences see 70% longer engagement compared to traditional events, with participants spending average sessions of 15-20 minutes actively interacting with content. Social sharing rates provide organic reach indicators, with AR experiences generating 55% more community visibility through user-generated content.

Conversion metrics reveal AR’s practical impact. Communities report 40% higher volunteer sign-ups through AR-assisted registration forms and 60% increased event attendance when using AR promotional campaigns. Geographic heat maps show participation patterns, helping organizers optimize future AR placement for maximum accessibility.

Converting data into community insights

Raw metrics transform into actionable insights through systematic analysis. Segment user data by demographics, location, and engagement patterns to identify underserved groups. Time-based analysis reveals peak usage periods, informing staffing and resource allocation for AR-supported events.

Combine quantitative data with qualitative feedback through in-app surveys and focus groups. Oslo’s tree-planting initiative discovered that while 95% found AR intuitive, specific technical frustrations around GPS accuracy significantly impacted user satisfaction. These insights drove iterative improvements that increased completion rates by 35% in subsequent deployments.

Beyond AR: Integrating VR and AI for Richer Communities

Advanced technologies amplify AR’s community-building potential through intelligent personalization and expanded virtual spaces.

Blending AR with virtual reality for hybrid spaces

Hybrid AR-VR experiences connect local and global participants in unprecedented ways. Virtual town halls allow remote attendees to join via VR headsets while local participants use AR overlays to visualize shared data and proposals. Fitness communities host hybrid classes where neighborhood runners compete against virtual participants worldwide, fostering both local and global connections.

The convergence enables scalable community experiences. Small towns can host world-class speakers through holographic projection while maintaining intimate local gatherings. Cultural festivals blend physical performances with virtual attendees, expanding reach while preserving an authentic community atmosphere.

AI-driven personalization in community building

Artificial intelligence enhances AR experiences through predictive analytics and personalized content delivery. AI algorithms analyze user preferences to suggest relevant community events, volunteer opportunities, and social connections. Conference networking apps using AI-powered AR report 50% increases in meaningful professional connections by matching attendees with compatible interests and goals.

AI integration benefits crowd management. Predictive models anticipate movement patterns during large gatherings, dynamically adjusting AR wayfinding to prevent congestion. Natural language processing enables multilingual AR experiences that automatically translate community content, breaking down language barriers in diverse neighborhoods.

Conclusion

At Complete Controller, we believe technology’s greatest value lies in strengthening human connections and empowering collective action. Augmented reality community building represents this philosophy in action, transforming everyday spaces into collaborative canvases where neighbors become co-creators of their shared future. From Portland’s civic redesign to Oslo’s youth-driven urban forestry, AR proves that innovation thrives when it serves community needs.

The path forward is clear: AR will become as commonplace in community building as social media is today. With mobile AR users approaching 1.2 billion by 2028, the infrastructure for widespread adoption already exists. The question isn’t whether to embrace AR, but how to harness its potential for your unique community goals. Ready to explore how cutting-edge technology can transform your organization’s community engagement? Visit us at Complete Controller to discover expert insights and proven strategies for leveraging innovation in meaningful ways.

Frequently Asked Questions About Augmented Reality Community Building

What equipment do I need to start an AR community project?

Basic AR projects require smartphones or tablets with ARCore (Android) or ARKit (iOS) compatibility. For development, platforms like Unity or specialized tools like Augmentecture work well for city-scale projects. Most modern devices from 2018 onward support AR features.

How much does it cost to implement AR for community building?

Pilot projects typically range from $5,000 to $20,000 for initial development. Costs decrease by approximately 40% when scaling up due to reusable frameworks and templates. Many communities start with free AR creation tools on social platforms before investing in custom solutions.

Can older adults and non-tech-savvy people use AR effectively?

Yes, studies show 92% adoption rates across age groups when AR apps use intuitive, icon-based interfaces and are co-designed with community input. Voice controls and simplified gestures make AR accessible to users with varying technical skills.

Does AR work in areas with poor internet connectivity?

Many AR applications function offline by storing content locally on devices. This offline-first approach is crucial for rural deployment and ensures consistent experiences regardless of connectivity, though some features like real-time collaboration may require internet access.

What are the privacy concerns with AR community applications?

Privacy protection involves implementing opt-in data collection, anonymizing user information, and transparent data policies. Best practices include allowing users to control what information they share and providing clear explanations of how location and usage data improve community experiences.

Sources

• Amra and Elma. (2025, May 15). “TOP AUGMENTED REALITY MARKETING STATISTICS 2025.” https://www.amraandelma.com/augmented-reality-marketing-statistics/
• Augmentecture Blog. (2025). “Waterfront Redevelopment with AR.”
• Business of Apps. (2025, January 22). “Pokémon Go Revenue and Usage Statistics (2025).” https://www.businessofapps.com/data/pokemon-go-statistics/
• City of Oslo. (2021). “Oslo Trees Plan: Participatory Design Framework.”
• FasterCapital. Reynolds, Ava. (2025). “AR Metrics for Campaign Analytics.”
• FRNWH. (2025, March 28). “How Pokémon GO Fostered Community Engagement.” https://www.frnwh.com/2025/03/how-pokemon-go-fostered-community-engagement-a-brief-but-harmonious-period/
• Hernandez, Marco. (2019). “Project Portland: AR Civic Engagement Case Study.” UX Planet, August 27, 2019.
• Liu, Wei. (2023, February 13). “Youth Participation in Urban Planning via AR.” Frontiers in Virtual Reality. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/virtual-reality/articles/10.3389/frvir.2023.1055930/full
• Moldstud Research. (2025). “Gamification in Location-Based AR.”
• Statista. (2025, February 26). “Mobile augmented reality (AR) users worldwide 2023-2028.” https://www.statista.com/statistics/1098630/global-mobile-augmented-reality-ar-users/
• Tchop Community Glossary. (2025). “Augmented Reality for Community Engagement.”
• Threekit. (2021, January 19). “27 Augmented Reality Statistics You Should Know in 2024.” https://www.threekit.com/23-augmented-reality-statistics-you-should-know-in-2023
• UX Planet. (2019, August 27). “Case Study: Augmented Reality Community App.” https://uxplanet.org/case-study-ar-community-app-fa7a6f93e4bd

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.