Exploring the Perceptions of Generations X, Y and Z about Online Platforms and Digital Marketing Activities – A Focus-Group Discussion Based Study

Abstract

Purpose: This study analyzes the perceptions and attitudes of GenX, GenY and GenZ towards online platforms and digital marketing activities.   Theoretical framework: This study is qualitative in nature and data were collected from three separate focus group discussions, one each among generations X, Y and Z. Secondary data sources like previous research articles, internet sources and books were referred.   Design/methodology/approach: This article is intended to get insights regarding the online platforms and digital marketing consumption patterns to understand the perceptions and attitudes of GenX, GenY and GenZ towards various online platforms. Group discussion was conducted among all generations with pre-planned questions prepared by the researcher; participants were from researcher’s personal and professional network. From transcripts were prepared and information regarding their perceptions on digital marketing and online platforms were obtained and thematic analysis was done using NVivo. Ten themes and sub-themes were identified from the chart presented through Nvivo.   Findings: The perceptions of three generations regarding online platforms and digital marketing activities differ significantly as GenX are digital migrants, GenY are digital natives and GenZ are mobile natives.   Research, Practical & Social implications: The emergence of internet and digitalization has forced companies to concentrate more on online platforms and digital marketing avenues. Different generations’ interest, traits, perceptions, habits, etc differ and hence there is a need to analyze and understand the perceptions of different generational cohorts for businesses to develop an effective digital marketing strategy. This study would pave the way for more studies and researches which would benefit both academics and industry.   Originality/value: This study would help to understand the perceptions of different generational cohorts for businesses to develop an effective digital marketing strategy.