[CLUG] Gmail anyone?

[Dermot McGahon]

On Tue, 7 Sep 2004 10:57:51 +0100, Jim Lawton <jim.lawton at gmail.com> wrote:

>> The problem is Jim, that it's a viral marketing technique, thinly
>> disguised as an anti-spam measure.
>
> Sorry, but could you explain this statement? What is it that is a
> viral marketing technique?

A viral marketing technique is where you get other people to do
your marketing work for you. You know about viruses and vectors
I presume. In this case the virus is the idea of buying/getting/
using gmail and you are the vector. Usually when you want to
buy/get/use something, you go out and buy it. In gmail's case,
it's pushed on you by, albeit, extremely well-meaning vectors.


> (Gmails invitation system?) How is this thing also an anti-spam measure?
> Inquiring minds, etc...

I don't know for sure. It was open for a short period of time,
for registrations. I don't see how spammers could have been blocked
 from registering at that point in time. Also, spammers could be
buying/swapping gmail a/c's. It might have been an attempt to keep
as many spammers as possible away from the gmail system.

But basically, my felling is that it's a viral marketing technique;
designed to give the product a certain cachet. Oooh, look. Invitation
only! It must be good. Now, I know it really *is* good. But that
still doesn't stop the equivalent of Centra special offers for the
month of July from filling up our mailboxes. At least Centra pay
for the leaflet design, printing and postage. And sometimes I do
want to know that they have a special on Bisto gravy.


> Did I send you the invite? Short-term memory is all shot to hell.
> /jim

No, you didn't.


Dermot.
--
I have a bag of potatoes. Would anyone like one?