Geo-fencing (geofencing) is a feature in a software program that uses the global positioning system (GPS) or radio frequency identification (RFID) to define geographical boundaries. A geofence is a virtual barrier.
Programs that incorporate geo-fencing allow an administrator to set up triggers so when a device enters (or exits) the boundaries defined by the administrator, a text message or email alert is sent. Many geo-fencing applications incorporate Google Earth, allowing administrators to define boundaries on top of a satellite view of a specific geographical area. Other applications define boundaries by longitude and latitude or through user-created and Web-based maps. (1)
An example Geo-fencing application – Walmart
Walmart’s app has a Store Mode that, amongst other things, responds to geofencing around stores, and delivers coupons and e-receipts.
With one in five of Walmart’s online purchases picked up in-store, this geofencing tactic can persuade those customers to spend more in stores. (2)
References
- geo-fencing (geofencing), http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/geofencing
- Eight more examples of geofencing you should know about, https://econsultancy.com/blog/65223-eight-more-examples-of-geofencing-you-should-know-about/
