Setting the record straight on Reward Install Campaigns (pocketgamer.biz)

Burst campaigns run by bots have made developers dismissive about the approach. In reality, when done right, reward-based campaigns can be a consistent source of quality new users.

We would like to debunk a few of the common misconceptions. When looking into ward-based acquisition campaigns, we suggest keeping the following in mind:

1. Reward installs can drive strong ROI

The direct response advertising adage is, "there is no such thing as a bad lead, there just are badly priced leads."

Determining the appropriate price for a lead can be a complex interplay between many factors including: traffic source, seasonality, and competition. Our suggestion is simple: start slow! Start at a low CPI price and adjust upward if quality is acceptable.

2. Reward installs goes beyond burst campaigns

Burst campaigns are not the full picture. Instead, reward campaigns can be a sustainable channel that drives high quality new users to your app if you are willing to test and optimize as you go.

Combining your data with your acquisition partner's demographic and genre targeting, should find you the right customers effectively.

3. It's not just about the incentive

Users put up with advertising everywhere; from television, to the internet, to their mobile devices. Rewards merely give a user a reason to try your game ... but your content is what keeps them engaged.

The key is in providing the right incentive. Work with your reward-based partners to make sure your ad is seen by users who play your genre of game.

4. Reward users can be retained

The right reward-based campaign helps you reach highly engaged players who are active gamers in your genre. When targeted appropriately, these users should display similar highly engaged behavior with your game.

5. Reward on game play, not just install

Reward-based users can be encourage to complete certain actions and reaching defined milestones that matter to you, such as reaching a new level or sharing the experience with friends. This increases quality and enables you to ensure users are engaged before paying for that customer
.