Raising awareness: 4 reasons why apps work for non-profits

In light of the AR game released by Krikey and Conservation International to raise awareness of Shark Week, we’ve collated a few reasons why your non-profit should look to invest in an app game to raise awareness of your cause.

The game uses augmented reality to turn wherever you are into an underwater lagoon which is, sadly, full of litter and pollution. Your goal within the game is to help the 300-toothed, 1000kg apex predator navigate through its environment, clearing out the garbage - which is one of the biggest real-life threats to these magnificent beasts.

Reach a wider audience

The game was designed to add a fun twist to marine conservation and proved popular during a celebrated week that calls annually for environmental awareness. It aimed to put conservation in the hands of a younger generation, especially those who are less likely to take notice of greener causes.

Join the conversation

It’s only sensible for not-for-profit organisations to join in the discussion about social, environmental and political issues. Most weeks and months throughout the year are assigned to a cause that will get people talking, and being prepared with a campaign when the time comes is a sensible idea. More light-hearted drives are highly shareable, even if the message is much more serious.

Making conservation fun

Games are a great way to reach people, especially ones that make the most of time-conscious social movements like Shark Week. With more people than ever having access to the internet and social media, it can be far easier to get a message to consumers, but it’s also easier to ignore them. Many individuals don’t tend to take notice of weighty topics like environmentalism, possibly finding it an overwhelming subject, or feeling like there’s nothing they could do to help.

Games are a universal way of getting a message across that can appeal to everyone. Studies show that the average mobile user spends 23 minutes per day on mobile gaming - an incredible sum that proves there is a market for games of all shapes and sizes within app development.

Educate subtly

Cleverly, Conservation International’s app requires you to remove as much pollution from the ocean as possible. Those who fail to clear the area see their protagonist shark eating plastic bags, nets and other pieces of human-made debris, and if your shark consumes too much; it’s game over. This parallels with real-life instances of marine animals found with such objects in their stomachs after death, and this, as well as the addition of a fun shark conservation fact, creates a powerful educational message in a subtle way.

If your non-profit is thinking about developing a game for your cause, talk to our team for expert help and advice.