FRONTIeR COMMUNICATiONS

In the world of lead gen, marketing messaging can become redundant. Sure, consistency is king, but it’s also important to periodically open the window and let in some fresh air. Enter Frontier Business’ I.T. Pro MVP Challenge. An online gaming experience we created in conjunction with Bulldog Solutions (now Hero Digital).

The concept was to create a feel-good experience for their primary audience—IT Pros—leading up to National IT Professionals Day.

The premise of the game was simple: Answer as many IT questions in the allotted time, earn points and badges for correct answers, move up the leaderboard. Questions fell into one of four categories—Technology, Troubleshooting, I.T. History, and I.T. Pop Culture.

The online game is responsive—fitting all phones, tablets, and desktop monitors.

The simple graphics hark back to nostalgic days of stand-up arcade games—an appropriate look for their target audience.

Questions were presented in an easy-to-read multiple choice format. Some questions have image options for answers, others have word answers.

In-game achievements reward players with things like bonus time for hot streaks and badges for expertise in various categories.

Once time expires, players are encouraged to share the game on social media, or play again to make it onto the leaderboard.

The throwback aesthetic of the game looked cool and made sense for the audience. However, looks alone weren’t going to convince the very discerning I.T. pros to give up their personal info—the game’s price of admission. The key to catching their attention (and keeping it) was to make the game difficult. Very difficult. Questions deemed as pedestrian were eliminated during testing. Game-play variables such as bonus time and badges made it addictive. Need a custom concept that’s more than just a pretty face? Ascend has got you.