A quite a bit has been written about Generation X (29-42 year olds) and some has also been written about Generation Y (18-28 year olds). If you are wondering how these two groups are embracing technology, Forrester Research has surveyed these two groups and the findings are interesting.

First of all, Gen Y is a much smaller generation…38 million adults vs. 63 million adults. As you can probably guess, Gen Y uses text messaging more than Gen X… 72% vs. 61%. Gen Y also spends more time online for leisure or work than watching TV. Gen Xers lead all generations in online shopping (69%) and online banking(65%). Gen X is ramping up their use of the internet, and yes, they are reading blogs more!! 21% of Gen Xers read a blog monthly vs. 15% last year. (Welcome new blog readers!!)

Companies are trying to grasp the differences between these two generations. The research shows that Generation X uses technology when it supports a lifestyle need, and technology is deeply embedded into everything Generation Y does. Generation Y is becoming our first native online population.

UPDATE:  What about those baby boomers??  Well, there is some new information about them as well.  First of all, this generation is huge (78 million Americans) and powerful (currently controlling more than 83% of consumer spending).  Boomer spending is expected to surpass $4.6 Trillion by 2015.  This group is embracing technology, but at a slower pace than their younger counterparts.  They love email (96%), but not social networking sites (22%).  They also have “little or no interest” in writing blogs (67%) or playing games (62%).  They will often visit a website after they have read about it in print (93%).

Depending on your product or service, research like this can only help you reach your target market. Leadpile can also help you reach your market with our great array of services, and we can help you navigate the generations.