Its not good enough anymore to just know how to use one.

Once thought to be heavy underdog for the Democratic nomination, Senator Barack Obama has developed a rock star image with a young cult-like following that has propelled him to a stunning lead over Senator Clinton (albiet slim.) Obama campaign organizers have attributed this in part to the use of new and experimental technology to inform and engage voters.

His tech savvy campaign management has cultivated this “Obama-mania” with everything from ringtones to SMS. For example, Obama supporters, eligible to vote in the Potomac Primaries who registered with the candidate, received text messages reminding them to vote, phone numbers to help them find their polling station, updates and even a victory message reading “Fired up? Ask friends to join our movement by texting HOPE to 62262,” when the CNN declared a sweep for the presidential hopeful. In this tight race, the technology ultimately proved to give him the decisive edge.

Text messaging has become an important component of not just campaign marketing but how the advertising industry markets to consumers. Highbrid Outdoor, The Nation’s sister company recently launch a major text messaging component to supplement our traditional advertising. As pioneers in this technology our clients are able to interact with consumers 24/7 from anywhere in the country. Consumers are now able to get information, discounts and multi-media for free, instantly and ON DEMAND sent right to their handset. No computers or email needed. No more annoying ads or unwanted spam, get only what you want and even get rewards for being a part.

Text messaging and technology like blogs, online communities and widgets are changing the way we live, learn, purchase and now vote. In the past, Advertising professionals have had to combat being ignored, channel changed, shredded and now TiVo’d through. Finally technology has enabled us to find a balance, making it easier, more interesting and fun to be a part of the things that matter to you most while filtering out the things that aren’t.