Definition: gamification

(1) Providing incentives and rewards in real world activities in order to derive more business and gain customer loyalty. For example, frequent flyer miles are an incentive to fly more with the same airline. The Wawa convenience stores in Eastern U.S. have a mobile app that generates coupons for free food and discounts after a certain amount of merchandise has been purchased.

(2) Applying gaming principles to non-gaming websites in order to engage more with the public and increase traffic. Gamification is reward based either with points, titles or freebies. For example, if people recommend an offer on a website to enough takers, they get a free item.

Gamification is also found in social networking sites, as well as ordinary websites and applications. By adding game-like experiences, users are encouraged to return more frequently to try their luck, hone their skills and reap more rewards, which may be nothing more than the satisfaction of accomplishment.