Transparency is much more than a catchphrase to Maximilian Obersteller. Whether referring to his work as a digital journalist, or his opinions of the current online gaming community, his input should never be taken for granted. Our team wanted to pick his brain regarding the role that transparency now plays, and we detailed the responses immediately below.
We’re already aware of your background in research. What made you become interested in transparent marketing techniques?
Maximilian Obersteller: “I believe that my degree in Communication Studies from the University of Hamburg piqued my interest; especially because transparency helps us to better understand one another.”
Would you say that this has strengthened your talents as a digital journalist?
Maximilian Obersteller: “I wouldn’t say my skills have been strengthened. Perhaps the better term is ‘honed’ for what you’re suggesting.”
Has this need for clarity ever caused conflict with your peers?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Occasionally. Some of my fellow journalists have the tendency to employ confirmation bias. I feel that this is a disservice to the listener.”
In the same respect, do you believe that your research has benefited as a result?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Absolutely. Even if some of my research outcomes were unexpected, adopting a transparent approach often opens up new possibilities for future studies.”
Moving on to online gaming, what role should transparency play?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Keep players informed. It’s really that simple. Digital portals should always ensure that all members remain in the loop.”
How might these principles be applied to bookmakers?
Maximilian Obersteller: “One current issue involves clear odds calculations. Where are these figures derived? What algorithms are used? What type of house edge should players be aware of?”
Are the providers themselves doing enough to promote transparency?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Some are really at the top of their game. However, a handful of stragglers have yet to adopt the most proactive methods.”
Should regulatory bodies play a more pronounced role?
Maximilian Obersteller: “The issue here is that guidelines will change between jurisdictions. As there’s no centralised governing body, some regions are stricter than others. This can cause confusion.”
Overall, do you think that the iGaming community is heading in the right direction?
Maximilian Obersteller: “This is the light at the end of the tunnel. Casinos have begun accepting a greater degree of responsibility, and the end-user experience will ultimately benefit as a result.”
Let’s now discuss content creation. Is transparency the most important concern?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Well, accuracy is the first issue. Transparency follows as a close second. You first need to know what you’re talking about.”
Your online biography cites numerous publications. How many of these discuss content creation?
Maximilian Obersteller: “While a handful address this topic, my work is generally focused around how concise communications impact the content itself.”
- So, how does transparency start before writing the first line?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Become innately familiar with the subject. If there’s any doubt, the chances are high that unintentional mistakes will be made.”
So, you’re referring to research in this case?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Partially. However, I’m also talking about an organic connection. For instance, would you ever ask a culinary expert to write a paper on cryptocurrencies? Simply stated, you need to pick the right man (or woman) for the job.”
This seems rather straightforward. Why do some marketing specialists circumvent such a logical approach?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Any research analyst will tell you that the process takes time. As advertisers are often forced to deal with stringent deadlines, they may begin to cur corners.”
Could artificial intelligence help to address this disconnect?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Possibly. I’m on the fence at the moment due to the flawed nature of these programs. They should represent an aid; not a primary go-to source for information.”
Might the content curation processes likewise need to be modified?
Maximilian Obersteller: “To be fair, you’re not going to reinvent the wheel here. The main goal is to adopt a modular mindset so that the right tools can be used when tackling the project in question.”
How do you feel about the role that third-party fact-checkers may play?
Maximilian Obersteller: “I have no problem with these resources. However, we always need to be certain that they are not tainted by any type of bias.”
Should larger organisations (such as news outlets) be held even more accountable?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Without a doubt. They set the example. Whether referring to journalism or online gaming, these agencies should represent a beacon of transparency.”
How concerned are you about the rise of fake news?
Maximilian Obersteller: “While fake news is nothing new, the increasing number of instances does worry me. Extraordinary claims must be backed up with extraordinary evidence.”
What advice would you give to a budding online advertising specialist?
Maximilian Obersteller: “Be true to yourself. Those who apply this simple maxim will go far in life.”