DTC brands are tightening up how much they spend on digital advertising

For the past couple of years, investors have been urging direct-to-consumer brands to rely less on digital advertising to acquire new customers. Now, it’s become even more important for them to be more efficient with their advertising spend with the coronavirus pandemic. some cuts. Many direct-to-consumer advertising brands are pulling back on their advertising spend on Facebook and Google as they anticipate shoppers will tighten their wallets in the coming months. Joe Yakuel, founder and CEO of performance marketing agency Within, which has worked with Nike and Spanx among other brands, estimated that among his clients overall, their ad spend was down a little more than a third at the beginning of last week, compared to two weeks ago. Within also launched a COVID-19 ad spend tracker, which shows that among a sampling of the agency’s fashion and luxury clients, Facebook ad spend was down roughly 27% and 36% month-over-month respectively.

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VIVA Creative

VIVA Creative is a global experiential communications agency focused on content creation, live experience, design & production, virtual events, mobile, digital, and social media marketing. Fusing creativity with technology, the company helps organizations engage target audiences, build brand loyalty, and achieve business results.

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As a B2B Marketer, Is Out-of-home Advertising (OOH) Part of Your Mix?

Article | March 20, 2024

Many marketers today don’t know what OOH stands for, though it’s been a highly used marketing medium for decades. Out-of-home advertising consists of anything from billboards, blimps, and bus signage, to street furniture, event advertising, and connected TV, and can be as small as a window poster or the back of a street bench or larger than life, covering a wall or wrapping an entire building. OOH is now being seen as an emerging technology channel, but why? For starters, during the surge of online advertising over the last 15 years, Facebook and Google ads have seemingly gotten all the attention. Today, many marketing teams have been so focused on online marketing they no longer have much time to spend thinking out-of-the-box. But OOH is upping its game with a technology lift that is allowing marketers to highly target their audiences as well as improve the impact of their online advertising campaigns. And we’re not just talking about Pepsi and McDonalds. OOH advertising has long been effective for countless brands, known and unknown, and the possibilities are endless. We are seeing everything from wrapping an ice cream truck with your message and parking across the street from an event to highly targeted ads on TV screens in bars, restaurants, banks, and hotels. People take action after seeing OOH advertisements, doing online searches and visiting websites. In fact, Nielsen’s Out-of-Home Advertising Study 2019 edition reported that 66% of smartphone users took some type of action after seeing a OOH advertisement in the past year, and over four in 10 used online search to look up information. OOH drives more social and digital interactions than any other medium. If you aren’t in the OOH game, here’s why B2B marketers should be considering it as part of their marketing mix: 1. Build brand trust According to a survey conducted by Freeman, CMOs, brand managers, and event planners are putting more stake in in-person brand experiences. Billboards and OOH real world advertising are not only for the big brand names. If someone doesn’t know you, you can add significant trust and credibility to your brand as well as add more impact to your online Facebook and Google ads. And, OOH advertising is always there for audiences to see. It’s not invasive, block-able or frustrating as digital ads can be. 2. Hyper-target your audience Tech advances are allowing marketers to hyper-target out in the real-world. For startups, challenger brands, and anyone looking to target a specific group of people, it’s possible to zero in on the roads people drive on every day for work or the bars and restaurants they go to afterward. Mobile devices pinged at various locations are looked at like inbound links, as if coming from your website. If you want to reach people who work at a certain place, in a certain location, you can identify who’s driving by your billboard. 3. Generate leads You can then get that feedback, like who’s driving by, of those driving by, who went to your website? What are they searching on? Who converted to a lead? 4. Endless use cases With technology advancements, the possibilities in OOH are endless – mobile billboards on LED trucks, wall murals, TVs in countless public facilities and arenas, and billboards of all kinds that can be enhanced digitally. 5. OOH advertising is always “on.” Your OOH advertisement is there 24/7, delivering your message to every passerby during peak target times and all other times, broadening your reach without additional cost. And unlike digital advertising, OOH does not appear and then quickly disappear. It has staying power, displaying your message constantly and consistently around the clock. 6. Stand out at events: Though in-person conferences and events are coming back to life, the days of “host an event and they will come” are long gone. There is fierce competition for the hearts and minds of attendees. To dominate the competition, OOH is a great way to give you visibility, driving traffic to your event, to your booth, to your website – to network, make real-life connections, and generate leads. While online advertising has its place, we have taken a break from being creative. OOH allows an opportunity to get back into exercising your creative muscles. The challenge for marketers is to take their years of internet marketing experience and figure out how to create interesting brand experiences offline. From a tracking standpoint, OOH advertising today is looking more like online advertising. However, instead of tracking people, we are watching places as groups of people move through and pass by billboards or other signage. It’s a powerful “old” tool that marketers can combine with new tools to generate brand awareness and drive inbound interest from highly targeted specs. During the online advertising surge, while we have been wrapped up in tracking and measuring performance clicks, many companies have under invested in their brand. Plus, when integrated with digital marketing, OOH extends both reach and frequency, allowing you to leverage other marketing, online and offline, for maximum results and ROI. Marketers should now be thinking of OOH as one of their viable performance channels.

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Advertiser Platforms

Addressing Challenges in Quote Management for Risk Mitigation

Article | March 4, 2024

Discover the importance of quote management in business success. Learn the creation, handling, and tracking of quotes, facing common challenges, and embracing innovations in quote management. Contents 1. Understanding Quote Management 2. Probable Challenges in Quote Management 2.1. Inaccurate Data Entry 2.2. Complex Pricing Structures 2.3. Customization Demands 2.4. Long Turnaround Times 2.5. Integration with Other Systems 2.6. Globalization Challenges 2.7. Lack of Visibility 2.8. Maintaining Profit Margins 2.9. Identifying Risks 2.10. Resource Allocation 3. The Next Frontier in Quote Management 1. Understanding Quote Management Quote management is a nuanced and systematic process that involves the creation, handling, and tracking of quotes or estimates offered to clients. In business, especially within sectors like sales, services, and manufacturing, quote management and estimate management is a critical aspect that bridges customer interest and actual sales. Quote management, also known as quotation management, is a strategic function that governs the development and issuance of quotes to customers. This process includes compiling service or product costs, terms and conditions, and detailed descriptions informing potential buyers about what they're purchasing and at what price. Indeed, it encompasses understanding market trends, customer behaviour, cost optimization, and risk management. Quote management entails a deliberate approach to fostering client relationships. The quotes' promptness, accuracy, and quality reflect a company's professionalism and willingness to meet customer needs. Sales teams, guided by quote management principles, tend to structure quotes that reflect a deep understanding of customer requirements, leading to increased chances of conversion. They also incorporate upselling and cross-selling techniques into the quote whenever appropriate. Below is the guide to quotation management for businesses, both budding and established businesses to solve the cost estimation problems through strategic solutions. 2. Addressing Probable Challenges in Quote Management 2.1. Inaccurate Data Entry Maintaining data integrity is paramount, but human error can lead to inaccuracies that affect the efficiency and reliability of processes such as generating accurate quotes. Typically, manual data entry practices contribute to these errors because they rely heavily on human attention to detail, which can waver due to fatigue, high workloads, or simply inadvertence. Quotation management and implementing techniques like using automated data capture tools and deploying robust validation checks can solve this. Here is how the solution unfolds: Leverage Automated Data Capture Tools OCR Technology: Utilize optical character recognition (OCR) technology to convert different types of documents, such as scanned paper documents or images, into editable and searchable data. Barcode Scanners: Implement barcode scanning for quick data entry of product information, reducing manual input. Electronic Forms: Use e-forms with predefined formats to ensure that all necessary data fields are captured accurately. Voice-to-Text Solutions: Employ voice recognition software for hands-free data entry, particularly useful in logistically challenging environments. Offer validation checks like cross-database validation data entries against other databases to validate accuracy and highlight inconsistencies. Support business objectives with data management rather than undermining them with inaccuracies. 2.2. Complex Pricing Structures Tired of grappling with the intricacies of product's complex pricing? Calculating accurate quotes should not be a puzzle, nor should it drain the valuable time and resources. Differentiation in customer segments, purchase volumes, geographical areas, and promotional offers can create a tangled web of pricing combinations. Features That Make a Difference Rule-Based Calculations: Set complex rules based on any combination of factors—product combinations, market conditions, and customer categories. The software does the arithmetic instantaneously. Real-Time Updates: Market changes? No problem, update rules or promotions globally in real-time, reflecting immediately in every quote. Detailed Analytics: Gain insights into how different pricing strategies perform, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions to optimize profits. Error Reduction: Eliminate undercharging or overcharging, and safeguard businesses from costly pricing errors. Faster Quote Turnaround: Rapid, accurate calculations significantly reduce the time from quote to cash. Adapt, compete, and win with pricing software that's as dynamic as the market itself. 2.3. Customization Demands Today, personalization is the name of the game. Customers yearn for products or services catering to their needs and preferences. This growing demand for customization does present a challenge for businesses aiming to maintain standardization while still satisfying their clients' unique requirements. An effective strategy to address these obstacles in quotation management is the development of a flexible quote management system. Customization can often lead to complex pricing models, longer sales cycles, and a greater potential for errors in quoting. A dynamic quote management system, or an estimation management system can streamline this process and ensure accurate pricing, irrespective of product or service personalization level. It must include: Dynamic Pricing Engine Allows for real-time pricing calculations based on the custom specifications requested by the client. Can accommodate discounts, promotions, and other variables that might affect pricing. Product Configuration Tools Provides a user-friendly interface for customizing the product or service features. Automatically update the quote with any changes made to the configuration. Approval Workflows Establishes a clear approval process for custom quotes that may fall outside standard pricing guidelines. Ensures quotes are reviewed by the necessary personnel for pricing integrity. Integrations with CRM and ERP Systems Ensures all customer data is up-to-date and relevant discounts or terms are applied. Facilitates a seamless flow of information across different business systems. Audit Trails Keeps a record of all changes made to a quote for transparency and accountability. Facilitates compliance and enables businesses to review past quotes for improvements. The software segment held the largest share of the global risk management market by component in 2022, and this trend is anticipated to continue in the coming years. Given that the demand for a greater level of customization is a significant factor driving companies to increase their investment in the gamble executives market. Customization is not only desired but expected by clients! 2.4. Long Turnaround Times Businesses cannot afford to have prolonged turnaround times when generating quotes for their clients. The time it takes from customer inquiry to quote delivery is critical, and efficiency here could be the deciding factor in winning or losing a deal. Configure Price and Quote (CPQ) Software Market Size is projected to reach multimillion USD by 2031, In comparison to 2024, at unexpected CAGR during the forecast period 2024-2031. To address this issue, companies should opt for implementing CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) software to streamline and expedite the quote generation process. The benefits it provides are: Accelerated Quote Generation: CPQ software dramatically reduces the time it takes to generate quotes, often from days to hours or even minutes, ensuring prompt customer responses. Error Reduction: By automating configurations and pricing, CPQ software minimizes errors with manual quote processes, ensuring quotes are accurate and professional. Dynamic Pricing Structures: CPQ allows for easy customization of quotes, considering various customer needs including volume discounts, customizations, and promotions, automatically applying the best pricing rules and discounts based on customer engagement. Scalability: Whether dealing with a handful of complex quotes or thousands of simpler ones, CPQ software scales to the business volume without compromising speed or quality. Integration: CPQ solutions can integrate with other enterprise systems, such as CRM and ERP, providing a seamless flow of information across the business. Workflow Optimization: Approval processes can often slow down quote generation, but with CPQ software, workflows can be customized and automated for each unique product or customer. Invest in CPQ software to keep pace with the demands of modern commerce. 2.5. Integration with Other Systems To address the challenge integration, it's crucial to choose quote management software that is designed for compatibility and seamless integration with businesses' current systems. Features to look for in quote management software integration include: API Accessibility to ensure the quote management software provides robust application programming interfaces (APIs) that facilitate easy data exchange between systems. Pre-built Connectors to drastically reduce the time and effort required for integration. Customizable Workflow to adapt to businesses' existing workflows and help maintain consistency across different systems. Real-time Data Sync to ensure that any change in the quote management system is automatically updated across all integrated platforms. Data Mapping and Migration Tools for a smooth transition of data from existing systems to the new quotation management software. Security Protocols, since they involve data transfer, require high-level security features that are non-negotiable to protect sensitive information. Support and Training for comprehensive support to troubleshoot quote management issues like integration issues. Flexible Customization to meet specific business needs without compromising the integration with other systems. Be well on the way to harnessing the full potential of the business technology stack. 2.6. Globalization Challenges Businesses often face the intricate task of dealing with multiple currencies and languages. This complicates various aspects of operations, particularly in managing quotes and financial transactions. Issues may arise from currency conversion rates, which fluctuate and can impact profitability, to language barriers that impede clear communication and documentation consistency. To effectively overcome these globalization hurdles, companies should implement software solutions equipped with multi-currency and multi-language capabilities, providing: Real-Time Currency Conversion Currency Display Customization Multi-Currency Reporting Localized Interfaces Translation Tools Language-Specific Documentation 2.7. Lack of Visibility Sales teams often face the challenge of having insufficient visibility into the status of quotes and approvals, causing delays and inefficiencies in presenting propositions to clients. Without a clear view of where each quote stands in the process, sales reps might struggle to provide timely updates to clients, potentially harming the customer experience and impacting the closing of deals. To combat this, the implementation of comprehensive dashboards and tracking features is essential. These tools provide sales teams with: Real-time visibility into every stage of the quoting process, allowing for more effective management and communication. They also offer instant overview and data-driven decisions. By equipping sales teams with these enhanced visibility tools, companies can expect to see improved coordination, faster response times, and, ultimately, a more streamlined path from quote to sale. The increased transparency will empower sales teams and contribute to a more positive and trustworthy relationship with their clients. In an interview with Machintel Media (previously Media7), Olivia (Ross) Taylor, Director of CRO rightfully said that, “One thing to consider is backing up your clients with data. If you are offering some sort of platform that will save me time on the implementation of a process, then tell me how much time I’m going to save. If you say, ‘Cut down your execution time by 90% with our platform’, that’s a unique value proposition.” 2.8. Maintaining Profit Margins Maintaining profitable margins while offering competitive pricing is one of the common B2B quoting challenges faced by businesses across various industries. Achieving this balance requires strategic planning, thorough market understanding, and diligent cost control. By understanding the impact of different pricing strategies on margins, businesses can make informed decisions to optimize their financial outcomes, through the following steps: Collect Data Gather detailed historical sales data, production costs, marketing expenses, and any other relevant financial information. This data provides the foundation for margin analysis. Analyze Cost Structure Break down costs into fixed and variable categories. Understand how each cost contributes to the overall price of the product or service, and identify opportunities for reduction or efficiencies. Monitor Competitor Pricing Maintain a current understanding of competitor pricing strategies through market research. This information is vital in setting prices that are attractive to customers yet sustainable for the business. Pricing Strategy Development Use analytics to simulate how different pricing models affect margins of businesses. Consider implementing pricing strategies such as value-based pricing, tiered pricing, or dynamic pricing where appropriate. Implement Reporting Tools Deploy reporting tools that provide real-time visibility into sales performance and margin health. Dashboards should be user-friendly and present key metrics succinctly. 90% of pricing and demand forecasting still depends on spreadsheets, excel and gut-feeling decisions. This comes with challenges as these methods are not flawless and could potentially hurt pricing strategy, resulting in leaving money on the table. 2.9. Identifying Risks Identifying probable risks in any project or operation is crucial for preventive planning and managing unforeseen sales quoting challenges. To counter this, regular and thorough risk assessments are essential, coupled with horizon scanning to stay ahead of the common quoting process issues. Risk assessment is a critical process in project management that involves the identification, analysis, and mitigation of risks that could potentially affect a project's objectives. Conducting regular risk assessments allows project managers and their teams to: Prepare for and reduce the impact of risks Allocate resources more efficiently Increase likelihood of successful project completion Build confidence among stakeholders Strategies for identifying hidden risks Conduct regular risk assessment sessions Engage in horizon scanning Utilize risk assessment tools and frameworks Involve a diverse team in the risk assessment process Encourage open communication and reporting Consider historical data and lessons learned Carry out 'what-if' scenarios The global risk management market size is projected to reach Multimillion USD by 2028, in comparison to 2021, at an unexpected CAGR during 2022-28. 2.10. Resource Allocation Effective risk mitigation is a critical component of managing any project or operation. However, organizations often need more resources, which can impede their ability to implement strategies to address potential risks. This underscores the importance of allocating a portion of the budget toward purchasing or subscribing to a comprehensive quote management system. It is necessary for automating repetitive tasks, reducing human error, and speeding up the quoting process. Factors to be considered include: Financial Resources Ensure QMS integrates seamlessly with customer relationship management (CRM) system for streamlined operations. Consider cloud-based platforms for real-time quote updates and accessibility from anywhere, enhancing collaboration among sales teams. Human Resources Conduct workshops that highlight best practices for creating and managing quotes. Develop certification programs for teams to become experts in using the quoting tools at their disposal. Optimal selection for resources and their management is required to provide: Improve Data Analytics Regularly track and analyse conversion rates, average sales cycles, and quote-to-close ratios. Use predictive analytics to forecast future quoting trends and prepare the inventory and resources accordingly. Optimize Human Capital Create specialized roles for quote analysis, negotiation, revision to quotation process streamlining and improving response times. Establish cross-functional teams that work together to address complex quoting scenarios for large deals or strategic accounts. Marketing-Sales Alignment Marketing campaigns should be aligned with sales goals to generate qualified leads that require quotes. Marketing should develop customizable templates and content that sales teams can easily incorporate into their quotes. 3. The Next Frontier in Quote Management The efficiency of quote management processes can distinguish between winning and losing valuable opportunities. Quote management is crucial for businesses that rely on accurate and timely quotes to close deals. However, many challenges can complicate the B2B sales quoting process, impacting a company's profitability and customer satisfaction. Innovations in quote management include intelligent solutions and data analytics that can predict and shape complex pricing strategies while minimizing errors. Advanced software facilitates global scalability while maintaining compliance with varying tax laws. To improve visibility and control, quote management systems now offer real-time dashboards and reporting tools that provide insights into performance, margins, and quote status. Optimizing resource allocation is made simpler through predictive analytics and workflow automation, ensuring that the right people and tools are dedicated to each step of the process. As businesses continue to evolve, so must quote management systems. By adopting advanced solutions for quotation management and quoting processes’ best practices, companies can pave the way for more profitable, efficient, and customer-centric operations. The future of quote management is about agility, precision, and integration, attributes that must be embraced to stay competitive in the modern marketplace.

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Advertiser Platforms

Maximizing CRM Capabilities and Transforming Modern Businesses

Article | January 9, 2024

Embark on a historical journey charting CRM’s capability in businesses from organizational tools to a central strategic force in driving business innovation and deepening customer connections. Contents 1. The Evolution of CRM: From Customer Records to Strategic Business Tool 2. Advanced CRM Technologies and Innovations 3. Data Management and Security in CRM 4. Top Provider Companies of CRM 4.1. SuperOffice 4.2. Teamleader 4.3. ePROMIS Solutions 4.4. Keap 4.5. HighLevel 4.6. Miles IT 4.7. FranConnect 4.8. CAS Software AG 4.9. SoftPro 4.10. Rapidops Final Thoughts 1. The Evolution of CRM to Strategic Business Tools The transition of customer relationship management (CRM) from an elementary collection of customer data to a strategic business tool signifies a notable change in how firms communicate with customers and make strategic decisions. The initial purpose of early CRMs was to facilitate the organization of customer information and enhance service quality, thereby establishing the foundation for a more individualized customer experience. Nevertheless, the emergence of digital marketing and technological progress revolutionized CRM, making it a formidable force in marketing with the ability to do intricate data segmentation, tailored interaction, and seamless connections with many digital platforms. Notwithstanding the technological developments, the efficacy of any customer relationship management system is contingent upon the human factor, encompassing crucial aspects such as proficient user training, efficient data management, and a customer-centric organizational culture. The ongoing development of CRM highlights the significance of integrating technology with a strategy focused on providing outstanding customer value. The continuous evolution of CRM from an essential instrument to a fundamental business ideology promises CRM capabilities in contemporary businesses and can potentially alter the field of customer relationship management in the foreseeable future. 2. Advanced CRM Technologies and Innovations - CRM evolution from basic data repositories to key drivers in enhancing customer experience (CX), marketing automation, and business growth. - CRM systems now serve as integral assets, unifying customer interactions and increasing the efficacy of sales, marketing, and service operations. - Cloud-based and AI technologies have advanced CRM functionalities, offering scalability, mobility, and actionable analytics. - Modern CRMs enable predictive insights and proactive customer engagement strategies. - Introduction of chatbots and virtual assistants to CRM, providing immediate support and freeing human staff for complex tasks. - Rise of conversational CRM, leading to more natural and mutually beneficial customer interactions. - Use of omnichannel approaches powered by cloud technology ensures consistent, informed communication across all customer touchpoints. - These innovations lead to a unified brand experience, strengthening customer relationships. 3. Data Management and Security in CRM CRM systems have evolved beyond their initial purpose as simple storage of customer data in the digital era. They have become advanced platforms that play a crucial role in creating business strategies and enhancing customer experiences. The effectiveness of CRM systems heavily relies on the efficient administration and rigorous protection of the data they store. Efficient Data Management in Customer Relationship Management: An essential foundation of a strong CRM system is its capacity to effectively handle data. To accomplish this, it is essential to precisely establish the goals of the CRM data, such as improving customer satisfaction or increasing sales. Efficient data management involves the CRM implementation like implementing accurate data collection methods and the preservation of data integrity. To maintain the quality and relevance of CRM data, it is crucial to implement regular data cleansing and updating procedures due to the fast rate at which information can become outdated. Sophisticated Security Protocols: Securing CRM data is crucial in an era characterized by frequent data breaches. Robust levels of security are provided by advanced methods such as role-based access control (RBAC), data encryption, and tokenization. These procedures are implemented to guarantee stringent control over data access and to render the data incomprehensible to unauthorized entities in the event of a breach. The convergence of management and security: The integration of data management and security within a comprehensive data governance framework is necessary, as opposed to operating in isolation. The provided framework delineates the policies, duties, and standards that are imperative for the efficient management and safeguarding of CRM data. Regular training for staff on data best practices, continuing audits, and adherence to data protection requirements are essential components of a robust governance approach. 4. Top Provider Companies in CRM CRM has emerged as the central focus of contemporary company strategy. An effective customer relationship management system optimizes essential client data in a manner that is customized to the many facets of an organization's activities. It can assist in monitoring a customer's purchasing patterns, preferences, and apprehensions. In a time when each encounter can indicate the extent of a customer's commitment to a brand, selecting the appropriate CRM supplier can determine whether the firm succeeds or faces difficulties. Choosing the most suitable CRM supplier for any company's specific requirements might be challenging due to the abundance of options available. Here’s a list of the top ten providers in CRM: 4.1.SuperOffice SuperOffice, a premier CRM software provider, has been at the forefront of promoting meaningful business-to-customer relationships and driving revenue growth for medium-sized European B2Bs for over 30 years. With a steadfast commitmentto fostering meaningful relationships and driving revenue growth, SuperOffice distinguishes itself by offering a holistic CRM solution that unites marketing, customer care and sales teams. Key to its success are features such as integrated email and document management, AI-powered insights, GDPR compliance, and an extensive App Store. These elements, combined with customizable workflows and real-time dashboards, empower teams to achieve greater alignment, efficiency, and productivity, solidifying SuperOffice's position as the CRM partner of choice for businesses aiming for sustainable, customer-centric growth. 4.2.Teamleader A CRM tool Teamleader Focus provides CRM solutions for contemporary businesses, integrating advanced features to streamline customer relationship management. This platform excels in centralized customer management, providing a unified repository for all customer-related data and facilitating immediate access and management efficiency. Its visualization of the sales pipeline demystifies the journey from prospect to customer, enabling precise monitoring and nurturing of potential leads. Unique in its capacity to manage multiple businesses within a single account, it adeptly caters to entrepreneurs running diverse ventures, simplifying complexities with ease. 4.3.ePROMIS Solutions ePROMIS Solutions has been at the forefront of providing innovative enterprise management software for over three decades. Catering to a broad spectrum of industries, ePROMIS has carved a niche for delivering futuristic solutions that transform business operations. The ePROMIS FutureGen Enterprise Platform exemplifies an all-encompassing business solution, integrating over 100 applications across ERP, HCM, and EAM. It offers advanced automation, customizable workflows, and a potent analytics and BI engine, enhancing operational efficiency and facilitating insightful decision-making. Designed for global scalability, the platform supports multi-entity, multi-industry, multilingual, multi-currency, and multi-channel operations, making it an ideal choice for global expansion and innovation businesses. 4.4.Keap Keap, formerly Infusionsoft, is a paradigm of innovation in sales and marketing automation for small businesses. Keap is committed to simplifying growth for small businesses, aiming to empower 1 million enterprises globally by 2030. Its comprehensive CRM platform is engineered to capture, organize, track, and nurture leads, amplifying sales and revenue. Keap distinguishes itself with expert coaching, extensive training, robust support, and a vibrant community of entrepreneurs. Its automation engine offers personalized features and strategic guidance to maintain business health, customer engagement and satisfaction, and team vitality during scaling. 4.5.HighLevel HighLevel, is a revolutionary all-in-one marketing platform designed to empower agencies with the necessary tools, resources, and support to excel and surpass their marketing objectives. With over 60,000 customers and serving 1.4 million businesses, HighLevel facilitates the capture of leads through diverse means like landing pages, forms, and inbound phone systems. It automates engagement across multiple channels, including voicemail, SMS, and email, and offers built-in tools for payment collection, appointment scheduling, and analytics tracking. HighLevel's suite stands out for its comprehensive capability to consolidate marketing tools in one place, enabling users to enhance customer acquisition, retention, and business scaling through streamlined processes and a community-supported ecosystem of digital marketing strategies. 4.6.Miles IT Miles IT, has established itself as a vanguard IT company, offering comprehensive services to bolster businesses nationwide through technological innovation. This array of services spans managed IT, software development, digital marketing, e-commerce, and dynamic websites, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each business. Positioned as a conduit for business growth, Miles IT promises expert support, coaching, training, and an engaging community of entrepreneurs, ensuring clients meet and exceed their business aspirations. Operating with a commitment to deliver cost-effective, efficient solutions, Miles IT is the technology partner of choice for businesses aiming to scale and retain potential customers while maintaining the integrity of their customer service and team morale. 4.7.FranConnect FranConnect, is the quintessential partner for franchise management, offering an unparalleled suite of solutions that cater to the sales, operations, and marketing needs of over 1,500 brands and multi-location businesses globally. FranConnect's clientele experiences an average growth rate of 44% faster than the broader franchising market, a testament to the efficacy of its cloud-based solutions in fostering scalable and optimized business operations. The platform's robust offerings are designed to accommodate the diverse needs of franchisors and multi-location brands at every stage of growth, from emerging entities to established conglomerates. FranConnect's solutions are meticulously crafted to enhance unit sales, revenue, operational efficiency, franchisee engagement, and employee training, all while ensuring rigorous security and compliance standards. 4.8.CAS Software AG CAS Software AG, has emerged as the premier provider of CRM solutions tailored to the unique demands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Germany. Renowned for delivering superior ergonomics, integration capabilities, and exceptional value, CAS Software AG's offerings are designed to cater to a wide array of industries. Its portfolio, which includes the flagship CAS genesisWorld, offers a 360° view of all customer interactions thanks to intelligent, AI-assisted processes (AIA®), and is notable for adhering to the highest standards of data security and digital confidence. 4.9.SoftPro SoftPro, a distinguished leader in the real estate closing, title, and escrow software industry, is celebrated for its comprehensive suite of products. Renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence, SoftPro's solutions are meticulously designed for scalability and customization, offering process automation, secure communication portals, robust reporting, analytics, and myriad integrations. This ensures a streamlined closing process, enhancing volume and revenue for businesses. SoftPro remains committed to providing award-winning support, facilitating efficient residential and commercial closings, and empowering users with technology solutions tailored to their needs. 4.10.Rapidops Rapidops, is an acclaimed technology, transformation, and analytics company recognized for driving digital innovation and delivering impactful digital products and platforms. Operating across retail, manufacturing and supply chain, healthcare, and technology industries, Rapidops has empowered clients, including Dassault Systemes and Harris Teeter, alongside launching platforms like Salesmate.io. Renowned for rapidly translating complex visions into market-leading digital solutions, Rapidops boasts comprehensive expertise in strategy, design, engineering, analytics, AI/ML, IoT, and DevOps. Rapidops’ commitment to excellence is reflected in its holistic approach to solving critical CRM challenges and fostering sustainable growth. Final Thoughts CRM capabilities in modern businesses are progressing towards a greater future. In the future, CRM is expected to become increasingly essential to business operations as artificial intelligence and machine learning improve its ability to make accurate predictions. As organizations adjust to remote and hybrid work arrangements, customer relationship management solutions will evolve to accommodate mobility and cloud-based capabilities, guaranteeing uninterrupted accessibility and performance across various work settings.

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Advertiser Campaign Management

AI-Powered Creative: Get Higher ROI for Clients

Article | July 19, 2022

Creating ad campaigns is a gamble. As advertisers, you are never sure if it was optimized enough, have no idea which micro-targets it resonates with the most, and it could take up to a year to determine the campaign’s sales impact. Market trends change by then. However, AI-powered ad creative can turn things around for you. You will know exactly what aspects of the ad resonate with your target demographic. “It’s a welcome change for creatives, who find it empowering because they can think more broadly, experiment more, and learn faster,” says David Olesnevich, Head of Product at IBM Watson Advertising “It’s a welcome change for creatives, who find it empowering because they can think more broadly, experiment more, and learn faster,” says David Olesnevich, Head of Product at IBM Watson Advertising Let us take a look at what an AI-powered creative can do for your ad campaign: Instant Optimization AI-powered creative can be optimized instantly, not just for display ads but also for OTT video ads. You don’t need to spend extra time or resources to scale your optimization efforts. Multiple Variations Elements in AI creative can be varied and combined with music tracks, sound effects, voice-overs, scripts, video clips and sequences, hero shots, text overlays, end cards, and calls-to-action. Easy Scaling AI-powered creative ad campaigns are easy to scale across sectors for micro-targets defined by demographics, psychographics, life stage, customer journey stage, purchase behavior, and other KPIs like video completion, app installs, site visits, form-filling, purchases/conversions. Enhanced Targeting This technology can target your desired demographic based on message resonance. Consumer characteristics that respond to different message element combinations can help create persona profiles. Brand advertisers like you need to prepare themselves for a cookie-less future with Google phasing out third-party cookies by 2023. Additionally, you need to also take into account Apple ending the IDFA (ID for Advertising). Figuring out micro-targets will get tougher because of these factors. You will have to harness solutions that respect consumer privacy without depending on the traditional advertising identifiers that will no longer remain. Creative Professionals Can Better Maximize Client ROI AI-powered creative is a modular and smarter way to develop ads. It takes the guesswork out of advertising with more actionable information to enhance brand campaigns and how they deliver a higher ROI.

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Spotlight

VIVA Creative

VIVA Creative is a global experiential communications agency focused on content creation, live experience, design & production, virtual events, mobile, digital, and social media marketing. Fusing creativity with technology, the company helps organizations engage target audiences, build brand loyalty, and achieve business results.

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Display Advertising, Social Media Advertising

MyTradeZone.com Joins Certified Trade Mission to Hong Kong to Explore Business Expansion Opportunities in Asia

MyTradeZone | November 28, 2023

MyTradeZone.com, a trade and Social Networking for businesses, is pleased to announce its upcoming visit to Hong Kong from December 4th to 8th, 2023. Bachir Kassir, founder of MyTradeZone, will join a delegation of American companies to Hong Kong as part of a U.S. Department of Commerce Certified Trade Mission organized by IBS Global Consulting with the support of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the U.S. Commercial Service. The delegation, comprising a diverse group of American companies, aims to foster cross-border partnerships, explore export opportunities, and deepen economic ties between the United States and Hong Kong. The visit to Hong Kong presents an exciting opportunity for MyTradeZone.com to expand its global reach, tap into new markets, and establish key connections with Hong Kong's dynamic business community and trade associations. With Hong Kong's strategic location as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region, robust financial services sector, and reputation as a major international trade hub, this visit holds immense promise for American enterprises looking to navigate the Asian market. Led by Tonya McNeal-Weary, Managing Director at IBS Global Consulting, the delegation will engage in a series of high-level meetings, networking events, and industry-specific forums during the five-day visit. These activities are designed to facilitate mutually beneficial partnerships between U.S. and Hong Kong businesses across various sectors. [MyTradeZone.com] is a disruptive business networking platform, and is like an always open trade show: • Businesses: Add company profile page. Showcase products & services. Network locally and around the world • Event Organizers, Trade Associations, & Networking Groups: Provide value-added offering to members & sponsors in a public or private setting • Creators & Group owners: Monetize your creations via peer-to-peer payment enablement • Advertisers and Marketers: MyTradeZone's B2B search engine offers highly targeted and cost-effective advertisements to both buyers and sellers • Business Professionals: Grow your professional network, chat, connect, follow, takes notes, share and collaborate As an official member of the delegation, MyTradeZone will have the opportunity to gain firsthand insights into Hong Kong's business landscape, explore regulatory frameworks, exchange best practices, and forge lasting relationships with key stakeholders. Additionally, the itinerary includes tailored site visits to cutting-edge facilities and industrial parks, showcasing Hong Kong's commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. The visit to Hong Kong aims to enhance trade cooperation and seeks to highlight the enduring friendship between the United States and Hong Kong. As both economies continue to recover from the challenges posed by the global pandemic, this visit becomes even more crucial in reinvigorating trade ties and promoting long-term economic growth. About MyTradeZone.com MyTradeZone is a social networking platform for businesses. We are working on the next thing to disrupt business networking. MyTradeZone is a forward-thinking B2B media technology company reshaping how businesses connect and network. MyTradeZone's B2B search engine offers highly targeted and cost-effective advertisements to both buyers and sellers. MyTradeZone is also a perfect companion offering to trade show organizers and networking groups offering value added benefits to both members and sponsors.

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Advertiser Platforms

Stagwell (STGW) and MNTN Partner to Forge a Unified Performance Marketing Ecosystem for Brands

PR Newswire | January 12, 2024

Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW), the challenger network built to transform marketing, is partnering with connected TV (CTV) advertising leader MNTN to broaden the market of performance advertising for brands. With the partnership, brands will now have access to a comprehensive set of buying solutions that combine the best of MNTN's Performance TV platform with Stagwell Marketing Cloud products, providing added streaming, performance PR and performance influencer capabilities in a one-stop shop. Stagwell and MNTN's strategic partnership allows for a more unified approach to brand and performance media, offering brands access to advanced technologies and a comprehensive suite of tools enabling brand campaigns on television to now seamlessly coexist with other digital channels. "For too long, brand and performance media have battled to co-exist in an industry that worships creative ideas and measurable metrics separately," said MNTN President and CEO Mark Douglas. "Now Stagwell's performance-focused clients can see their brand campaigns at work through MNTN Performance TV and not only qualify but quantify results of traditionally less measurable media." "Stagwell believes all media is performance media, and our partnership with MNTN is our next step in creating an integrated ecosystem of technology and media solutions that enable speed to market, improved outcomes, and ultimately, scaled brand performance for clients," said Stagwell Chairman and CEO Mark Penn. "In combination with SMC tools, including social, streaming, and PR capabilities, brands can now attach metrics to their big marketing ideas in a granular way." Meeting Client Demands The partnership between Stagwell and MNTN Performance TV addresses the growing importance of performance advertising for modern brands, offering a comprehensive suite of buying solutions that feature cutting-edge targeting, measurement, and automated optimization technology. The collaboration introduces an innovative approach to television advertising, offering brands metrics that matter together – reach and revenue. Expanded Toolset MNTN clients will now benefit from an enhanced suite of tools, incorporating products from the Stagwell Marketing Cloud. This includes: PRophet, a generative and predictive AI platform for PR professionals Koalifyed, an influencer discovery and campaign management platform ReachTV, the largest streaming television network targeting travelers in airports Together, Stagwell and MNTN aim to meet the evolving needs of modern brands in a performance-driven landscape. Stay tuned for insights from Stagwell's Mark Penn and MNTN's Mark Douglas at CES next week, where they will discuss the power of this collaboration. Brands and/or journalists interested in connecting on the ground should contact ces2024@stagwellglobal.com for more information. About MNTN MNTN is the Hardest Working Software in TV, bringing unrivaled performance and simplicity to Connected TV advertising. Our self-serve technology makes running TV ads as easy as search and social and helps brands drive measurable conversions, revenue, site visits, and more. MNTN is one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies of 2023 and was recently named one of the Next Big Things in Tech for its upcoming VIVA creative suite. For more information, please visit https://mountain.com/. About Stagwell Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW) is the challenger network built to transform marketing. We deliver scaled creative performance for the world's most ambitious brands, connecting culture-moving creativity with leading-edge technology to harmonize the art and science of marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Join us at www.stagwellglobal.com.

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Ad Tech and Martech

Inuvo's IntentKey AI Powers the Privacy-First, Post-Cookie Era

GlobeNewswire | January 11, 2024

In the wake of Google's phase out of third-party cookies starting in January 2024, Inuvo, Inc. (NYSE American: INUV), a leading provider of marketing technology, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that serves brands and agencies, has announced its continued commitment to a cookieless future with its IntentKey AI, outlining the ways its technology can already work around Google’s changes. IntentKey, powered by a large language model, creates cookieless audience models by leveraging over 25 million AI-identified concepts that represent consumer intent signals across the web. These concepts are used to understand why an audience is interested in a product and why URLs are visited. IntentKey models help marketers reach their audiences in today’s post-cookie landscape. "Google’s fast timeline, closing cookies by the end of 2024, has caught some marketers off guard, but Inuvo has been preparing for a while. IntentKey can align, predict, and activate audiences across platforms without relying on cookies or other trackers,” said Inuvo CEO Richard Howe. “As the industry moves rapidly toward a cookieless reality, IntentKey stands ready to power more relevant digital experiences through ethical data practices and intended audiences - not identity-based audiences." Featuring Non-Personal Identifying Information (NPII) that maintains consumer privacy and prevents personal data exposure, IntentKey enables brands to securely connect with high-intent audiences in the moment audiences signal readiness to engage. This approach eliminates the need for cookies to create audience models. IntentKey has delivered performance that beats incumbent media by up to 67%. With the demise of the third-party cookie in 2024, led by Google and Apple, IntentKey stands ready to power the next generation of digital marketing through privacy-forward, cookieless audience models that provide both faster and more accurate audience targeting capabilities to drive results. To learn more, visit inuvo.com. About Inuvo Inuvo, Inc. (NYSE American: INUV) is a market leader in Artificial Intelligence built for advertising. Its IntentKey AI solution is a first-of-its-kind proprietary and patented technology capable of identifying and actioning to the reasons why consumers are interested in products, services, or brands, not who those consumers are. To learn more, visit www.inuvo.com.

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Display Advertising, Social Media Advertising

MyTradeZone.com Joins Certified Trade Mission to Hong Kong to Explore Business Expansion Opportunities in Asia

MyTradeZone | November 28, 2023

MyTradeZone.com, a trade and Social Networking for businesses, is pleased to announce its upcoming visit to Hong Kong from December 4th to 8th, 2023. Bachir Kassir, founder of MyTradeZone, will join a delegation of American companies to Hong Kong as part of a U.S. Department of Commerce Certified Trade Mission organized by IBS Global Consulting with the support of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the U.S. Commercial Service. The delegation, comprising a diverse group of American companies, aims to foster cross-border partnerships, explore export opportunities, and deepen economic ties between the United States and Hong Kong. The visit to Hong Kong presents an exciting opportunity for MyTradeZone.com to expand its global reach, tap into new markets, and establish key connections with Hong Kong's dynamic business community and trade associations. With Hong Kong's strategic location as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region, robust financial services sector, and reputation as a major international trade hub, this visit holds immense promise for American enterprises looking to navigate the Asian market. Led by Tonya McNeal-Weary, Managing Director at IBS Global Consulting, the delegation will engage in a series of high-level meetings, networking events, and industry-specific forums during the five-day visit. These activities are designed to facilitate mutually beneficial partnerships between U.S. and Hong Kong businesses across various sectors. [MyTradeZone.com] is a disruptive business networking platform, and is like an always open trade show: • Businesses: Add company profile page. Showcase products & services. Network locally and around the world • Event Organizers, Trade Associations, & Networking Groups: Provide value-added offering to members & sponsors in a public or private setting • Creators & Group owners: Monetize your creations via peer-to-peer payment enablement • Advertisers and Marketers: MyTradeZone's B2B search engine offers highly targeted and cost-effective advertisements to both buyers and sellers • Business Professionals: Grow your professional network, chat, connect, follow, takes notes, share and collaborate As an official member of the delegation, MyTradeZone will have the opportunity to gain firsthand insights into Hong Kong's business landscape, explore regulatory frameworks, exchange best practices, and forge lasting relationships with key stakeholders. Additionally, the itinerary includes tailored site visits to cutting-edge facilities and industrial parks, showcasing Hong Kong's commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. The visit to Hong Kong aims to enhance trade cooperation and seeks to highlight the enduring friendship between the United States and Hong Kong. As both economies continue to recover from the challenges posed by the global pandemic, this visit becomes even more crucial in reinvigorating trade ties and promoting long-term economic growth. About MyTradeZone.com MyTradeZone is a social networking platform for businesses. We are working on the next thing to disrupt business networking. MyTradeZone is a forward-thinking B2B media technology company reshaping how businesses connect and network. MyTradeZone's B2B search engine offers highly targeted and cost-effective advertisements to both buyers and sellers. MyTradeZone is also a perfect companion offering to trade show organizers and networking groups offering value added benefits to both members and sponsors.

Read More

Advertiser Platforms

Stagwell (STGW) and MNTN Partner to Forge a Unified Performance Marketing Ecosystem for Brands

PR Newswire | January 12, 2024

Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW), the challenger network built to transform marketing, is partnering with connected TV (CTV) advertising leader MNTN to broaden the market of performance advertising for brands. With the partnership, brands will now have access to a comprehensive set of buying solutions that combine the best of MNTN's Performance TV platform with Stagwell Marketing Cloud products, providing added streaming, performance PR and performance influencer capabilities in a one-stop shop. Stagwell and MNTN's strategic partnership allows for a more unified approach to brand and performance media, offering brands access to advanced technologies and a comprehensive suite of tools enabling brand campaigns on television to now seamlessly coexist with other digital channels. "For too long, brand and performance media have battled to co-exist in an industry that worships creative ideas and measurable metrics separately," said MNTN President and CEO Mark Douglas. "Now Stagwell's performance-focused clients can see their brand campaigns at work through MNTN Performance TV and not only qualify but quantify results of traditionally less measurable media." "Stagwell believes all media is performance media, and our partnership with MNTN is our next step in creating an integrated ecosystem of technology and media solutions that enable speed to market, improved outcomes, and ultimately, scaled brand performance for clients," said Stagwell Chairman and CEO Mark Penn. "In combination with SMC tools, including social, streaming, and PR capabilities, brands can now attach metrics to their big marketing ideas in a granular way." Meeting Client Demands The partnership between Stagwell and MNTN Performance TV addresses the growing importance of performance advertising for modern brands, offering a comprehensive suite of buying solutions that feature cutting-edge targeting, measurement, and automated optimization technology. The collaboration introduces an innovative approach to television advertising, offering brands metrics that matter together – reach and revenue. Expanded Toolset MNTN clients will now benefit from an enhanced suite of tools, incorporating products from the Stagwell Marketing Cloud. This includes: PRophet, a generative and predictive AI platform for PR professionals Koalifyed, an influencer discovery and campaign management platform ReachTV, the largest streaming television network targeting travelers in airports Together, Stagwell and MNTN aim to meet the evolving needs of modern brands in a performance-driven landscape. Stay tuned for insights from Stagwell's Mark Penn and MNTN's Mark Douglas at CES next week, where they will discuss the power of this collaboration. Brands and/or journalists interested in connecting on the ground should contact ces2024@stagwellglobal.com for more information. About MNTN MNTN is the Hardest Working Software in TV, bringing unrivaled performance and simplicity to Connected TV advertising. Our self-serve technology makes running TV ads as easy as search and social and helps brands drive measurable conversions, revenue, site visits, and more. MNTN is one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies of 2023 and was recently named one of the Next Big Things in Tech for its upcoming VIVA creative suite. For more information, please visit https://mountain.com/. About Stagwell Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW) is the challenger network built to transform marketing. We deliver scaled creative performance for the world's most ambitious brands, connecting culture-moving creativity with leading-edge technology to harmonize the art and science of marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Join us at www.stagwellglobal.com.

Read More

Ad Tech and Martech

Inuvo's IntentKey AI Powers the Privacy-First, Post-Cookie Era

GlobeNewswire | January 11, 2024

In the wake of Google's phase out of third-party cookies starting in January 2024, Inuvo, Inc. (NYSE American: INUV), a leading provider of marketing technology, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that serves brands and agencies, has announced its continued commitment to a cookieless future with its IntentKey AI, outlining the ways its technology can already work around Google’s changes. IntentKey, powered by a large language model, creates cookieless audience models by leveraging over 25 million AI-identified concepts that represent consumer intent signals across the web. These concepts are used to understand why an audience is interested in a product and why URLs are visited. IntentKey models help marketers reach their audiences in today’s post-cookie landscape. "Google’s fast timeline, closing cookies by the end of 2024, has caught some marketers off guard, but Inuvo has been preparing for a while. IntentKey can align, predict, and activate audiences across platforms without relying on cookies or other trackers,” said Inuvo CEO Richard Howe. “As the industry moves rapidly toward a cookieless reality, IntentKey stands ready to power more relevant digital experiences through ethical data practices and intended audiences - not identity-based audiences." Featuring Non-Personal Identifying Information (NPII) that maintains consumer privacy and prevents personal data exposure, IntentKey enables brands to securely connect with high-intent audiences in the moment audiences signal readiness to engage. This approach eliminates the need for cookies to create audience models. IntentKey has delivered performance that beats incumbent media by up to 67%. With the demise of the third-party cookie in 2024, led by Google and Apple, IntentKey stands ready to power the next generation of digital marketing through privacy-forward, cookieless audience models that provide both faster and more accurate audience targeting capabilities to drive results. To learn more, visit inuvo.com. About Inuvo Inuvo, Inc. (NYSE American: INUV) is a market leader in Artificial Intelligence built for advertising. Its IntentKey AI solution is a first-of-its-kind proprietary and patented technology capable of identifying and actioning to the reasons why consumers are interested in products, services, or brands, not who those consumers are. To learn more, visit www.inuvo.com.

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Events