Extend Your Nonprofit’s Reach with Paid Ads

In general, paid ads can help your nonprofit with your recognition, donations, and events. You can promote valuable content to draw in new leads and position yourself as industry experts. Here are the type of paid ads you can begin using today along with best practices. Search ads are online advertisements that appear next to Google search results when people are searching for specific key terms. They’re the first results in a search and have the word “ad” written underneath them. Your ad appears when the words people are searching match the keywords you set up. Your non-profit will only pay when people click the ad or call your business – depending on the call-to-action you’ve put in place.

Spotlight

Jack's Family Restaurants, Inc.

It all started back in 1960, when we fired up the grill at Jack’s 1st store in Homewood, Alabama. The news spread fast. And folks would come from miles around to walk up and get a taste of our fresh burgers, crinkle-cut fries and hand-dipped shakes. Our popularity grew from town, to town and neighborhood, to neighborhood. Today, fifty years later, we’ve grown across the Southeast- with 112 locations in Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia. Since those early days, many things have changed in our world. But one thing has remained the same: Jack’s is still serving up great food- with a smile.

OTHER ARTICLES
Advertiser Campaign Management, CMO Strategy

Strategies for Overcoming Implementation Challenges in CRM

Article | June 3, 2024

Unlock the full potential of the CRM system with expert strategies and address issues and challenges in CRM implementation through tactical solutions for customer engagement and business success. Contents 1. Introduction to CRM Implementation 2. Challenges in CRM Implementation 2.1. Data Migration and Integrity 2.2. Scalability 2.3. Data Security and Privacy 2.4. Cost Overruns and Budget Management 2.5. Inadequate Training and Support 2.6. Integration with Existing Systems 2.7. Measuring ROI and Performance 2.8. Mobile Compatibility and Remote Access 2.9. Data Quality Management 2.10. Vendor Reliability and Support 3. Future Proofing CRM 1. Introduction to CRM Implementation Implementing a customer relationship management (CRM) system requires precise alignment with corporate objectives, rigorous system selection, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement to ensure seamless integration into business operations. Successful CRM implementation is a continuous journey of adaptation and improvement, central to building strong customer relationships and achieving business growth. The key strategies for successful CRM implementation that emphasize the importance of meticulous planning, customization, and ongoing evaluation to fully harness the system's potential will be presented below: Strategies for successful CRM implementation: Avoiding the Challenges Strategic Alignment: Begin with a clear CRM strategy that aligns with the business goals, ensuring the system supports customer engagement and growth objectives. System Selection: Conduct a thorough evaluation of CRM platforms, focusing on scalability, integration capabilities, and customization options. Choose a solution that fits the company’s unique business needs and technological infastructure. Stakeholder Engagement: Secure buy-in from all levels of the organization through effective change management practices. This involves clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and involving key users in the implementation process. Customization and Data Integrity: Tailor the CRM to business processes while ensuring data accuracy through a thorough audit and cleansing of existing customer data before migration. Training and Support: Develop a structured training program tailored to various roles within the organization, complemented by ongoing support to enhance user competency and adoption rates. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement: Establish metrics to evaluate CRM performance, with regular monitoring and feedback mechanisms to continuously refine and improve the system's effectiveness. 2. Challenges in CRM Implementation The selection of a CRM platform aligns with and propels business objectives forward. Integrating this system within the existing technological infrastructure without disrupting workflow, comprehensively training staff across diverse functional areas, and maintaining impeccable data integrity are just the tip of the iceberg. Each of these components presents its own challenges, demanding a nuanced approach and a depth of understanding that transcends primary operational considerations. The CRM industry’s market value is going to grow at a significant growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% from 2024 to 2030, as stated in Grand View Research. Strategically overcoming these barriers necessitates a blend of foresight, expertise, and meticulous execution. Some of the common challenges in CRM implementation are listed below: 2.1. Data Migration and Integrity The implementation of a new CRM system, the consolidation of data from diverse sources, or the merger with another entity calls for data migration. Regardless of the circumstances, it is imperative that organizations comprehend and meticulously manoeuvre through this procedure. A primary obstacle encountered during data migration pertains to the assurance of data integrity during the transfer process. Data inconsistencies and inaccuracies can significantly affect customer relationships, decision-making, and overall performance. While taking technical factors into account, organizations must also consider the potential repercussions for their consumers and employees. Change can be intimidating and upheaval-inducing, particularly when it pertains to data that is indispensable for the execution of daily activities. It is critical to establish protocols and procedures to ensure continuous data management. This encompasses routine evaluations and examinations, in addition to explicit protocols for data input and upkeep. Ensuring the veracity of data and preserving the integrity of CRM systems are both dependent on data governance. 2.2. Scalability Scalability in CRM is a complex challenge that goes beyond simply managing an increasing volume of customer data. It requires a harmonious blend of technological, human, and strategic elements. At the heart of scalability is the need for a flexible infrastructure. Here, cloud-based systems play a pivotal role as they provide the adaptability necessary to accommodate growth without significant modifications. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning further enhances scalability by offering predictive analytics and automation to streamline operations. Moreover, a strategic approach to data management, emphasizing rigorous governance and integrating diverse data types, is crucial for maintaining data integrity and leveraging information for personalized customer engagement. Encouraging an innovative culture within organizations, along with investing in ongoing learning and development for teams, ensures both the workforce and the CRM system can adapt and expand. Achieving scalability in CRM necessitates a multifaceted strategy prioritizing flexibility, intelligent data use, and an environment conducive to continuous improvement and innovation. 2.3. Data Security and Privacy Integrating customer relationship management systems into businesses marks a pivotal advancement in leveraging consumer data for marketing, strategic planning, and analysis. However, this evolution brings data security and privacy challenges to the forefront. The complexities of data-driven methodologies within CRM systems necessitate a strategic and comprehensive approach to uphold data oversight and maintain consumer trust. Ensuring optimal data oversight within CRM implementations requires balancing data utilization for business growth and safeguarding consumer privacy. Organizations must adopt a rigorous policy framework compliant with data protection laws and emphasize customer privacy as a cornerstone of their operations. A privacy-first culture is essential, transcending legal requirements to embed data privacy into the organization's DNA through clear data policies, ongoing training, and a structure that prioritizes privacy at its core. Additionally, leveraging advanced technology, including encryption and AI, is paramount to fortifying data security as an essential defense layer to complement policy measures. During 2022, the worldwide number of malware attacks reached 5.5 billion, an increase of two percent compared to the preceding year.. Forming strategic partnerships with industry peers, regulatory bodies, and cybersecurity experts is a proactive step toward enhancing data protection standards. These alliances provide valuable insights and foster a collaborative approach, strengthening an organization's privacy strategies and contributing to industry-wide improvements. 2.4. Cost Overruns and Budget Management Overcoming obstacles in CRM implementation, particularly financial ones, requires shifting from traditional budget management to a proactive, agile approach. The complexity of CRM systems often leads to escalating costs, posing significant challenges. These can stem from a lack of proactive planning, early underestimation of change management efforts, and insufficient stakeholder involvement, leading to scope creep and budget overruns. To counter these primary challenges organizations face when implementing a CRM, a multifaceted strategy focusing on strategic reserve planning, agile budgeting, and data-driven decision-making is needed. Strategic reserve planning involves detailed risk assessment and allocation of funds for identified high-risk areas, moving away from a generic contingency fund approach. Agile budgeting allocates resources in cycles, matching the project's iterative nature, allowing for more flexible and responsive financial management. Data-driven decision-making utilizes CRM-generated insights for informed budgeting, enabling proactive adjustments. Cultivating a culture of financial agility that is supported by executive sponsorship and enhanced financial literacy among non-finance staff ensures that financial awareness permeates all levels of the organization. 2.5. Inadequate Training and Support Addressing the deficit in CRM training is crucial for maximizing the system's potential and ensuring successful implementation. With adequate training, employees may fully utilize CRM features, leading to underperformance and failing to achieve the desired return on investment. The consequences of inadequate training extend beyond mere inefficiency; they can lead to data inaccuracies, user resistance, and a negative perception of the CRM system, compromising its integrity and effectiveness. 74% of companies say CRM software gives better access to customer data. To overcome these challenges, organizations need to adopt a tailored approach to training that addresses the diverse needs and learning preferences of their workforce. CRM systems evolve, introducing new features and updates that require ongoing training to ensure users remain proficient. Providing accessible training resources, user forums, and communities for knowledge sharing are key strategies for fostering a culture of continuous learning. Proactive support efforts, such as regular user surveys and the establishment of superuser advocates, can help detect and resolve problems early, maintaining the CRM's efficacy. 2.6. Integration with Existing Systems Integrating a CRM system within an organization transcends mere technological implementation and requires an understanding of existing legacy systems and cultural dynamics. The question of challenges in CRM implementation and how to solve them will remain persistent until the blending of the new with the old, ensuring the CRM coexists with and enhances the organization's ingrained processes and cultural fabric. Successful integration requires a holistic approach, encompassing data management, process adaptation, and, most importantly, human factors. Moreover, data governance and the strategic use of ETL tools and data warehousing are crucial for seamless data integration and utilization. The future of CRM integration lies in adaptable, scalable solutions that balance customization with sustainability, as exemplified by the rise of SaaS and cloud-based platforms that offer flexibility and innovation while minimizing infrastructure costs. 2.7. Measuring ROI and Performance Unlike traditional ROI metrics, CRM's value encompasses both tangible outcomes, such as increased sales, and intangible benefits, such as customer loyalty and brand reputation. Calculating CRM's ROI necessitates cross-functional collaboration, recognizing that value is not solely derived from sales enhancements but also from cost reductions in customer service and improved interdepartmental communications. CRMs have been shown to increase conversion rates by up to 300%, revenue by 29%, and sales team productivity by 34%. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are fundamental in guiding CRM strategies toward achieving organizational goals. Continuous monitoring of these KPIs enables organizations to adapt quickly to market changes and customer behaviours. User feedback, coupled with data-driven analyses of usage patterns and customer interactions, paves the way for targeted system optimizations. 2.8. Mobile Compatibility and Remote Access The strategic adoption of mobile CRM empowers modern businesses with real-time customer engagement from anywhere. Still, it also brings challenges such as security concerns, user adoption hurdles, device and platform compatibility issues, data synchronization needs, and cost considerations. Ensuring the security of customer data against the increased risk of mobile device loss, theft, or compromise is critical, necessitating stringent security measures like two-factor authentication and data encryption. The mobile CRM market size was USD 32.8 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 56.2 billion in 2032, growing at a rate of 5.5% from 2023 to 2032. Additionally, ensuring that mobile CRM is compatible across various devices and operating systems is essential to avoid user experience and productivity setbacks, which calls for optimization across platforms. Maintaining data integrity demands regular synchronization processes and protocols for resolving data conflicts. Furthermore, mobile device procurement, software licensing, and maintenance costs must be carefully balanced against the long-term benefits of increased efficiency, enhanced customer engagement, and streamlined operations. 2.9. Data Quality Management The critical importance of data quality in CRM systems forms the bedrock of modern customer-centric business strategies, transcending mere technological upgrades to become a central operational necessity. The advent of AI and machine learning technologies has provided CRM systems with the capability to actively monitor and correct data quality issues, learning from system modifications to prevent future data degradation. This marks a shift towards viewing data quality management as a continuous, integral process rather than a series of isolated tasks. The International Data Corporation (IDC) states that during 2020, the amount of data that has been created, captured, and replicated across the world will be more than 59 zettabytes, and over the next 5 years, the world will create more than three times the amount of data compared to the previous 5 years. To maintain data quality, an agile management strategy that adapts to the dynamic nature of data and market changes is essential. This requires infrastructure and personnel that can respond swiftly to evolving data needs. Overcoming obstacles in CRM data quality management is not solely a technological endeavour. It is a comprehensive strategy that integrates technology, culture, and governance. Organizations that prioritize and invest in data quality can establish themselves as industry leaders, leveraging their CRM systems as a vital component of their operational and strategic success. 2.10. Vendor Reliability and Support Implementing a CRM system is a collaborative effort that requires prioritizing vendor reliability over traditional evaluation methods. It's about focusing on the vendor's ability to deliver on promises, foresee integration challenges, and adapt strategies to meet the client's unique needs. This process calls for a partnership that spans the entire implementation process, from design and data migration to user training and change management. This approach encourages customization and ensures the sustainability of the CRM solution, making each stakeholder an integral part of its success. For effective vendor selection, it's crucial to evaluate their technological roadmap, update their history and assess the strength of their partnerships. Also, service level agreements, support team interactions, and feedback from existing customers should be reviewed. The goal is to foster a relationship beyond transactions, promoting continuous engagement and growth for both parties. Ensuring vendor reliability involves a rigorous assessment of their product development methodologies, commitment to risk management, and quality of customer service. Agile development practices, adequate customer support, and proactive risk management strategies indicate a vendor's commitment to maintaining a durable and flexible system, differentiating genuine partners from mere suppliers. 3. Future-proofing CRM As organizations strive to harness CRM systems' full potential, they are confronted with challenges ranging from data integrity and scalability to data security, privacy, and vendor reliability. Overcoming these difficulties in CRM implementation requires a cohesive approach integrating meticulous planning, agile methodologies, and a commitment to fostering a data-driven culture. The strategies for CRM implementation to address the challenges with foresight and precision enable organizations to unlock the transformative power of CRM systems. This, in turn, enhances customer engagement and drives sustainable business growth. The future of CRM is dynamic and promising, with technology playing a pivotal role in transforming how businesses understand, interact with, and deliver value to customers. By embracing AI, prioritizing data privacy, and creating seamless omnichannel experiences, companies can leverage CRM systems to meet and exceed customer expectations. As we move forward, the emphasis will be on using CRM as a tool for managing customer relationships as well as a strategic asset for driving customer success and business growth.

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Advertiser Platforms

Next-gen Sales: Power of Advanced Quote Management Providers

Article | March 20, 2024

Optimizing the sales funnel with advanced quote management systems enhances pricing accuracy and customer satisfaction. Learn about the top QMS software providers that promise high profit and sales. Contents 1. Introduction to QMS 2. Quote-to-Cash: Optimizing the Sales Funnel 2.1. Mapping the Customer Journey 2.2. Streamlining the Quote-to-Cash Process 2.3. Measuring and Managing Sales Performance 3. How Advanced Tools and Technologies Shape Quote Management 4. Best Quote Management Software Providers 4.1. Zilliant 4.2. Tacton 4.3. Paddle 4.4. Peak 4.5. Impact Analytics 4.6. Upstream 4.7. Proposify 4.8. Loopio 4.9. Simpleview 4.10. Configura 5. Final Thoughts 1. Introduction to QMS Quote management systems (QMS) are integral to optimizing the quote-to-cash (Q2C) process within the sales funnel. The incorporation of advanced intelligent technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics, and data visualization, contemporary QMS enhance the efficiency and accuracy of quote generation for a streamlined user experience. These systems allow for precise pricing strategies tailored to real-time market conditions and customer-specific variables, thereby improving customer satisfaction. Consequently, businesses can adapt swiftly to market dynamics and customer needs, maximizing revenue and operational efficiency. The system further streamlines workflows by automating routine tasks, reducing manual errors, and accelerating the quote management process. Quote-to-Cash: Optimizing the Sales Funnel The sales funnel optimization is crucial for maximizing revenue and enhancing customer satisfaction. A key component of this optimization is the quote-to-cash (Q2C) process, which encompasses the end-to-end activities, from quoting a product or service to realizing revenue. Advanced tools and technologies have significantly transformed quote management, facilitating precise, efficient operations for businesses. Leveraging intelligence technologies like AI, ML, predictive analytics, and data analytics for data visualization, modern quote management systems can analyze historical data and customer behavior to generate highly accurate and personalized quotes. This capability accelerates the quoting process and enhances the accuracy of pricing strategies, ensuring that quotes reflect real-time market conditions and customer-specific factors. Additionally, these technologies enable dynamic pricing models, allowing businesses to adjust prices based on demand fluctuations, competitor pricing, and other relevant variables, thereby augmenting revenue. Furthermore, the integration of cloud-based platforms and advanced analytics has revolutionized the accessibility and scalability of quote management for professionals. Cloud technology ensures that the quote data is centralized, secure, and easily accessible from any location, supporting remote work environments and improving collaboration across different departments. Similarly, advanced analytics tools provide deep insights into quote performance, customer preferences, and sales acceleration trends, empowering businesses to make data-driven decisions. These insights can lead to more strategic pricing, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced performance in the market. 1.1 Mapping the Customer Journey The first step in optimizing the quote-to-cash process within the sales funnel is mapping the customer journey. This involves understanding every touchpoint where customers interact with the business, from initial interest to final purchase and beyond. Mapping these touchpoints allows companies to identify critical moments where targeted interventions can increase conversion rates and enhance customer satisfaction. Effective customer journey mapping within the Q2C process includes: Capturing interest through marketing efforts and initial inquiries Tailoring quotes based on customer needs and specifications Refining quotes and terms to meet customer expectations and company capabilities Final agreement on the quote and terms Fulfilling the order as agreed Ensuring accurate and timely billing and collection 1.2 Streamlining the Quote-to-Cash Process Streamlining the Q2C process requires the integration of technology, strategic processes, and organizational alignment. Automation plays a pivotal role here, reducing manual errors and increasing efficiency. For instance, CPQ software can automate the quote generation process, ensuring that sales teams produce accurate and optimized quotes quickly. Other aspects of streamlining include: Using customer relationship management systems to maintain detailed records of customer interactions, preferences, and history and supporting personalized and consistent communication Speeding up contract signings and approvals with digital tools, reducing the time from quote approval to cash collection Connecting the Q2C process with enterprise resource planning systems to ensure seamless data flow and improve visibility across finance, sales, and operations 1.3 Measuring and Managing Sales Performance Optimizing the sales funnel also involves continuous measurement and management of sales performance. In this regard, the key performance indicators (KPIs) for the Q2C process might include: Quote Conversion Rate: The percentage of quotes that successfully convert into sales Customer Acquisition Cost: The cost related to the acquisition of a new customer through the sales funnel Customer Satisfaction and Retention Rates: Measures of how satisfied customers are with the purchasing process and their likelihood to return 2. How Advanced Tools and Technologies Shape Quote Management Incorporating advanced quote management software has made generating and managing quotes easier. The next-gen solutions, such as AI-driven algorithms and machine learning models, facilitate the analysis of extensive datasets, enabling businesses to generate highly customized and competitive quotes in real time. These technologies further allow for the automation of complex pricing strategies, considering many factors such as market trends, competitor pricing, customer purchasing history, and real-time demand fluctuations. By leveraging predictive analytics, businesses can anticipate customer needs more accurately, improving the conversion rates and ensuring optimized profitability. 3. Best Quote Management Software Providers Some of the top quote management software companies that help businesses optimize their sales funnel include: 3.1 Zilliant Zilliant is a prominent leader in cloud-native pricing, CPQ, and revenue optimization software, focused on transforming business pricing processes. With decades of experience addressing complex B2B pricing and sales challenges, the company leverages advanced AI and data science to enhance price management and optimization, revenue intelligence, and e-Commerce. Zilliant is renowned for its high ROI solutions, demonstrated through powerful customer endorsements from various industry leaders. Looking to the future, Zilliant continues to drive innovation in pricing science and customer engagement strategies, providing a comprehensive suite of services to optimize pricing and sales efficiency for manufacturing and distribution sectors. Its commitment to partnership and customer success is evident in its collaborative approach and continuous support in adoption strategies. 3.2 Tacton Tacton is a leading SaaS provider specializing in CPQ solutions specifically designed for industrial manufacturers. With over 25 years of manufacturing expertise, Tacton's state-of-the-art configuration engine rapidly streamlines complex product configurations into accurate quotes, enhancing operational efficiency and increasing sales volume. Recognized as a leader in the CPQ space by Gartner and G2, Tacton supports easy integration with existing digital landscapes, including PLM, CAD, PIM, and ERP systems. The platform simplifies the selling process through guided selling and needs-based configuration. It further provides powerful visualization and augmented reality features that allow customers to see real-time configurations. 3.3 Paddle Paddle is a comprehensive SaaS-based payment infrastructure provider that specializes in streamlining billing operations for software businesses. As a merchant of record, Paddle manages to complete the payment stack and take on the responsibilities of relationship maintenance with payment providers, global sales tax handling, and revenue reconciliation across different billing and payment methods. Its suite of products includes Billing, which offers an all-in-one solution for digital product payments and subscription management; ProfitWell Metrics for precise, free revenue reporting; Price Intelligently for a data-driven pricing strategy; and Retain, which automatically recovers failed payments to enhance customer retention. 3.4 Peak Peak is an advanced AI platform provider designed to significantly enhance business growth, profitability, and operational efficiency by optimizing essential functions such as inventory management and product pricing. Tailored for businesses of all sizes, from million to billion-dollar enterprises, Peak ensures optimal stock levels and competitive pricing, backed by an AI performance guarantee that consistently meets service levels. Recent innovations include the launch of Co:Driver, a generative AI product and the introduction of a performance guarantee that bolsters business confidence in AI adoption. Peak's comprehensive support structure and its ability to interconnect decisions across business functions further empower companies to harness AI effectively, inducing substantial improvements in decision-making and business performance. 3.5 Impact Analytics Impact Analytics is a pioneering provider of AI-powered SaaS solutions designed to optimize decision-making across the retail, grocery, CPG, and supply chain sectors. The company transforms vast amounts of data into actionable insights with its advanced AI platform, significantly enhancing various aspects of business operations such as demand planning, supply chain management, merchandising, and pricing & promotions. The platform includes specialized solutions like PriceSmart for unified life cycle pricing, TradeSmart for trade promotion planning, and AuditSmart, an advanced RPA bot for high-quality audits. Trusted by leading global retailers, Impact Analytics has demonstrated substantial business impacts, including an 8% lift in gross margins, 99% product availability on shelves, and significant reductions in work hours, clearance inventory, and wastage, culminating in annual savings of $1 billion for its clients. The company prides itself on its configurable solutions, resolute commitment to innovation, and ability to deliver tangible results within weeks, serving as a leader in retail AI solutions. 3.6 Upstream Upstream is a leading global provider of mobile marketing automation solutions, specializing in driving digital growth with innovative customer acquisition through attractive quotes and engagement strategies across all mobile channels. The company boasts a substantial global reach with a consumer reach of over 1.2 billion and 3.1 billion monthly interactions, supported by a robust network of 370+ advertisers and the execution of 4000 ad experiences. Upstream's Grow platform, recognized for its robust lead optimization and interaction capabilities, leverages proprietary predictive technology and expert marketing strategies to deliver unparalleled results, including a 12x ROI for e-commerce platforms. Dedicated to enhancing mobile operator efficiencies and increasing e-commerce sales, Upstream employs cutting-edge MarTech tools for event-driven campaigns, identity resolution, and ad fraud security to ensure high performance and minimal errors. 3.7 Proposify Proposify is a leading proposal software provider designed to streamline and enhance the sales document process for B2B services globally. Proposify addresses common issues associated with traditional document creation tools like Word and PowerPoint, such as high error rates, lack of brand consistency, and poor visibility into proposal engagement. The software provider simplifies the creation of proposals through a centralized content library that includes templates, snippets, and a design editor, enabling sales teams to quickly produce error-free, professional-looking documents. Proposify also offers advanced features such as interactive pricing, e-signatures, and a metrics dashboard that provides detailed insights into proposal views and engagement, helping businesses close deals more effectively. Its integration capabilities with CRMs and other tools ensure that sales processes are seamlessly connected and efficient. With a strong focus on customer success, Proposify offers personalized onboarding services to help businesses optimize their proposal workflows and achieve significant time savings. 3.8 Loopio Loopio is a leading RFP response management software company that transforms the response process for RFPs, RFIs, DDQs, and security questionnaires by enhancing collaboration, streamlining operations, and ultimately helping businesses secure more deals. Recognized for its user-friendly interface and robust functionality, Loopio garnered multiple G2 awards in 2024, including Best Results and Easiest to Use in the Enterprise category. Loopio’s integration with platforms enhance workflow efficiency, making vital information accessible within existing CRM systems. This integration, along with expert-vetted content and automatic updates, ensures that responses are quick, accurate, and compliant with current standards and practices. Its AI-driven content library centralizes knowledge, enabling fast, accurate responses and significantly reducing response times, which has led to measurable increase in efficiency and win rates among users. 3.9 Simpleview Simpleview is a prominent provider of digital marketing and site management solutions for quote management and is tailored for destination marketing organizations (DMOs). With products like Simpleview CMS and CRM, the company offers a fully integrated platform that enhances the online presence and operational efficiency of tourism entities from small towns to large countries. Simpleview's services include website design, branding, SEO, and paid media strategies, all created to attract visitors and win bids for events and conventions. Additionally, the company's Online Booking & Referral Engine and Email Marketing & Automation tools help DMOs increase engagement and revenue through direct bookings and effective communication. Simpleview also incorporates user-generated content and advanced data analytics to foster community engagement and provide actionable insights. 3.10 Configura Configura is a leading provider of innovative space planning and product configuration software, serving commercial interiors, material handling, and kitchen and bath industries. The company’s flagship software, CET, offers an all-in-one solution for accurate space planning and configuration and isrecognized for its impact on streamlining operations and boosting profitability. This recognition is underscored by Configura's recent accolade, the Best IT Innovation Award at MODEX 2024. Additionally, Configura fosters a collaborative environment with its Partner Portal, encouraging innovation and success through strategic partnerships. The company also emphasizes education and support through its academy, offering training and webinars to enhance user proficiency with CET. With a global presence and a commitment to innovation, Configura continuously updates its offerings, as demonstrated by recent expansions in its commercial interior product suite. 4. Final Thoughts Advanced quote management systems are crucial for businesses seeking to optimize their sales funnel and enhance customer satisfaction. As technology evolves, companies must adopt these tools to stay competitive and drive strategic decision-making. Significantly, the future of QMS lies in the continuous advancement of intelligence systems and NLP, along with predictive analytics and data visualization, providing deeper insights into customer behavior and market trends. The incorporation of blockchain technology will further continue to enhance data security and transparency. Likewise, companies must increasingly leverage IoT and real-time data analytics to enable more dynamic and responsive quote management, further optimizing revenue and operational efficiency.

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Ad Tech and Martech

AdTech Vs MarTech: What’s The Difference?

Article | May 14, 2024

The difference between advertising and marketing is clear as day. Advertising is a specific subset of marketing that focuses on promoting products or services. On the other hand, marketing is a business practice that aims to identify, interact, and engage with customers. While it is easy to distinguish marketing from advertising and vice versa, new concepts have risen to confuse marketers and advertisers alike. AdTech and MarTech are two relatively new terms that some people use interchangeably. In reality, AdTech and MarTech are different, even if the differences are slightly noticeable.

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Ad Tech and Martech

OOH Vs. Digital Advertising: A Quick Comparison

Article | June 22, 2022

Effective marketing is the lifeblood of every company. From the 1800s, when billboards influenced audiences to buy a certain soda, to today when an ad on social media can make people spend thousands of dollars, marketing has come a long way. The success of the internet has opened new doors for advertisers and marketers. Companies cannot afford to ignore the lucrative online audience that is always available. Despite this digital advertising boom, out-of-home advertising (OOH) remains a popular and effective medium to influence customers. Figuratively, OOH and digital advertising are at war to claim supremacy. B2B marketers need to determine which is the better choice for their businesses. Let us look at what OOH and digital advertising entail. Out of Home Advertising: Promising Impact Any advertising material promoting a business and displayed outdoors counts as OOH advertising. Billboards, vehicles, walls and benches are the common tools that advertisers use to promote products and services across cities. More recently, tactics like flash mobs and digital dashboards have added frillsto OOH advertising. Companies are swiftly transitioning from traditional advertising to digital advertising. However, OOH advertising brings in a huge audience. For example, if you book a bus bench in Los Angeles to advertise your product, over 35000-50000 people might look at your ad. Netflix ran an interesting OOH campaign in France. It placed a digital screen on the outdoor boards that displayed GIFs of their original shows. These GIFs were reactions to events happening in France. When France was kicked out of the World Cup, the GIFs garnered attention and helped viewers remember Netflix. Digital Advertising: Broader Demographic Digital advertising is the way of the future. While it does not eliminate the power of OOH advertising, it does bring in a broad demographic online for most of the day. In addition, digital advertising is efficient when it comes to driving sales and revenue because digital ads go beyond advertising through personal engagement. According to Upward Labs, a highly recommended share can increase a product's value by an average of 8.8%. Internet tools and social sharing get the audience involved in conversations and influence their buying decisions. As a result, it is easier to target the right audience when running a digital ad campaign. According to a study by Marketing Land, digital advertising is five times more effective than direct mail in terms of cost-per-conversion. Digital advertising hits a few snags, like ad clutter, ad fraud, ad blockers, and bot farms, but advertisers cannot deny how broad a demographic it reaches. Moreover, its influence is easy to track. Parting Words Though your digital ads may reach a broader demographic, they may lose impact over time. OOH advertising may be a more natural course to take. However, the demand for “360” marketers is taking the market by storm, so striking a balance between your digital and OOH ad campaigns and, at times, fusing the two can be the right way to go to.

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Spotlight

Jack's Family Restaurants, Inc.

It all started back in 1960, when we fired up the grill at Jack’s 1st store in Homewood, Alabama. The news spread fast. And folks would come from miles around to walk up and get a taste of our fresh burgers, crinkle-cut fries and hand-dipped shakes. Our popularity grew from town, to town and neighborhood, to neighborhood. Today, fifty years later, we’ve grown across the Southeast- with 112 locations in Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia. Since those early days, many things have changed in our world. But one thing has remained the same: Jack’s is still serving up great food- with a smile.

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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.

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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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Events