Tracking down press releases in several hundreds of newspapers, magazines and websites is now available through a convenient online service. Public relations (PR) agencies and corporate communications entities which need immediate coverage results of press releases sent to the media can now monitor their press releases via an online transaction.
Dubai-based media intelligence firm, Mediastow announced today their online facility which can be accessed through http://www.mediastow.com. The service allows clients to access a one-time press release monitoring service by simply filling out a form through the website, submitting the press release to be monitored and paying for a small amount through their credit card. Monitoring of the release will then be done and the media analysis reports and coverage sent to the client the following day.
“We have developed a hassle-free online system for the convenience of PR firms and other corporate communication entities. This single monitoring system caters to those who need a one-time service. It is fast and easy, as it does away with contracts, scheduling meetings and the like,” explained Mohamed Elzubeir, Mediastow Managing Director.
As the Middle East's only web-based platform in providing advanced near-real-time media intelligence solution, Mediastow created the online platform to give better leverage to its clients in media monitoring and analysis, in the most efficient and affordable manner.
“Some agencies or companies may be hesitant to go the long drawn out process of negotiations and meetings in their media communication efforts for various reasons such as the suitability of such efforts vis-à-vis budget constraints. In other cases, the immediacy of having comprehensive results right away, to be able to make decisions is very important,” added Elzubeir.
Mediastow conducts measurement of campaign performance based on the share of voice, coverage reach and size, and advertising value equivalent. It also offers customised media analysis reports detailing the overview of PR performance, comparison of performance in relation to competitors, statistical analysis of press coverage in different countries and publications, including breakdown according to types of coverage received.
Elzubeir further stated that monitoring and analysis of media coverage should be given proper importance and depth by going beyond counting clippings and calculating equivalence values to measure success in business communication.
The firm monitors over 1000 titles of newspapers, magazines and websites across the Middle East with the use of a cutting-edge technology. Its use of an online archive gives the client the advantage of searching clippings with brief summary of contents, provided with an exploring mechanism that narrows down searches in a variety of options.
He commented, “There is a need to continue elevating the PR industry’s standards by giving more value to the effectiveness of their campaigns. The media will continue to evolve as a tool for communicating and expanding the reach of businesses. The PR industry as its partner should take note of how to keep up with the progress happening in the region.”
Fueled by economic boom, the Middle PR industry’s US$ 25 million growth according to industry reports has indicated the sector will experience continued development as more from the corporate sector realizes its importance to reach out to its customers.
