Strategic Communications Group

Microsoft’s Gov2Social Directory Doubles in Size and Adoption

2010-07-23T18:55:01-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (July 23, 2010) – The Microsoft Gov2Social directory, which enables state-by-state search of all government entities and their social media activities, has doubled in size and seen rapid adoption since its creation just three months ago. Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) provides strategic counsel and social media support services to Microsoft as part of its Gov2Social initiative.

Launched at the end of April with exactly 400 contacts, the directory has doubled to over 800 contacts in all fifty states. This validates both the demand for social media adoption in the government, and the need for one place with the aggregated social media information for government entities.

“We are excited to have worked with Microsoft to launch Gov2Social,” said Shany Seawright, managing director at Strategic. “Strategic has long felt that social media is the future for both the private and public sector for interacting with stakeholders, and the rapid adoption and expansion of Gov2Social is further validation of that theory.”

Gov2Social is an extension of the company’s integrated social media program, Bright Side of Government, which was created to provide a community where Microsoft’s state and local customers could connect and virally share best practices and examples of how they saved money in the face of ongoing economic hardships.

The Bright Side of Government community became so popular, that it soon became clear that a larger database was needed where state and local government organizations, employees and elected officials could find each other and share information. Microsoft responded with the creation of Gov2Social, which remains the first and only government social media directory built on the Microsoft Azure platform.

About Strategic Communications Group
Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is the only public relations consultancy of its size with an extensive track record helping the world’s largest and fastest growing technology, software, telecommunications and healthcare organizations achieve measurable return from social media marketing programs. The agency’s client roster includes respected brands like
BearingPoint (now part of Deloitte LLP), British Telecom (BT), Inmarsat, Microsoft, Monster, NeuStar, Sun Microsystems and TANDBERG.

What differentiates Strategic is its sales-oriented approach to social media engagement, and proven ability to leverage all of its industry connections and market relationships to identify sales, partnership, employee recruitment and financial/M&A opportunities for its clients. For more information about the agency, visit http://www.gotostrategic.com.

TerraGo Selects Strategic for Integrated Public Relations and Social Media Campaign

2010-07-06T18:33:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (July 06, 2010) – TerraGo Technologies (TerraGo), a leading provider of geospatial collaboration software solutions, has selected Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) to provide integrated public relations and social media services. The program is aimed at increasing awareness for TerraGo software solutions among decision-makers at government agencies and industrial organizations.

TerraGo’s software delivers complex maps and images from the desks of a few technical experts to the hands of many field operators in a simple, easy-to-use format called a GeoPDF®, making geospatial assets highly portable and interactive. Its solutions are quickly becoming the standard by which thousands of people are deploying geospatial information to end-users throughout an organization, even those operating in the field and those with limited GIS expertise. The software also offer two-way data flow, enabling end users to add mark-ups, photos and other multimedia data in a spatially aware context and send the updated information back to the technical experts.

“Today’s warfighter, rescue worker and first responder need instant, ‘actionable’ data if they are going to accomplish their mission,” said Chris Watson, vice president, Marketing and Business Development of TerraGo. “Strategic’s history of media relations success in the GIS market, coupled with its deep expertise in formulating and executing social media strategies will be instrumental in helping us raise awareness of our solutions.”

Sarah Clark-Lynn, a senior associate at Strategic, said, “TerraGo is the first and only company to offer true GeoPDF files that provide up-to-the-minute spatially aware data with the capability to easily collaborate. Strategic’s experience in the GIS and business-to-government space and its history of establishing cutting edge social media programs for clients make the agency the perfect fit for TerraGo as they look to increase awareness of their company and market-leading GIS solutions.”

Strategic’s representation of TerraGo extends the agency’s work representing technology and software companies that sell to government agencies. The agency’s other public-sector focused clients include Monster, TANDBERG, Microsoft, Cimcor and Appian.

About TerraGo Technologies
TerraGo Technologies delivers software applications that extend the access and application of maps and images for non-GIS users and customers. More than 850 organizations, including many defense and intelligence agencies, utility companies, public safety departments, and environmental engineering teams, depend on TerraGo software.

The TerraGo Publisher® Suite allows organizations to consume and optimize data from any source and create a geo-enabled PDF, also known as a GeoPDF® files. The TerraGo Collaboration® Suite offers desktop, Web-based and mobile software applications that automate geospatial collaboration and information gathering. When used in conjunction with TerraGo Composer®, customers are able to configure easy-to-use maps, images and digital mapbooks while embedding relevant business context, forms and workflows.

With a strong ecosystem of partners, including Adobe, ESRI, ERDAS, Intergraph, BAE Systems and Trimble, millions of professionals use geospatial data that has been enabled by TerraGo in order to be more productive, improve quality and make better decisions. For more information, visit http://www.terragotech.com.

Strategic Client TANDBERG Wins 2010 Social Media Award from Northern Virginia Technology Council

2010-06-28T20:40:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (June 28, 2010) – The Northern Virginia Technology Council’s (NVTC) Social Media Committee has announced Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) client TANDBERG as the winner of the 2010 Social Media Award in the “best use of corporate blog” category for its Break Down the Walls social media portal.

TANDBERG, the leading provider of video teleconferencing (VTC) technologies, worked with Strategic to launch Break Down the Walls to reach the niche community of government decision makers responsible for technology investments. The blog was designed to convince these decision makers that VTC solutions could address major challenges facing the military, federal civilian agencies, state/local municipalities, educational institutions, healthcare providers and public safety.

Since the launch of the blog, it has been an effective tool for putting TANDBERG’s message of faster, more effective and more efficient government through VTC in front of government decision makers. The blog was re-designed in March and continues to receive impressive traffic from a predominantly public sector audience, with a loyal base of readers who spend significant time on the site, and return frequently.

“We are very excited that our work with TANDBERG on Break Down the Walls received the 2010 Social Media Award for best corporate blog,” said Christopher Parente, managing director and partner at Strategic. “Social media is not just about direct conversation with customers and prospects, it’s also about deal capture and supporting revenue generation. We are proud to be working with TANDBERG.”

The NVTC Social Media Awards program is dedicated to recognizing commercial and government organizations that have successfully implemented innovative and unique social media programs. The awards program included six categories and winners were selected by three judges, all social media leaders in the Washington, D.C., area, including Amber Harris (@TheNuwanda) with Discovery Communications; Shashi Bellamkonda (@shashib) with Network Solutions; and Brian Dresher (@bdresher) of USATODAY.com.

About Strategic Communications Group

Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is the only public relations consultancy of its size with an extensive track record helping the world’s largest and fastest growing technology, software, telecommunications and healthcare organizations achieve measurable return from social media marketing programs. The agency’s client roster includes respected brands like
BearingPoint (now part of Deloitte LLP), British Telecom (BT), Inmarsat, Microsoft, Monster, NeuStar, Sun Microsystems and TANDBERG.

Strategic Communications Group Client Kristin Bockius to Speak at BtoB Interactive Marketing Event

2010-04-26T14:29:01-05:00

What: Microsoft’s state and local government customers face several challenges: a down economy, shifting government mandates and regulatory requirements, and the pressures of constituents who want expanded services while tax bases are shrinking.

Looking to reach this niche community with a message on how state and local governments could derive additional value from the technologies that they already own, Microsoft launched the Bright Side of Government integrated social media program to develop a community for customers to share best practices to work more effectively and efficiently.

As the driving force behind this integrated social media campaign, Kristin Bockius, Microsoft’s US State and Local Government Relationship and Social Media Marketing Manager, is uniquely qualified to discuss the benefits of integrating social media into an organization’s larger public relations and marketing strategy.

This has led to her inclusion in the BtoB NetMarketing Breakfast Series. Bockius will be joined by social media experts from PricewaterhouseCoopers and CA to reveal the social media and Web 2.0 tools and technologies that have worked for them.

Who: Kristin Bockius
US State and Local Government Relationship and Social Media Marketing Manager
Microsoft

When: April 27, 2010

Where: Hotel 71, 71 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601

Strategic Communications Group Client Janet Swaysland to Speak at BtoB Interactive Marketing Event

2010-04-14T16:57:00-05:00

What: Looking to raise awareness of its growth-oriented Government Solutions division while driving deal flow for the business line’s sales team, Monster turned to Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) and a social media marketing based strategy.

The resulting social media portal, Unleash the Monster, has become a respected resource in the public sector, and has led to the generation of leads, sponsored events for readers and an enviable connection with the Monster sales team.

It’s the success of this program, and other social media initiatives that Janet Swaysland has spearheaded at Monster, that has led to her inclusion in the BtoB NetMarketing Breakfast Series. Swaysland, the Senior Vice President of Global Corporate Communications & Social Media for Monster Worldwide, will be joined by social media experts from Motorola and Cognos to reveal the social media and Web 2.0 tools and technologies that have worked for them.

Who: Janet Swaysland
Senior Vice President, Global Corporate Communications & Social Media
Monster Worldwide

When: April 14, 2010

Where: The Westin Waltham-Boston, 70 3rd Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451

Cimcor Selects Strategic for Integrated Public Relations and Social Media Campaign

2010-04-12T20:52:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (April 12, 2010) – Cimcor, an industry leader in developing security and integrity software solutions, has selected Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) to implement an integrated public relations and social media campaign. This campaign is aimed at increasing awareness for Cimcor and its CimTrak security software with market influencers, while identifying prospects and new business opportunities for the company’s sales team.

CimTrak helps organizations monitor, protect and “self-heal” computer servers and network devices in real-time. These capabilities ensure that the organizations’ IT assets are in a known and verified state. In the current security environment, with an increasingly number of more sophisticated online threats, CimTrak can make a significant impact in protecting and securing a company or government agency from cyber attack.

“With the increased number of security threats today, both enterprises and government agencies are looking for solutions that can protect them and their customers from the unknown,” said Robert Johnson, the CEO of Cimcor. “Strategic’s history of supporting clients in the security market coupled with their social media expertise will help better position Cimcor and its technologies as a must-have solution with the individuals responsible for securing the networks and data of IT infrastructures.”

Tonya Bacon, a director at Strategic, said, “Cimcor has a strong history of designing products and services that keep mission-critical operations running smoothly as demonstrated by their CimTrak solution. Strategic’s extensive security experience and history of establishing cutting edge social media programs for clients make the agency the perfect fit for Cimcor as they look to become more visible in the crowded security space.”

Strategic’s representation of Cimcor extends the agency’s business in the information, network and data security industry. The agency’s other security clients include British Telecom’s (BT) managed security services business, Merchant Link and NeuStar.

About Cimcor
Headquartered in Merrillville, Indiana and with business operations in the Asia-Pacific, Cimcor is an industry leader in developing innovative security and integrity software solutions. The Company has continued to be on the front lines of corporate, government and military initiatives to protect the nation’s computer networks from unauthorized access, since its founding in 1997.

The company’s customers range from the Fortune 100 through mid-market businesses, military and government agencies looking to address the business continuity, security and regulatory requirements of their critical IT infrastructure.

Association for Corporate Growth National Capital Chooses Strategic Communications Group

2010-03-16T17:00:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (March 16, 2010) – The National Capital chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) has selected Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) to design and implement the group’s first-ever social media campaign directed towards adding value to its members and sponsors, increasing attendance at the chapter’s events, and driving membership.

ACG National Capital, the local chapter representing the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region, is one of ACG’s largest chapters worldwide. ACG National Capital provides a forum for networking, deal making and professional development for Washington’s business leaders. With some of the world’s most recognizable brands and exciting start-up organizations calling this region home, the ACG National Capital’s membership represents senior executives from some of the fastest growing business sectors, including: government contracting, biotechnology, Internet, new media, telecommunications, and information technology.

ACG National Capital turned to Strategic and their proven track record with social media programs to generate interest among CEOs and business leaders at local enterprises.

“The next generation of CEOs and business leaders in today’s hottest, growth-oriented businesses are looking for associations that are utilizing social media and Web 2.0 services to share thought leadership and best practices while enabling enhanced networking and relationship building,” said Braun Jones, president of ACG National Capital. “Strategic has helped enterprises of all sizes implement social media programs and derive measurable ROI.”

Marc Hausman, president and CEO at Strategic, said, “As a member of the greater Washington-area business community and ACG National Capital, we are especially excited to work with the association on this exciting project. Our designation as the chapter’s preferred partner for social media marketing is also significant. It’s yet another unique qualification for us.”

About ACG National Capital
Based in Vienna, VA, ACG National Capital serves the nation’s fourth largest economy including Washington, DC, northern Virginia and southern Maryland. It is the leading authority on corporate growth in the mid-Atlantic region. ACG National Capital provides unparalleled opportunities for networking, deal making and professional development for individuals involved in building corporate value through M&A, strategic partnerships, organic growth and capital funding. ACG National Capital’s veteran leadership and its membership have participated in nearly every M&A transaction completed recently in the D.C. metro region. ACG National Capital is one of the largest local chapters for the Association for Corporate Growth with over 400 members. For additional information on ACG National Capital, please visit http://www.acgcapital.org, or the ACG National Capital blog at http://www.acgcapitalblog.com.

Strategic Chosen to Establish Information Security Leadership Position for Merchant Link

2010-03-02T18:07:01-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (March 2, 2010) – Merchant Link, a leader in the secure payment gateway market that works with the world’s largest retail, lodging and restaurant merchants, has selected Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), as its public relations agency of record. Strategic will work with Merchant Link to help increase its brand awareness and position the company as a technology and product leader in the data security and payments gateway markets.

Leveraging more than 15 years of experience as a credit card payment gateway provider, Merchant Link is looking to increase visibility as a data security leader that helps customers secure their infrastructure and achieve PCI compliance through the use of tokenization and encryption technologies. Strategic’s experience in the information and data security markets, as well as the agency’s social media competencies were of great importance to Merchant Link.

“In each of the verticals that we sell into, one thing is clear – no customer wants to have their name in the headlines as the latest victim of a security breach with credit card information leaked,” said Tim Kinsella, Executive Vice president of Sales and Marketing at Merchant Link. “The largest brands across the nation recognize the importance of PCI compliance and are looking for a solution to help them do more than just meet the basics. We’ve asked Strategic to leverage their deep security market expertise and ability to execute on aggressive PR and social media campaigns to deliver our message.”

Shany Seawright, managing director and partner at Strategic, says, “There is no doubt that PCI compliance has been on the top of minds of businesses after many of the highly publicized breaches to-date. There is a great opportunity for Merchant Link to leverage technologies in use by more than 120,000 organizations to help new customers secure the payment transaction and storage of data. We are excited to be a part of the Merchant Link team and are looking forward to executing on an aggressive program designed to meet the company’s sales and business goals.“

Strategic’s representation of Merchant Link extends the agency’s business in the information, network and data security industry. The agency’s other security clients include British Telecom’s (BT) managed security services business, Solera Networks and NeuStar.

About Merchant Link
Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, Merchant-Link, Inc. (ML) offers technical support and data transport services for the integrated point-of-sale (POS) and electronic payments industry. The company provides problem resolution support for credit, debit, and other payment functions including inventory, accounting, and POS cash, and credit card sales. Merchant Link also offers systems integration, software development, helpdesk operations, and professional consulting services. The company currently supports more than 13,000 hotels, restaurants, ballparks, and other venues. For more information, visit http://www.merchantlink.com.

About Strategic Communications Group
Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is the only public relations consultancy of its size with an extensive track record helping the world’s largest and fastest growing technology, software, telecommunications and healthcare organizations achieve measurable return from social media marketing programs. The agency’s client roster includes respected brands like BearingPoint (now part of Deloitte LLP), British Telecom (BT), Inmarsat, Microsoft, Monster, NeuStar, Sun Microsystems and TANDBERG.

Despite Adoption of Social Media in Other Industries, Healthcare Lags Behind

2010-03-02T17:55:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (March 2, 2010) – A survey conducted by leading social media marketing and public relations firm Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) illustrates that despite almost all respondents utilizing the Internet for medical and healthcare information, the adoption of social media among the healthcare community remains woefully behind. However, it’s showing some signs of improvement.

This is the second annual survey conducted by Strategic via social networks to gauge the adoption of social media in the healthcare space. This year’s survey results show that all but 1 respondent has at least occasionally searched for healthcare and medical-related content on the Internet. Despite the fact that people are increasingly turning to the Internet for healthcare information, approximately ninety-two percent of the respondents felt that the healthcare industry, as a whole, is not effectively using social media to communicate, share information and engage with consumers. The prognosis is not entirely negative, however, as the ninety-two percent response signals a 4 percent decrease from last year’s survey.

Not all members of the healthcare community are as far behind as others, however. According to respondents, pharmaceutical companies, patient-focused support groups and government healthcare agencies represent segments of the healthcare industry that are superior in efforts to communicate, share information and engage with stakeholders and patients. Healthcare providers and insurers received the least votes for their efforts to engage with patients via social media platforms.

“Last year we conducted our first social media in healthcare study to gauge how Web 2.0 and social media users felt about how new online communications, networking and relationship-building tools were being used to disseminate information relating to the single most important thing to them – their health,” said Marc Hausman, CEO of Strategic. “Our second annual survey shows that despite slight improvements in social media adoption in the healthcare market, the industry as a whole is failing to utilize these powerful tools to connect with consumers.”

About Strategic Communications Group
Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is the only public relations consultancy of its size with an extensive track record helping the world’s largest and fastest growing technology, software, telecommunications and healthcare organizations achieve measurable return from social media marketing programs. The agency’s client roster includes respected brands like BearingPoint (now part of Deloitte LLP), British Telecom (BT), Inmarsat, Microsoft, Monster, NeuStar, Sun Microsystems and TANDBERG.

New Thinking in Government Social Media Campaign Selected as a Finalist for ITSMA Marketing Award

2009-09-09T17:34:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (September 9, 2009) – With federal and state/local government agencies adopting social media tools to reach key constituents, BearingPoint sought to establish itself as the premier government 2.0 consultancy. The company’s New Thinking in Government campaign – developed in partnership with Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) – scored big with prospects and has now been recognized as a finalist in three award categories by the Information Technology Services Marketing Association (ITSMA).

Strategic worked closely with BearingPoint to create three components to the New Thinking in Government campaign—the GovTwit directory and community, the “GovTube” video series featuring interviews with BearingPoint subject matter experts, and the New Thinking in Government thought leadership blog. The campaign became a social media and viral marketing success story for BearingPoint.

The ITSMA awards focus exclusively on B2B marketing for services and solutions and emphasize excellence in the three most critical aspects of success: innovation, execution, and business results. BearingPoint’s campaign is a finalist in the Targeted Demand Generation, Leveraging Digital Marketing and Thought Leadership Marketing categories. The awards will be formally presented at ITSMA’s Annual Marketing Conference on October 27, 2009, at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel.

“Kudos to the marketing team at BearingPoint for their willingness to incorporate social media into their suite of promotional tactics in an innovative way,” said Christopher Parente, Managing Director at Strategic., “We are very pleased that the campaign is a finalist for the Marketing Excellence Awards as it further validates the benefits that social media initiatives can have on the bottom line, even for companies focused on public sector business.”

What differentiates Strategic is the proven ability to leverage all of its industry connections and market relationships to identify sales, partnership, employee recruitment and financial/M&A opportunities for its clients. For more information about the agency’s public relations capabilities and the Strategic Network of Relationships®, visit http://www.gotostrategic.com.

New Webinars Focus on the Business Applications of Social Media

2009-08-26T18:06:01-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (August 26, 2009) – As social media and Web 2.0 technologies continue to reshape the PR, advertising and marketing landscape, many B2B companies remain on the outside looking in, wondering how they can utilize social media for business objectives.

This is why the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) and Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) have partnered to produce a series of Webinars for B2B companies about how social media can benefit them and ways to implement social media strategies.

“Social media is rapidly becoming a standard way to communicate and connect, but many companies are unsure of how social media can benefit their businesses and help them reach their goals in a measurable way,” said Jeff Majka, director of marketing and business development at Strategic. “These Webinars will show how social media can help generate leads, support the sales cycle, better connect with their current and prospective clients, and strengthen brand reputation.”

The series, “The New Marketing Paradigm: Social Media in a B2B Setting,” will consist of four separate Webinars starting September 8, 2009 and continuing through the month of December. Dates and topics of the Webinars follow:

• Overview of Business Applications of Social Media
Tuesday, September 8th - 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Social media has already begun the transformation of how we interact, and has the potential to transform the way we do business.

• Enterprise Sales Support - Using Social Medial to Support the Enterprise B2B Sales Cycle
Monday, October 5th - 1:30pm - 2:30 pm EDT
With new service-based models and the rise of “freemium,” the sales cycle is getting complicated—and every advantage counts.

• Using Social Media to Target the C-Suite and Close Deals
Monday, November 2 - 1:30pm - 2:30 pm EDT
Many of your customers are using social media to communicate with THEIR customers. How can you tap into their social media programs?

• Social Media for Brand Awareness, Thought Leadership and Other Traditional PR Activities
Monday, December 7th - 1:30pm - 2:30 pm EDT
Social media should be an integral part of your PR strategy, not just your sales function.

Registration for the first two Webinars is free for both SIIA members and non-members. There is an $89 charge for non-members to register for the third and fourth Webinars. Additional information about the “New Marketing Paradigm: Social Media in a B2B Setting” series is available on the SIIA events page (http://bit.ly/h3aDe) and on the official Facebook fan page (http://tinyurl.com/m5wapd). To follow the Webinar as it occurs and participate in a live Q&A, follow the official SIIA Twitter profile (http://twitter.com/SIIA_Software) and utilize the #SIIA hash tag.

About SIIA
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industries. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to 500 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit http://www.siia.net.

Associates in Radiation Oncology Renews with Strategic Communications Group

2009-08-04T14:58:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (August 4, 2009) – Associates in Radiation Oncology, a private practice radiation therapy facility based in Fairfax City, Va. that provides comprehensive cancer treatment, has elected to continue their relationship with Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award winning public relations agency.

The only private practice, free-standing radiation oncology practice that is certified by the American College of Radiology, Associates in Radiation Oncology turned to Strategic to help spread the message in the local community that patients have options when it comes to the selection of a provider of radiation oncology services. The program also supports patient referrals to the practice.

“Being the only free-standing privately owned practice in the shadow of larger radiation oncology practices has created some unique challenges for Associations in Radiation Oncology,” said Dr. Anu Gupta, medical director at Associates in Radiation Oncology, “Strategic has done an excellent job of raising awareness of our practice and spreading the message that state-of-the-art technologies combined with a caring and compassionate environment and personal attention can make cancer a treatable disease, and not a life sentence.”

Strategic’s outreach on behalf of Dr. Gupta and Associates in Radiation Oncology has led to multiple placements in the local Washington-area media, including multiple appearances on News Channel 8, Washington’s local cable news channel.

“An estimated 11.1 million Americans are living with a cancer diagnosis,“ said Tonya D. Bacon, director at Strategic. “While cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States, it is large controllable through prevention, early detection and treatment. We are excited to continue working with Dr. Gupta and the team at Associates in Radiation Oncology to help evolve the perception of a cancer into a manageable and treatable disease.“

About Associates in Radiation Oncology
Associates in Radiation Oncology (ARO) is dedicated to the treatment of cancer using a comprehensive approach that begins with state-of-the-art technologies that are integrated into a caring and compassionate environment. ARO believe personal attention to detail is as important as delivering optimal treatments. ARO is the only free-standing facility in Northern Virginia and is certified by American College of Radiology (one of only five radiation therapy facilities in the state of Virginia to receive this accreditation). ARO is led by Dr. Anu Gupta recognized in Washingtonian magazine as one of Washington, D.C.’s top doctors. For more information, visit http://www.raddocs.com.

Solera Networks Selects Strategic Communications Group for PR and Social Media Services

2009-07-27T15:53:01-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (July 27, 2009) – Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award winning public relations agency, has been selected as public relations agency of record by Solera Networks, the leading provider of network forensics products and services.

With prevention often the centerpiece of all network security issues and events, Solera Networks tasked Strategic to communicate the inevitability of network security breaches and the need for network forensics and advanced response solutions.

“Today the market is focused on security prevention, while the need for incident response has been mistakenly overlooked by many organizations,” said Alan Hall, director of marketing at Solera Networks, “We recognize Strategic’s track record of helping technology innovators gain recognition and grow within government and enterprise network security markets. They will partner with us in educating the market on the need for incident response and positioning Solera Networks solutions as the standard in the growing network forensics market.”

Strategic plans to utilize a combination of traditional and social media relations to illustrate the clear need for response, in conjunction with prevention, when constructing a cyber security infrastructure.

“Solera Networks is in a market that is validated every time a breach occurs,“ said Shany Seawright, managing director at Strategic. “In an economy that is struggling, this company has continued to receive funding and is aggressively expanding to meet the demand of its customers. We are truly excited to partner with Solera Networks in to bring attention to incident response and network forensics. “

About Solera Networks
Solera Networks develops high-speed packet capture, retrieval, and reconstruction software for network forensics applications. Our systems capture every packet at line rates up to 10Gbps on physical and virtual networks. The Solera Networks architecture provides open platform interoperability, extensible storage, and portability for any network, giving security professionals comprehensive network visibility. For more information on Solera Networks, visit http://www.soleranetworks.com.

Strategic Communications Group Tasked by BroadSoft to Help Accelerate Company’s Growth

2009-05-07T20:03:01-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (May 06, 2009) – Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award winning public relations agency, announced its selection by BroadSoft®, the leading worldwide provider of VoIP applications. Strategic has been hired to execute an integrated public relations and social media program to help increase awareness of BroadSoft’s advanced VoIP-powered services, available from nine of the top 10 carriers worldwide.

Tactical components of the campaign include messaging and positioning, trade and business/financial media outreach, blog development and promotion, social network engagement and tradeshow support.

“We hired Strategic because they offer a comprehensive plan that was in line with our corporate growth strategy and business objectives,” said Leslie Ferry, vice president of marketing at BroadSoft. “Strategic has the expertise and creativity to execute a public relations campaign that is right for this dynamic point in the company’s history.”

Christopher Parente, managing director at Strategic, said, “Carriers are always looking for new, innovative services that excite customers and justify investments in their broadband infrastructures. BroadSoft provides VoIP application software to power solutions that work for business of all sizes and consumers. We’re excited to help support BroadSoft’s growth through traditional and social media channels.”

Prognosis Negative on Social Media Adoption in Healthcare

2009-03-03T18:06:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (March 3, 2009) – Eight out of every 10 Internet users have searched, researched or otherwise consulted the Internet for questions about their health. According to THINK-Health’s iHealthReports for the California Healthcare Foundation, as of January 2008, the Internet rivaled physicians as the leading source of health information.

Despite the obvious demand for healthcare information and representation of the healthcare industry in social media channels, a recent survey conducted by Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, found that 96 percent of respondents said the industry is not using social media enough to communicate, share information and engage with patients.

Ninety-nine percent of the respondents to the survey, which was conducted online and distributed via social networks, frequently used social media, including blogs, social networks and online communities, to discuss and research a wide variety of healthcare topics ranging from personal health information, to public health policy and market trends.

“There has been, and will continue to be a significant shift in where people go for trusted information about their personal health and information about the healthcare industry,” said Marc Hausman, CEO of Strategic. “Our survey found that despite the shift in consumer behavior, the healthcare industry has been slow to utilize new Web 2.0 applications and social media to enhance patient engagement.”

About Strategic Communications Group
Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications, social media and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as BearingPoint (OTC BB: BGPT.OB), BT Americas (NYSE: BT), Callis Communications, GovDelivery, Integral Systems (NASDAQ: ISYS), Lagan Technologies, Microsoft Corporation (NasdaqGS: MSFT), NeuStar (NYSE: NSR), Pitney Bowes Management Services (NYSE: PBI), Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc. (NYSE: SXE), TANDBERG (TDG), Tellabs (NASDAQ: TLAB), Zebra Technologies Card Systems Division (NASDAQ: ZBRA), among others. For more information about the agency’s public relations capabilities and the Strategic Network of Relationships®, visit http://www.gotostrategic.com.

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TARP Worldwide Taps Strategic for Social Media Led PR and Lead Generation Campaign

2008-11-10T18:39:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (November 10, 2008) – Strategic Communications Group (Strategic), a nationally-recognized, award-winning public relations agency, has been selected by TARP Worldwide to execute a social media campaign designed to increase the firm’s market awareness and generate leads for its sales team. TARP is a customer experience agency with a 35-year heritage as a leader and innovator in the measure of customer satisfaction and loyalty for Global 2000 companies.

“Using Web 2.0 as a platform provides a new avenue for our team to evangelize and educate organizations about the importance of customer service and the ability to increase profit with each interaction,” said Dennis E. Gonier, CEO of TARP. “Strategic was a natural choice for TARP. We have worked with them in the past. They know our business and have proven they can execute in traditional public relations and social media to reach our target audiences.”

Strategic will provide a mix of social media services, including executive blogging, blogger relations and social network engagement. All activities will be integrated with the outreach of the company’s sales team.

Shany Seawright, a managing director at Strategic, said, “TARP has a unique opportunity to create a compelling conversation about customer service in the market today. Today’s economic situation makes it even more important for businesses to listen to their customers and take action to ensure each interaction is a positive one. We are excited to execute on an aggressive social media program to help TARP achieve its business goals.”

The TARP blog, Customer Mine, can be found at http://blog.tarp.com.

About Strategic Communications Group:
Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as Aptara, Callis Communications, GovDelivery, Integral Systems (NASDAQ: ISYS), Lagan Technologies, Microspace Communications Corporation, Pitney Bowes Management Services (NYSE: PBI), Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc. (NYSE: SXE), Tellabs (NASDAQ: TLAB), Zebra Technologies Card Systems Division (NASDAQ: ZBRA), among others.

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Strategic Promotes Shany Seawright to Managing Director

2008-09-03T22:00:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (September 3, 2008) – Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, announced the promotion of Shany Seawright to managing director.

“During the past four years, Shany has proven herself to be an exceptional public relations professional with a real passion for technology,” said Marc Hausman, Strategic’s president and CEO. “Shany understands the direction our industry is headed and has done an excellent job incorporating social media tactics into client programs.”

Seawright joined Strategic in 2004 with extensive PR agency experience in the Atlanta and Washington, DC markets, including Hill & Knowlton, GCI Group and Merritt Group. Client experience included work on behalf of BellSouth, Motorola, MCI and a number of security companies, such as Qualys and former White House cybersecurity advisors, Richard Clarke and Howard Schmidt.

“It is a gratifying experience to be a part of an agency that is adamant about analyzing changes within the industry and adopting the practices that make the most sense for our clients’ business and communication goals” said Seawright.

As managing director, Shany will continue to oversee her clients with the goal of expanding her portfolio of business at Strategic. Her current client engagements include British Telecom (BT), Integral Systems (NASDAQ: ISYS), Microspace Communications and Epok. She will also have additional corporate responsibility to support the growth and development of the agency.
About Strategic Communications Group

Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as Aptara, Callis Communications, GovDelivery, Integral Systems (NASDAQ: ISYS), Lagan Technologies, Microspace Communications Corporation, Pitney Bowes Management Services (NYSE: PBI), Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc. (NYSE: SXE), Tellabs (NASDAQ: TLAB), Zebra Technologies Card Systems Division (NASDAQ: ZBRA), among others.

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Strategic and Tuvel Ink Partnership

2008-08-06T16:04:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (August 6, 2008) – Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, and Tuvel Communications (Tuvel), an online communications firm, today announced a partnership to offer lead generation, sales cycle marketing and social media programs to technology, software, telecommunications, security and healthcare clients.

“I’ve known Marc and the Strategic team for many years,” said Tuvel Managing Director Mitch Arnowitz. “They understand the paradigm shift that’s taking place in the communications industry. Tuvel’s social media skills combined with Strategic’s traditional and now new media know-how is an unbeatable combination.”.

Strategic and Tuvel will work together to market each firm’s services to their existing clients, as well as collaborate on new business opportunities. In addition, the companies will exchange intellectual property related to best practices and participate in training programs for each firm’s respective staff.

Last month, Strategic announced a similar partnership with Web marketing firm Market Wise. When appropriate, the three companies will collaborate on client assignments.

Marc Hausman, Strategic’s President and CEO, said, “I have always been impressed by Mitch’s ability to deliver meaningful results on marketing and lead generation programs. The chance to work with him and Tuvel through a more defined and structured relationship will help us further grow our social media capabilities and more closely align Strategic’s work with lead generation and marketing programs.”

About Tuvel
Tuvel Communications is an online communications firm with a keen understanding of using the Internet to find “hidden” customers and to keep customers coming back again and again. Through our efforts and experience, companies and organizations have been able to increase sales efforts, raise money, get closer to their customers, increase the size and quality of databases, and change minds!

In today’s crowded marketplace companies must find innovative ways to break through the clutter to win the hearts and minds of their customers. Traditional telemarketing, advertising and direct mail are simply not enough as consumers are bombarded by thousands of messages every day. While more conventional marketing programs can be expensive, the Internet is still highly affordable. Tuvel offers a powerful way to reach customers directly, on their turf, when they are most open to hearing about your products and services.

Some of the organizations and companies that Tuvel has worked with include: Freedom Bank of Virginia, Tech Council of Maryland, Every Child Matters, TEOCO, Apptix, The British Midlands, and Venture Philanthropy Partners. For more information, visit: http://www.tuvel.com.

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Avectra Retains Strategic to Promote Industry Leading On-Demand Membership Management Solutions

2008-08-04T14:48:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (August 4, 2008)- Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as agency of record by Avectra, the leading provider of on-demand membership management software.

As part of an integrated campaign, Strategic will provide messaging and positioning counsel, along with media relations, product promotion, editorial and social media services. Strategic’s efforts will focus on increasing market awareness for Avectra’s netFORUM product line, its on-demand offerings designed for associations, not-for-profits and other member-based organizations of all sizes and types.

“We were looking for a PR firm with expertise working with hosted solution providers, as well as experience in the association segment,” said Bruce Lovett, vice president of marketing at Avectra. “Our company is in an exciting phase of growth. We want to be aggressive in communicating our market leadership to potential customers and channel partners.”

Brian Muys, managing director at Strategic, said “Avectra was first-to-market with its on-demand netFORUM offerings, and has the seasoned leadership team in place to take it to the next stage of growth. We’re excited to help further build their existing industry leadership by demonstrating the significant business benefits of on-demand membership management solutions.”

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Strategic and Market Wise Announce Social Media Partnership

2008-07-22T19:41:02-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (July 21, 2008) – Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, and Market Wise, an Internet marketing firm, today announced a partnership to offer extended social media, search engine optimization and pay-per-click advertising services to their current and prospective clients.

Marc Hausman, Strategic’s President and CEO, said, “The fastest growing segment of our business is the extension of public relations programs through social media channels, such as executive blogs, Web-based communities and new media platforms like YouTube. By working with the team at Market Wise, we’ll also be able to align our efforts with our clients’ lead generation and sales cycle marketing programs.”

Market Wise has established a strong track record helping clients utilize the Internet to identify new sales prospects and increase loyalty among existing customers. The company serves clients in the consumer, technology, association, financial services, energy and professional service markets.

“We are excited about our new alliance with Strategic,” said Market Wise President Kathryn McGeehan. “This relationship will benefit clients of both organizations. Our research processes gauging how people search online will enrich Strategic’s social media campaigns. And, our SEO projects will benefit from Strategic’s expertise in social marketing and online public relations.”

Strategic and Market Wise will work collaboratively on new business opportunities, as well as to co-market each firm’s services to existing clients. Additionally, the companies will share industry insight, best practices and processes.

About Market Wise Inc.

Founded in 1993, Market Wise provides Internet-based marketing services to clients in the consumer, technology, association, financial services, energy and professional service markets. The firm’s competencies include message development and counsel, search engine marketing and optimization, pay-per-click advertising programs, e-mail marketing and lead cultivation programs. For more information about the Market Wise, visit http://www.marketwise.net

About Strategic Communications Group
Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as Aptara, Callis Communications, GovDelivery, Integral Systems (NASDAQ: ISYS), Lagan Technologies, Microspace Communications Corporation, Pitney Bowes Management Services (NYSE: PBI), Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc. (NYSE: SXE), Tellabs (NASDAQ: TLAB), Zebra Technologies Card Systems Division (NASDAQ: ZBRA), among others.
What differentiates Strategic is the proven ability to leverage all of its industry connections and market relationships to identify sales, partnership, employee recruitment and financial/M&A opportunities for its clients. For more information about the agency’s public relations capabilities and the Strategic Network of Relationships®, visit http://www.gotostrategic.com.

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Strategic Selected by Epok to Launch Social Media Campaign

2008-07-14T17:55:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD(July 14 ,2008) - Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by Epok Inc., a software company that allows organizations to securely extend application access across organizational boundaries leading to improved extranet flexibility, lower cost of operations, enhanced compliance and security.

As part of an integrated social media and business development campaign, Strategic will provide messaging, positioning and content development services for a set of social media programs, including executive blog development and social network engagement. Strategic and Epok have also signed a lead referral agreement in which the agency will leverage contacts in its Network of Relationships® to help Epok identify new business opportunities.

“We turned to Strategic for two main reasons – they understand the security market and they’ve had proven results in executing integrated social media and business development campaigns,” said Oscar Fuster, VP of Marketing and Strategic Alliances for Epok. “It was clear that they could quickly engage our target audience in a compelling conversation regarding security in collaboration.”
Shany Seawright, director at Strategic, said, ”Very few users understand the security risks involved in using a collaboration platform. As more organizations become distributed, use of collaboration tools is skyrocketing, opening more doors for security risks. Epok has a clear opportunity to engage and educate the market on their services.”

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GovDelivery Calls on Strategic for Comprehensive Industry and Technical Leadership Campaign

2008-04-16T18:11:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (April 16)—Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by GovDelivery, the world’s leading provider of government-to-citizen communication solutions.

“We evaluated a number of public relations firms before ultimately selecting Strategic because of their expertise in the government markets,” said Jennie Olson, GovDelivery’s Director of Marketing. “Strategic also brings a creative and aggressive approach to public relations that will help us gain interest from influential journalists and industry analysts.”

GovDelivery’s email and digital subscription management solution helps federal, state and local government agencies notify citizens when information of interest is updated on the agency’s Web site. GovDelivery’s customers include the FBI, FEMA, the British Parliament, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority and the city of Minneapolis.

Strategic will execute a multi-phased PR campaign to establish GovDelivery as the market leading provider of superior government to citizen communications, offered to clients via a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform. Strategic will also position the company’s executives as industry thought leaders.

“We are very enthusiastic about the chance to help communicate GovDelivery’s impressive momentum to the market,” said Christopher Parente, Managing Director at Strategic. “We’ll be able to leverage our technical expertise in SaaS and our public sector contacts to help the company exceed its growth objectives.”

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Callis Connects with Strategic Communications Group

2008-04-11T19:36:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (April 7)—Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by Callis Communications (Callis), a Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) and provider of hosted Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services based in Mobile, AL.

“Hiring Strategic to increase our brand visibility and market credibility is a vital step in our quest to become the leading provider of managed IP applications to small and medium-sized customers in the Gulf region,” said Callis CEO Dean Parker. “Strategic came highly recommended by a member of our board of directors and demonstrated how a well-targeted public relations program can help us more quickly achieve both our sales and corporate valuation goals.”

Callis provides a fully- integrated suite of hosted telephony and Internet connectivity services, backed by one of the industry’s most responsive customer care organizations. Some of its longstanding local customers include the Volunteers of America Southeast, University of Mobile, White-Spunner Construction and Lexus of Mobile, among others.

Strategic’s priorities are to increase Callis’ visibility among small and medium sized businesses (SMBs), non-profits and educational institutions located through the Gulf region, as well as to establish positioning for the company with influential trade media and industry analysts.

“Callis is an aggressive, growth- focused company that has championed the adoption of VoIP and managed IP applications in the Gulf’s business community,” said Strategic Managing Director Brian Muys. “Our expertise in this segment and extensive relationships with both key media and industry influencers are critical as we roll out this campaign.”

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Strategic Communications Group Earns Its Stripes with Zebra Technologies

2008-01-21T17:26:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (January 21, 2008) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by the Card Printer Solutions division of Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA), a global leader in on-demand secure printing solutions.

“The card printing solutions industry is extremely competitive and market visibility is critical to cut through the clutter,” said Kathryn Lodato, director of Americas marketing and worldwide marketing services for Zebra Card Printer Solutions. “We identified Strategic as the most qualified PR firm for our needs based on their strong track record of delivering successful market visibility campaigns for technology clients and deep experience within our highly specialized market.”

Strategic will execute an integrated public relations and business development campaign to provide third-party credibility, awareness and sales support for Zebra. Strategic will also launch a series of vertical, targeted media campaigns to support key company sales and marketing initiatives.

In addition, Strategic will tap into its Network of Relationships® to support prospective business development activities.

“On-demand printing and identification solutions are seeing strong demand in a diverse set of industries including healthcare IT, gaming, entertainment, hospitality, retail, education and financial services,” said Brian Muys, managing director at Strategic. “Zebra’s industry-standard on-demand printing technologies strongly position them for continued growth. We are excited to work with them to help further their leadership and visibility in this rapidly evolving market.”

About Zebra Card Printer Solutions
A world leader in desktop card printers, Zebra Card Printer Solutions is a division of Zebra Technologies Corporation, which delivers innovative and reliable on-demand printing solutions to businesses and governments in 100 countries around the world. A broad range of applications benefit from Zebra brand thermal bar code label and receipt printers and plastic card printers (formerly branded Eltron®), in addition to RFID and real time locating systems, resulting in enhanced security, increased productivity, improved quality, lower costs and better customer service. Information about Zebra card printers can be found at http://www.zebracard.com. Information about Zebra Technologies can be found at http://www.zebra.com.

About Strategic Communications Group

Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as Acuity Mobile, AMERICOM GOVERNMENT SERVICES, Aptara, DataPath, Everest Software, GlobeRanger, Integral Systems, Lagan Technologies, Microspace Communications Corporation, Pitney Bowes Management Services, Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc., and Tellabs, among others.

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Altron to Upgrade Image with Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-15T17:30:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (January 15, 2008) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as agency of record by Altron, a leading provider of professional services to government customers. As part of an integrated PR strategy, Strategic will provide media outreach, messaging and positioning support as well as blog and website content development.

“We sought the counsel of a highly-creative PR firm who could aggressively expand our market presence,” said Mike Zaramba, president of Altron. “I’ve known and worked with Strategic for years and I’m continuously impressed by their deep business-to-government market experience and focus on building corporate valuation. I’m looking forward to more great results from their team.”

Strategic will leverage its government market knowledge to review and update Altron’s market positioning and key messages to reach diverse audiences, including customers, teaming partners and employees Along with targeted media and industry analyst outreach, Strategic will assist Altron in launching an executive blog as well as providing comprehensive website content support.

In addition, Strategic will tap its Network of Relationships® to identify potential teaming and technology partners and leverage prospective business development opportunities.

“Altron is known for providing a variety of federal government customers with trusted, efficient and high-quality support services,” said Brian Muys, managing director at Strategic. “Their challenge now is to grow and diversify their current base of business to bring that same expertise to new government customers. We’re excited to work with them in further strengthening their industry awareness to drive continued business growth.”

About Altron
Founded in 1992, Altron is a leading provider of information technology management, facility management, logistics, system engineering, and business process reengineering services. Based in Charleston, SC, with regional offices in Washington, DC, the company has extensive experience in supporting a variety of Government-Owned, Contractor-Operated facilities. For over 15 years, it has provided quality program management, technical and analytical support to the Department of State’s Passport Program Offices in Charleston and Portsmouth, NH, helping produce millions of first-time and renewal passports each year for American citizens.

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Integral Systems Blasts off with Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:27:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (October 23, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced an expanded relationship as corporate agency of record for Integral Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ-ISYS). Integral is the leading provider of complete satellite ground processing and control systems supporting more than 200 satellite missions worldwide. Through a series of strategic acquisitions, Integral companies include RT Logic, Newpoint Technologies, SAT and Lumistar.

“Strategic has supported our communications efforts for the past decade,” said Pete Gaffney, Executive Vice President, New Business and Technology Development at Integral Systems. “They were the obvious choice when we required a formal corporate program encompassing each of our subsidiaries. They know our business, are experts in our market and understand our vision for the continued growth of this company. It made sense to turn to the business counselors we’ve trusted for years.”

Strategic will work to build market visibility and corporate momentum through aggressive media, analyst, and financial communications programs. The firm will also launch an internal communications program to address nearly 500 employees in eight offices across the U.S.

“Integral Systems is a leader in the exciting commercial satellite systems market, with a strong heritage of technical innovation and some of the industry’s brightest, most committed employees,” said Shany Seawright, director at Strategic Communications Group. “We are thrilled to work with such a great team as they leverage their commercial market success to aggressively expand into the government, media, and communications markets.”

Integral was the first company to offer an integrated suite of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software and hardware products for satellite communications and today almost every commercial satellite operator in the world is their customer. The company has also delivered the CCS-C ground system, the US Air Force’s first on-time and on-budget Milsatcom ground system.

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Wireless Matrix Taps Into Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:25:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (August 9, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by Wireless Matrix Corporation, a leading provider of mobile resource and fleet management (MRM) solutions.

“Strategic will raise industry awareness and help drive corporate valuation for the company,” said Wireless Matrix President and CEO, J. Richard Carlson. “The expertise that Strategic brings in the technology space gives us great confidence that they will play an integral role in executing our growth strategy. It is exciting to be working with this outstanding firm again.”

Strategic will work to build corporate momentum through aggressive media and industry analyst outreach and by leveraging key industry awards and related executive visibility opportunities. It will also tap into its Network of Relationships™ for prospective business development opportunities.

Wireless Matrix’s FleetOutlook is a comprehensive, web-based solution encompassing hardware, robust wireless applications, and 24x7 customer support for real-time management of overall fleet operations. FleetOutlook’s reliable “360° MRM” minimizes the risk of implementing MRM solutions, enabling customers to run more efficient and responsive fleet operations and provide a higher level of service at a lower cost.

“We are excited to support Wireless Matrix in further strengthening its established thought leadership in the dynamic mobile resource management marketplace,” said Strategic Communications Group Managing Director Brian Muys. “It pioneered the concept of 360° MRM, and we will leverage a variety of both traditional and new media vehicles to spread the word about their capabilities.”

About Strategic Communications Group

Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as Acuity Mobile, AMERICOM GOVERNMENT SERVICES, Aptara, DataPath, Everest Software, GlobeRanger, Integral Systems, Lagan Technologies, Microspace Communications Corporation, Pitney Bowes Management Services, Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc., and Tellabs, among others.

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Strategic Communications Group and SIIA Present: “The Changing Landscape Series”

2008-01-09T21:24:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (July 19, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, and the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) announced today their sponsorship and co-production of the “The Changing Landscape Series”, a breakfast series exploring the transformational changes occurring in three high-growth technology sectors: enterprise software, mobile and security.

“SIIA members are at the technological vanguard,” said Ken Wasch, SIIA president. “We are committed to providing them with high-quality forums such as “The Changing Landscape Series” that challenge and educate them on highly relevant topics of interest. “We look forward to sharing these important insights.”

The Changing Landscape Series will feature panelists from industry-leading companies such as Acuity Mobile, BearingPoint, Edison Venture Fund, Lagan Technologies, and more as they discuss the overall market trends, customer requirements, and financial opportunities in some of the technology industry’s hottest sectors.

“In today’s fast-moving technology market, changes in the software, mobile and security sectors will fundamentally impact the way companies do business,” said Marc Hausman, Strategic’s president and CEO. “Companies that understand and leverage this rapidly shifting dynamic will have a distinct edge in the marketplace. Strategic is pleased to sponsor “The Changing Landscape Series” and present the unique perspectives of technology executives on the cutting edge of this technology driven transformation.”

The first breakfast panel discussion on enterprise software will be held on July 31, 2007 at SIIA’s headquarters, 1090 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC. Future events are planned for September and October 2007. For additional information contact: Jeff Majka, Strategic’s Director of Marketing, at jmajka@gotostrategic.com or visit http://www.gotostrategic.com.

About SIIA
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 800 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit http://www.siia.net.

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Everest Software Scales New Heights with Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:22:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (June 11, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by Everest Software, a leading provider of comprehensive business management software solutions for small and medium- sized businesses (SMBs)

“We provide a unique solution to SMBs by offering a single business operating system to run all of their key functions, from web storefront to the back-office,” said Brock Epperly, senior director of marketing for Everest. “We required a PR firm with deep software market experience that had proven success with growing technology companies. Strategic was the answer.”

Everest Software delivers the industry’s most versatile and scalable business management solutions for SMBs. Its fully integrated software offers overall ease of implementation at a lower total cost of ownership, requiring minimal up-front consulting and ongoing professional services support.

Strategic will initiate a PR campaign in support of Everest’s key business objectives, building corporate momentum through aggressive media outreach and leveraging key industry awards and related executive visibility opportunities. It will also tap into its Network of Relationships® to leverage prospective business development opportunities.

“We’re executing a tailored PR program designed to further elevate Everest’s market visibility, enhance third-party credibility and help further drive their corporate valuation,” said Strategic Managing Director Brian Muys. “We are excited to work with them to achieve continued business growth and success.”

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Strategic Communications Group Deepens Software Market Expertise with Engagement as North American

2008-01-09T21:20:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (May 14, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record for North America by Lagan, a leading provider of CRM human services solutions.

“We sought the counsel of a PR firm who could help us solidify our market presence as the leading provider of state and local government CRM solutions,” said Lori Goss, VP of marketing for Lagan. “With its deep experience in the business-to-government market and reputation for helping build clients’ corporate valuation, Strategic was the best choice for our PR needs.”

Strategic will initiate a PR campaign to build corporate momentum and industry thought leadership in support of Lagan’s key business objectives. It will also tap into its Network of Relationships® to leverage prospective business development opportunities, including the recent opening of Lagan’s new North American headquarters in Bethesda, Md.

“Lagan’s award winning solutions distinctively position them as a leader in the government CRM market,” said Strategic Managing Director Brian Muys. “We’re excited to work with them in further strengthening their industry awareness to drive continued business growth.”

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Senforce Technologies Secures Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:19:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (May 7, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by Senforce Technologies® Inc., a market leader in endpoint security management.

“With the proliferation of high capacity devices such as laptops and thumb drives, we’re seeing corporations storing critical data at their network’s endpoints without the means to effectively secure them,” said Senforce Vice President of Marketing Ed McGarr. “To educate the market on the need for endpoint security and counter the growing threat of endpoint security breaches, we sought an aggressive agency with a strong track record within the security market. Strategic was the ideal choice for our needs.”

Senforce’s Endpoint Security Suite (ESS) integrates all aspects of endpoint security enforcement. The solution recently was honored as SC Magazine 2007 Reader’s Trust award for Best Endpoint Security Solution. The ESS allows customers to protect computers and data from malicious attacks and unauthorized use at the endpoint.

Strategic will initiate a PR campaign to generate a high level of market awareness and visibility to promote Senforce’s business goals. Strategic will also tap into its Network of Relationships® to support prospective business development activities.

“A recent survey of IT professionals at two leading technology tradeshows found that 56% of respondents are not confident in their organization’s endpoint security efforts,” said Strategic Director Shany Seawright. “The threat is clear and Senforce’s advance security solutions will be key for companies facing vulnerabilities at the endpoint. We are delighted to work with Senforce Technologies to further strengthen market awareness and drive corporate valuation.”

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Acuity Mobile Selects Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:12:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (March 22, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as PR agency of record by Acuity Mobile, a leading provider of targeted mobile content delivery technology.

“The mobile marketing and advertising industry is fragmented and the opportunity to differentiate ourselves is critical,” said Alan Sultan, co-founder of Acuity Mobile. “We identified Strategic as the best PR firm for our needs based on their strong track record of delivering aggressive visibility campaigns for tech clients and impressive mobile technology sector experience."`

Acuity Mobile’s Embedded Mobile Advertising Platform (EMAP) is a patented technology that enables Spot Relevance™ — the ability to deliver targeted marketing content to the right person, at the right time, in the right location. EMAP technology is used by carriers, advertisers and content owners to ensure that relevant content is delivered directly to mobile users based on their interests, time of day and geographic location.

Strategic will execute an integrated public relations and analyst outreach campaign to drive adoption of Acuity Mobile’s industry-leading technology. Strategic will also provide marketing communications expertise in support of Acuity Mobile’s corporate web site and collateral materials and will tap into its Network of Relationships® to assist prospective business development activities.

“A recent Mobile Marketing Association study showed that consumer involvement in mobile marketing campaigns more than tripled last year,” said Christopher Parente, managing director at Strategic. “Acuity Mobile’s groundbreaking EMAP solution uniquely positions them for impressive growth. We are excited to work with Acuity Mobile to help them establish their leadership in this rapidly evolving market.”

About Acuity Mobile
Acuity Mobile is a leading provider of mobile marketing content delivery solutions. Acuity Mobile’s Embedded Mobile Advertising Platform (EMAP) is a patented technology that enables Spot Relevance — the ability to deliver targeted marketing content to the right person, at the right time, in the right location. EMAP technology is used by carriers, advertisers and content owners to ensure that relevant content (ads, offers, traffic, weather, etc.) is delivered directly to mobile users based on their interests, time of day and geographic location. The technology behind EMAP was first developed in 2000 and has been patent protected since 2003. Acuity Mobile harnesses the power of mobility to improve content delivery for marketers and their consumers. For more information, please visit http://www.acuitymobile.com.

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Tellabs Government Systems Selects Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T20:54:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (March 19, 2007) — Tellabs Government Systems, a division of Tellabs (NASDAQ:TLAB) focused on serving the unique telecommunications needs of government customers, has selected Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) as its PR agency.

“The successful launch of Tellabs Government Systems requires an aggressive, targeted media relations campaign to build Tellabs’ visibility with federal government telecom and network decision makers,” said Joseph Shilgalis, vice president of Tellabs Government Systems. “With Strategic’s strong knowledge of the federal technology sector and proven track record of results, the agency will be a vital asset as we ramp up business development initiatives.”

Strategic is executing an integrated corporate visibility and federal market awareness campaign to raise Tellabs Government Systems® federal IT market profile and build credibility among media and analysts

“A recent PostNewsweek Tech survey found that more than 90 percent of federal IT managers demand less than 5 minutes of downtime per year from their networks,” said Christopher Parente, managing director, Strategic. “For more than three decades, Tellabs has provided ‘five nines’ level of reliability to many of the world’s largest telecommunications service providers. We are excited to work with Tellabs Government Systems as it brings this same high level of service and reliability to the federal marketplace.”

About Tellabs Government Systems
Tellabs advances telecommunications networks to meet the evolving needs of users. Broadband solutions from Tellabs enable service providers and mission-critical government networks to deliver high-quality voice, video and data services over wireline and wireless networks around the world. Ranked among the BusinessWeek InfoTech 100, Tellabs (NASDAQ: TLAB) is part of the NASDAQ-100 Index, NASDAQ Global Select Market and the S&P 500. http://www.tellabs.com

Tellabs® and ® are trademarks of Tellabs or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. Any other company or product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.

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Microspace Retains Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T20:48:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (March 13, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, today announced it has renewed its relationship as PR agency of record for Microspace Communications Corporation (Microspace), the leading provider of point-to-multipoint satellite services to distribute digital video, data and audio.

Microspace operates the largest global business satellite broadcasting network with nearly 340,000 remote links worldwide. Leveraging a 20-year heritage, Microspace powers more digital signage networks globally than any other vendor, supporting CompUSA, Abercrombie & Fitch, OOH Vision and more. Its Digital Cinema Distribution services provide support for leading studios and theaters such as Paramount Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures, Carmike Cinemas and Rave Motion Picture Theaters.

“We are confident in renewing this relationship with Strategic because after five years of working closely with our team, they know our business inside and out,” said Microspace Vice President and General Manager Joe Amor. “Strategic’s track record and expertise within the satellite and digital content markets gives us the confidence in knowing that they will play an intricate part in driving our aggressive visibility campaigns.”

Strategic will launch an integrated corporate communications and industry awareness program to raise Microspace’s profile within the digital signage and digital cinema markets. The campaign will leverage media and industry analyst outreach to build third-party credibility in key publications and industry verticals. Strategic will also support Microspace’s product and service promotions at industry trade shows and events. In addition, Strategic will tap into its Network of Relationships® to support prospective business development activities.

“More than ever before, content providers need reliable and secure means to quickly bring their product to market,” said Strategic Director Shany Seawright. “As the leader in satellite delivery of digital signage and digital cinema applications, Microspace offers clients a superior content delivery solution that is cost effective, reliable, and secure. We look forward to leveraging our satellite market expertise and strong industry relationships to help them secure continued corporate growth.”

About Microspace Communications Corporation
Microspace Communications Corporation (Microspace), a subsidiary of Capitol Broadcasting Company, is the leader in satellite services for digital signage, business communications and digital cinema. The company operates the largest global business satellite broadcasting network with nearly 340,000 remote links worldwide. With a 20-year heritage, Microspace’s VELOCITY® satellite services power more digital signage networks globally than any other vendor, supporting CompUSA, Abercrombie & Fitch, OOH Vision and more. Leading studios and theaters such as Paramount Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures, and Carmike Cinemas, among others, rely on VELOCITY for their digital cinema needs.

The VELOCITY service is available as either a dedicated solution or as an on-demand service, enabling customers to easily and affordably expand bandwidth as their needs change. Microspace is headquartered in the U.S. and has a presence in Europe and Latin America. For more information, visit http://www.microspace.com.

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Strategic Communications Group and Infoition Announce Services Partnership

2008-01-09T19:52:02-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD (January 24, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations agency, and Infoition, a leading provider of customized media intelligence, today announced that they have formed a partnership to offer cutting edge, integrated public relations and media monitoring services.

“Today’s businesses require a much higher level of market intelligence than they did in the past to stay competitive,” said Infoition CEO Jeff Trexel. “At the same time, more and more companies report that it’s just too hard for them to keep up with the deluge of news. This partnership will take media intelligence to the next level and give our clients a crucial edge in the marketplace.”

Infoition tracks real-time media information 24/7 from thousands of news sources and provides a custom early morning news summary for corporate executives. They combine advanced tracking technology with highly skilled editors who apply their specialized industry expertise and editorial judgment on each story.

Marc Hausman, Strategic’s President and CEO, said, “It is no longer enough to provide one dimensional public relations services. With Infoition, we can offer businesses the truly unique proposition of having their own, dedicated 24/7 media war room. Now, our clients will have an even more powerful tool for rapid response to breaking news. We are thrilled to integrate their services into our counsel.”

Infoition has provided media intelligence services to Fortune 500 corporations, the Executive Office of the President, and Capitol Hill leadership.

About Infoition
Infoition is a leading provider of customized media intelligence, delivering the most insightful news and business information to empower your organization to make strategic decisions. Our unique integration of advanced technology and human analytics provides the competitive edge you need to stay ahead. The company serves the Executive Office of the President, United States House and Senate leadership on both sides of the aisle, congressional committees, United States Senators and Representatives, Fortune 500 corporations, and high-profile trade associations. For more information about Infoition products and services, visit http://www.infoition.com.

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Strategic Communications Group Hired to Help Knight Sky Shine

2008-01-09T19:03:00-05:00

Silver Spring, MD (November 9, 2007) — Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic), a nationally recognized, award- winning public relations agency, today announced its selection as agency of record by Knight Sky LLC (Knight Sky), a leading Frederick, Maryland-based provider of professional satellite communications consulting, services, and products. Strategic will provide messaging and positioning support as well as website content and PR strategy development.

Strategic will leverage its deep government, military and enterprise market knowledge to review and update Knight Sky’s positioning and key messages. Messages will be specifically tailored for diverse http://www.knight-sky.com audiences, including customers, teaming partners, employees and investors. In addition, Strategic will tap its Network of Relationships® to identify potential teaming and technology partners and leverage prospective business development opportunities.

“Knight Sky has quietly evolved into a comprehensive provider of fully-interoperable satellite and wireless networks, from concept to operations,” said Brian Muys, managing director at Strategic. “We’re excited to build on our successful track record in working with other satellite service providers, integrators and operators to help them further build corporate valuation by communicating their innovative market position to key customers, prospects and partners.”

Knight Sky has successfully supported a variety of key government agencies, including the US Department of Homeland Security, US Army Program Executive Office- Enterprise Information Systems, Defense Information Systems Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Guard Bureau, among many others.

About Strategic Communications Group

Strategic Communications Group, Inc. (Strategic) is a nationally recognized, award-winning public relations firm that provides integrated communications and business development services to help its clients increase sales, profitability, and corporate and product valuation. Strategic has worked with successful, growth-oriented companies such as Acuity Mobile, AMERICOM GOVERNMENT SERVICES, Aptara, DataPath, Everest Software, GlobeRanger, Integral Systems, Lagan Technologies, Microspace Communications Corporation, Pitney Bowes Management Services, Senforce Technologies, Stanley, Inc., and Tellabs, among others.

3 Landmarks of Health in DC’s Technology and Bio Communities

2010-07-12T15:41:00-05:00

How do we know if times are good in the Washington, DC technology community? Here are my three proposed landmarks.

Social Strategy…In a Sentence

2010-07-06T18:31:00-05:00

Social media is merely another channel to engage stakeholders. It doesn’t replace traditional forms of communication (i.e. advertising, public relations, direct marketing, etc.), yet in a social environment your audience has already self-identified and organized into groups based on interest. This makes the outcome of social media engagement significantly more measurable.

It also demands a strategy; one that is aligned with the key drivers of success in business – sales, profitability and valuation.

3 Sure Fire Ways to Turn Your Sales Reps into Social Fanatics

2010-06-22T14:06:00-05:00

For social media to serve as a catalyst for sales and marketing harmony there must be executive level sponsorship, along with some adept internal promotion and outreach. At Strategic Communications Group (Strategic), we are typically engaged by a client’s marketing organization so our focus has been on developing a set of best practices to convert even the most skeptical sales rep into a social fanatic.

TechBisnow: Social Media Soirée

2010-06-17T19:06:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group’s (Strategic) Chris Parente and Ryan Schradin with Tandberg’s Meredith Lawrence, who took home the award for best corporate blog. Her project, “Break Down The Walls” is a social media portal for Tandberg’s public sector customers to interact with the company—a nice thing since the company just officially merged with Cisco.

Strategic concepted, designed and now manages the “Break Down the Walls” social media campaign.

Monster Government Solutions Unleashes Web Site

2010-05-03T19:30:00-05:00

Monster Government Solutions faces a particular challenge in marketing: It wants to deliver a complex, targeted-solutions message about its software and technology, which powers online career communities such as USAjobs.gov—all without diluting Monster Worldwide’s corporate branding and marketing efforts. The answer to that question turned out to be thought-leadership marketing. So last August Monster Government launched a social media campaign. The heart of the effort is a Web site at www.unleashthemonster.net, which publishes relevant content sales representatives can push out to customers and prospects.

The site, created by social media consultancy Strategic Communications Group, features a blog and newsletter specifically written for federal, state and local government employees, as well as video content about best practices. Monster Government promotes Unleash the Monster on other blogs and online communities, such as Govloop.com, and it recently started a Twitter feed that drives traffic back to the blog.

“It’s a thought-leadership publishing vehicle for things that are important to HR professionals and other senior government decision-makers—issues, and topics and trends that Monster has an opinion on,” said Marc Hausman, president-CEO of Strategic Communications Group.

BtoG Communities Now Online - Q&A with Strategic’s Marc Hausman

2010-05-03T19:27:00-05:00

As president-CEO of Strategic Communications Group, Marc Hausman works with b-to-b and business-to-government companies on social media strategies. The company, which was founded 15 years ago as a public relations consultancy, began to focus on social media about three years ago. Today, 90% of Strategic’s revenue comes from social media communications. BtoB recently spoke with Hausman about the best ways to use social media for reaching government buyers.

Microsoft Unveils Social Media Directory for Government

2010-05-03T19:21:00-05:00

Microsoft this week announced Gov2Social , a social media directory Web site for state and local governments. Organized by city/town, county, state and elected officials, the site brings together social media links for government officials and the public. The site is geared to help state and local governments connect with each other to navigate the social media environment and highlight what state and local governments have been doing around social media, as well as enable citizens to track activities and announcements from their state and local governments.

Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) is one of Microsoft’s social media partners working on the Gov2Social campaign.

Microsoft Announces Gov2Social at BtoB Breakfast

2010-04-28T18:46:01-05:00

Microsoft Corp. this morning unveiled Gov2Social, a Web site where visitors can find state and local government officials using social media. Microsoft, one of four presenters at this morning’s BtoB NetMarketing Breakfast, said the new site is the latest part of its the Bright Side of Government initiative, which already has a presence on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

(Strategic is one of the social media consultancies working with Microsoft on its Bright Side of Government program.)

Social Media Sales Integration Takes Shape

2010-04-13T15:43:01-05:00

Marketing and sales automation applications are data junkies. Every interaction with a prospect—in-person meetings, phone calls, Emails, white paper downloads, etc. - is captured. This record serves as the guide, providing intelligence to the sales executive so decisions can be made about how to best invest their time.

What about social media? Shouldn’t the interactions an organization has with its customers and prospects in online communities and networks be detailed in an automation system?

ACG National Capital Chapter Chooses Strategic Communications Group

2010-03-18T20:24:00-05:00

The National Capital chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) has selected Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) to design and implement the group’s first-ever social media campaign directed towards adding value to its members and sponsors, increasing attendance at the chapter’s events, and driving membership.

Merchant Link Chooses Strategic Communications Group

2010-03-18T20:21:00-05:00

Merchant Link, a leader in the secure payment gateway market that works with the world’s largest retail, lodging and restaurant merchants, has selected Strategic Communications Group, as its public relations agency of record. Strategic will work with Merchant Link to help increase its brand awareness and position the company as a technology and product leader in the data security and payments gateway markets.

Millennials Fuel a Social Media Future

2010-03-12T16:41:00-05:00

When it comes to social media this current incarnation of young professionals thinks differently from those who have a bit more mileage on the resume. I’ve had to learn social media through rapid-fire engagement, and then retrofit it to a set of practices and processes ingrained over two decades.

Social Media Remains an Innovator’s Game

2010-02-02T23:02:00-05:00

Confused about social media? Industry surveys give mixed signals about corporate adoption of social media marketing. Here is my experience from the trenches.

Google and Verizon: Interesting Open Internet Bedfellows

2010-01-21T21:56:00-05:00

The debate around Network Neutrality is sometimes simplified as carriers against content providers, the owners of networks against the businesses that have grown due to Internet connectivity. So it was interesting to read that Google and Verizon filed a joint submission to the FCC last week, laying out in detail how the two companies agreed on many issues regarding an “Open Internet.”
Was this done as a PR move (nothing wrong with that, of course!), or was there really something substantive here policy-wise? I took a read, and here are the interesting nuggets IMHO.

Tech Start-Up Envy: Why Does the Capital Region Come Up Short?

2009-12-21T22:50:00-05:00

Driptech, Scribd, SolarCity, Zynga, Fitbit…they are all interesting technology start-ups recently included on BusinessWeek’s list of the “Most Intriguing New Businesses.” There’s a problem with the list though: not a single company based in the Washington, DC region made the cut. Why?

Bitten by Boorish Behavior

2009-12-09T22:29:00-05:00

What lesson should we as communications professionals learn from balloon boy, Tareq and Michaele Salahi, and the Utah Flash basketball team?

AT&T Missteps with Verizon Ad-Claim Lawsuit

2009-11-10T16:10:00-05:00

AT&T’s lawsuit against Verizon is a case of what not to do when a rival kicks you in your sorest spot. AT&T’s actions could also backfire in terms of consumer perception. “It smacks of being desperate, and the consumer reaction will be that AT&T doesn’t really have that good a product; so it has to resort to legal means,” said Marc Hausman, CEO of Strategic Communications Group.

Like Business, Social Media’s Foundation is Trust

2009-10-30T14:33:00-05:00

I’m always amused by those who claim their networking motives are merely altruistic. Charity is certainly admirable, yet in a business setting it comes off as disingenuous, thereby damaging credibility and trust.

The Forgiving World of Social Media Lead Generation

2009-10-15T13:43:00-05:00

Unlike advertising and direct marketing, social media campaigns afford a marketer time and budget for failure. Do you agree?

Hitler, September 11th and Examples of Inept Brand Management

2009-09-14T16:20:00-05:00

Companies are testing the boundaries when it comes to brand promotion in an attempt of find a balance between shocking and downright offensive.

Verizon Catches Flak for Backing Rally Put on by Coal Producer

2009-09-09T17:30:00-05:00

Verizon Wireless, which has been trying to establish its green credentials nationally, is finding itself in hot water with environmentalists blasting it for local sponsorship of a rally organized by a coal producer.

Regardless of Verizon’s intention, PR executives said if a company underwrites an event that takes a strong view on a combustible issue such as jobs and the environment, it is basically saying it’s on board with the organizers’ philosophy. “Any level of participation in an event as a sponsor, supporter or even attendee lends the credibility of your corporate brand to that event or cause,” said Marc Hausman, president-CEO of Strategic Communications Group.

Strategic Communications Group adds two new clients

2009-08-11T16:34:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group won two new AOR accounts, including Solera Networks, a provider of network forensics products and services, and Associates in Radiation Oncology, a private practice radiation therapy facility.

Influence Shift Marches On

2009-08-03T19:27:01-05:00

Is it time to for public relations professionals and corporate marketers to shed antiquated notions about where to find centers of influence?

Bitter Taste for Social Media Insourcing

2009-07-22T16:01:00-05:00

Is there a role for a consultant in the corporate social media mix? One client argues “no.” I contend “yes.”

Will Premium Content Cross the Last Mile?

2009-06-17T15:40:00-05:00

Can premium content help marketers tap social networks for lead generation? This article seeks to answer this question based on lessons learned from campaigns for Microsoft, Sun, British Telecom, BearingPoint, among others.

How AT&T Should Handle the Online iPhone Price Backlash

2009-06-12T21:49:00-05:00

iPhone mania is biting back at AT&T. A stream of online chatter that began shortly after Apple announced that a faster and beefed-up iPhone would hit AT&T on June 19 has swelled into an online tsunami of discontent among iPhone users upset that they can’t purchase the new iPhone for $199. If they want the new iPhone 3GS, they will need to fork over at least $399 for the entry-level 16-gigabyte model.

“Companies like AT&T need to be sensitive to customer feedback. But regardless of what people are saying in social media, the question is: Is the product moving?” said Marc Hausman, president/CEO of Strategic Communications Group. “If it is, there’s no value for AT&T to explain anything about costs or subsidies to its customers.”

The Quality vs. Quantity Question

2009-06-09T16:28:01-05:00

When it comes to blog readership and Twitter followers, what is more important—quality or quantity?

Can Social Media Support Enterprise Sales?

2009-06-09T16:26:01-05:00

An overview of a four-step process companies have employed to align social media and digital communications with sales activities targeting enterprise customers in the commercial and government markets.

The Goodness of Social Media Portals

2009-05-19T18:31:01-05:00

My view is that social media portals help corporate marketers combat the unsupervised adoption of Web 2.0 across the enterprise. Does this approach limit the positive impact of social media?

Competitive Intel and the Social Media Footprint

2009-05-19T18:27:00-05:00

Tracking competitors in social networks...is there an appropriate way to do this? This article explores best practices for incorporating social media into the gathering and analysis of competitive intelligence.

Strategic Communications Group Tapped by BroadSoft

2009-05-08T16:00:01-05:00

Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced its selection by BroadSoft, a worldwide provider of VoIP applications. Strategic has been hired to execute an integrated public relations and social media program to help increase awareness of BroadSoft’s advanced VoIP-powered services, available from nine of the top 10 carriers worldwide.

Tactical components of the campaign include messaging and positioning, trade and business/financial media outreach, blog development and promotion, social network engagement and tradeshow support.

Three Phases of Social Media Maturation

2009-04-15T20:43:00-05:00

Lessons learned from social media and digital marketing campaigns on behalf of British Telecom, Microsoft, BearingPoint, GovDelivery, among others. Check out the article and related wiki, where you can make additions, corrections, changes, etc.

Survey Reveals Shocking News about Trades

2009-03-16T17:10:00-05:00

Journalists turn to blogs nearly as often as trade publications for industry information and that has one public relations professional rethinking his reading priorities.

Why “Sell” Isn’t a Four Letter Word

2009-01-16T20:29:01-05:00

Social media for lead generation and promotion. Some say “no.” I argue that it can be appropriate. Here’s my rationale…

My Life as a Tool: how, when (or if) to respond to negative comments and criticism to your blog

2008-12-05T15:11:01-05:00

I am not too popular at the moment in certain cliques among the social media set. Due to the writing in my blog, I’ve been accused of being “backwards,” told to “lighten up,” and even called a “tool.” How should I respond?

TARP Worldwide Taps Strategic Communications

2008-11-18T15:25:00-05:00

Maryland-based Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) has been selected by TARP Worldwide to execute a social media campaign designed to increase the firm’s market awareness and generate leads for its sales team. TARP is a customer experience agency with a 35-year heritage as a leader and innovator in the measure of customer satisfaction and loyalty for Global 200 companies.

BT secures social media presence

2008-11-14T15:01:00-05:00

Question: How do you establish a marketing dialogue with a smallish, specialized market largely influenced by thought-leaders and solutions?

Answer: Become a thought leader and offer solutions. That was the simple process embraced by BT North America, the New York-based arm of U.K. communications service provider BT Group, when it set out earlier this year to expand its presence in the U.S. network security market.

Executive Visibility: the Rules Have Changed

2008-11-12T17:58:00-05:00

In the age of Web 2.0 it’s important to understand how the effective use of social media can also lead to opportunities in traditional media. Compelling content produced once, then has the opportunity of getting picked up by other media outlets and projecting thought leadership to larger audiences.

Is Social Media a Friend or Foe to Publishers?

2008-09-29T21:16:01-05:00

The dynamics of how quickly content reaches the masses is forcing media companies to evolve their business operations. However, does it make good business sense for publishers to play in the same sandbox as social media companies?

Cool, Hot, Sexy Things

2008-09-23T21:16:01-05:00

When Chevy Chase executive Tien Wong sent hundreds of invitations asking friends and business acquaintances to open Facebook accounts, most of them replied: “Are you serious?”

“I was serious,” said Wong, CEO of Opus8 and Lore Systems. “I want to be up on the latest trends in technology in social networking. It’s a way to keep in touch with people. It’s a tremendous business tool. It’s a great research tool. It’s a sales and lead generation tool. And it’s a great recruiting tool.”

Social Web Sites are Not Without their Down Side

2008-09-23T21:00:01-05:00

With a surge of interest in using social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace to generate business, two executives caution that the trend’s obvious marketing benefits are not without risk. Misinformation and waning enthusiasm are among the possible downsides, said Marc Hausman, founder of Strategic Communications Group in Silver Spring, and Jiyan Wei, product manager for Vocus Inc.’s PRWeb in Lanham.

Seawright Promoted to Managing Director at Strategic

2008-09-05T21:06:01-05:00

Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced the promotion of Shany Seawright to managing director.

“During the past four years, Shany has proven herself to be exceptional public relations professional with a real passion for technology,” said Marc Hausman, Strategic’s president and CEO. “Shany understands the direction our industry is headed and has done an excellent job incorporating social media tactics into client programs.”

The Empathy Balance: Promotion in a Time of Crisis

2008-09-03T21:52:01-05:00

A natural disaster can sure gin up public relations opportunities. The timeliness of the event enhances the news value of a product or service that can help address the crisis. This window closes quickly, so it is prudent for a company to evaluate how it can appropriately promote its interests when it is most opportune.

Tuvel and Strategic create partnership

2008-08-12T19:18:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD: Tuvel Communications and Strategic Communications Group have partnered to offer sales cycle marketing and social media programs to technology, software, telecommunications, security, and healthcare clients. The two firms will work together to market each company’s services to their existing clients, as well as collaborate on new business opportunities. Last month, Strategic announced a similar partnership with Web marketing firm Market Wise. When appropriate, the three companies will collaborate on client assignments.

Avectra taps Strategic as AOR

2008-08-12T19:14:01-05:00

Avectra Retains Strategic Communications Group

2008-08-12T19:09:00-05:00

Avectra Retains Strategic Communications Group Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced its selection as agency of record by Avectra, a provider of on-demand membership management software.

Mitch Arnowitz’s Tuvel Partners With Strategic Communications Group

2008-08-12T19:05:00-05:00

Silver Spring, Md.—Silver Spring-based public relations agency Strategic Communications Group, said that it has partnered with Rockville-based online communications firm Tuvel Communications, a company run by online marketing pioneer Mitch Arnowitz. Under the deal, the companies will offer lead generation, sales cycle marketing and social media programs to technology, software, telecommunications, security and healthcare clients.

Strategic Communications partners with Market Wise

2008-08-12T19:03:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD: Strategic Communications Group has partnered with Market Wise, an Internet marketing firm to provide social media services, search engine optimization, and pay-per-click advertising services. The organizations will co-market to existing clients, as well as collaborate on new business opportunities.

Strategic wins Epok business

2008-08-12T19:01:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD: Epok has selected the Strategic Communications Group as its AOR. As part of an integrated social media and business development campaign, Strategic will provide messaging, positioning, and content development services for a set of social media programs, including executive blog development and social network engagement. Strategic and Epok have also signed a lead referral agreement in which the agency will leverage contacts in its network to identify new business opportunities for Epok.

Thought leadership online can be tricky, but essential for gaining respect and mind share

2008-08-12T14:53:00-05:00

A true thought leader has to have thoughts. In their haste to embrace the new media vogue, many companies have made the fundamental mistake of initiating a blog merely for the sake of doing so or, worse, as a thinly veiled veneer for marketing purposes. Credibility is king in the blogosphere, and this large community tends to turn a sharply critical and unforgiving eye on those posters it deems overly self-serving.

Executive blogs often are a platform to discuss issues affecting an industry, and it’s critical for anyone seeking to gain mind share with the media, analysts, customers or other key stakeholders to share creative, if not provocative, ideas. While the blogosphere by design encourages healthy discourse in such cases, it’s important that the author be buffered from the inevitable spammers and, worse, those whose violently contrarian opinion may overstep the minimum necessary bounds of decorum.

Epok names Strategic as AOR

2008-07-29T18:05:01-05:00

BETHESDA, MD: Software company Epok hired Silver Spring, MD-based Strategic Communications Group as AOR, to help promote the company through social media programs such as blogs as well find new business opportunities. Epok software helps organizations access and manage applications across departments or locations.

Readership Dilemma

2008-07-17T16:46:00-05:00

The competition for attention is fierce with Technorati now tracking more than 110 million blogs. The blogosphere often digresses into a shouting match of hysterical voices promoting their respective views and agenda. How can a company garner readership and visibility for its thought leadership using an approach that is consistent with its brand image?

A New PR Paradigm for Recessionary Times

2008-07-17T16:42:00-05:00

Brand equity is something everyone champions when times are good. When the market is rocky, CEOs and CFOs recognize that revenue and profits rule. Any activity that fails to directly support these two areas is merely a cost subject to be cut or outsourced. PR professionals need to do a better job of synching our activities with sales and then promoting our success to those wielding the budget axe.

Leveraging Social Media in the Public Sector

2008-06-26T14:40:01-05:00

Don’t blink – the brave new world of social media is no longer restricted to the traditional B2B marketplace; it’s now quickly making similar inroads with more conservative government thought leaders.

Social Media Ushers in a New PR Age

2008-05-05T16:57:01-05:00

Education and engagement have defined PR. But the requirements of PR pros has changed more rapidly in the past year and a half than at any time during my nearly 20-year career. In addition to education and engagement, we need to add a third “e” to the PR skill set: entertainment.

Spielberg, Lonelygirl15 and the Entertaining of PR

2008-04-14T15:52:00-05:00

If I could hire any two people in the world to join my public relations consultancy who would it be? My top choices: award-winning movie producer/director Steven Spielberg and YouTube sensation turned actress Lonelygirl15.

Public relations has traditionally been defined by education and engagement. Communications executives excel at forming meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships with an organization’s key stakeholders. The requirements of PR professionals have changed more rapidly in the past year and a half than at any time during my nearly 20-year career. In addition to education and engagement, we need to add a third “e” to the public relations skill set—entertainment.

Defying the Trade Show Conundrum

2008-03-31T15:41:00-05:00

Corporate marketing executives often acknowledge their inability to clearly measure the return on investment from their programs. That’s why there is a cliché in the industry that half of the marketing budget wasted. The problem is no one knows which half. This is especially true when it comes to a company’s participation at a major industry conference or trade show.

Advertising and PR in the New Media Era

2008-03-31T15:38:01-05:00

Wherever people of similar interests congregate marketers are soon to follow. The requirement to segment an audience for targeting and tailoring of message is the driver of communications. Gender…cultural background…age…income…topics of interest...these demographics and considerations influence nearly $300 billion in advertising expenditures a year in the United States. It’s no secret we are now in a midst of a sea-change in the media advertisers use to connect with customers and prospects.

Expand Your Network: How LinkedIn Won Over the Communications Professional

2008-02-29T15:10:01-05:00

MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, Friendster. These are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to social networking tools. There are hundreds of other sites around the globe offering users the opportunity to interact with large, small, or even micro–targeted audiences.

So why have communications professionals crowned LinkedIn, with far fewer users than Facebook or MySpace, their social network site of choice…

Strategic Signs Altron

2008-01-21T17:42:01-05:00

Altron has selected Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) as its new PR agency of record. Strategic will implement an action plan that showcases continued momentum and market leadership to drive the growth and valuation of Altron. Strategic will also increase Altron’s visibility in the contracting community in order to develop relationships with major contractors.

Integral picks Strategic as AOR

2008-01-09T22:13:00-05:00

LANHAM, MD: Integral Systems, a provider of satellite ground processing and control systems, has chosen Silver Spring, MD-based Strategic Communications Group as AOR. The agency will use media, analyst, and financial communications to boost Integral’s market visibility, as well as develop an internal communications program for the company’s nearly 500 employees, located in eight different US offices.

Tellabs’ hometown effort builds buzz at NXTComm

2008-01-09T22:12:00-05:00

Journalists and analysts attending NXTComm, the biggest telecommunications-related trade show of the year, are barraged with press releases, product announcements, and events to attend, so getting their attention is not easy.

But lining up face-to-face meetings was a must for Tellabs, a telecom network vendor.

With the help of Strategic Communications Group, Tellabs used its local knowledge of Chicago, the location of the company’s headquarters, to reel in visitors to its booth for a firsthand glimpse of its new 7100 Nano, a product for delivering video over optical networks.

Strategy

In launching “Sweet Home Chicago,” Tellabs and Strategic Communications Group sought to provide practical information to key journalists and analysts about restaurants near the convention center, the location of wi-fi hotspots, and how to avoid long cab lines. “We wanted to campaign ahead of time to get their attention and make sure they could be there,” says Ariana Nikitas, Tellabs senior manager of PR.

Tactics

Strategic developed a Web site, www.sweethomechicago.tv, with practical information about eating, working, and playing in Chicago, along with information on Tellabs’ speakers and events at the show. The team sent 20 to 30 key journalists and analysts notebooks and detailed maps of Chicago, and announced contract wins for the 7100 Nano leading up to NXTComm. During the show, Tellabs conducted a survey of telecom trends in association with Telephony magazine, adds Strategic MD Chris Parente.

Results

More than 25 meetings were held with press and analysts, helping push awareness of the product. Media hits included trades, such as Light Reading, CNET/ZDNet, and Wireless Week. A few weeks later, Verizon launched a service, “and though it didn’t bring up Tellabs at all, three separate reporters asked if [it] was using the 7100 system,” Nikitas notes.

Future

Nikitas says Tellabs would definitely consider doing another campaign for next year’s show in Las Vegas.

PR team: Tellabs (Chicago) and Strategic Communications Group (Silver Spring, MD)

Campaign: Sweet Home Chicago

Duration: May to June 2007

Budget: $50,000

PR Relationship Counseling: Why Even the Best Agency-Client Relationships Go South

2008-01-09T22:10:00-05:00

Many agencies view their relationship with clients through a warped prism, seeing the relationship as a one way street, where information flows from the client to the agency. They view their clients as the boss and the agency as order-takers. Coming from the client side, I can tell you companies are fed up with that PR paradigm.

Problems often arise from the beginning of the engagement. While it’s the job of the client to help set initial goals and to always stay engaged in the process, it’s imperative that agencies provide effective counsel and drive the client’s vision to success and completion. In addition, many agencies employ the “bait and switch” tactic, where they showcase senior talent in the sales process. But when it comes down to execution, it’s often younger staffers that are expected to manage the work. Clients realize that a partner or managing director can’t do every last bit of work on an account, but they want to know that they’re getting a well-rounded team capable of providing top-notch service. They expect contributions from the entire team and hope that younger team members may have unique strengths to offer, especially in areas such as social media and Web 2.0 initiatives.

That said, they also expect and pay for the strategic thinking and experience of the more senior members of the team. The key thing to remember is that clients demand more than just media placements from public relations agencies. They want true business counselors who can help them navigate through their toughest communications and marketing challenges, thereby providing a more quantifiable return on their investment.

But there are two sides to every story, and many clients are not fully prepared to support public relations agencies. The old adage, “First to get hired, first to get fired,” still rings true for many institutions. It’s important that clients offer the same support and respect to agencies as their internal staff, because any effective PR agency should be executing as an extension of the client’s communications team. A public relations engagement should be managed in much the same way as a sales, marketing or business development division.

At the same time, public relations practitioners need to take the time to truly understand their client’s business, and it’s an unfortunate fact that many do not. To be successful tactically and also seen as a valuable business counselor, agencies need to go beyond mere awareness of their client’s business goals and develop a true expertise in their specific market. The agency needs to have almost as deep an understanding of a client’s competitors, partners and stakeholders as the client does.

It’s more than just a problem of how clients view agencies, though. At the core, public relations professionals need to take more care in managing the relationship. Agencies need to be more firm in outlining expectations and goals from the beginning of a contract, and through the course of the relationship. This is crucial to keeping clients engaged in the process and to providing the value that clients expect and deserve.

The responsibility of keeping a good relationship and expectations high is a shared one. PR practitioners need to be accountable and take initiative to step up and say “here is what needs to be done” in order to support clients in their business goals. Smart companies want quality recommendations, not just a bunch of order-takers. Whether it is increasing press coverage, promoting a new product or event, or a rebranding effort that encompasses all of those tasks, agencies need to work harder at managing client relationships and prevent communication gaps from developing between client and agency. That is our line of work, after all: communication.

Wireless Matrix hires Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T22:09:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD: Wireless Matrix Corporation, a provider of mobile resource and fleet management solutions, has hired Strategic Communications Group as its AOR. The agency will handle media and analyst outreach and business development work.

Leveraging industry surveys, benefits of online video, more

2008-01-09T22:08:01-05:00

How can I best leverage industry surveys to support my client’s PR goals?

“Surveys are an excellent way of generating media visibility for a client,” says Tonya Bacon, a director at Strategic Communications Group. Both reporters and their readers appreciate surveys because they help frame a discussion and provide a point of reference that validates, opposes, or generates a consensus viewpoint.

Surveys often attract a reporter’s attention by offering a fresh take or new facts on an industry topic, she adds. They are also a useful tool to get a company’s message into the news and in front of target audiences.

“From a PR perspective, the best surveys are short, easy to understand, and easy to explain,” advises Bacon. “Work with researchers to develop a survey concept and questions likely to deliver the headlines your client would like to see.”

Surveys can be conducted by phone, direct mail, or in person. “Each method has distinct advantages and challenges, depending on a client’s goals and budget,” explains Bacon. “Also, think about using the Internet to conduct your survey. It can provide quick feedback at minimal cost.”

Online video

How can our company use YouTube/online video as a promotional tool?

“From a corporate perspective, the videos most likely to travel are ones built with baked-in human interest,” says Josh Shabtai, senior new media specialist at Ketchum. For instance, providing your staff access to the necessary equipment, even something as simple as a 0 camera and some editing software, gives them a sense of pride in their work.

“This do-it-yourself ethic results in a greater sense of ownership over the project,” he notes. “They have an added incentive for promoting the video among their coworkers. The same rule applies externally. Videos created by and for a built-in audience encourage evangelism.”

While posting these videos directly to YouTube is an easy, efficient way to disseminate your message, Shabtai notes that online video sharing through several new media venues creates greater and more consistent visibility.

“The mistake most companies make when thinking about video sharing networks like YouTube is that videos need to be watched through the network itself to be successful,” he explains. “Most videos are actually watched through affiliate sites - personal blogs, social networking profiles, and so on.”

Brand protection

How do I handle false information about my brand online?

“First, [don’t only] listen [to] and monitor the blogs directly relevant to your brand,” advises Pete Snyder, CEO/founder of New Media Strategies. “You should also have an early warning system that tracks health, environmental, social, and business sites that cover issues that you potentially impact.”

Snyder stresses the importance of making sure you have a voice in the conversation, as the true story from a known personality will trounce false information 99% of the time.

“Even after the horse has left the barn, most blog editors are willing to issue factual corrections to inaccurate information,” he explains. “Their credibility with their readers is as important as your perception with your customers.”

Your lawyers shouldn’t be your lead communicators, adds Snyder, as many blog editors will mock such efforts and post them as a badge of honor. Instead, the better way to go is to respectfully present your side of the story with citations in a conversational tone.

Consumers emerge on b-to-b companies’ radar

2008-01-09T22:06:00-05:00

As the PR and marketing landscape continues to evolve, even firms long rooted in b-to-b communications increasingly need to help clients reach consumers. Agency execs say there is a definite trend toward historically non-consumer-focused clients paying more attention to the consumer space, particularly tech companies whose customers are other tech businesses. That means new sets of challenges - and opportunities - for agency management. “There is lots of consumer outreach by traditional tech companies for different reasons, including brand awareness they need to have,” says Kazumi Mechling, SVP of Waggener Edstrom’s consumer marketing practice. “There is just more receptivity to us being creative and promotional by tech clients [than I’ve seen in] the past. We see lots of growth projection for us, and we don’t want to lose our great tech clients [to whom] we [must] provide resources. They would otherwise go elsewhere.” To provide these resources, says Mechling, WE has ramped up its consumer practice. It now maintains a team of communications pros with a varied mix of skills. “We end up needing to have a cross-team of people who are tech-literate, as well as people who are really engaging in very consumer-oriented PR and promotional marketing,” Mechling explains. In addition, she says, helping a b-to-b client enter the consumer market involves a delicate balancing act between two worlds: its established customer base and the new realm of consumer media. Efforts can be most successful, Mechling notes, when clients take “mini-steps” into the previously foreign territory. These days, “if you don’t bring a chair for the customer’s customer into the equation, you will fail,” warns O’Keeffe & Company principal Stephen O’Keeffe. “Traditionally, the trend has been to dig deeper and deeper into the technology. Obviously, we must understand the technology in the products, but a lot of the value we bring to the client [now] is in stepping away from [the technology] and closer to the customer.” Regardless of their tech savvy, it’s the b-to-b customers’ customer - the consumer - who will in the end determine whether a product is good or bad, says O’Keeffe. To help tech businesses target this sometimes more emotional audience - unlike b-to-b, a population less concerned with speeds and feeds and more interested in how a product looks or fits a certain lifestyle - PR pros say that clients may need some hand-holding. When tech companies foray into the consumer realm, says Strategic Communications Group (SCG) MD Chris Parente, agencies are sometimes required to push clients to talk about their products in ways previously unfamiliar to them. In announcing the launch of a client’s Internet protocol-based TV (IPTV) service in Kansas, for example, SCG incorporated The Wizard of Oz as a press-release theme. That, Parente says, provided consumer-media reporters with something a bit more fun - and accessible - than the tech product announcement alone. “You need to understand the market well enough to have the client’s trust and respect as a business counselor, but you also have to remain a little bit of an outsider,” Parente notes. “If you drink the Kool-Aid too much, you’re not in a position [to reach consumers].” Key points: B-to-b-focused companies increasingly need to understand their products’ consumer appeal Unlike business populations, consumers are often driven more by emotional messaging To reach target audiences, even b-to-b-focused firms must now employ a mix of tech-literate, consumer-friendly staffers

Senforce piques interest with thumbsucking push

2008-01-09T22:05:01-05:00

Senforce Technologies makes security management software to protect data used either in the office or on the road.

While information technology products may sometimes sound a bit dull, Senforce, with the help of PR firm Strategic Communications Group, aimed to get reporters and customers to associate the company’s current and upcoming products with a topic generating widespread concern: recent data thefts at government agencies and corporations.

Strategy

To attract people’s interest, Senforce coined the term “thumbsucking” to describe the use of thumb-sized USB devices to pull and store data from computers. The idea was to play off current events, such as the data theft at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and catch the attention of IT reporters and companies affected by the threat. “Thumbsucking is an intriguing term - how do you not stop and take a look at what it is?” says Ed McGarr, Senforce marketing VP.

Tactics

The team conducted a survey at two IT security conferences, FOSE and InfoSec, on how confident respondents were in their employers’ network security and the threat that removable storage devices like thumb drives and iPods posed to data security. Results were posted on a dedicated Web site, and a Wikipedia entry was created, notes Shany Seawright, director at Strategic. Media outreach included mailing USB devices to nearly 40 IT security reporters.

Results

Coverage included a number of IT publications, such as Network World, Computerworld, eWeek, and InfoWorld. “We’ve [also] had a bump in phone calls, Web site hits, and requests for white papers on our Web site and the thumbsucking site,” says McGarr.

Future

“Now it’s our job to try to generate some business from this,” McGarr says. Senforce will use additional surveys and capitalize on interest generated from the campaign to draw attention to upcoming software.

PR team: Senforce Technologies (Draper, UT) and Strategic Communications Group (Silver Spring, MD)

Campaign: The Thumbsucking Threat

Duration: March 2007-ongoing

Budget: $25,000 to $35,000

Everest Software Selects Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T22:04:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced its selection as PR agency of record by Everest Software, a provider of comprehensive business management software solutions for small and medium- sized businesses (SMBs).

“We’re executing a tailored PR program designed to further elevate Everest’s market visibility, enhance third-party credibility and help further drive their corporate valuation,” said Strategic managing director Brian Muys. “We are excited to work with them to achieve continued business growth and success.”

Strategic Communications Group Tapped By Lagan

2008-01-09T22:02:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced its selection as PR agency of record for North America by Lagan, a provider of CRM human services solutions.

“We sought the counsel of a PR firm who could help us solidify our market presence as the leading provider of state and local government CRM solutions,” said Lori Goss, VP of marketing for Lagan. “With its deep experience in the business-to-government market and reputation for helping to build clients’ corporate valuation, Strategic was the best choice for our PR needs.”

“Lagan’s award winning solutions distinctively position them as a leader in the government CRM market,” said Strategic managing director Brian Muys. “We’re excited to work with them in further strengthening their industry awareness to drive continued business growth.”

Senforce Secures Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T22:01:00-05:00

DRAPER, UT: Senforce Technologies, a maker of security management software, has chosen Silver Spring, MD-based Strategic Communications Group as AOR. Strategic will promote market awareness of the company through a new PR campaign as well as assist Senforce with business development.

Driving Technology Thought Leadership

2008-01-09T22:00:00-05:00

This by-lined article by Strategic Managing Director Brian Muys is a piece with an innovative and thoughtful angle on leveraging industry analysts to increase market awareness and visibility and also features a “how-to” guide of achieving those relationships to best benefit the company’s goals.

Washington Business Journal’s “Sources Say” Column Features Strategic Managing

2008-01-09T21:58:01-05:00

Sources Say features responses from industry professionals to questions posed by Washington Business Journal.

Question: Can good customer service be taught? If so, how have you seen it done?

We make teaching customer service a top priority at my firm. This is actually the topic of our agency-wide professional development seminar this month. As a group, we’re studying methods and strategies for ensuring our clients are receiving the best service possible. We’re also taking a look at real world examples of exceptional customer service from a cross-section of businesses and focusing on what works best and why. We have taken the view that not only can customer service be taught, but that like other skills, it must be continuously honed and practiced.

- Chris Parente, Director

Strategic Communications Group

Best Practices: Implementing New Media Tactics to Reach Internal Audiences

2008-01-09T21:48:01-05:00

Strategic Communications Director Shany Seawright discusses tips and tactics to leverage new media for internal audiences. In addition, Shany highlights best practices from a client’s highly successful internal communications campaign.

BTP builds awareness of data centers’ importance

2008-01-09T21:47:00-05:00

Campaign

Businesses have concerns and responsibilities that make data storage and management crucial.

Disaster recovery, federal regulations like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and increased amounts of IT equipment have shown the utility of data centers, which are outside facilities able to meet such needs. With many of the area’s data centers located in Northern Virginia, Baltimore was lacking. Baltimore Technology Park (BTP), with the help of Strategic Communications Group, tapped into those “trigger points” for the launch of its facility.

Strategy

According to BTP, it is the largest carrier-neutral facility in Maryland (it doesn’t require a specific network provider) and the only one in Baltimore. It wanted to educate the market about the importance of data centers and gain recognition for its brand and unique offerings. That meant reaching out to companies of all sizes and, because of its proximity to Washington, DC, the federal market.

Tactics

Strategic Communications Group conducted media outreach across print, broadcast, and online outlets. It also worked with BTP on white papers, which were available free on its Web site and addressed the issues a data center can solve. “The challenge was translating the technology in a clear and compelling way,” says Christopher Parente, MD at Strategic. “We [focused] on the general business trends.” To reach the federal market, Strategic created a systems integrator advisory board: four market leaders who could target that community and offer advice.

Results

BTP earned media hits in the Baltimore Business Journal, and Federal Computer Week, among other outlets. One client actually moved its operations from Northern Virginia. NSI Hosting is quoted saying BTP gave it the opportunity to “economically” move into the “untapped” Baltimore area.

Future

Strategic maintains a relationship with BTP’s parent company, Alabanza. Future collaboration is possible.

Baltimore Technology Park

PR team: Strategic Communications Group (Silver Spring, MD) and Baltimore Technology Park (Baltimore)

Campaign: Baltimore Technology Park launch

Duration: January to April 2006

Budget: Just under $50,000

Acuity Mobile Selects Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:45:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced its selection as PR agency of record by Acuity Mobile, a provider of targeted mobile content delivery technology.

Microspace Retains Strategic Communications Group

2008-01-09T21:43:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group (www.gotostrategic.com) announced it has renewed its relationship as PR agency of record for data content distributor Microspace Communications Corporation.

“We are confident in renewing this relationship with Strategic because after five years of working closely with our team, they know our business inside and out,” said Microspace vice president and general manager Joe Amor. “Strategic’s track record and expertise within the satellite and digital content markets gives us the confidence in knowing that they will play an intricate part in driving our aggressive visibility campaigns.”

Tellabs Government Systems hires Strategic

2008-01-09T21:41:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD: Tellabs Government Systems has hired Strategic Communications Group to manage outreach within the federal IT market among media and analysts. Tellabs Government Systems and parent company Tellabs manufactures and sells equipment used to provide voice, video, and data services over wireline and wireless networks. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The Press Release is Alive and Well

2008-01-09T21:39:00-05:00

Strategic Communications Group Managing Director Chris Parente advises there’s still plenty of kick in a well-prepared release.

Strategic Communications Group, Infoition partner

2008-01-09T21:36:00-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD: Strategic Communications Group has formed a partnership with Infoition, a provider of media monitoring services that track and summarize news from a variety of sources. The agency said the alliance with Infoition will allow its clients to respond more quickly to breaking news.

Strategic Communications Partners with Media Intelligence Firm

2008-01-09T21:29:01-05:00

SILVER SPRING, MD—Strategic Communications Group, a public relations agency, and Infoition, a provider of customized media intelligence, have formed a partnership to offer integrated public relations and media monitoring services. “Today’s businesses require a much higher level of market intelligence than they did in the past to stay competitive,” says Infoition CEO Jeff Trexel. “At the same time, more and more companies report that it’s just too hard for them to keep up with the deluge of news. This partnership will take media intelligence to the next level and give our clients a crucial edge in the marketplace.” Infoition tracks real-time media information 24/7 from thousands of news sources and provides a custom early morning news summary for corporate executives.

Strategic Communications Group and Infoition Announce Services Partnership

2008-01-09T19:58:00-05:00

PR agency Strategic Communications Group and customized media intelligence provider Infoition announced that they have formed a partnership to offer integrated public relations and media monitoring services.

Marc Hausman, Strategic’s president and CEO, said, “It is no longer enough to provide one dimensional public relations services. With Infoition, we can offer businesses the truly unique proposition of having their own, dedicated 24/7 media war room. Now, our clients will have an even more powerful tool for rapid response to breaking news. We are thrilled to integrate their services into our counsel.”

Who Wants a FEMA Blog? The Time Has Come to Teach an Old Dog New Media Tricks

2008-01-09T19:07:00-05:00

The latest FEMA communications debacle severely frayed the public’s trust in the agency. As most in the PR space—and general public—know by now, FEMA employees were recently busted posing as reporters during a mock press conference on the California wildfires. As the fires subsided, the outrage over FEMA’s handling of the situation has grown more intense. My take: A well thought out and administered blog could help. It wouldn’t be a magic potion to cure all that ails FEMA, but it would begin to foster an open dialogue and start a conversation, providing a foundation of trust and authenticity between the agency and the public.