Technology, social media and the World Cup

With the World Cup upon us, we're seeing some seriously cool ways the world is participating through new technology and social media. For example, ESPN (Catalyst client) offers all 64 matches which will be aired live and in high definition on ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC, with extensive coverage also available on ESPN3.com and ESPN Mobile TV. To top this off, they're attempting to measure media usage and advertiser effects across all media platforms - TV, Internet, mobile and print, through their research initiative, ESPN XP. We agree with our client partner that this is a breakthrough endeavor; check out Bret Werner's article in PR Week on this very subject.

In social media, we're watching the world participate in a global conversation. For example, fans are using Twitter's hashtag #WorldCup, and we're seeing practically every game hit Twitter's trending topics list. Facebook is offering The Facebook Guide to the World Cup, which explains worldwide live streaming partnerships (including one in the U.S. for ESPN), as well as Facebook's Support Your Team Leaderboard which tracks elements like fan "intensity." In the mobile location world, Foursquare parntered with CNN to offer specific badges for users that check-in to over 100 viewing venues in 32 countries around the world. Similarly, Gowalla partnered with Major League Soccer to create trips in local areas that highlight soccer.

Internet Week Strikes New York City

Last week was Internet Week in New York City, where the top technologists in the country came together to discuss the latest trends and future technology predictions across various industries. Some gatherings actually filter into this week as well, such as the Sports 2.0 VIP Summit (where Catalyst clients Timex and ESPN will be speaking). Some of our favorite events from last week are available via streaming video if you'd like to check them out. Specifically, one really interesting conversation shows how Pepsi is leveraging UPC codes by calling them "universal purpose codes" and partnering with Sticky Bits to deliver cause marketing information directly to consumers.

iPhone 4 offers FaceTalk

On June 15th, Apple will bring yet another change to the world: the iPhone 4. Of the five key new features of this product, most notable is something called FaceTalk, or, put more simply, adding live video to standard mobile phone conversations. Anyone who has had a chat via their computer's webcam knows what this is about (for a visual presentation, watch the iPhone 4 promotional video). It's important to note, however, that the iPhone 4 is not perfect, so before you make a personal decision to switch your provider or upgrade your phone, do some research (we recommend this article).

Apple is actually not the first to introduce live video conversations. Mobile applications (i.e., Skype) have been offering these for months now across various providers. The significance of new iPhone 4 is the massive network of brand ambassadors behind it; Apple has sold over 50 million units since 2007, and owns about 28 percent of the market share. The overarching trend of video conversations can be leveraged to benefit brands. For example, video calls (which can be recorded) create a more intimate and authentic conversation, one that could seriously enhance a relationship between a brand and a consumer. If you're interested in learning more about how you can leverage such opportunities, ask a Catalyst account lead.

New York, NY, March 15, 2010 - Catalyst Public Relations has been named "Boutique PR Agency of the Year" by PRWeek, the industry's largest trade publication.

The prestigious award, which recognizes financial and client growth, client retention and overall creativity and innovation was presented to Catalyst at the annual PRWeek Awards Dinner in New York City, which honors the best-in-class public relations agencies and programs of the year. Additionally, Catalyst earned honorable mention in the overall Agency of the Year category.

This marks the second consecutive year that Catalyst has been recognized by a leading industry media organization, after being named New Consultancy of the Year by The Holmes Report in 2009.

In selecting Catalyst, the PRWeek judges noted "Catalyst focuses on three distinct practice areas: sports, active lifestyle, and entertainment. With three offices across the US, the agency works with a select roster of 15 brands. This model allows the agency's most senior people to work very closely on accounts, something which helped to contribute to the agency's 94 percent client-retention rate."

"This tremendous honor is a credit to our entire team, who dedicate themselves everyday to building our clients' business," said Bret Werner, Catalyst Managing Partner. "To be recognized among some of the most well respected agencies in our industry further validates that our unique approach to client service and staff retention is successful."

About Catalyst

Catalyst, founded in October of 2005, is at the forefront of strategic media relations through its extensive knowledge of traditional and emerging media. The agency partners with 15 of the foremost brands to reach the hearts and minds of consumers who are passionate about sports, entertainment and leading an active lifestyle. Catalyst is headquartered in New York with offices in Charlotte and Los Angeles.