Wednesday, November 5, 2008

JCOM 2300 PR News #14

Following the trend and increase in social responsibility McDonald's has released their Corporate Social Responsibility report through a website, according to an article by PR Week.

The release of the report looks to be a great example of Internal PR. The use of screen savers, e-mail messages to employees from CEO's, and info packets at headquarters all are great examples. The executive blogs are a good resource as well.

The quote in the article shows that the internal PR has done a good job of getting company leaders ready to discuss with the press.

“We really tried to make [the report] very interesting, to bring out the video and to use the blog more and have layers and layers…in the way that it appeals to everyone,” Langert said. “Social responsibility is a part of everyone's job at McDonald's, and everyone should care, so the language is straightforward.”

JCOM 2300 PR News #13

An article on PR Week discussed how Starbucks has joined with (RED), a group that focuses on eliminating AIDS in Africa. According to Stacey Krum, a Starbuck's spokesperson, the PR plan in regards to the partnership will include traditional media relations, online outreach, and in-store marketing and events.

Customers will be able to take pictures of themselves between the red parentahses that have come to be a symbol for (RED) and upload them onto the Starbuck's website. Starbuck's will allow customers to donate to the (RED) fund through purchasing certain holiday drinks at the stores.

This sounds like a wonderful campaign. With the popularity and trend of socially responsible shoppers and the use of the holiday season it seems like a great match for everyone involved. Connecting consumers to a product with a cause helps your cause as a PR company.

Election Night Party

Herald Journal
Utah Statesman
MTV Rock the Vote

Monday, November 3, 2008

JCOM 2300 PR News #12

An article in PR Week explained how Omnicom is starting a new agency that is based on mobile communications. The new firm, Mobile Behavior, "will focus on incorporating mobile communications into marketing plans and media strategy."

I'm a little confused as to why a new agency needs to be created in order to do this. I feel all marketing/PR professionals should be moving in this direction. Mobile communications should be a focus of all of those in the communication profession.

Maybe having an agency focus on it directly will help put them further.

JCOM 2300 PR News #11

The biotechnology trade association known as BIO has come up with an innovative way to attach itself with a television show according to a PR Week article. An interactive website located at eleventhhourfacts.com is an attempt to help inform public about the biotechnology industry. It is a great idea for the website to base its content on the recent shows. The more industry related website geared more towards professionals is also a great idea.

“We're not here to comment on the program we're using it as an opportunity to make sure that consumers have the right message about biotech,” said Jerry Johnson, EVP of strategic planning for Brodeur Partners Washington office.

I find it interesting that they are riding the coat tails of the tv program but the program is not doing the opposite. It would have been amazing to establish a relationship with CBS to promote the site as well.