http://immediatefuture.shinemarketing.com/ en katy.howell@immediatefuture.co.uk Copyright 2012 2012-03-23T08:30:20+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/new-guidance-on-the-business-case-for-social-customer-service http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/new-guidance-on-the-business-case-for-social-customer-service#When:08:30:20Z It also tackles the practical challenges and costs involved in deploying social media as a customer service channel. Making the proof case is notoriously difficult as Adam Lewis, Managing Consultant at immediate future explains: "There's often a fear that social will open up Pandora's Box for customer service teams -  an unquantifiable wave of hard-to-handle customer interactions." Adam adds: "This guide provides a methodical way to assess the business case before jumping in. It will help avoid any hidden costs and identify benefits that matter most to a business." The guide gives practical advice to the customer service industry, allowing businesses to:   -  Calculate the commercial returns -  Avoid any hidden social media costs -  Predict exposure to customer interactions in social media -  Work out how much resource is needed  -  Understand the skills your team will need Get your free copy of the social customer service guide here. Get more great social customer service content at the immediate future blog.   2012-03-23T08:30:20+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-awarded-pan-european-remit-for-staples http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-awarded-pan-european-remit-for-staples#When:12:17:50Z Social media consultancy, immediate future, has been brought in to work with Staples Europe to  create their social media strategy. The cross-functional brief requires analysis of all aspects of the Staples business in 15 European regions including; UK, France, Italy, Germany and Spain. It spans IT, customer service, HR, PR, marketing and eCommerce functions. immediate future will begin with an internal audit of skills and capabilities to assess social media readiness. In parallel, social media insights are being gathered into consumer behaviour, the market-place and competitor activity to inform the strategy. Adam Lewis, Director at immediate future, said: “This is a complex project that will provide analysis and advice across the European B2B and B2C business areas. The output will be a robust strategy built on insight to inform how best to invest in social media to support the business.” Ruth Coates, Marketing Europe said: “We recognise that social media is changing the way that our consumers shop. We are working with immediate future to determine how and where to invest in social media to get measurable results. The rollout of any strategy will be supported through training and mentoring of Staples associates.   2011-12-12T12:17:50+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-launches-online-reputation-training http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-launches-online-reputation-training#When:15:32:06Z Social media consultancy, immediate future, is launching a new training service to help organisations understand how to prepare for and control an online crisis. Through an immersive and life-like simulation exercise, participants are placed in the eye of the Twitter storm, under attack from angry bloggers and face-to-face with an avalanche of consumer questions and demands. The simulation, which has been tried and tested by Sony Electronics across Europe, meets the need for organisations to be prepared to act at lightning speed to manage their reputation in the face of a crisis online. It also seeks to minimise any negative legacy for their online reputation on search engines. With a bespoke and scalable scenario for every organisation, immediate future's simulations feature role-playing and live interaction from a range of characters across traditional media and multiple social media platforms. This tests the skills of the online reputation management team including organisation, decision-making, use of monitoring tools and their ability to communicate through relevant social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter. All the activity is done in private and secure platforms that cannot be accessed by anyone else. Nick Sharples, previously Director of Corporate Communications at Sony Europe said: "I was really impressed with the work of immediate future - it was well planned and delivered the social media immersion and integration that I knew we needed to replicate the reality of a fast moving online crisis. The crisis simulation gave us food for thought - not to mention some quickened pulses. The increasing tempo and pressure of the day also made it feel very real!" Adam Lewis, director at immediate future added: "You just need to look at case-studies of Nestle Kit Kat and Domino's Pizza to see the extra complexity that social media has added to crisis management. Organisations have to move faster, use multiple platforms and have the resources in place to interact with their audiences in real-time. Our simulation allows people to learn new skills and identify new vulnerabilities in a safe environment." The simulation is part of a comprehensive online reputation management service from immediate future. This includes vulnerability audits, reviewing and updating existing crisis management processes and bespoke training workshops for staff. More detail can be found at: http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/services/Handling-an-online-crisis/ immediate future is offering clients a free initial consultation to assess their readiness to deal with an online reputation issue. For more information, please contact adam.lewis@immediatefuture.co.uk.   2011-07-21T15:32:06+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-wins-double-accolade-in-ro-top-100-agencies-guide http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-wins-double-accolade-in-ro-top-100-agencies-guide#When:12:33:15Z After seven years managing online reputations for global brands, immediate future has proven it is still at the cutting edge of social media. The social media consultancy was nominated one of the top five most respected agencies as voted for by peers, and one of the top ten agencies to watch in 2011 in this year's Reputation Online Top 100 Agencies guide. Katy Howell, MD of immediate future said: "I am incredibly proud of the team here at IF, it's great to come in to the office everyday and be surrounded by people who are completely passionate about social media. I love that they aren't afraid to push ideas - and often clients - to deliver best practice. And it is a great honour to be recognised by one's peers. Thank you to those that voted." Founded in 2004, immediate future has a heritage of helping brands and blue-chips from across the globe build communities, connect with customers, protect online reputations and develop social media strategies. The social media consultancy has carved out a reputation for training the industry, setting best practice guidelines; and living and breathing social media without any allegiances to technologies or channels.   2011-07-06T12:33:15+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-wins-indesit-company http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/immediate-future-wins-indesit-company#When:08:49:35Z Social media consultancy, immediate future, has been hired by Indesit Company, the largest manufacturer of white goods in the UK, to integrate social media across the business. The team will be providing strategic guidance for a range of functions including PR, HR, marketing and customer service. Katy Howell, MD of immediate future, said: "Indesit has built its reputation on innovative technology and reliable customer service and that's why it's the market leader. We see social media as an extension of this position and a way for Indesit to provide efficient customer engagement." immediate future's strategic counsel starts with an audit to gather insights, contextualise the business and identify consumer conversations and communities. A risk assessment highlights dangers to online brand reputation; and a social media score-card enables the team to develop a strategy and assess the level of training and mentoring needed to up-skill the staff. Indesit Marketing Director, Adam Woolf, commented: "immediate future offers the expertise and impartial advice that we are looking for. Social media is changing the relationship between consumers and brands. We want to ensure Indesit continues to lead the way in customer service and market innovation." -ends-   2011-05-27T08:49:35+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/do-you-love-or-hate-travel-join-the-debate http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/do-you-love-or-hate-travel-join-the-debate#When:12:03:39Z Innovative free conference call provider, Powwownow, is raising brand awareness among business commuters, thanks to a campaign that promises to give back time.   Through a combination of blogging, tweeting, liking and digging, Powwownow’s ‘Love/Hate Travel?’ campaign reaches out to money-rich, time-poor commuters  by encouraging the use of two central hashtags – #lovetravel / #hatetravel – in relation to the likes and dislikes of business travel.   The tongue-in-cheek campaign has been designed to position Powwownow as the facilitator to hassle-free, environmentally-conscious business arrangements and a smart alternative to the stresses and expenses of business travel.   “We all do it and everybody likes to talk about it. Just mention the word commuting to any business traveller and – love it or hate it – they will have something to say,” says Andy Pearce, CEO at Powwownow.   “Think of Love/Hate Travel? as the commuter’s agony aunt, we want to hear your travel wows and your woes and we might just be able to give something back, whether that’s a comforting word in your ear, those precious hours you lost to signalling failures on the train line; or an awesome prize.”   The campaign embeds an integrated mix of off and online marketing, including sponsored taxis as well as tube and cross-track posters, to drive bulk traffic during initial campaign stages; though the hashtags will act as the campaign’s central hub, aggregating content from multiple channels.   The campaign will also incorporate regular and guest bloggers contributing content, competitions and awareness generated through online PR, incentives – including Powwownow Plus subscriptions – as well as giveaways.   In addition, collaborating with key Mavens, connections and fans will ensure optimal campaign buzz and access to all-important, word of mouth.   The campaign is being implemented by the brand and digital agency Birddog in collaboration with immediate future.   For more information, visit http://www.lovehatetravel.co.uk/   2011-03-21T12:03:39+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/sony-introduces-worlds-first-digital-still-cameras-with-full-hd-progressive http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/sony-introduces-worlds-first-digital-still-cameras-with-full-hd-progressive#When:11:38:18Z Sony today unveils five new Cyber-shotTM digital still cameras that make it easy to achieve DSLR-like quality still images, stunning 3D photos and high-quality Full HD videos. Sony has designed five new innovative 16.2-megapixel Cyber-shotTM cameras (models DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX7) that are the world's first compact digital still cameras to include 3D Still ImageTM mode, for taking 3D images using only one lens and imager. In addition, the Cyber-shotTM TX100V is the world's first still compact digital camera to offer Full HD (1920 x 1080/50p) progressive video shooting for silk-smooth reproduction of fast-moving action. The TX100V is also the first Cyber-shotTM camera from Sony with an 8.8cm (3.5-inch) OLED touch screen that provides deeper blacks and rich colours, while being thinner and offering a faster response time than most LCDs - a feature that's especially useful when shooting movies. Additionally, the WX10 is one of the only digital still cameras to include a high speed linear focus feature that provides quicker, more precise focusing that's comparable to the speed of a DSLR camera. Advanced Video CaptureCapturing no less than 50 Full HD (1920 x 1080) progressive frames per second (‘50p'), the Cyber-shotTM TX100V digital camera assures even smoother video playback with sports and other fast-moving action. The DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX7 cameras record crystal-clear movies at 50i in 1080 AVCHD.Separate buttons are provided for shooting video and stills, and ‘Dual Rec' mode allows simultaneous capture of crisp still images without interrupting video recording. (Dual Rec is not supported in 50p mode). Create Personal 3D ContentSony makes it easy to create personal 3D content that can be viewed on a 3D TV home theatre system. 3D images can be captured using 3D Sweep PanoramaTM mode or the new 3D Still Image mode. In 3D Still Image mode, the 3D digital camera takes two consecutive shots in different focus positions to calculate the depths, creating left-eye and right-eye images to produce a 3D effect. Images can be enjoyed in 2D or stunning 3D on compatible 3D televisions like the new BRAVIA KDL-HX820 (3D-compatible HDMI cables and 3D active shutter glasses are also required). The cameras also include the 3D Sweep PanoramaTM feature, which lets you take panoramic pictures in one press-and-sweep motion. The high-speed burst of frames is stitched together to automatically create detail-packed 3D panoramas. These cameras will let you view images in a whole new way. Unlike 3D Sweep PanoramaTM mode, which lets you view your 3D images on compatible 3D television systems, Sweep Multi AngleTM lets you view images moving in simulated 3D on the camera screen simply by tilting the camera back and forth. This shooting feature captures 15 images at different angles, compiling them to create a 3D-like effect on the display. Easy Menu Selection TechnologyWith improved Superior AutoTM and Intelligent AutoTM modes, all new Cyber-shotTM Sony digital camera models can automatically recognize a wide range of common shooting situations, combining up to six high-speed exposures of the scene to produce a single image with greater clarity, optimum dynamic range and lower image noise. Easily accessible from the cameras' menu button, an In-Camera Guide lets users get on-screen help without thumbing through paper instruction manuals. (In-Camera Guide is not available for W510 and W530 models). Background Defocus mode rapidly shoots two frames at different focus settings, combining them to create a single DSLR-style image with your subject in sharp focus against a smoothly defocused background. Soft Skin mode reduces visible blemishes and wrinkles, while Natural Flash corrects colour balance for more natural shots. All five cameras also offer super-fast capture at 10fps at full 16.2-megapixel resolution. With a Sony G lens with 10x optical zoom in a compact camera body, the Cyber-shotTM HX7V Sony digital camera offers built-in GPS and Compass which records the location and direction of where photos were taken. The WX10 features a 7x, bright F2.4 24mm wide angle lens and the Hi-Speed Linear AutoFocus feature, and the DSC-WX7 camera has a 5x 25mm wide angle lens for capturing the perfect group shot or landscape. The DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX7 cameras are the first Sony Cyber-shotTM with an improved HDR (High Dynamic Range) feature that compiles highlights, mid-tones and shadows from three separate shots to create one realistic-looking photo, even in difficult lighting conditions. DSLR SpeedWith the new Hi-Speed Linear AutoFocus feature, the Cyber-shotTM WX10 makes it easy to focus on your subject with DSLR-like speed. Instead of a mechanical gear to drive the AutoFocus, the DSC-WX10 has a magnetic coil (like those used in an audio speaker) to move the lens linearly and achieve AutoFocus in a straight back-and-forth motion-not rotationally. Durable designThe 16.2 megapixel Cyber-shotTM TX10 digital camera is water-proof, shock-proof, dust-proof and freeze-proof, and offers HD movie and 3D photo capture, plus Intelligent Sweep PanoramaTM, an Exmor RTM CMOS sensor that promises crisp, clear photos even in low light and a 7.5cm (3-inch) touch screen. Water-proof in up to 5m of water, the TX10 lets you take high-quality photos, including panoramic pictures, and Full HD 1080i videos of your friends, family or pets underwater. From the tropics to the top of the mountain, the camera is also freeze-proof down to -10 degrees C, so you can take pictures on your next snowbound adventure. Not only is good to go in chilly weather, but the sleek TX10 is durable enough to withstand an accidental drop from up to approximately 1.5m. Additionally, it is dust-proof thanks to its airtight construction, so you can take it with you wherever the dust might kick up. All new Cyber-shotTM digital camera models are compatible with the latest range of premium-quality SDHC cards by Sony. The perfect partner for your Cyber-shotTM, they're also a great match for SD/SDHC-compatible cameras, camcorders and devices from other manufacturers. The affordable Essential Series and value-added Experience Series are joined by the flagship Expert Series (Class 10) for photo users who demand class-leading capacity and transfer speeds. All new Cyber-shot models will be available in a range of colours from March 2011.- Ends -   2011-03-02T11:38:18+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/wonderfully-simple-to-shoot-and-share-three-new-bloggie-hd-cameras-includin http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/wonderfully-simple-to-shoot-and-share-three-new-bloggie-hd-cameras-includin#When:10:59:01Z Continuing to innovate in the pocket video camera space, Sony reveals new Bloggie HD mobile camera to establish an attractive and affordable line-up. Sony's Bloggie HD cameras include unique features that break through the cluttered category while still offering simple high quality MP4 video and still photo shooting, as well as easy web sharing capabilities. The line of portable devices, anchored by the recently launched Bloggie Touch, now gives a nod to 3D technology, dual screen capabilities and minimalist needs. With the Bloggie, Bloggie Duo and Bloggie 3D models, you can capture "had to be there" moments in full high definition 1920x1080 MP4 video and 5-megapixel still photos, but in a whole new way anytime, anyplace. "As the popularity of pocket cameras grow, we not only wanted to provide simple, compact video and photo solutions, we wanted to make these devices fun and different while still delivering a high quality product," said Andy Bubala, director of the camcorder business at Sony Electronics. "With Sony paving the way for 3D entertainment, that technology was the perfect addition to the Bloggie family and robust offering of 3D solutions." Wonderfully Simple All of Sony's Bloggie HD mobile camera models are slim and stylish, with simple hard key operation, and combine hardware, software and seamless integration with social network services for easy, intuitive shooting and sharing. Across the line, you can find an abundance of features including:• Sensitive "ExmorTM" CMOS sensor to achieve high resolution video and crisply-detailed still photos with less grain, even in challenging lighting conditions• Freestyle shooting & playback to automatically adjust GUI for vertical or horizontal shooting and viewing• Dual Record to enable photo capture while shooting video• Auto Focus / Auto Macro to allow auto focus capabilities and Auto Macro to focus sharply on objects as close as four inches away• "Share it Later" function to tag the clips and pictures you want to post for easy upload next time you're online, whether you are a PC or a Mac user The Sony digital camera models also have SteadyShot® image stabilization for smoother footage, Face Detection technology to enhance faces by automatically correcting exposure, a built-in USB arm for easy charging and uploading to a computer, internal memory, built-in rechargeable battery, embedded Bloggie software, and HDMITM output to enjoy content on your HDTV. Bloggie RosterSony's Bloggie brand welcomes three models that each brings distinct value to the category. The *world's first HD 3D pocket camera, , the Bloggie 3D (MHS-FS3) is an innovative model with two lenses, two image sensors, stereo microphone and built-in LED light to capture incredible 3D or 2D video and photos. This content can be played back in 3D without glasses on the camera's 2.4-inch LCD screen or utilizing 3D glasses on any 3D capable HDTV like Sony's new BRAVIA KDL-HX820 also announced today. The portable Bloggie HD mobile camera line-up also offers a dual-screen option dubbed Bloggie Duo (MHS-FS2). The slim camera features two vibrant LCD screens - 2.7-inch on the back and 2.0-inch on the front under the lens - for fun new ways to capture yourself and others in full HD video or 5.1 megapixel photos. The Bloggie Duo has a built-in LED light and comes in two fashionable colours - violet and white. An entry model completes the trio of Bloggie introductions, offering on-the-go video lovers a smart, pocket device at a low price point. The MHS-FS1 sports an ultra compact, lightweight design, with a large 2.7-inch wide LCD screen, and comes in black and white. Simple Public and Private Online SharingWith the included Bloggie software for Mac and Windows, it's never been easier to share videos and photos online. Share privately with friends and family using Personal Space by Sony or become the next Internet sensation with integrated support for Facebook®, YouTubeTM, Flickr®, and Picasa Web AlbumsTM. With Personal Space Sharing Groups, keeping friends and family always updated with a constant stream of your latest photos is easy. There's no need to re-type long lists of recipients' email addresses or deal with slow, bulky email attachments every time you want to share. Just add photos or videos to a Sharing Group using "Share it Later" or Bloggie software and your friends and family are only one click away from enjoying your latest memories with no registration necessary. You and your friends and family can also view shared photos and videos away from the PC with apps for iPhone or Android. BRAVIA and DASH support will be added later this year, providing even more viewing options. The MHS-FS1 and MHS-FS2, both with 4GB of internal memory, will be available in March 2011. The MHS-FS3 with 8GB of internal memory will be available in April 2011. - Ends -   2011-03-02T10:59:01+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/search-gets-social http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/search-gets-social#When:11:40:47Z A new white paper, published today by social media agency, immediate future, provides brands with crucial insights into how social media is re-defining online search, and the effects of these changes in relation to online reputation, discoverability and visibility.   Today, search is all about social search. The social web is impacting product discovery, purchase decisions and the sources of influence online. Search strategies need to take into account the impact of real time mentions and consumer conversation, as well as keyword optimisation.   The interaction of these three components is at the heart of search in 2011, and will play an increasing role in the diversification of search. This includes the development of localised, personalised, and social search, as well as the different social platforms where consumers are now sourcing information and products.   Katy Howell, managing director of social media agency immediate future, says: “Keyword optimisation no longer guarantees first place prominence. Increasingly, search engines are pulling in real time mentions and consumer generated content, both of which can have a dramatic impact on the online impression of your brand.”   Outlining an integrated approach to social media and search, immediate future’s white paper provides an overview of this new landscape with key recommendations for brands seeking to manage their online reputation and improve their visibility.   Howell concludes: “We know that search and social have a dynamic relationship, and we want to help brands understand this interaction so that they can develop content and search strategies that will protect their online reputation and future proof their brand”   The white paper on social search can be downloaded for free at http://immediatefuture.co.uk. 2011-02-22T11:40:47+00:00 http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/hpi-enrols-social-media-agency-for-guidance-training-and-planning http://www.immediatefuture.co.uk/news-releases/hpi-enrols-social-media-agency-for-guidance-training-and-planning#When:14:44:45Z Car history check specialist HPI has appointed social media agency immediate future to provide social media training and a development plan for its marketing and customer service teams. The first phase of the project focuses on equipping HPI with the knowledge to expand its skills in reputation management online. Social media training is tailored to HPI: with guidance on customer service and issues management, alongside techniques to reach new customers and generate greater brand awareness. This is followed by a workshop, setting out how to plan a successful social media campaign. The result is a framework, designed specifically for HPI, from which all its social media activity can be developed further. "There is a huge opportunity for social media to support HPI as a business," said Nicola Johnson, Business Development Manager at HPI. "We need to arm our team with all the knowledge and tools necessary to show a real return on investment in social media. immediate future is able to bring a wealth of experience in delivering these types of campaigns. These development sessions will give us a solid foundation from which we can grow our own skills in-house." "The training programme we will develop for HPI will form the foundation from which the company can hit the ground running," said Katy Howell, Managing Director at immediate future. "Getting to grips with social media takes time and practice. Our aim is to help HPI rapidly acquire skills and capabilities that will ensure it is ahead of the curve in its planning and implementation. Beyond the training, and with seven years experience in social media, we are able to enhance the teaching with real world experience gleaned from working with our client to deliver award winning social media initiatives." The training and development plan workshop will be tailored specifically for HPI's needs, its market and business objectives. Both sessions will be run by immediate future at HPI's offices.   2010-10-14T14:44:45+00:00