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Virtual Promotion – A New Way of Marketing for SMBs

Sneha Hull | May 20, 2022 | 93 views

Virtual Promotion A New Way
No one anticipated how businesses would adjust to the unexpected change in business operations when the pandemic struck the globe. However, businesses were successful. Small firms that explored inventive ways to bring offline services online received a robust response. Today is the age of developing campaigns across channels automatically and improving their efficacy and reach. People choose to remain online via several channels and digital gadgets. Therefore, SMEs are turning to the future of advertising, which is online.


Google Ads

Google advertising is one of the best decisions you can make in the internet and virtual marketing age. Google Ads is the largest and most popular online advertising platform globally, and by advertising on Google, your business may reach a potential audience of one million people. With Google Ads, you will likely receive ten times as many leads and double your conversion rate compared to traditional marketing techniques. It allows you to target a particular demographic without spending thousands of dollars.

It is not only for Google's benefit but also for the companies, as more and more customers want to buy online. As a result of the pandemic, digital demand for products/services has increased, and Google has benefitted from this. Google's marketing platform provides a centralized location to see, advertise, and manage everything.


Omnichannel – Integrated Approach

Omnichannel marketing is a new technique that has blurred the line between physical and virtual marketing to adapt to technology's reality. The method by which customers acquire goods and services is also evolving in terms of speed and platforms. So focusing on how your customers want to be promoted and on their devices is a new path forward.

The most significant benefit of a platform-based strategy for omnichannel marketing is access to unified, real-time customer data. Omnichannel marketing is effective for all businesses, regardless of marketing team size or budget. The particular choice of techniques depends on the nature of your business. However, many sorts of organizations may profit from an omnichannel marketing strategy.

Traditional retailers such as Walmart, Target, Kohl's, Macy's, and many more are increasingly emphasizing this omnichannel or integrated marketing strategy.


Future of Digital Marketing in The New Tech-Age

The digital behaviors that customers have established over the past two years are likely to persist for the foreseeable future. The world of digital marketing is set to undergo significant changes in 2022, and businesses should be prepared to take advantage of them. Businesses search for changes in the virtual and augmented experience known as the Metaverse, which represents the future of the web.

AR tools are at the top of the list of technologies that simplify small businesses’ interaction with their audience. Marketers are becoming more strategic as automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning remove a significant portion of the menial tasks associated with digital marketing.

According to the 60-second marketer, the number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices will reach 41 billion by 2027.

Last but not least, micro-influencers will significantly affect the marketing industry.


Conclusion

Even if the investment appears substantial, SMBs should remain open to upgrades to obtain the digital transformation niche. It is time for small firms to advance gradually and adopt new technology to prevent missing out on lucrative markets. Along with getting used to new technology, people will be rewarded for new ways of thinking and doing things.

Spotlight

Master Plan Learning

We are an eLearning company offering design, development, and everything in between. Our specifically developed SCORM compliant courseware houses eLearning content, our 80+ eLearning activities, and our Learning Management System (LMS) make Master Plan Learning an easy and cost-effective choice.

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MARKETING AND NETWORKING

Emergence of 5G Presents a World of Opportunity to Small Businesses

Article | October 23, 2021

Together with 'artificial intelligence' (AI) and 'machine learning,' 5G has emerged as a hot topic in the tech industry over the last couple of years. There's a lot of buzz about the next generation mobile network's technological capabilities, and for good reason: faster, more consistent, and higher bandwidth mobile connectivity can open up new levels of productivity, versatility, and opportunity for small businesses. Benefits Motivating Small Businesses to Invest in 5G The world may be in for a devastating recession as a result of the war's impact and the emergence of new waves of coronavirus pandemic. This is encouraging enterprises to prioritize digital transformation. Digital innovation helps to develop tools and strategies that businesses can use to overcome challenges and solve complex problems. Improved hardware and smarter software enable data collection and analysis for scalability.With its promising strength of connectivity, exceptional frequency of data transfers, and high-speed, 5G technology can foster digital innovation, especially among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), allowing a wide range of highly skilled workers to work from any location or workplace. Here are some major benefits, encouraging SMBs to invest in 5G, as follows: Provide businesses with increased operational flexibility. Increasing the sales channel's productivity. Creates an intuitive supply chain. Facilitate access to cutting-edge technologies such as augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR). Improves workforce functionality and safety by lowering latency. Enhances the customer experience. A Plethora of Opportunities for Small Businesses With a projected annual growth rate of around 97 percent and 40 percent of the population around the world using internet of things (IoT) apps on a 5G network, the new digital technology has the potential to create an incremental opportunity of around $251 trillion by 2025. A large number of businesses, irrespective of size or industry, are considering preparing themselves for the deployment of advanced 5G technology to benefit them and their customers. In addition, the deepening trend of digital transformation and the incorporation of cloud technologies are presenting a wide range of opportunities for businesses to scale up their connectivity, reach, and productivity.

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Cyberattacks: Surfacing Threat to Small Businesses

Article | March 28, 2022

The internet has transformed into a modern-day silk road that supports almost all aspects of modern life. Growing penetration of the internet has made it possible for businesses of all sizes to reach all parts of the sector and access previously inaccessible areas, increasing productivity via the use of digital tools. Any business strategy that involves using computers online, even if only for an email and a website, needs to include cybersecurity measures. The theft of data and digital information is now more common than other types of theft and is becoming one of the most commonly reported types of fraud. Impact of Cyberattacks on Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Cybersecurity is emerging as one of the most serious economic and security challenges for businesses all around the world. It is not just a threat to big businesses, multinational corporations, and governments, but they are a major problem for small businesses too. According to a recent study, nearly 22% of small businesses have been the targets of cyberattacks. Also, around 46% of the security breaches were reported across small and midsize businesses in 2021. A cyberattack can have a devastating impact on enterprises, especially on small businesses. In fact, about 60 percent of small enterprises that are attacked and experience a breach shut their business within six months. Not just this, there are more detrimental repercussions that businesses can encounter, including the following: Financial losses due to business disruption Financial losses brought on by the theft of financial data High costs to remove threats from the network Reputational harm following disclosure of data breach to customers Demand for Cybersecurity Making SMBs Hotspot for Investment The need for effective cybersecurity measures increases in lockstep with the increasing number of organizations expanding their operations online. In addition, the rising incidence of security breaches, data theft, and others in small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) is mandating these enterprises to adopt security solutions such as data backup solutions, encryption software, and password-security software, making them the center point for investment. Attributed to this, the prominent providers of cybersecurity solutions are focusing on coming up with advanced security software specially designed for SMBs.

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HR Trends in Small Businesses 2022: Embracing the New Normal

Article | March 23, 2022

The global workforce is coping with the new normal that includes — remote or hybrid work, new laws and regulations regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased interest in employee health and wellness programs. The HR departments of small businesses are adapting to these changes. So, let us take a quick look at what to expect in 2022: Priority: Diversity and Inclusion Small business HR departments will prioritize diversity and inclusion in the workplace for talent acquisition, employee engagement, and retention Advancement: Automated HR Processes HR will use technology to streamline onboarding and recruiting processes in 2022 Environment: Remote Work The possibility of long-term remote work with technology and new policies is on the horizon Interaction: Virtual Employee Engagement SMBs must work towards engaging their employees through virtual meetings, employee surveys, and clear communication Support: Employee Health and Wellbeing Small business leaders should step-up to support their employees’ well-being through a healthy and flexible work environment Enhancement: Improved Employee Benefits The focus will be on increasing healthcare benefits, flexible work arrangements, and health wellness programs New Leave Policies: Paid Sick Leave Small business HRs need to be aware of new paid sick leave policies and accommodations to help employees cope with the pandemic Health Advisory: COVID-19 Vaccination for Employees Small businesses need to take proper precautions if mandating a compulsory COVID-19 vaccination policy Compliance: Burdened HR Departments Modified employee labor laws will require HR departments to modify their HR strategies frequently Drug-testing Laws: Impact on Drug-free Work Policies Medical marijuana usage policies differ across states, so HR departments will need to remain up-to-speed with them A Productive 2022 for Small Businesses Small businesses’ HR departments are working to retain, engage, and safeguard employees to lead their companies towards a productive 2022. However, they need to be diligently compliant and offer lucrative benefits to employees to sustain and grow their business.

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TECHNOLOGY,SMALL BUSINESS ADVICE

Reasons Why Small Businesses Need CRM?

Article | June 30, 2022

CRMs, as highly customizable software, can be tailored to any small business. From an e-commerce business to an educational service to a logistics firm, every industry benefits from CRM integration to manage, organize, automate, and grow revenue and operations. The CRM industry has grown by 600% since 2010. It is expected to generate $80 billion in revenue by 2025. 6 Reasons Every Small Business Needs CRM It aids in the collection and organization of customer data:CRM solutions enable cleaner customer data. Data mining and enrichment are automated and standardized to ensure that nothing is overlooked. Data duplication is impossible with advanced duplicate prevention features. Advanced Database Segmentation Enables Personalized Communication with Leads:Personalization is expected by 63 % as a standard of service, and they believe they are recognized as individuals when they receive special offers. A CRM solution enables you to effectively personalize your communication with leads. Most small business CRM systems include advanced segmentation filters and tags that allow you to divide your audience into smaller groups based on a variety of criteria. Beneficial to run well-managed email campaigns: Email marketing can generate a 44.4 % ROI, generating $44 in revenue for every $1 spent. According to Hubspot, 93 % of B2B marketers use email to share content, and 59% say email is their top ROI driver. Email marketing is extremely cost-effective and scalable and generates considerably higher quality leads for your small business. Enables you to keep track of the sales process: The CRM system visualizes your sales process, highlighting the points where leads frequently abandon ship. This allows you to quickly identify threats and opportunities, as well as weaknesses and strengths. Avoids missed lead opportunities:CRM systems make sure that small businesses never miss a lead. Even if the sales rep goes on a different route, the lead will still get recorded with efficiency. Increases Sales Performance: Businesses that have integrated CRM into their operations report a 34% increase in sales productivity. CRM automatically populates customer profiles with data, schedules mailouts, and relieves you of the responsibility of monitoring your inbox. It keeps track of your agenda and keeps an eye on your calendar. In a nutshell, CRM frees up your time for more important tasks such as understanding your customers' needs or selling. For effective expansion of business and increasing sales, small businesses-integrating CRM software will serve with endless benefits.

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MARKETING AND NETWORKING

How Is Online Marketing for Small Business Remodeling Itself?

Article | October 23, 2021

Together with 'artificial intelligence' (AI) and 'machine learning,' 5G has emerged as a hot topic in the tech industry over the last couple of years. There's a lot of buzz about the next generation mobile network's technological capabilities, and for good reason: faster, more consistent, and higher bandwidth mobile connectivity can open up new levels of productivity, versatility, and opportunity for small businesses. Benefits Motivating Small Businesses to Invest in 5G The world may be in for a devastating recession as a result of the war's impact and the emergence of new waves of coronavirus pandemic. This is encouraging enterprises to prioritize digital transformation. Digital innovation helps to develop tools and strategies that businesses can use to overcome challenges and solve complex problems. Improved hardware and smarter software enable data collection and analysis for scalability.With its promising strength of connectivity, exceptional frequency of data transfers, and high-speed, 5G technology can foster digital innovation, especially among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), allowing a wide range of highly skilled workers to work from any location or workplace. Here are some major benefits, encouraging SMBs to invest in 5G, as follows: Provide businesses with increased operational flexibility. Increasing the sales channel's productivity. Creates an intuitive supply chain. Facilitate access to cutting-edge technologies such as augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR). Improves workforce functionality and safety by lowering latency. Enhances the customer experience. A Plethora of Opportunities for Small Businesses With a projected annual growth rate of around 97 percent and 40 percent of the population around the world using internet of things (IoT) apps on a 5G network, the new digital technology has the potential to create an incremental opportunity of around $251 trillion by 2025. A large number of businesses, irrespective of size or industry, are considering preparing themselves for the deployment of advanced 5G technology to benefit them and their customers. In addition, the deepening trend of digital transformation and the incorporation of cloud technologies are presenting a wide range of opportunities for businesses to scale up their connectivity, reach, and productivity.

Read More
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Top 4 Email Marketing Services to Invest in 2022

Article | March 28, 2022

The internet has transformed into a modern-day silk road that supports almost all aspects of modern life. Growing penetration of the internet has made it possible for businesses of all sizes to reach all parts of the sector and access previously inaccessible areas, increasing productivity via the use of digital tools. Any business strategy that involves using computers online, even if only for an email and a website, needs to include cybersecurity measures. The theft of data and digital information is now more common than other types of theft and is becoming one of the most commonly reported types of fraud. Impact of Cyberattacks on Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Cybersecurity is emerging as one of the most serious economic and security challenges for businesses all around the world. It is not just a threat to big businesses, multinational corporations, and governments, but they are a major problem for small businesses too. According to a recent study, nearly 22% of small businesses have been the targets of cyberattacks. Also, around 46% of the security breaches were reported across small and midsize businesses in 2021. A cyberattack can have a devastating impact on enterprises, especially on small businesses. In fact, about 60 percent of small enterprises that are attacked and experience a breach shut their business within six months. Not just this, there are more detrimental repercussions that businesses can encounter, including the following: Financial losses due to business disruption Financial losses brought on by the theft of financial data High costs to remove threats from the network Reputational harm following disclosure of data breach to customers Demand for Cybersecurity Making SMBs Hotspot for Investment The need for effective cybersecurity measures increases in lockstep with the increasing number of organizations expanding their operations online. In addition, the rising incidence of security breaches, data theft, and others in small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) is mandating these enterprises to adopt security solutions such as data backup solutions, encryption software, and password-security software, making them the center point for investment. Attributed to this, the prominent providers of cybersecurity solutions are focusing on coming up with advanced security software specially designed for SMBs.

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Fun Team Building Activities to Strengthen Communication at Workplace

Article | March 23, 2022

The global workforce is coping with the new normal that includes — remote or hybrid work, new laws and regulations regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased interest in employee health and wellness programs. The HR departments of small businesses are adapting to these changes. So, let us take a quick look at what to expect in 2022: Priority: Diversity and Inclusion Small business HR departments will prioritize diversity and inclusion in the workplace for talent acquisition, employee engagement, and retention Advancement: Automated HR Processes HR will use technology to streamline onboarding and recruiting processes in 2022 Environment: Remote Work The possibility of long-term remote work with technology and new policies is on the horizon Interaction: Virtual Employee Engagement SMBs must work towards engaging their employees through virtual meetings, employee surveys, and clear communication Support: Employee Health and Wellbeing Small business leaders should step-up to support their employees’ well-being through a healthy and flexible work environment Enhancement: Improved Employee Benefits The focus will be on increasing healthcare benefits, flexible work arrangements, and health wellness programs New Leave Policies: Paid Sick Leave Small business HRs need to be aware of new paid sick leave policies and accommodations to help employees cope with the pandemic Health Advisory: COVID-19 Vaccination for Employees Small businesses need to take proper precautions if mandating a compulsory COVID-19 vaccination policy Compliance: Burdened HR Departments Modified employee labor laws will require HR departments to modify their HR strategies frequently Drug-testing Laws: Impact on Drug-free Work Policies Medical marijuana usage policies differ across states, so HR departments will need to remain up-to-speed with them A Productive 2022 for Small Businesses Small businesses’ HR departments are working to retain, engage, and safeguard employees to lead their companies towards a productive 2022. However, they need to be diligently compliant and offer lucrative benefits to employees to sustain and grow their business.

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Reasons Why Small Businesses Need CRM?

Article | June 30, 2022

CRMs, as highly customizable software, can be tailored to any small business. From an e-commerce business to an educational service to a logistics firm, every industry benefits from CRM integration to manage, organize, automate, and grow revenue and operations. The CRM industry has grown by 600% since 2010. It is expected to generate $80 billion in revenue by 2025. 6 Reasons Every Small Business Needs CRM It aids in the collection and organization of customer data:CRM solutions enable cleaner customer data. Data mining and enrichment are automated and standardized to ensure that nothing is overlooked. Data duplication is impossible with advanced duplicate prevention features. Advanced Database Segmentation Enables Personalized Communication with Leads:Personalization is expected by 63 % as a standard of service, and they believe they are recognized as individuals when they receive special offers. A CRM solution enables you to effectively personalize your communication with leads. Most small business CRM systems include advanced segmentation filters and tags that allow you to divide your audience into smaller groups based on a variety of criteria. Beneficial to run well-managed email campaigns: Email marketing can generate a 44.4 % ROI, generating $44 in revenue for every $1 spent. According to Hubspot, 93 % of B2B marketers use email to share content, and 59% say email is their top ROI driver. Email marketing is extremely cost-effective and scalable and generates considerably higher quality leads for your small business. Enables you to keep track of the sales process: The CRM system visualizes your sales process, highlighting the points where leads frequently abandon ship. This allows you to quickly identify threats and opportunities, as well as weaknesses and strengths. Avoids missed lead opportunities:CRM systems make sure that small businesses never miss a lead. Even if the sales rep goes on a different route, the lead will still get recorded with efficiency. Increases Sales Performance: Businesses that have integrated CRM into their operations report a 34% increase in sales productivity. CRM automatically populates customer profiles with data, schedules mailouts, and relieves you of the responsibility of monitoring your inbox. It keeps track of your agenda and keeps an eye on your calendar. In a nutshell, CRM frees up your time for more important tasks such as understanding your customers' needs or selling. For effective expansion of business and increasing sales, small businesses-integrating CRM software will serve with endless benefits.

Read More
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Spotlight

Master Plan Learning

We are an eLearning company offering design, development, and everything in between. Our specifically developed SCORM compliant courseware houses eLearning content, our 80+ eLearning activities, and our Learning Management System (LMS) make Master Plan Learning an easy and cost-effective choice.

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MARKETING AND NETWORKING

Bridgestone Puts Focus on Purpose and Action with New "What Really Matters" Brand Platform

Bridgestone | August 25, 2022

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (Bridgestone) today launched "What Really Matters," a new brand platform that is linked to the values of the global Bridgestone E8 Commitment and showcases the company's focus on creating a more sustainable world for future generations.The What Really Matters platform marks a shift from the company's traditional product performance marketing campaigns to showcase purpose-driven actions that are improving the way people move, live, work and play. This targeted, multi-channel activation aligns with the company's evolution from a global leader in tires and rubber to a forward-thinking sustainable solutions company helping shape the future of mobility. "What Really Matters is more than a marketing campaign and goes far beyond what Bridgestone makes and sells. This is a new behavioral platform that will emphasize what really matters to us as a company and those we serve,"In highlighting the collective actions we are already taking today across our company, we will demonstrate how we are delivering on our Bridgestone E8 Commitment and making positive, long-term impacts on society for future generations." Sara Correa, Chief Marketing Officer, Bridgestone Americas The dynamic platform includes comprehensive omnichannel creative produced by like-minded partner Leo Burnett that will engage Bridgestone's unique consumers, customers, and stakeholder groups. The platform will be initially introduced in the United States and then expanded to additional countries across the Americas region. "Bridgestone is grounded in a philosophy similar to our own founders' ethos, 'What's good for people is good for business,'" said Mikal Pittman, EVP Executive Creative Director at Leo Burnett. "The What Really Matters platform is designed to bring Bridgestone's core belief of helping society to the heart of its advertising, and it expands our ability to tell the brand story in more impactful ways. There's a ton of good happening at Bridgestone and we're excited to unlock even more creative ways to bring those stories to life." The new What Really Matters creative highlights various aspects of Bridgestone's product and solutions portfolio, business operations, strategic investments, and innovation initiatives including: Tire retreading and guayule-derived natural rubber farming that advance sustainable tire operations and material circularity. Bridgestone Fleet Care offerings, including Intellitire monitoring and Azuga fleet management solutions, that promote safer, more economic, and more efficient fleet operations for both large fleets and small businesses. Kodiak Robotics autonomous long-haul trucks that offer learning and integration opportunities for smart vehicle and tire technologies. Airfree and lunar rover tires that signify the future of advanced tire technology. High-grip rubber for gloves and handrims of wheelchair athletes, including six-time Paralympian Aaron Pike, to push performance and innovation in adaptive sports.The purpose-driven actions featured throughout the What Really Matters platform embody the spirit of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, which outlines eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter "E" the company will seek to co-create together with employees, society, partners and customers to realize a more sustainable world. About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.: Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 45,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

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FINANCE, BUSINESS STRATEGY

UK Export Finance Leverages Informatica Cloud Platform to Help Businesses Scale Globally

Informatica | September 21, 2022

Informatica , an enterprise cloud data management leader, today announced that UK Export Finance is modernizing to the cloud with Informatica’s Intelligent Data Management Cloud (IDMC), freeing up team resources to better serve UK businesses of all sizes and sectors. UK Export Finance is the world’s first and oldest export credit agency, its mission is to advance prosperity by ensuring no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance, doing that sustainably and at no net cost to the taxpayer. In the last year it supported 545 companies supporting exports in 61 countries. The small but nimble department is undertaking a digital transformation journey and selected Informatica to modernize its data architecture on a single cloud platform. Informatica’s IDMC enables enterprises to manage, own and derive insights from their data in the Cloud. UK Export Finance kicked off its digital transformation with a focus on connectivity and fast data ingestion. The IDMC enabled seamless integration with Azure DevOps and Power BI and allows UK Export Finance to manage all data pipelines from a single, browser-based tool and usage-based pricing has lowered the total cost of ownership. With a legacy integration stack, the UK Export Finance technology team was spending more and more time on maintenance and manual hand-coding to rebuild connectors to meet the specs of modern data architectures, taking time away from important projects. This, along with evolving international standards and regulatory requirements, made it the right time to modernize to the cloud. After an intensive decision-making progress, UK Export Finance chose Informatica’s cloud-native IDMC for its best-in-class capabilities, wide array of codeless connectors, and ease of implementation. With AI-powered automation and re-usable templates, IDMC has reduced data loading and build times by 40%, allowing the UK Export Finance technology team to focus on more strategic initiatives. Developers and data scientists are no longer tied down with maintenance and instead applying their expertise in building reports that unearth insights and value from the data for the UK exporters the department serves. With a mission to better serve British businesses to enter new markets, maximize growth potential and increase the volume of export sales, our team looks to data to unearth insights and uncover new strategies,” said Daniel Cozens, Senior Technical Lead, UK Export Finance. “Informatica’s Intelligent Data Management Cloud has helped alleviate the maintenance and build burden, allowing our team to work on more interesting, strategic initiatives and deliver data-driven recommendations for the UK Exporters we support. “How businesses manage and innovate with data can be the decider on whether they become an industry disruptor or get left behind. With the IDMC, UK Export Finance can improve operational efficiency, eliminating inefficient hand coding and democratise data across the department to allow faster time to value and timely insights,We’re pleased to be working with UK Export Finance to unleash the power of its data to help UK businesses and industries thrive.” Jason Tooley, VP Informatica About Informatica Informatica (NYSE:INFA), an Enterprise Cloud Data Management leader, empowers businesses to realize the transformative power of data. We have pioneered a new category of software, the Informatica Intelligent Data Management Cloud™(IDMC), powered by AI and a cloud-first, cloud-native, end-to-end data management platform that connects, manages, and unifies data across any multi-cloud, hybrid system, empowering enterprises to modernize and advance their data strategies. Over 5,000 customers in more than 100 countries and 85 of the Fortune 100 rely on Informatica to drive data-led digital transformation.

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Thryv Partners with Fora Financial to Offer Capital That Helps Small Businesses Grow

Fora Financial | September 22, 2022

Thryv Holdings, Inc, the small business platform for growing small- to medium-sized businesses, announced a partnership with Fora Financial to offer small businesses access to the capital they need to grow.Fora Financial will now be offered through Thryv’s growing marketplace, allowing business owners to apply for lending in minutes. Fora Financial offers terms up to 15 months, flexible payments, early pay-off discounts, and no restrictions on use of funds. The partnership offers a range of financing amounts from $5,000 to $750,000 with no collateral required. Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) loans, the most common in SBA’s portfolio, require collateral if the loan amount is greater than $25,000. The approval process for Fora Financial financing occurs in less than 24 hours, and once a financing is approved and terms have been accepted, capital is available in 72 hours. We have always been committed to helping small businesses solve a variety of needs, and in the current economic climate, helping them gain access to capital is a priority, said Ryan Cantor, chief product officer at Thryv. Whether it’s adding a truck to their fleet or a game-changing piece of equipment, small businesses have evolving needs and Thryv helps solve them. “At Fora Financial, we are dedicated to providing small businesses with the fast, uncomplicated funding solution they require to succeed, As the economic environment continues to change, our consultative approach to understanding small business’ needs will offer the Thryv community the working capital required to grow and thrive.” Fora Financial president Andrew Gutman Thryv clients have seen significant advantages to joining the platform, including a 25% rise in the number of average customers, 61% increase in number of appointments booked, and 86% growth in annual revenue through bookings and payments. Learn more about the platform, including free, unlimited support 24/7 from small business specialists at thryv.com. About Thryv Holdings, Inc. Thryv Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:THRY) is a global software and marketing services company that empowers small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to grow and modernize their operations so they can compete and win in today’s economy. Over 46,000 businesses use our award-winning SaaS platform, Thryv®, to manage their end-to-end operations, which has helped businesses across the U.S. and overseas grow their bottom line. Thryv also manages digital and print presence for over 400,000 businesses, connecting these SMBs to local consumers via proprietary local search portals and local directories. For more information about Thryv Holdings, Inc., visit thryv.com. About Fora Financial Fora Financial is a leading business financing lender that has provided over $2 billion to more than 25,000 business owners nationwide. Fora Financial offers flexible financing solutions to small and medium sized businesses in need of additional working capital to sustain or grow their enterprise. The company places a high value on transparency and provides businesses with fast, personalized small business loans and revenue advances, leveraging its state-of-the-art proprietary technology, industry-leading sales capabilities and dedicated customer service. Founded in June 2008, Fora Financial employs over 200 people at its New York City, Miami and California locations.

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Bridgestone Puts Focus on Purpose and Action with New "What Really Matters" Brand Platform

Bridgestone | August 25, 2022

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (Bridgestone) today launched "What Really Matters," a new brand platform that is linked to the values of the global Bridgestone E8 Commitment and showcases the company's focus on creating a more sustainable world for future generations.The What Really Matters platform marks a shift from the company's traditional product performance marketing campaigns to showcase purpose-driven actions that are improving the way people move, live, work and play. This targeted, multi-channel activation aligns with the company's evolution from a global leader in tires and rubber to a forward-thinking sustainable solutions company helping shape the future of mobility. "What Really Matters is more than a marketing campaign and goes far beyond what Bridgestone makes and sells. This is a new behavioral platform that will emphasize what really matters to us as a company and those we serve,"In highlighting the collective actions we are already taking today across our company, we will demonstrate how we are delivering on our Bridgestone E8 Commitment and making positive, long-term impacts on society for future generations." Sara Correa, Chief Marketing Officer, Bridgestone Americas The dynamic platform includes comprehensive omnichannel creative produced by like-minded partner Leo Burnett that will engage Bridgestone's unique consumers, customers, and stakeholder groups. The platform will be initially introduced in the United States and then expanded to additional countries across the Americas region. "Bridgestone is grounded in a philosophy similar to our own founders' ethos, 'What's good for people is good for business,'" said Mikal Pittman, EVP Executive Creative Director at Leo Burnett. "The What Really Matters platform is designed to bring Bridgestone's core belief of helping society to the heart of its advertising, and it expands our ability to tell the brand story in more impactful ways. There's a ton of good happening at Bridgestone and we're excited to unlock even more creative ways to bring those stories to life." The new What Really Matters creative highlights various aspects of Bridgestone's product and solutions portfolio, business operations, strategic investments, and innovation initiatives including: Tire retreading and guayule-derived natural rubber farming that advance sustainable tire operations and material circularity. Bridgestone Fleet Care offerings, including Intellitire monitoring and Azuga fleet management solutions, that promote safer, more economic, and more efficient fleet operations for both large fleets and small businesses. Kodiak Robotics autonomous long-haul trucks that offer learning and integration opportunities for smart vehicle and tire technologies. Airfree and lunar rover tires that signify the future of advanced tire technology. High-grip rubber for gloves and handrims of wheelchair athletes, including six-time Paralympian Aaron Pike, to push performance and innovation in adaptive sports.The purpose-driven actions featured throughout the What Really Matters platform embody the spirit of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, which outlines eight Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter "E" the company will seek to co-create together with employees, society, partners and customers to realize a more sustainable world. About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.: Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 45,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

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FINANCE, BUSINESS STRATEGY

UK Export Finance Leverages Informatica Cloud Platform to Help Businesses Scale Globally

Informatica | September 21, 2022

Informatica , an enterprise cloud data management leader, today announced that UK Export Finance is modernizing to the cloud with Informatica’s Intelligent Data Management Cloud (IDMC), freeing up team resources to better serve UK businesses of all sizes and sectors. UK Export Finance is the world’s first and oldest export credit agency, its mission is to advance prosperity by ensuring no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance, doing that sustainably and at no net cost to the taxpayer. In the last year it supported 545 companies supporting exports in 61 countries. The small but nimble department is undertaking a digital transformation journey and selected Informatica to modernize its data architecture on a single cloud platform. Informatica’s IDMC enables enterprises to manage, own and derive insights from their data in the Cloud. UK Export Finance kicked off its digital transformation with a focus on connectivity and fast data ingestion. The IDMC enabled seamless integration with Azure DevOps and Power BI and allows UK Export Finance to manage all data pipelines from a single, browser-based tool and usage-based pricing has lowered the total cost of ownership. With a legacy integration stack, the UK Export Finance technology team was spending more and more time on maintenance and manual hand-coding to rebuild connectors to meet the specs of modern data architectures, taking time away from important projects. This, along with evolving international standards and regulatory requirements, made it the right time to modernize to the cloud. After an intensive decision-making progress, UK Export Finance chose Informatica’s cloud-native IDMC for its best-in-class capabilities, wide array of codeless connectors, and ease of implementation. With AI-powered automation and re-usable templates, IDMC has reduced data loading and build times by 40%, allowing the UK Export Finance technology team to focus on more strategic initiatives. Developers and data scientists are no longer tied down with maintenance and instead applying their expertise in building reports that unearth insights and value from the data for the UK exporters the department serves. With a mission to better serve British businesses to enter new markets, maximize growth potential and increase the volume of export sales, our team looks to data to unearth insights and uncover new strategies,” said Daniel Cozens, Senior Technical Lead, UK Export Finance. “Informatica’s Intelligent Data Management Cloud has helped alleviate the maintenance and build burden, allowing our team to work on more interesting, strategic initiatives and deliver data-driven recommendations for the UK Exporters we support. “How businesses manage and innovate with data can be the decider on whether they become an industry disruptor or get left behind. With the IDMC, UK Export Finance can improve operational efficiency, eliminating inefficient hand coding and democratise data across the department to allow faster time to value and timely insights,We’re pleased to be working with UK Export Finance to unleash the power of its data to help UK businesses and industries thrive.” Jason Tooley, VP Informatica About Informatica Informatica (NYSE:INFA), an Enterprise Cloud Data Management leader, empowers businesses to realize the transformative power of data. We have pioneered a new category of software, the Informatica Intelligent Data Management Cloud™(IDMC), powered by AI and a cloud-first, cloud-native, end-to-end data management platform that connects, manages, and unifies data across any multi-cloud, hybrid system, empowering enterprises to modernize and advance their data strategies. Over 5,000 customers in more than 100 countries and 85 of the Fortune 100 rely on Informatica to drive data-led digital transformation.

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BUSINESS STRATEGY

Thryv Partners with Fora Financial to Offer Capital That Helps Small Businesses Grow

Fora Financial | September 22, 2022

Thryv Holdings, Inc, the small business platform for growing small- to medium-sized businesses, announced a partnership with Fora Financial to offer small businesses access to the capital they need to grow.Fora Financial will now be offered through Thryv’s growing marketplace, allowing business owners to apply for lending in minutes. Fora Financial offers terms up to 15 months, flexible payments, early pay-off discounts, and no restrictions on use of funds. The partnership offers a range of financing amounts from $5,000 to $750,000 with no collateral required. Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) loans, the most common in SBA’s portfolio, require collateral if the loan amount is greater than $25,000. The approval process for Fora Financial financing occurs in less than 24 hours, and once a financing is approved and terms have been accepted, capital is available in 72 hours. We have always been committed to helping small businesses solve a variety of needs, and in the current economic climate, helping them gain access to capital is a priority, said Ryan Cantor, chief product officer at Thryv. Whether it’s adding a truck to their fleet or a game-changing piece of equipment, small businesses have evolving needs and Thryv helps solve them. “At Fora Financial, we are dedicated to providing small businesses with the fast, uncomplicated funding solution they require to succeed, As the economic environment continues to change, our consultative approach to understanding small business’ needs will offer the Thryv community the working capital required to grow and thrive.” Fora Financial president Andrew Gutman Thryv clients have seen significant advantages to joining the platform, including a 25% rise in the number of average customers, 61% increase in number of appointments booked, and 86% growth in annual revenue through bookings and payments. Learn more about the platform, including free, unlimited support 24/7 from small business specialists at thryv.com. About Thryv Holdings, Inc. Thryv Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:THRY) is a global software and marketing services company that empowers small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to grow and modernize their operations so they can compete and win in today’s economy. Over 46,000 businesses use our award-winning SaaS platform, Thryv®, to manage their end-to-end operations, which has helped businesses across the U.S. and overseas grow their bottom line. Thryv also manages digital and print presence for over 400,000 businesses, connecting these SMBs to local consumers via proprietary local search portals and local directories. For more information about Thryv Holdings, Inc., visit thryv.com. About Fora Financial Fora Financial is a leading business financing lender that has provided over $2 billion to more than 25,000 business owners nationwide. Fora Financial offers flexible financing solutions to small and medium sized businesses in need of additional working capital to sustain or grow their enterprise. The company places a high value on transparency and provides businesses with fast, personalized small business loans and revenue advances, leveraging its state-of-the-art proprietary technology, industry-leading sales capabilities and dedicated customer service. Founded in June 2008, Fora Financial employs over 200 people at its New York City, Miami and California locations.

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