New media:
What has worked, what hasn’t
and what have we learnt?
LGcomms
5 February 2009
Simon Wakeman
Head of Marketing

Medway

podcasting

objectives
• Create a new two-way communication
channel for young people in Medway
• Get young people actively involved in
producing the podcast
• Help the organisation learn about
podcasting as a communications tool

equipment

sample clips

results
• 360-400 downloads per show
• positive face to face feedback
• limited direct responses
• experience of new communications tool

we learnt…
• be clear why
• don’t underestimate time investment
• accessibility
• pick the best technology

social networks

fuse medway festival

fuse medway festival

fuse medway festival

results
• more than 100 “fans”
• raised profile among new audience group
• maintain presence between festivals
• a starting point…

we learnt…
• more than just an online billboard
• invest time in interacting and responding
• need to offer a reason to visit – incentives, exclusives…
• need better online/offline integration

media relations

we learnt…
• monitor as widely as possible
• be prepared to engage when appropriate
• internal communications – be joined up
• how new media can lead old media

closing thoughts
• learn the ropes
• get the organisation ready
• present a balanced case – risks and benefits
• don’t be afraid to try – and have fun!

any questions
simon.wakeman@medway.gov.uk
simon@simonwakeman.com
+44 (0) 7771 701902
twitter: simonwakeman
www.simonwakeman.com/lgcomms