PR Evolution with Technology

As the world is changing so is technology changing very rapidly.With the invention of phones becoming cell phones and computers becoming small and compact and even portable ( thank goodness for laptops).  The internet developed from dial up to now testing how fast can we get wireless internet to be.  Just the same Public Relations has been evolved of the course of time adapting to the changes of technology. This post will skip down Public Relations memory lane  and analyze the evolution of PR. 

PR has changed how it has produced and showcased it's work over the course of time. "The act of faxing out (or even mailing) news/press releases is just about as obsolete as taking pictures with a film camera. It’s an inefficient process that nobody uses anymore "(Mudd, 2013). PR practitioners are known for sending press releases to notify the media and press of events  and/or an official statement from an organization, individual, event or situation. Amanda Miller Littlejohn, Founder of Mopwater Social Public Relation says,  "While I don't believe the press release is dead, it has been transformed, to become this living, breathing thing. If a release doesn't have a social element — that is, a way for viewers to comment or share to their social networks — it doesn't have legs."(Swallow, 2010)Press releases no longer are being mailed out or faxed but will make more appearances in email form. Press releases are also being sent via social media which all together has been revolutionary and taken the world by storm. 

  

 During the past few years, we've witnessed a shift towards what some are calling the "social media release." Services like PitchEngine, PressLift, PRX Builder, and MindTouch are bringing the press release into the new millennium with embedded multimedia and easy distribution through various channels, including social media and e-mail.(Swallow, 2010)

Social media has been a mean of communications for pr practioner, their clients and the general public. It is a public format and forum here information can be communicated and seen on a platform. It is a great way to market and promote a event, client, company but it is important to be mindful what is put out there. “Social media does not replace traditional media…. traditional media is still very important, when paired with social media, it’s even more powerful.” (Dougherty, 2015) When issues arise, knowing how to diffuse and adequately use the skills of crisis management effectively. Ensure crisis communication plans are current and incorporate the best communication channels for reaching all audiences, from employees to media to consumers. Know your brand and be prepared to respond to your target audience when issues arise.(Linsey, 2012) Social media is connecting pr practitioners to one another and gives pr practitioner greater exposure to their target audience.  It is important to know how to properly use the exposure of social media. 

References

Dougherty, J. (2015, October 8). 6 Ways Social Media Has Changed Public Relations | Cision. Retrieved from 

     http://www.cision.com/us/2014/09/6-ways-social-media-changed-public-relations/

Linsey, A. (2012, October 1). The Evolution of Public Relations Professionals. Retrieved 

        from https://www.iabc.com/the-evolution-of-public-relations-professionals/

Mudd, J. (2013, October 30). The Evolution of Public Relations Over Time. Retrieved from 

     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKLPBsITvDc

Swallow, E. (2010, August 16). The Future of Public Relations and Social Media. Retrieved from 

          http://mashable.com/2010/08/16/pr-social-media-future/#_Trkcz7Gukqy