The new system includes Gemstone; GN4; VirtualCMS and VirtualNewspaper; includes modules for production; A/R; self-service and ad planning. As well as all print content, it will also manage all digital content for smartphone; tablet and the internet, says Miles 33.
The new system will allow Alpha Newspaper Group to publish to any media channel they wish including the Internet; smartphones; tablets and of course, printed newspapers.
GN4 will be implemented first and will be producing all of Alpha Newspaper’s print titles. The integrated WebCMS will replace the current WebCMS with responsive design websites for each title. VirtualNewspaper will extend the reach to users who prefer native apps that run on their iOS or Android devices, thus reaching out to new demographics. Thanks to the integrated nature of all publishing modules, continues Miles 33, no additional work is required to publish to print; web and native apps. Each platform is simply a “destination” that is selected by a single click, thus delivering a true multi-channel newsroom system.
In a second phase, Gemstone, Miles 33’s CRM-driven multi-channel booking system will be used for all media sales. Gemstone includes a fully integrated CRM module as well as providing extensive sales target management and real-time performance tracking tools. A two-way integration with Alpha’s existing AdServer extends advertising management to digital ads, both for the web and for mobile. With Gemstone, Alpha Newspaper Group can not only sell packages across all of their titles, cross-channel ad packages can now also be introduced. Any sales rep can add digital ad versions, which can include complex targeting option, with just a few clicks. Gemstone will automatically create the multiple ad sizes required for any cross-media ad booking.
Miles 33 are also supplying Integrated Production; ROP Planning; Classified Pagination and Credit Management as well as an integrated Self Service Module that provides round-the-clock ad sales.
A single system will be centrally hosted supporting multiple remote offices and titles.
The contract called for a full “turnkey” solution with Miles 33 providing and installing the hardware and system core infrastructure.
Jean Long, CEO at Alpha Newspaper Group, said: “We selected Miles 33 because of their proven ability to help publishers expand their drive into digital and mobile. As we grow our digital publishing efforts, it is comforting to know we have a partner with extensive experience and the technology, to help us accomplish our goals.”
