http://www.responsesource.com Thu, 29 Jul 2010 23:46:39 +0100 admin@responsesource.com (Responsesource) support@dwpub.com Copyright2010 responsesource.com http://www.responsesource.com/images/rss/rss.gif http://www.responsesource.com Zend Framework Zend_Feed en-us http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58306 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58306 Digitalchoices.co.uk said:

"Whilst 3D TV may seem the ultimate extravagance to the majority of viewers, we only need cast our minds back a couple of years to when we questioned the need for the added detail of HDTV – and the take up of that has been nothing short of phenomenal."

"Film studios, hardware manufacturers and broadcasters are now committing significant sums to bring a 3D viewing experience into our living rooms, so Sky’s launch is well-placed to capitalise on this."

"The costs of getting '3D TV ready' is not inconsiderable and the choice of content is currently pretty limited. To that end, we expect it to be a hit with the technology-obsessed and early adopters for some time before it really takes off and we see mainstream programmes broadcast in 3D."
- Stephane Bottine 29-07-2010]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:54:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58273 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58273
The new channel, branded ‘Tony TV’, will feature a series of animated videos produced by mobile marketing specialists Skill-Pill M-Learning. The concept is to create a new level of engagement and discussion around key mining topics, such as health and safety, climate change and sustainability. Using the avatar of Dr. Anthony (Tony) Hodge, the President of ICMM, as a news presenter, the ‘Tony TV’ videos feature interviews with CEOs of ICMM member organisations, including Rio Tinto, AngloGold Ashanti and Goldcorp.

Dr. Hodge is enthusiastic about the possibilities of this partnership with Skill-Pill: “Tony TV is an innovative way to communicate with our stakeholders around the world. While the internet gives us global reach, being able to reach people directly via their mobiles with informing and compelling content takes us to a new level of engagement with our stakeholders. It not only allows us to raise key industry issues, but helps us to demonstrate the leadership role played by the CEOs of our member companies.”

‘Tony TV’ videos will be available from the ICMM website (http://www.icmm.com) and the ICMM channel on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/TheICMM). Using Skill-Pill’s mobile distribution platform, you can view the two-minute programs on your mobiles using the phone’s web browser, or via an iPhone app or BlackBerry widget.

Gerry Griffin, the founder and director of Skill-Pill says that the Tony TV series brings Skill-Pill into a new era: “We are showing that Skill-Pill is not only a powerful tool for corporate communication, but an impactful approach to increase the level of engagement within an industry.”

Notes for Editors:

ICMM was established in 2001 to act as a catalyst for performance improvement in the mining and metals industry. Today, the organisation brings together 19 mining and metals companies as well as 30 national and regional mining associations and global commodity associations to address the core sustainable development challenges faced by the industry.

Skill-Pill is a leading mobile learning and marketing company that delivers concise marketing or training videos to mobile devices, such as phones, iPods or BlackBerrys. Each skill-pill comprises up to two minutes of rich media content. Skill-Pill produces customised pills for clients, and also allows them access to an extensive library of generic content. The library has 5 categories; Leadership, Management, Sales, Personal Skills and English Language Skills.

‘Tony TV’ Skill-Pills access details:

Access via PCs or laptops:

www.skill-pill.com/showcase/icmm
Username: icmm
Password: skill-pill

Access via mobile phones or Blackberries:

1. Visit http://www.skill-pill.com/mobile/icmm either on your phone or via your PC/laptop.
2. Enter your mobile number.
3. That’s it! You will receive access details via SMS.

Access via iPhones:

1. Click the ‘App Store’ icon on your iPhone.
2. Search for ‘Skill-Pill’.
3. Click ‘Install’.
4. Once installed, a Skill-Pill icon will appear on your iPhone desktop. Click the icon.
5. Login details:
Customer ID: 1265
Username: icmm
Password: demo

For more information:

www.skill-pill.com
pr@skill-pill.com
+44 870 240 6656 - Ada Lee 28-07-2010]]> Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:48:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58249 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58249 hosted voice and VoIP sector, is now making it easier than ever for businesses to stay connected by offering a service that can programme any device as an additional extension.

Natterbox's hosted PBX service allows any device, whether it is a landline, a mobile or even a computer, to be used as an extension of a business’ telephone network. Organisations can route any telephone call, whether it is an incoming external or an internal call, to a single user or to multiple voice devices at once. Calls received are handled as if they are typical transfers to another office extension, meaning the caller on the other end will be seamlessly patched through to any type of device, anywhere in the world without noticing the difference.

The service is particularly beneficial for those people who are always on the move. A user’s office extension, mobile phone, home line and PC can all ring at the same time, helping to make sure a call is never missed. The hosted voice platform from Natterbox requires no hardware or software to be installed for the organisation, ensuring it is also a cost effective service.

Another feature which allows users greater flexibility is mobile voicemail. Users are able to access their voicemail from any phone line across the World. The ability to access this information from any location exemplifies how this technology has improved in recent times, making the telecoms market more accessible and easy to use for businesses employing these services.

Neil Hammerton, CEO of Natterbox, said: “The telecoms market has advanced at such a rate over the past few years and there is a need for businesses to access a whole range of innovative features. For example, call forwarding, one of the many building blocks within the full Natterbox service, allows calls to be automatically forwarded to multiple destinations. Whether it is in an overseas office, a home phone, a mobile or a PC, the destination simply becomes an extension of your main business line.

“Advances in telecoms, like this feature from Natterbox, are helping to make life easier for businesses. Making telephone systems easier to understand and manage as well as being much more cost effective than traditional means, means that companies no longer have to worry about losing customers, any business partner can be reached on an extension, anywhere in the world.”

Natterbox delivers the most cost effective and useful telecoms solutions possible to its clients. With the installation of Natterbox’s software, clients are able to easily manage the many value-added features available and therefore deal with telecoms in a hassle free manner. Implementation of a Natterbox system makes business telecommunications easier to use at a low cost.

For more information, please visit natterbox.com
- Pete Goold 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:41:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58242 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58242 Pure Holiday Homes, the UK’s fastest growing, direct from owner holiday rental company, is proud to introduce its new affiliate marketing program, which launches today the 27th July 2010, and aims to benefit companies inside and outside the travel sector.

Pure Holiday Homes is a holiday homes listings site, with over 11,400 properties. The company charges a listing fee to homeowners and allows holidaymakers to contact the property owners directly, to book their holiday. Our website contains strong industry USP’s, high traffic and a stylish design complimented by our partnership with the Daily Telegraph.

By signing up to become an affiliate for Pure Holiday Homes, you are able to create commission from our two core target markets; second homeowners (whether at home or abroad) and holidaymakers. If you have a database or site visitors who are potential second homeowners, then you can gain 30% commission for every customer who creates an advert. Alternatively, if you have a consumer base or site visitors of likely holidaymakers you can make £1.50 for every enquiry that is registered with the site.

The new affiliate program is free and simple to set up, not requiring any technical knowledge, to allow you to generate additional income to your business with ease. All of the advertising tools which are needed to launch your campaign are supplied by Pure Holiday Homes, including a variety of colour banners to suit your website or newsletter. We will also work with partners to create custom content including xml feeds and email newsletters.

Why choose our program?

We offer higher commission than any of our competitors
We offer longer cookies to reward your efforts
We have removed upfront telephone numbers from the site to reduce leakage
Our site has been shortlisted as the Best Accomodation Only website for the 2010 Travolution Awards.

Pure Holiday Homes uses Affiliate Window to track enquiries and sales produced by affiliates, to make sure you receive the commission you deserve. Not only this, but you will also be able to log in and review your personal performance and traffic it has created for the site.

Pure Holiday Homes is interested in linking with currency websites, car rental companies, travel insurance companies, property sites and many more including invidual bloggers.

Sean Collins, Joint CEO of Pure Holiday Homes, has commented on the recent release, “This program will allow partners to have access to the fastest growing company in the holiday rental sector with the most dynamic and stylish website. We are committed to building long term partner relations and see the development of our affiliate program as a key part of that strategy. The growth and relevance of affiliate marketing practices is playing an increasingly important role in the travel industry and we want to ensure we are at the cutting edge of this movement.”

Special Launch Offer

The company is also offering a launch promotion for all new affiliates, if you bring us over 10 subscribing homeowners or 200 enquiries in a month you will be entered into a draw to win an iPad.

Additionally there is an incentive for top selling partners if you generate 100 subscriptions or 1,000 holidaymaker enquiries in a month you will receive a £500 bonus.

We also have a great offer for your home-owners who sign up via an affiliate link. They can claim a free 3 week featured property listing, and free membership of the 'owners collection', where home-owners can trade vacant weeks with other owners.

Becoming an affiliate for Pure Holiday Homes could not be easier simply click on this link https://www.awin1.com/signup.php?merchant=2936 and get started today. To register for free please insert the code 6245

If you would prefer to discuss becoming an affiliate partner please email us as affiliates@pureholidayhomes.com or call 0844 249 8090, +44 (0) 1753 728 730 if calling from outside the UK.

For more information please visit www.pureholidayhomes.com

***Ends***

Notes to Editor:

pureholidayhomes.com is a new holiday rental portal offering unique self-catering properties at home and abroad for holidaymakers seeking better value, more flexibility and greater choice.

pureholidayhomes.com offers fast, efficient and user-friendly ways to search and book that perfect holiday rental. Holidaymakers deal direct with owners so there are no hidden costs or fees. The website currently features over 11,400 properties, state-of-the-art search functions, and opportunities for last minute deals as well as fantastic early bird savings.

For further press information please contact Mairi Lucas on Tel: 01753 728 730 or Email: mlucas@pureholidayhomes.com
- Mathew Fox 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:08:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58119 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58119 spinal injury victims, as teams of researchers from several universities have announced that they have been successful in repairing the damaged spinal cords in mice using stem cell technology.

The research teams, led by Professor Hideyuki Okano of Keio University and Professor Shinya Yamanaka of Kyoto University have recently published the results of experiments to use iPS (induced pluripotent stem cells) to repair damage to the delicate and vital spinal cord of mice. iPS cells are sourced from adult cells rather than embryonic cells and until recently researchers have faced difficulties in using these types of stem cells. The iPS cells tended to grow uncontrollably, causing tumours to form where they were implanted. The new research from Japan shows that the rate of growth can be controlled by transplanting the iPS cells into the brains of the mice and monitoring their growth for six months.

The healthy cells were then harvested and injected into the damaged spinal cord of a mouse nine days after injury. The mouse, which had lost all mobility in its back legs, soon recovered the ability to use its legs. Although there are still obstacles to overcome with this form of treatment (most notably the ‘growing’ of cells in a brain), it could form the basis of further research and hopefully, human trials later on that could prove to be a major step forward in the effective treatment of
spinal injury cases. “There’s still a great deal to do before this becomes a viable treatment for humans,” says Paul Breen, of specialist serious injury solicitors Serious Law. “But the fact that the iPS treatment has been shown to have positive results in the laboratory is a great foundation for expanding the research into more human-friendly treatment methods. Stem cell research is still in its infancy, but with positive results coming in like this, there may be some claim to be cautiously optimistic for an effective treatment within the next few years,” he adds.

Controversial but vital research

Stem cell research has been the cause of considerable controversy due to the nature of ‘harvesting’ cells for use in treatments. But if a way of reproducing the iPS cells without either the runaway multiplication effect or having to use a less than convenient method of growing the cells can be developed, this could help the research move forward towards human trials. “Up until this research came out, iPS cells were thought to be unusable because of their tendency to grow uncontrollably and result in the development of tumours,” says Paul of Serious Law. “This research only tackled the issue of whether iPS cells would actually be effective, not how to grow or harvest the cells initially. They have proven that the cells work. Now it’s up to the scientific community to take this research and run with it. It’s vitally important work, as it could offer those whose lives have been devastated by spinal injuries to recover far more control over their bodies than before. It could even possibly offer an effective ‘cure’ for spinal damage, but that still remains to be proven in human test subjects rather than just lab mice,” he concludes.

Whatever happens next, the Japanese research has caused a buzz in the medical and scientific communities and could offer a lifeline to spinal injury victims all over the world.

ENDS
News Provided Serious Law, award winning spinal injury law firm. View more news items and find information on the accident claims services we provide at http://www.seriousinjurylaw.co.uk - Richard Skidmore 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:48:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58118 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58118 motorcycle injury on UK roads in the 12 month period by 4%, despite a 2% rise in the amount of traffic on the roads.

The statistics show that as the number of miles travelled by motorcyclists has increased the number of casualties and fatalities has dropped year on year since 2002, indicating that more miles travelled does not necessarily equate to a higher number of incidents. In 2009, the number of motorcyclists seriously injured in
motorbike accidents dropped to 5,350 and there were 472 fewer fatalities compared to 2008.

BikeSafe

Industry watchers put the drop down to an effective and high profile campaign of advertising on television and on bill boards, as well as the introduction of the Police’s ‘BikeSafe’ scheme, and improvements in driver training and awareness.

But there were still over 5,000 motorcyclists seriously injured on the UK’s roads last year. That figure still translates into thousands of lives affected by a moment’s lack of concentration or, in many cases a mistake by another road user that led to an accident. “Motorcyclists should be pleased at the drop in the numbers of their fellow bikers killed or injured on the roads. But it still means that more than five thousand people have had their lives dramatically altered and possibly changed forever by a momentary lapse of concentration by another driver,” says Matthew Dixon, of injury compensation specialists Serious Law. “Our job is to help those who are injured as a result of someone else’s lapse of concentration or poor driving to rebuild their lives. It’s not just about the money. It’s about making sure that they have the support, treatment and help they need once the trauma of the initial accident has been dealt with,” he explains.

The hidden victims

What the statistics don’t reveal are the hidden victims – the families of those injured. And in that instance, Serious Law believes that serious accident specialists have a greater understanding of the complications, financial worries and rehabilitation needs than ordinary claims solicitors. “Because we only deal with serious injury claims, our expertise covers a whole range of situations that may not be taken into consideration by a high street injury compensation company,” explains Matthew. “We don’t just help with the legalities of making a claim. We have a network of specialists across a wide field of expertise, from home adaptation builders through to medical experts, psychologists and physiotherapists. Because of this, we can help both the victims and their families to rebuild their lives as quickly and as painlessly as possible. It’s this support network that is absolutely vital to victims and their families in those traumatic first few months after an accident,” he adds.

Although the statistics are good news, campaigners are pressurising the new coalition government not to cut the budget for the ‘Think Bike’ campaign and to ensure that driver awareness of motorcyclists continues to be at the forefront of road safety campaigning.

ENDS
News Provided by Serious Law an award winning spinal injury law firm. View more news items and find information on the accident claims services we provide at http://www.seriousinjurylaw.co.uk - Richard Skidmore 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58116 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58116 accident claims solicitors, particularly in serious injury cases.

Although CPD (continual personal development) is a requirement for all solicitors, with a mandatory 16 hours of CPD training required every year, some specialist solicitors are voicing concern over the breadth of their colleague’s ability to cope with more complex injury compensation claims. “While we have no doubt that the vast majority of compensation claims solicitors are very good at their jobs, the problems can start with more serious injury claims,” explains Matthew Dixon of serious injury compensation experts Serious Law. “While the average road traffic accident involving whiplash and minor injuries can often be quite straightforward to sort out, victims who have suffered more serious injuries need a different approach. Their claims are often substantially higher and longer-term complications have to be taken into consideration. Your average high street solicitor may not have the network of experts in place to call upon for advice, such as medical experts, physiotherapists or even specialist builders to look after home conversions for disabled victims,” he adds.

But it isn’t just having a good contacts book that worries specialist solicitors. “Serious injury claims can take much longer to resolve than a simple case of whiplash,” explains Matthew. “While solicitors are required to carry out continuous personal development, that doesn’t always cover the very latest in complicated personal injury law. And with such a complex area, one missing piece of information may be all it takes to jeopardise an entire case. It is here that the benefit of both experience and professional training comes into its own. After all, the client is depending on their solicitor for expert advice and guidance. That solicitor has a duty of care to deliver the best service they possibly can to each and every victim, no matter how complex the case,” he adds.

How do you know how qualified your solicitor is?

The advice from specialist solicitors is to check before you sign anything. “All solicitors are members of professional organisations, and to become a member you have to notify the governing body of your qualifications,” explains Paul. “If you’re dealing with a serious injury specialist, ask them about their experience, their qualifications and what organisations they belong to. If necessary, you can check up with the organisation before you engage the solicitor to handle your case for your own peace of mind. Remember, you’re the client. If you don’t feel happy with the way your solicitor is handling a case, you can always go to one that you do feel comfortable with,” advises Matthew.


ENDS
News Provided by Serious Law an award winning spinal injury law firm. View more news items and find information on the accident claims services we provide at http://www.seriousinjurylaw.co.uk
- Richard Skidmore 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58115 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58115 brain injuries as the result of an accident could have more chance of making a full recovery, thanks to pioneering research being carried out at the Addenbrooke’s Hospital Neurosciences Critical Care Unit in Cambridge.

The Unit, led by Professor David Menon, considered to be one of the world’s leading brain injury specialist care units, is undertaking continuous research into the causes and effects of serious brain injury. And their recovery rates are giving hope to thousands of other brain injury victims, with around 40% of patients admitted to the unit recovering fully. That percentage is rising, and Professor Menon and his team are continually pushing the boundaries of neuroscience research in an effort to help as many people as possible recover fully from road accidents and other traumatic injuries.

The NCCU at Addenbrooke’s Hospital was set up 13 years ago and in that time has produced some remarkable results. Patients, who previously would not have survived their injuries, now have a much better chance at regaining some or even a complete level of recovery even if the injury has been severe. “What they’re doing at Addenbrooke’s Hospital is at the very cutting edge of neuroscience research,” explains Matthew Dixon of serious injury compensation specialists Serious Law. “Twenty years ago, a severe head trauma or brain injury could easily be a death sentence, even if the patient’s body survived the initial accident. Thanks to the research being carried out by Professor Menon and his team, that has now turned around. With high profile head injury survivors such as Richard Hammond from Top Gear making a full recovery from an horrific initial injury, it inspires hope for those victims and their families facing an uncertain future,” he adds.

A benchmark for best practice

In 2002, five years after the Unit first started work, data analysis showed a 20% increase in patients making a full or nearly full recovery. Although a complete recovery is not always possible, the work being carried out by the NCCU is now considered across the NHS to be the benchmark for ‘best practice’ in head injury cases, influencing a generation of neurosurgeons and care teams to consider more effective methods of treatment.

“The initial treatment is of vital importance if they are to save as much of the person as possible,” explains Matthew of Serious Law. “Once they’ve worked their miracles expert solicitors who specialise in serious injury claims step in to help the victims and their families to start rebuilding a life outside the trauma ward. Because of our specialist expertise, we have a network of contacts who can help the victims in more ways than just getting financial recompense for the accident. We work with trauma teams like those at Addenbrooke’s to make each recovery as complete as possible,” he adds.

Although neuroscience still has a long way to go before we fully understand how the human brain responds to extreme trauma, the research carried out by Professor Menon and his team at Addenbrooke’s Hospital is giving thousands of serious head injury victims hope for the future, and the possibility of a more complete recovery.

ENDS

News Provided by Serious Law an award winning spinal injury law firm. View more news items and find information on the accident claims services we provide at http://www.seriousinjurylaw.co.uk - Richard Skidmore 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58228 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58228
"As broadband providers have rolled out ‘up to 20Mb’ broadband they have singularly failed to deliver on the promise – an average speed of 6.5Mb is totally underwhelming. It’s no surprise that in April this year when we surveyed 2,500* broadband users the main cause of dissatisfaction remains broadband speeds not living up to the hype."

"There continues to be a huge disparity between the speeds advertised and the speeds delivered and worryingly our latest research shows satisfaction with connection speed is falling year-on-year**."

"Ofcom’s report is great news for Virgin Media customers but for those consumers that don’t happen to live in one of their cabled streets then existing copper wirephone line delivery is, the only other option, unless they can get BT’s new fibre optic service Infinity; so a “typical speed range” would at least manage consumer’s expectations more effectively"

It’s crucial for consumers to compare broadband packages in their area and ensure that they get the most out of their chosen provider. There are a range of simple actions that can improve the speed of a broadband service (www.broadbandchoices.co.uk/speeding-up-your-broadband-comple...).

If you are unhappy with your broadband speed, follow Broadbandchoices.co.uk’s top tips to speeding up your connection:

1. Test your speed – If you haven’t already done so, use a broadband speed tester to measure the level at which your connection is currently running. This will allow you to see what difference the following suggestions make to your speed. Find one at www.BroadbandChoices.co.uk/speed-tester.html

2. It’s good to talk – If you are not getting what you expected from your ISP, then give them a call. You may be able to boost your connection speed simply by asking them if there is anything they can do to help.

3. Reposition your router – The position of your router can have a significant effect on the quality of your wireless connection. Place it in an area where the signal will be affected by as few obstructions and little interference as possible. For example, away from appliances which emit wireless signals (e.g. cordless phones) and avoiding barriers (such as walls and doors) between the router and your computer.

4. Spring clean your cache – Every time you visit a webpage, your browser will store, or ‘cache’ it. All these items stored in your cache do take up space and over time it can get very full. Periodically clearing our your browsers cache will enable it to function more effectively.

5. Upgrade your browser – If you are unhappy with the browsing speed of your connection then you should definitely look at upgrading to a newer web browser. Using the latest browsers can greatly reduce the time it takes to download a web page. Check www.download.com for free downloads of the latest browsers, but should be careful when making any changes to the settings on your computer.

6. Monitor your applications – There are many applications (such as RealPlayer or Windows Updates) that may discreetly start running when you log in to your computer and these may slow your connection down. Set these applications so they don’t run automatically – this should reduce your bandwidth overhead and make a noticeable difference to your connection speed.

7. Disable P2P software – Some applications often continue to run in the background even when you think you’ve turned them off as they continually upload and download data – this will not only slow you down but can also use up your download allowance. To avoid this, check the settings of these applications and if possible, set them to ‘no peer to peer.’

8. Loathe thy neighbour – If you have wireless broadband, the first and foremost thing you should do is secure your wireless network. If you are unwittingly sharing your connection with unauthorised users then they will be using up valuable bandwidth. This means that the speed of your connection and download allowance could take a battering, not to mention the security threat this poses.

9. Traffic jams – The time of day at which you go online can greatly affect connection speeds. When lots of people are trying to access the internet at the same time there is increased traffic on the physical phone lines and also each website’s servers. Heaviest traffic is usually in the evenings, so to benefit from the fastest speeds you should try to surf when internet traffic is low, generally in the day time or very late at night. If you have heavy downloading to do, you will get the fastest download speeds during off-peak periods.

10. Switch – After all these measures, if your current package still isn’t giving you the speed you want, it may be time to switch. The speed you will be able to achieve does depend on some factors outside your control – such as your distance from the telephone exchange. Evaluate the time and money needed to improve on your current connection and decide for yourself if it is worth an upgrade. Use our Ofcom accredited comparison calculator at www.Broadbandchoices.co.uk to compare broadband deals and find a more suitable package for you.

–ends-

For further information please contact:

Michael Phillips/Jon Ingram Broadbandchoices.co.uk 020 7400 6234
Gug Kyriacou/Elizabeth Leach Polhill Communications 020 7655 0550

Notes:

* Broadbandchoices.co.uk Broadband Complaints Survey 2010; online survey conducted April 2010; 2,641 respondents with home fixed line broadband. Disappointment with connection speed was the top complaint at 77% (70% in 2009 survey)

** Speed of connection survey results for "Very satisfied" or "Fairly satisfied" customers.

Year|Percentage|Sample size
2010|54.49%|6,341
2009|58.45%|9,599
2008|64.87%|3,578

Source: Broadbandchoices.co.uk Customer Satisfaction Survey

About Broadbandchoices.co.uk

Broadbandchoices.co.uk was launched in 2005 and is the UK’s leading Ofcom accredited broadband comparison calculator.

We offer comprehensive and impartial advice on broadband, mobile broadband and bundled packages (broadband with home phone and digital TV) saving our users over £200 when they switch.

The Broadbandchoices.co.uk calculator compares thousands of different combinations of packages and provides results in a clear, intuitive table where users can rank and compare services according to their individual needs.

Users can switch online or by calling our sales team on 0800 232 1279.

Broadbandchoices.co.uk powers over 20 leading comparison services including Confused.com, Comparethemarket.com and GoCompare.com.

www.Broadbandchoices.co.uk – working hard to save you money - Stephane Bottine 27-07-2010]]> Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:54:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58213 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58213
26th July 2010 - Figures released today by HomeAway Holiday-Rentals, market leader of the online holiday rentals industry, reveal that savvy Londoners stand to make millions renting out their homes to tourists during the London 2012 Olympics. It is expected that home owners could generate an average of £4,500 by renting their home during the 16 day-long event; an average of £2,000 per week.

The opportunity to make extra income during the high profile sporting event will come as very welcome news to Londoners. There are currently around 500 London properties available for rent on www.HomeAway.co.uk and with the company expecting an increase in listings on its site alone of well over 100% by 2012 , the Olympics has the potential to earn millions in rental income for homeowners in the Capital.

Tim Boughton, UK General Manager, HomeAway Holiday-Rentals said: “The switch from hotels to holiday rental has been steadily increasing, with particularly high spikes in demand around major global sporting events. For the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, many visitors sought out holiday rental properties as an alternative to a hotel, which meant the average weekly income generated per property soared by almost 150 per cent. However, even at this increased rate, holiday home rentals still often work out far cheaper than similar standard hotels, making them a highly attractive option for tourists.”

“As London plays host to visitors from around the world, we anticipate demand for London properties to rocket, particularly those properties in close proximity to the key Olympics sites, with good transport links to London’s top attractions.”

HomeAway Holiday-Rentals has been tracking the growing demand for rental properties, with the site reporting that in the run-up to the 2010 World Cup, booking enquiries spiked by over 1000 per cent compared to the same period during in 2009. Savvy owners quickly caught onto the demand driven trend, with property listings in the area increasing by 70% and weekly rental rates being raised by almost 150%. Based on these figures, the average South Africa property owner renting out their home stood to make £1,700 per week during the 2010 World Cup.

-ends-

About HomeAway UK

HomeAway UK operates the two market-leading websites HomeAway Holiday-Rentals (www.HomeAway.co.uk) and Owners Direct (www.OwnersDirect.co.uk), founded respectively in 1996 and 1997. HomeAway UK offers British travellers the largest selection of properties available to rent online, along with innovative search features and unrivalled levels of trust and safety for those booking direct. HomeAway.co.uk offers the largest selection of independent guest reviews and OwnersDirect.co.uk offers owner profiles for increased peace of mind. Both sites offer the industry-leading HomeAway Guarantee.

About HomeAway, Inc.

HomeAway is the world leader of the online holiday rentals market, representing over 475,000 property listings across more than 120 countries. The company has contributed significantly to the popularity of the holiday rentals industry, making it easier than ever for both owners to advertise and profit from their second homes and for millions of travellers to find the perfect holiday rental. HomeAway operates sites in 11 European countries and the market-leading sites in the USA and Brazil.

HomeAway is funded by Austin Ventures, Institutional Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, Technology Crossover Ventures and Trident Capital. The company is based in Austin, Texas and has offices in London and Epsom, England; Kassel and Frankfurt, Germany; and Paris and Marseille, France.

HomeAway sites worldwide:

HomeAway Holiday-Rentals
Owners Direct
HomeAway
VRBO
Vacation Rentals
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- Sarah Chambers 26-07-2010]]> Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:00:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58203 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58203
The most impressive array of international business experts and entrepreneurs ever assembled in the UK will take to the stage in London in September to share their success strategies with the public in a groundbreaking event designed to boost the British economy.

The Internet Marketing & Entrepreneur Event (TIME) is the first show of its kind to be held in the capital and promises around 500 visitors a life-changing weekend of advice and presentations on developing new income streams, harnessing the power of social media, increasing wealth via the internet, making money from property investment, generating new business leads, marketing techniques, sales strategies and harnessing the power of persuasion and positivity.

A star-studded line-up of more than 20 sought-after speakers from the UK, the USA and further afield will join forces for the inspirational event, which runs from September 2-5 at the Ibis Earls Court Hotel, London. Many of them attract delegates to travel thousands of miles to hear them speak individually at events like these and charge thousands of pounds for tickets.

The educational and entertaining TIME Event is being organised by UK-based entrepreneur Mark Nathwani and US-based internet marketing specialist Larry Loik, one of Anthony Robbins’ most successful protégés.

Nathwani, an established expert in the internet marketing sector with a track record in UK junior stock market ofex and property wealth creation, wants to restore the battered economy by helping people take advantage of business and wealth opportunities that have never previously been shared in one place.

“This event will be unlike anything Britain has witnessed before. It will be a life-changing weekend for those who attend. Anyone, regardless of their age, income, culture or experience, can get themselves out of a rut with the ideas and strategies that will be demonstrated during the event,” he says.

“I guarantee that delegates will walk away with vast amounts of useful knowledge immediately. Coaching on this scale is an investment in the future for people who want to take control and earn money from their own home.”
Highlights of the pioneering programme include:

Robert Allen (USA) – Acclaimed author or international bestsellers such as Multiple Streams of Income, Creating Wealth and The One Minute Millionaire reveals strategies for making a fortune online.

Mike Koenigs (USA) – World-renowned internet marketing visionary, whose clients include Deepak Chopra, Debbie Ford and Tony Robbins, unveils the secrets of successful online marketing.

Joel Bauer (USA) – Recognised as the world’s leading expert on the power of persuasion, the author, media personality and immensely popular speaker gives an insight into his unique techniques.

Ted Thomas (USA) – Recognised as the top authority on America’s Tax Lien Certificates and Tax Deeds system, the top publisher and author brings his formula for wealth creation to the UK for the first time.

Simon Coulson (UK) – Regularly speaking in front of 7,000 people at seminars around the world, the internet marketing coach reveals the strategies that helped him generate more than £6m in six years.

Mark Nathwani (UK) – The entrepreneur who went from zero to £131m in less than a year will describe how private label rights and resell rights can boost your online business.

Larry Loik (USA) – The leading speaker behind the Real Estate Investor Network passes on the secrets of his ultimate marketing system.

Sohail Khan (UK) – How to use The Joint Ventures Club to secure lucrative deals

Andy Harrington (UK) – How to speak like a pro and sell to your audience

David Cavanagh (USA) – Build your own internet marketing empire in weeks

Dr Mike Woo-Ming (USA) – Get 83 business leads in 18 seconds with the LeadEvolution System

Daniel Wagner (UK) – The four-step system to make seven-figure income online

Bill Walsh (USA) – Advanced sales strategies to help you win in business

Patel Kalpesh (UK) – How to make the best use of the internet and maximize your potential

Adam Urbanski (USA) – Step-by-step marketing plan to attract all the clients you can handle

Ernesto Verdugo (Holland) – Learn to transform your business and personal life

Capt Lou Edwards (USA) – How to be the guru of your own exotic cruising events

In addition to these high-calibre speakers, the programme also includes a VIP networking event, music performances, magic shows, holiday certificates and giveaways.

For more information visit www.TheTimeEvent.com

(ends)

About The TIME Event

The Internet Marketing and Entrepreneur Event takes place for the first time from September 2nd to 5th, 2010, at the Ibis Earls Court Hotel, London. The TIME Event will feature more than 20 internationally recognised speakers including Robert Allen, Mike Koenigs, Joel Bauer, Ted Thomas and Simon Coulson. It is being organised by UK-based internet marketing specialist Mark Nathwani and US-based entrepreneur Larry Loik, who was formerly the largest franchisee of famous motivational speaker Tony Robbins.

For tickets, priced £497, and more information, visit www.thetimeevent.com

For more information or images please contact:

Nick Henderson, Katie McBreen or Richard McCann
Friday’s Media Group, 18 Soho Square, London, W1D 3QL
Telephone: 0845 500 1140
Email: nickh@fridays-group.co.uk , katiem@fridays-group.co.uk or richardm@fridays-group.co.uk
- Sue McBreen 26-07-2010]]> Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:50:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58174 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58174
Lloyds Banking Group is one of the largest financial institutions in the world, and operates numerous private, retail, and investment banking organisations including Lloyds Bank and Halifax Bank of Scotland.

In July 2010, the Group Finance Integration team at Lloyds identified a need for self-paced eLearning that would enable financial accountants to learn how to use the financial systems (Oracle Hyperion Essbase system). The eLearning had to be task-focused, reflect the complex nature of the system, and delivered within a compressed timeframe of just two weeks!

With the requirement identified, Lloyds required a partner who could not only create an eLearning program of the highest production quality, but who also had the technical subject matter expertise to ensure the program was targeted at their specific audience. After careful consideration Lloyds chose Content Master www.contentmaster.com part of CM Group www.cm-group.co.uk the eLearning production specialists. The decision was based on their proven track record of delivering technical eLearning in a highly engaging and interactive format, cost effectively and within significantly reduced timescales.

Content Master’sproject team agreed all deliverables at the start of the project before engaging with their technology specialists who were able to build a virtual environment to replicate the Lloyds system. This enabled them to create simulations in which the data provided a reporting scenario that the users would find realistic. Content Master’s expertise in creating technical learning content meant that they could create simulations using the replica system, that encourages effective learning that is instrumental to the learners’ daily activities.

The project has already been completed within the required two week timescale, and provided Lloyds with the solution they were looking for. “The finished product looks great”, enthuses Stephen McEwan of Lloyds Banking Group, “Hitting those tight timescales whilst maintaining high quality was crucial. We're delighted with what Content Master have produced and it will be of great benefit to the project.”

Content Master uses the Luminosity www.cm-luminosity.co.uk rapid eLearning authoring software platform.

About CM Group

CM Group was founded by a team of IT experts and top learning and development exponents in 1999. The company was established in response to the increasing demand from organisations wishing to harness the latest technologies in their Learning strategies.
CM Group specialises in advanced information and learning methodologies and technologies. With three operating divisions, the Company is the UK’s third largest creator of bespoke eLearning for clients via its Content Masterdivision. Through the CM Luminosity division it supplies large organisations of all types with the "Luminosity" collaborative rapid eLearning development platform, the most functionally rich, yet easiest to use system of its kind on the market. CM Consulting, offers a range of consulting and software development services to clients.
With offices in the UK and USA, CM Group is ideally placed to help clients with the full range of business and technical issues they face in harnessing the latest technologies.

www.cm-group.co.uk

For further information contact:

Tim Buff

Tel: 01454 269222
Email: timb@cm-group.co.uk
- Tim Buff 22-07-2010]]> Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:52:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58171 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58171 www.jgfr.co.uk' target='_blank'>JGFR finds prospective consumer financial activity this summer weaker than in the spring quarter.

This may reflect the fact that people have less money to save or invest, but also the enormous change in the political landscape following the election of the new coalition government. Consumers appear to have favoured a ‘wait and see’ attitude to the new economic and financial climate. Some 38 million people expect to save, invest, borrow or repay debt in the coming months, down from 40 million in March and slightly higher than a year ago.

Drop in savings & investment intentions

The headline JGFR Financial Activity Index fell from a 4-year high of 100.0 to 97.5 on the quarter. Weaker savings and investment activity pushed the headline index lower. ISA intentions fell back from the record high levels of the past two quarters. Cash deposit intentions also weakened but more people intend to save regularly – the JGFR Regular Savings Intentions Index reached a 3-year high.

Improving life & pension product purchase intentions helped to push the main indices higher last quarter as longer- term savings and family protection became greater priorities. This quarter life & pension contributions are set to weaken slightly, although the outlook varies greatly between regions.

Investor sentiment has held up well despite recent stock market volatility and is little changed on the sharp rise in expected investor activity last quarter, when more high earners intended to invest in equities. The JGFR Equity Buying Intentions Index is at its highest since June 2007.

Little cheer for consumer credit providers

Prospects for lenders continue to be gloomy. Demand for consumer credit is very weak and little changed on March. The JGFR Consumer Credit Intentions Index is at 66.6, down from 84.8 a year ago with the taking out of personal loans close to a survey low. With the ending of the car scrappage scheme demand for car finance plans is also very weak.

Summertime blues for housing market

The steady fall in both mortgage and property purchase sentiment is set to continue. The surge in intentions seen in the spring / summer of last year, when the Bank of Mum & Dad was a key driver of activity, is a fading memory.

Demand for mortgages is little changed on last quarter ‘s weak intentions, but with more remortgage business than house purchase in prospect. The JGFR Property Purchase Intentions Index is at a survey low (67.4), down from 85.4 a year ago. Even demand from Londoners, normally much higher than elsewhere in the UK, has subsided. The London Property Purchase Intentions Index falling to 110.2 in June, compared to 121.6 in March and 156.0 a year ago.

Shifts in main financial services provider (MFSP) market may be underway

The Financial Activity Barometer also asks consumers which institution they regard as their main financial services provider. For the first time since September 2008, Barclays has replaced Lloyds TSB as the leading brand, with evidence of a shift in consumer behaviour away from the main brands. The market share of the top ten MFSP brands fell to 82% from 85%, its lowest since June 2006. Indeed, specially commissioned research from GfK for JGFR for a forthcoming report* found over a quarter of adults like the idea of new high street banks and two-thirds believe retail and investment banks should be kept separate.

Commented John Gilbert, Chief Executive of JGFR:

“Consumers face a period of great economic change and uncertainty. Financial services is at the heart of such change and it is unsurprising that many people are less active – particularly when income is getting tighter, job prospects are worsening and there is less incentive to move money from a current account.

At the same time the retail financial services industry is set to go through a major re-structuring which is likely to have far-reaching effects on savings, investment and borrowing behaviour and on the leading banking brands.”

* “Consumer attitudes towards the leading main financial services providers and the retail banking market”, published September 2010 by JGFR

Enquiries:

John Gilbert +44 (0) 208 944 7510 / 07740 027968

About the survey:

· The UK Financial Activity Barometer was conducted by GfK NOP amongst a sample of 2,000 individuals aged 16+, on behalf of JGFR
· Quotas are imposed on age, sex, region and social class to ensure the final sample is representative of the UK population
· Interviewing was carried out during 4th – 20th June 2010
· The study has been running since 2002. Back data is available.
· 18 categories of savings, investment, borrowing and debt repayment are covered
· The results of the Barometer are published in the Summer Financial Activity Bulletin.
· Any published material needs a reference to both GfK NOP and JGFR


- John GIlbert 22-07-2010]]> Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:06:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58169 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58169 * Many customers disillusioned with complaints process and failing to complain at all
* Survey by Broadbandchoices.co.uk coincides with Ofcom ruling that customers should be getting better broadband support

A survey of over 2,500 UK broadband customers* by Broadbandchoices.co.uk has revealed that consumers continue to face major difficulties in having their complaints resolved. Almost half of respondents (46%) who made a complaint said they did not feel they reached a successful resolution.

Of the respondents who had not complained, nearly a quarter (24%) simply hadn’t bothered despite experiencing problems with their broadband service.

The findings are revealed as industry regulator, Ofcom announced today that it will make it easier for customers to get help with their complaints. From January next year, communications providers will have to include information of the relevant dispute resolution service on all paper bills. They will also have to write to consumers whose complaints have not been resolved within eight weeks to inform them of their right to take their complaint to a dispute resolution service.

Michael Phillips, product director, Broadbandchoices.co.uk commented:

"We welcome the new rules on complaint handling from Ofcom – more needs to be done to empower consumers and ensure they have the confidence and know-how to get their complaint resolved. In fact, in our survey last year we found that almost 80 per cent of people who complained to their broadband provider weren't even aware of the existence of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process which acts as an independent middleman between provider and customer in the case of disputes.

"What is also striking from our most recent survey is the proportion of unhappy customers who simply weren’t bothering to complain. Over a third said that they thought it would be too much hassle (39%) and another third (34%) simply didn’t have faith that their broadband provider could resolve their complaint.

"Their concerns may not be entirely unfounded either, as a high number of respondents (46%) told us that their complaint was not resolved successfully. This has improved since our survey last year when over half (54%) of complaints were going unresolved, but broadband providers still have work to do if they are to win back customer confidence.

"Broadband customers are clearly disillusioned with their provider’s ability to improve their service if they make a complaint. Raising a complaint is never easy, but the stress and hassle will be significantly reduced thanks to the new Ofcom rules and also by following our 10 practical tips to a successful complaints resolution below."

Broadbandchoices.co.uk’s top tips for making a complaint:

1. Be wise before the event. Even if your relationship with your broadband provider is running smoothly, make sure that your paperwork is in order. Keep your bills filed in chronological order and keep all correspondence between yourself and the company.

2. Always approach your broadband provider first with any complaints or grievances and insist that they explain their official complaints procedure to you before you enter into a dispute.

3. Tell your provider, in writing, of your grievance and that you wish to enter into an official complaints procedure.

4. Maintain a call log detailing each call that you made to your provider. Include such details as the time and date of the call, and the name of the person that you spoke with.

5. Remember any passwords or keywords that you might need; your claim will lack credibility if you forget.

6. Use bank statements to add credibility to your claims, particularly those concerned with billing errors.

7. When communicating with your broadband provider, be both patient and personable. Don’t raise your voice or get irritable. Make sure that you are targeting the correct department and the right people with your complaints.

8. Insist on written confirmation of any changes to your contract, or any verbal agreements that are made over the phone.

9. If you have exhausted your broadband provider’s complaints procedure with no resolution after 8 weeks, contact Cisas or Otelo, and ask them to advise you on the next step you should take.

10. If all else fails, get legal help - Which? Legal Services provides low cost, consumer legal advice.

-ends-

Notes:

* Broadbandchoices.co.uk Broadband Complaints Survey 2010; online survey conducted April 2010; 2,641 respondents with home fixed line broadband


For further information please contact:

Michael Phillips/Jon Ingram
Broadbandchoices.co.uk
020 7400 6234

Gug Kyriacou/James Bishop
Polhill Communications
020 7655 0550

About Broadbandchoices.co.uk

Broadbandchoices.co.uk was launched in 2005 and is the UK’s leading Ofcom accredited broadband comparison calculator.

We offer comprehensive and impartial advice on broadband, mobile broadband and bundled packages (broadband with home phone and digital TV).

The Broadbandchoices.co.uk calculator compares thousands of different combinations of packages and provides results in a clear table. This can be further customized according to individual requirements, for example showing connection costs, or broadband speed.

Users can switch online or by calling our sales team on 0800 232 1279.

Broadbandchoices.co.uk powers the broadband services of over 20 leading comparison services including Confused.com, Comparethemarket.com and GoCompare.com.

www.Broadbandchoices.co.uk – working hard to save you money - Stephane Bottine 22-07-2010]]> Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:00:00 +0100 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58159 http://www.sourcewire.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=58159
The new service offers Barclaycard customers the choice of up to six alerts:
- Account balance
- Notification of statements posted online
- Payments due
- Payments received
- Spending limit reached
- Balance limit

One set of alerts is available for every credit card account, allowing customers complete control and flexibility over how they manage their finances. Customers opt in for these free alerts if they wish to receive them, and can select the ones they feel are most relevant to them. They also have the option to set their own spending limits, and to choose whether to receive full alerts via email, or SMS alerts containing a link to the online system and a description of the alert in question.

mybarclaycard alerts are the latest addition to Barclaycard's range of online services, and form part of Barclaycard’s wider strategy to encourage customers to try paperless email and SMS in place of traditional channels. By offering a proactive electronic alerts system, mybarclaycard now offers additional support to customers who might otherwise be reluctant to go paperless.

mybarclaycard is the next generation of online card and banking services, offering customers new ways to interpret and manage their spending. It enables customers to personalise their pages, and offers visual representations of spend to make card management easier.

In addition to mybarclaycard, Barclaycard customers can also take advantage of Barclaycard Freedom, the broadest rewards scheme in the UK, which allows customers to earn and redeem Reward Money in pounds and pence in thousands of retailers across the UK without the need to carry additional cards or vouchers. Customers also enjoy the flexibility of contactless technology: payments of £15 and under can be made with just a simple swipe; all backed up by Barclaycard's advanced security and fraud prevention measures.

Barclaycard Unwind offers Barclaycard holders exclusive discounts and pre-sale access to gig tickets as well as private sessions with top UK artists, competitions and up to the minute music news. As part of Barclaycard Unwind, Barclaycard is the title sponsor of the Mercury Music Prize and the Wireless festival, and has recently announced a partnership with Wembley Arena, which is now to be known as ‘Wembley Arena, a Barclaycard Unwind Venue’.

- Ends-

About Barclaycard
Barclaycard, part of Barclays Global Retail Banking division, is a leading global payment business which helps consumers, retailers and businesses to make and accept payments flexibly, and to access short-term credit when needed.

The company is one of the pioneers of new forms of payments and is at the forefront of developing viable contactless and mobile payment schemes for today and cutting edge forms of payment for the future.  It also issues charge and credit cards to corporate customers and the UK Government. Barclaycard partners with a wide range of organisations across the globe to offer their customers or members payment options, credit and balance transfers.

In addition to the UK, Barclaycard operates in the United States, Europe, Africa and the Middle and Far East.

Key facts published in February 2010:
- number of UK customers: 10.4m
- number of International customers: 10.8m
- number of retailer/merchant relationships: 87,000

PR Contact:
Andrew Bond
Barclaycard Press Office
Barclaycard
1234 Pavilion Drive
Northampton
NN4 7SG
01604 251229
www.barclaycard.co.uk - James Johnson 22-07-2010]]> Thu, 22 Jul 2010 10:48:00 +0100