MAM
IAMAI introduces credit policy/accreditation process for digital agencies
MUMBAI: The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), the not-for-profit industry body, has introduced a credit policy and accreditation process for all agencies dealing with online advertisements.
The policy claims to have garnered the support of leading online publishers in India including Rediff.com, Yahoo! India, Indiatimes.com and Sify.com.
IAMAI president Dr Subho Ray is hopeful that the new policy will bring in some norms and standards to the relationship between online publishers and agencies which is currently bilateral and haphazard.
According to an official announcement the policy consists of three aspects:
a) A common credit policy for all accredited agencies
b) An accreditation process
c) A process of recovery of over due payments from agencies
Under the Policy, a 60 day credit would be extended by affiliated publishers to all accredited agencies with a 30 day window for negotiation, reconciliation and settlement. The process of accreditation has been deliberately kept simple and gratis to encourage agencies to be a part of this process. The policy comes into force from 28 March 2007 after the one-month window given to agencies for accreditation expires.
While the online advertisement business is very small as compared to other media, it has been estimated that dues over 90 days amount to 25 per cent of the revenues in some cases leading to a cash flow problem for online publishers. It was, therefore felt prudent to establish some basic “housekeeping” norms for the benefit of all the stakeholders in the value chain of online advertisement business, adds the release.
As it exists today, the policy would regulate the relationship and payment schedules between online publishers and agencies only much like the process followed by the INS. However, if the policy works out successfully in the first stage, IAMAI would seriously consider taking the next step of setting up certain norms supporting the agencies’ recovery from advertisers.
Brands
Disney Cruise Line launches Disney Adventure as Robert Downey Jr. christens ship in Singapore
Star studded ceremony marks line’s first Southeast Asia ship
SINGAPORE: Disney Cruise Line has officially welcomed its newest and largest ship, the Disney Adventure, with a glittering, music filled christening ceremony in Singapore, marking the brand’s first ever vessel to homeport in Southeast Asia.
Held inside the ship’s grand Walt Disney Theatre, the celebration unfolded as a theatrical spectacle worthy of Broadway. Regional vocalists and musicians were joined by a 23 piece orchestra, while sweeping video projections wrapped the stage in classic Disney, Pixar and Marvel moments. Special appearances from captain Mickey Mouse and captain Minnie Mouse added a touch of nautical charm.
Among the headline performers were Jed Madela, hollywood performing arts hall of fame inductee, and Dami Im, international recording artist known for Eurovision. Together, they led a soaring tribute to Disney’s musical legacy.
On stage to mark the milestone were Josh D’Amaro, chairman of disney experiences and incoming chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company, and Joe Schott, president of disney signature experiences.
D’Amaro described the ship as a new chapter for the company in Asia, saying it would bring Disney storytelling to audiences who may be experiencing the brand’s magic for the first time.
The ceremonial highlight came from Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr., who serves as the ship’s godparent. With characteristic flair, he declared, “You bring the theme and I’ll bring the thunder,” before delivering the traditional blessing: “I christen thee, Disney Adventure, may God bless this ship and all who sail upon her.”
The ceremony closed with a jubilant rendition of “Let’s Set Sail”, a long standing Disney Cruise Line tradition designed to stir excitement for the voyages ahead.
Drawing on more than a century of storytelling from Disney, Pixar and Marvel, the Disney Adventure promises a floating world of fantasy. Guests can wander through seven immersive themed areas, including San Fransokyo Street inspired by Big Hero 6.
On board highlights include a brand new Broadway style musical titled Remember, immersive dining, signature fireworks at sea, imaginative children’s clubs and a vibrant collection of bars and lounges for adults. Thrill seekers can also take on Ironcycle Test Run, the cruise line’s first roller coaster at sea.
The Disney Adventure is the eighth ship in the fleet and sets sail on its maiden voyage on 10 March, launching an inaugural season of three and four night itineraries. It forms part of an ambitious expansion plan that will see five more ships join the fleet by 2031.
For Disney, the magic is no longer just on stage or screen. In Singapore, it now sails.
