LS Digital Introducing DigiVerse 2.0, a Comprehensive Solution That Transforms Digital Marketing Operations
Mumbai, India — July 03rd, 2024 — LS Digital, a leader in digital business transformation, announced the launch of DigiVerse 2.0, an innovative Operations Management Platform designed to address the critical gaps and latent needs in digital business transformation, while also preparing brands for the AI-driven future. Digiverse 2.0, the next-generation solution is an innovative platform designed to empower decision makers in navigating the complexities of businesses.
One of the standout features of DigiVerse 2.0 is its capability to make brands AI-ready. By capturing data in a structured format and maintaining historic data, DigiVerse 2.0 ensures that brands have access to high-quality, structured data crucial for AI applications and future readiness.
Commenting on this launch, Mr. Vinay Tamboli, CEO – Data & Insights, LS Digital said,
“By providing greater control, visibility, and collaboration, DigiVerse 2.0 empowers brands to transform their digital marketing operations and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. DigiVerse is designed to unlock significant productivity gains, enhance decision-making ability, and prepare organizations for an AI-driven future.”
As digital business continues to evolve, there are unprecedented opportunities for brands to innovate and excel. With consumers increasingly engaging through digital channels, brands can harness this shift to build stronger connections and drive growth. However, digital business is becoming more complex and time-consuming, and the “operations” aspect remains a neglected area, often receiving low attention and priority. “In today’s digital business landscape, efficiency and quick insights are crucial. The current fragmented approach slows down businesses and hampers their ability of decision makers to make data-driven decisions swiftly. Poor operations management of digital business might result into 20% to 30% revenue loss and even impact brand image. Digiverse 2.0 is designed to streamline these processes, integrating multiple tools into one platform to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness,” Vinay Tamboli further commented.
DigiVerse 2.0 offers a transformative approach to digital business by:
- Streamlining Operations: For multi-product, multi-agency, multi-campaign, and multi-channel brands, DigiVerse minimizes the time decision makers spend on coordination and follow-ups, allowing more focus on strategy and data analysis.
- Reducing Reporting Delays: DigiVerse accelerates the reporting process, providing timely and accurate data for decision-making, which helps prevent missed opportunities and revenue loss.
- Minimizing Manual Processes: By reducing the reliance on manual processes and Excel sheets, DigiVerse enhances data accuracy and reliability.
- Enhancing Visibility and Control: DigiVerse provides decision makers with comprehensive views of campaign progress, budget status, and overall workflow, improving transparency and accountability.
- Facilitating Collaboration: DigiVerse supports end-to-end digital business operations, including media plans, change tracking, approvals, repository management, and agency payment monitoring.
- Integrating Data for Advanced Analytics: DigiVerse enables the creation of a Marketing Data Lake, facilitating the use of AI and ML applications for deeper insights and optimization.
Digiverse 2.0 reduces the time it takes for decision-makers and marketers to arrive at solutions, improving business outcomes significantly. DigiVerse 2.0 aims to fill that gap and make digital business operations efficient by embedding best practice processes in the platform and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration among business, marketing, IT, security teams, agencies, and partners.
IPG in Talks with TCS to Sell Digital Marketing Agency R/GA
Interpublic Group, the world’s fourth-largest advertising holding company in terms of revenue, is in talks to sell its well-known digital marketing agency R/GA to India’s Tata Consultancy Services. This action is part of a larger pattern where consulting firms increase their Madison Avenue footprints. TCS is strengthening its marketing capabilities by acquiring companies specializing in digital transformation, experiential marketing, creative services, and web and mobile development, following the example set by consulting firms like Accenture and Deloitte.
R/GA’s estimated valuation
The Wall Street Journal claims that the discussions are still in progress and that the agreement’s specifics have not been revealed. R/GA’s estimated value, however, is close to $300 million. Although negotiations are still ongoing, disagreements over valuation could prevent the deal from going through. Furthermore, Interpublic and TCS are investigating the possibility of a more extensive strategic alliance, possibly working together on AI and data projects for shared clientele.
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R/GA reportedly lost clients and had executive turnover in the previous year. Additionally, it saw a 20% decline in revenue, falling to about $200 million. IPG is expected to become more efficient and streamline its operations as a result of the talks with TCS. As a significant player in the advertising industry, Interpublic aims to restructure its business and become less dependent on creative services with narrower profit margins by possibly offloading R/GA.
IPG to sell its digital marketing agency R/GA to Tata Consultancy Services of India
Numerous businesses, including Samsung, Verizon, Google’s Android, and Coca-Cola, have worked with R/GA. After purchasing R/GA in 2001, IPG went on to purchase R/GA’s parent company, True North Communications. Based on revenue, IPG is thought to be the fourth-largest holding company in the world for advertising.
R/GA operates in the United States, Europe, South America, and Asia Pacific. Its fundamental activities, which include media, connected communications, product and experience design, brand relationship design, brand design consultancy, and specialized services like R/GA Ventures and Health, help companies and brands define, imagine, and create a more human future.
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Gopa Menon moves on from Mindshare
Gopa Menon of Mindshare has departed from the company. He served as Digital Head for South Asia. Gopa oversaw the network’s digital transformation and was in charge of developing and putting into action business plans, digital strategies, and roadmaps for Mindshare South Asia and its customers. In addition to helping current and potential clients transform their digital processes, digital marketing strategies, brand building, and ROI-driven marketing outcomes, he was in charge of overseeing the agency’s full-service digital offerings.
Gopa Menon quits Mindshare
Menon also made an effort to improve Mindshare’s e-commerce, performance, and Martech capabilities. To maximize potential and drive business, he was also in charge of creating and enforcing policies that applied to the entire organization and fostering cooperation between Mindshare and GroupM agencies.
He has led digital transformation for brands all around the region for nearly two decades. Menon also contributed to the creation and implementation of all-encompassing objectives that fueled MindShare’s market expansion, leading clients’ digital transformation projects and assisting them in filling in any gaps. Menon’s job description also included recruiting, hiring, and supervising a group of digital marketing specialists from throughout the organization.
In this capacity, Gopa was based in Gurgaon and reported to Amin Lakhani, Chief Operating Officer, Mindshare South Asia.
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Nine and Magnite strengthen partnership to put 9Now at the forefront of global programmatic TV market
Nine and Magnite (Nasdaq: MGNI), the largest independent sell-side advertising company, today announced they have strengthened their partnership, with Nine adopting Magnite’s SpringServe solution to manage delivery and mediation of its programmatic demand on Nine’s BVOD platform, 9Now.
9Now features some of Australia’s most-watched programs and sporting events including the NRL, Australian Open, Married at First Sight and The Block. The Magnite Streaming SSP will provide the tools to manage and optimise 9Now inventory across multiple demand sources that will put Nine at the forefront of the global programmatic TV market.
Magnite’s SpringServe will power 9Now’s mediation layer, enabling more efficient management of video advertising while maintaining a high-quality viewer experience. SpringServe is able to enhance the 9Now experience for viewers and advertisers by shifting the way programmatic demand sources access inventory; in SpringServe this supply is offered simultaneously and in parallel, as opposed to in a linear and sequential order allowing advertisers more complete access to audiences.
Advertisers will also have the ability to test ClearLine, Magnite’s self-service buying solution which provides direct access to premium video inventory on Magnite’s platforms.
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Here’s what they said
Nick Young, Nine’s Digital Commercial Director, said,
“Nine continues to invest in developing new market-leading digital and data capabilities to empower brands with more effective ways to reach and influence our vast audiences.It’s critical we partner with the best in class technology to meet the unique needs of advertisers in this market. Magnite is such a business and we are pleased to be extending our partnership with the team.”
Yael Milibank, Managing Director, ANZ at Magnite, said,
“Utilising advanced technology designed specifically for programmatic environments helps publishers like Nine maximise revenue potential and tap into new advertising opportunities. Our holistic approach to account service, encompassing tech operations, demand, and deal management, helps our clients navigate the intricate programmatic landscape and empowers them to fully leverage programmatic advertising’s potential. We look forward to delivering positive outcomes for Nine through this unique combination of technology and service.”
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Juliette Stead, Head of JAPAC at Magnite, said,
“Nine has been a longstanding, valued partner of ours for many years. Their forward-thinking streaming and digital capabilities mean that they have always been early adopters of our technology, and we value their perspective and partnership tremendously. We look forward to continuing to cultivate our relationship through collaboration and innovation for many years to come.”
Jordan King, Nine’s Director of Programmatic and Digital Sales, said,
“Magnite has a history of building excellent technology solutions and rolling out products that enable us as a Publisher to best monetise and give access to our inventory. We are excited to deepen our partnership and utilise their tech as Nine’s digital transformation takes pace.”
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Havas Acquires Liquid to Enhance Ecommerce and Retail Media Expertise
In a landmark move to redefine the Shopper marketing, ecommerce and retail media landscape in the Middle East, Havas – one of the world’s largest global communications networks – today announces the strategic acquisition of Liquid, a leading omni-commerce company, marking a significant step forward in enhancing its ecommerce and retail media capabilities. Liquid will be rebranded as Liquid Havas and join the organisation under Havas Market, Havas’ full-service ecommerce offering dedicated to delivering meaningful shopping experiences for people, brands and retailers. Launched in 2020, Havas Market has grown steadily and is now scaled globally across 30+ markets.
Established in 2016 and renowned for its dynamic approach in marrying science, art, and instinct, Liquid has risen to prominence by revolutionising how brands connect with consumers at retail touchpoints. With a team of over 100 specialists, Liquid has cultivated a notable portfolio of leading, global FMCG clients such as Nestle, PepsiCo, Beiersdorf, and Procter & Gamble.
This acquisition is a fusion of shared visions and values, aiming to redefine the shopper marketing and ecommerce landscape. The integration of Liquid’s agile and creative retail strategies into Havas Market’s global resources and technological expertise will deliver unparalleled value to brands and consumers alike. The addition of Liquid also reinforces Havas’ presence in the Middle East where it maintains a partnership with luxury goods sales and marketing specialist Chalhoub Group.
Liquid’s chief executive officer, Sachinn J Laala will remain in his role.
Yannick Bolloré, chairman and CEO of Havas commented, “At Havas, we’re dedicated to creating meaningful shopping experiences that not only resonate with consumers but also drive brand growth across all channels. The addition of Liquid builds upon Havas’ investment in the Middle East through our partnership with Chalhoub Group, extending our capabilities in this crucial region and ensuring our clients’ digital commerce transformations are not just reactive but ground breaking.”
Sachinn J Laala, chief executive officer of Liquid added, “Our partnership with Havas signifies a pivotal step towards amplifying the digital retail transformation globally, benefiting consumers, operators, and third-party sellers alike. By uniting Liquid’s innovative strategies with Havas’ global network and expertise, we’re poised to lead the Shopper marketing, ecommerce, and retail media landscape, extending value creation and setting new benchmarks for our clients worldwide.”
Michael Chalhoub, president strategy, Growth, Innovation, Investment and Joint Ventures at Chalhoub Group commented, “This acquisition underscores our steadfast commitment at Chalhoub Group, alongside Havas, to digital transformation and innovation, keeping our customer and her habits at heart, and paving the way for new benchmarks in shopper marketing and ecommerce. Together, we will cultivate meaningful connections, delivering unparalleled value to both brands and consumers, and elevating the shopping experience to unparalleled heights.”
CEO Abhay Ojha Exits Zee Media Corporation Limited
Zee Media Corporation Limited has announced the termination of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abhay Ojha’s services, effective May 4, 2024. Ojha received a promotion to CEO status within the organization last year. In 2022, he joined Zee Media as chief business officer, where he was responsible for managing the profit and loss of all linear channels except Zee Business and WION. Ojha has relinquished his interim position to Dr. Idris Loya, a seasoned technology veteran with almost three decades of experience.
Taking on LinkedIn to announce the details of his exit, he mentioned
Abhay Ojha’s services ceased from ZMCL
Piyush Choudhary, the chief manager of Zee Media’s legal department, submitted his resignation last month. It became effective on April 30, 2024, at the end of business hours. Dr. Idris Loya took on the role of acting CEO in the interim. He was previously employed by Essel Group as the group chief technology innovation officer. Additionally, Loya has worked for several organizations, such as Conimp Business Consulting, Samtek Semicon Devices, Sony Electronics (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., and the New Delhi Liaison Office.
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Abhay previously worked for Star TV, Shop CJ, ZEEL, IndusInd Media, Turner, and HUL in addition to ZMCL. The Board had evaluated Ojha’s candidacy for the CEO position based on his extensive experience in entrepreneurship, his deep understanding of broadcast, digital transformation, short video applications, social commerce and digital distribution, FMCG, and home shopping, as well as ZMCL’s financial performance.
Prior to this, Dr. Idris Loya, the top executive of Essel Group, was connected to Navtech Pte. Ltd., Jwlrai Pte. Ltd., Sony Singapore, Samsung Semiconductor, and NIT Raipur. Dr. Loya has over thirty years of experience and specializes in innovation adoption and technology commercialization.