New US Industry Body Focuses on Social Media Research

In the US, a new industry body called the Social Media Research Association (SMRA) has been set up, to develop best practices to measure and responsibly use social media as a source for insights.

SMRA members include social media managers, advertising and PR agencies, brand managers, marketing researchers, data analysts, technology firms, media organisations, bloggers, academics and students. The organization will focus on the use of new and emerging social media technologies to reach business and consumer audiences. In addition to professional networking, members will gain access to social media research education programs, career guidance and a job board, a mentor exchange network, and an 'Ask an Expert Panel' service. Members will also receive discounts on registration fees for conferences, and a platform through which to share articles, white papers, presentations, best practice and ethics.

The SMRA's volunteer Advisory Board comprises social media and big data experts, who will assist with strategic planning, developing education programs, and creating industry relations and communications for the association:

• Kathy Doering, Ann Michaels & Associates, Ltd.
• Seth Grimes, Alta Plana Corporation
• Tom Anderson, Odin Text
• Michael Lieberman, Multivariate Solutions
• Dan Foreman, Hatted
• Annie Pettit, PhD, FMRIA
• Vivek Shivpuri, Prelytics
• Imran Anwar, Cloud 9 Global, Inc.
• Lane Mann, Phoenix Marketing International
• Jim Matorin, Smartketing
• Mark Michelson, Executive Director (Association Advisors).

Doering (pictured), who is the Founding President of the new association, says SMRA's goal is to bring together the best of the research community and the social media community to collaborate, explore and share.

Web site: www.smra-global.org .