May 11, 2006

Google Agency Partner Programme

Google is introducing a new Agency Partner Programme in Australia aimed at improving the search marketing capabilities of agencies and clients.

Under the new programme Google will deliver training and tools to agencies, enabling them to deliver more value to their clients.

This new programme will also level the playing field, removing the ‘discount’ previously offered to select agencies, and allowing advertisers of all sizes to effectively compete in Google’s auction based advertising platform.

The core elements that Google will provide from 1^st August 2006 include:

• Tools – Google is introducing new tools that will make third party partners more efficient in creating and managing accounts and campaigns, more precise in the management of bids, and more insightful regarding the ROI achieved.
• Training - Google is funding and facilitating dedicated professional training for third party personnel, including support for third parties in obtaining the Google Advertising Professional accreditation.
• Market research - Google invests heavily in industry research and co-operative initiatives. This research, which forms an ever-growing resource of proprietary insight and data, is to be made available to help third party partners in delivering ever-more effective search marketing.
• Extended service and technical support - Google is scaling-up its local team of vertical sector specialists who will take a pro-active, immersive role with third party partners.
• Process enhancements - Google is investing heavily in wholesale upgrades to its commercial processes.

"Aimed at both off and online advertising agencies and search engine marketing agencies, this programme aims to places all advertisers on an equal footing and ensures that our users are delivered the most relevant advertising messages," said Kate Vale, head of sales and operations, Google Australia and New Zealand.

"Not only will advertisers of all sizes benefit from these changes, but ultimately, users will benefit from a better search experience."