Creative technology agency DT and leading strategic communications consultancy Cannings, both part of WPP AUNZ, have launched SCOUT, a comprehensive communications and strategic digital approach to issues and crisis management.

SCOUT provides clients with full-service preparedness, from Board level advice and corporate positioning, through crisis communication planning, stakeholder sentiment monitoring and analysis, simulation training, and real-time digital response and reputation recovery plans.

Renée Bertuch, managing director of Cannings Corporate Communications, said, “Reputation is an increasingly high value asset; the pendulum of public sentiment is quick to swing in an increasingly 24-7 digital world and the responsibilities of management and Boards are open to scrutiny by a broader range of stakeholders than ever before.

“SCOUT has the flexibility to deliver resources and support across the stakeholders and communication channels most vital to a client’s organisation, enabling consistency of key messages across the many channels of communication companies utilise.”

 
A year in development, SCOUT enables companies to deliver a swift, targeted and responsible response, helping to prevent issues escalating and triggering a well-planned and all-encompassing process should a crisis occur.

Brian Vella, CEO of DT, added, “SCOUT has been built from the ground up, and designed specifically for this digital age. It significantly improves on traditional offers by seamlessly integrating digital media, search, social and marketing technologies with corporate communications and traditional media strategy.”

The SCOUT team has been brought together to capitalise on the deep industry knowledge and experience in crisis and issues management in a constantly evolving digital environment within both Cannings and DT.

The team has worked with a wide range of national and international companies across financial services, resources and industrials, consumer brands and technology.

SCOUT can support clients through five key phases of crisis management; simulation, audit, preparation, activate and on going maintanance.