Chapters 6 & 10

Since this week's readings were based on 2 chapters, I took the liberty to bring up two important things I learned, one from each chapter. 

The first is on Research and Evaluation - Without the element of research and evaluation in the Public Relations industry, there would be no starting point.

"Research is an essential task used to identify requirements for communication programs, to check progress and to evaluate effectiveness."

Having learned the 3 various types of research methods, I realised how important a role research has in the PR industry. For example, Input research provides the basis for strategy and planning, thus being of utmost importance because without it, there would be no foundation set. 

Furthermore, the breakdown of research and its methods is actually pretty interesting, only if I'd be willing to make an effort to discover them. 

The second would be that sponsorships have progressively and naturally become part of events, regardless of the type or kind of event.

Sponsorship is defined as "the purchase of specific rights and benefits associated with an event, organisation or individual." It expects a return, generates goodwill and provides opportunities to enhance an organisation's image and reputation. 

In today's context, it is evident that sponsorship has become a big part of events. Advertisements, commercials and signage have proved this point, literally. 

Events mostly benefit from Philanthropic and Corporate sponsorships as they are community and events based instead of solely promoting products and services. 

These 2 readings have helped me further understand the breakdown of research, sponsorship and events. I used to think that research was done to have information as proof or backup but I've learned that research is in fact put to far greater uses. 

I've also learned that sponsorships offer both direct and indirect support for organisations. Regardless of direct or indirect support, companies will eventually stand to benefit. 

Hence, research, sponsorship and events make up a big part of the PR effort and drive because without each component, the industry will lack wholeness.