Weekly comms news round up

My weekly selection of comms news curated via @CisionUK.

Facebook let brands get closer to users with launch of ‘People Talking About’ metrics by @gordonmacmillan via THE Wall

“After shaking up user timelines Facebook is turning to advertising and is taking the wraps off of a new ad unit and measurement tool called “People Talking About” that’s designed to help brands get closer to users.”

Apple, Google and Facebook are becoming a monopoly, says FremantleMedia’s Tavernier by @Jessdaviesmk via New Media Age

“The digital landscape has become over-consolidated, which could limit content distribution for producers, according to FremantleMedia’s senior executive VP of worldwide drama and its central digital division FMX Claire Tavernier.”

Online adspend hits £2.3bn as entertainment drives growth by @Shearmans via Brand Republic

“Online advertising enjoyed double-digit year-on-year growth in the first half of 2011, fuelled by a surge in online video advertising and new ad formats, as the internet transforms from “an information to entertainment channel”.”

Facebook Insights: what do the new metrics do and what do they mean for marketers? by Alain Chuard via THE Wall

“The importance of social media to an overall marketing strategy is no longer in doubt. However, it’s easy for brands to launch campaigns without ever really analysing the results and the behaviour of the target audience. In order to understand the behaviour of customers and users, it’s essential that brands understand the true reach and impact of their communication on social networks.”

96% use social media for advertising and promotions via The Drum

“Research by Booz & Company and Buddy Media has found that 96% use social media for advertising, while 88% use it for PR.”