Nominet… Establishing a major role across the UK internet industry.

Company
Nominet is the world’s 3rd largest internet registry, responsible for managing and operating all domain names ending in dot.uk.

Problem
The initial remit was to write and produce an annual report, but the company recognised the need for much broader corporate communications input including media relations, stakeholder relations, internal communications, crisis and issues management, customer research and the establishment of a government relations programme.

Solution
Over the period of the assignment:

• Media coverage increased by 350% in the first year
• A programme of qualitative and quantitative research was launched
• Customer retention rose by 16%
• A monthly electronic stakeholder newsletter was launched
• A popular programme of member events was instigated
• A public affairs programme aimed at MEPs and MPs was introduced leading to constructive relationship building with ministers, MPs and government officials
• Nominet was represented at events and exhibitions and increased its visibility across the industry
• An internal communications programme was launched with the creation of a company intranet and staff magazine.

Result
Awareness of Nominet rose significantly due to increased media coverage and the establishment of different channels of communication. Communication to Nominet’s different stakeholder groups was established and research showed that satisfaction with the organisation was high with both customers and members. Staff morale rose and led to Nominet winning a place on the Sunday Times ‘Best Small Companies To Work For’ list in 2005 in its first year of entry.