Arbitron Advances Electronic Media ... Again

PPM 360™ Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

Arbitron Advances Electronic Audience Measurement

What is the PPM 360™ technology?

The next generation of electronic audience measurement
PPM™ technology extended to a mobile wireless platform, creating an audience measurement solution to fit consumers’ on-the-go lifestyles
The foundation for the development of future applications of the proprietary PPM technology on multiple consumer devices

What is the new PPM 360 mobile platform-enabled device?

It allows for mobile data retrieval—anytime, anywhere
It is easier for panelists to set up, use and charge
It has a sleeker, smaller design
It has a new text screen

What are the benefits of the PPM 360 platform and the new device?

More Flexibility

Greater freedom and mobility—no need for device to be docked for data retrieval
Ability to retrieve more timely data from panelists
Data retrieval can occur anywhere, anytime

Future Focused

Technology is platform neutral: Potential to leverage future mobile platforms such as smartphones and netbooks
Possible new services:

Ad campaign exposure and effectiveness
Location-based services
On-demand reporting

Greater Appeal

Sleeker, smaller design fits in better with panelists’ on-the-go lifestyles, especially with the younger 18-34 demographic.

Improved Usability

Fewer pieces of equipment
Plug and play—panelists simply charge the meter and wear it
Can use a common USB charger to charge the meter
Rounded edges make it more comfortable to wear
The new text screen displays:

Daily point totals
Panelists’ names
Time

How is it different from the previous PPM meter?

The new device uses Arbitron’s latest electronic measurement software plus a new cellular platform for collecting and retrieving panelists’ media data while they’re on the go. It also has a sleeker, smaller and more consumer-friendly body, with fewer pieces of equipment.

Can you describe the new look? What are the benefits?

The new device has an updated look, with rounded corners and a thinner and smaller body. It more closely resembles a common cell phone and is smaller than a smartphone. Panelists have said that it is more comfortable and convenient to carry. The PPM 360 device can be charged by using the cradle or by using a simple power cord, like many cell phones.

Why is the equipment easier to install?

The PPM 360 device is plug-and-play—with its wireless data retrieval capability, the need for an in-home collector that connects to a landline is removed.

Panelists will receive the device, a cradle/charger and in-home beacons. Set up consists of simply plugging the cradle/charger and beacons into power outlets.

The unique cradle/charger provides a permanent home for the new device, encouraging panelists to habitually wear and charge their device. It comes with, and can be charged using, a standard USB charger. The charger eliminates the need for a travel charger device used with the current PPM meter.

What is the text screen?

The new meter contains a small text screen:

Panelists will see their name and the time on the screen. This helps identify which device belongs to which panelist.
When panelists charge their devices, the screen will show how many points they’ve earned and other communications.

Does it still have the motion detector?

Yes. The new PPM 360 device also has a motion detector.

When will it be in the marketplace?

Once we complete our testing this year, Arbitron will develop and announce rollout plans.

How does this drive the future of Arbitron?

Currently housed in an Arbitron-manufactured device, the software in the new device is capable of being leveraged in other mobile technology. This will enable Arbitron to develop new ways to collect data about consumer media behavior through multiple devices, such as smartphones and netbooks.

Why are you still using a meter? Why isn’t it in a smartphone now?

Arbitron is committed to providing a high-quality service to its customers. The meter-based approach contains several advantages, including a superior microphone and battery, a single-use device and the ability to include consumers on the panel who may not have smartphones. Additionally, the variances in smartphone development require extensive testing. This is a necessary step in the evolution and expansion of PPM capabilities. Smartphones, netbooks and other mobile devices are in Arbitron’s sights for future expansion.

PPM™ is a service mark of Arbitron Inc.