press release

zerotime interactive Launches Pay-for-Performance Program — zerorisk™

CLEVELAND, OHIO, May 23, 2001 — "zerorisk™ is a put-your-money-where-your-mouth-is way of doing business," says Dean Skinner, President of zerotime interactive, a wholly owned subsidiary of Wyse Advertising. "I think this is the future of where our industry is heading."

According to Skinner, the concept is unique among web design and Internet marketing firms. "We work with our clients to develop a strategy and measurable goals. Then we execute. If we fall short of our goals, our fee is reduced. If we exceed expectations, we get a bonus."

By sharing risks and rewards, zerotime interactive aims to develop a tighter partnership with its clients and avoid a "vendor mentality."

"Success of a Web-based solution is not so much a matter of design or even functionality, but the strength of the business idea behind the site," says zerotime interactive Executive Vice President Mark Cerame. "Helping assure success is our real value. If our clients win, we win. We like the idea of being accountable for our work."

The zerorisk™ program is customized for each client. Measurable performance goals can range from subjective criteria such as brand perception, design and functionality, to objective criteria such as the number of visitors to a site, meeting release dates and download time.

The first client to use the zerorisk™ program is National Camera Exchange & Video Inc., a retailer specializing in new and used photography equipment. According to Brad Schammel, controller for National Camera, "We were new to the e-commerce arena and wanted someone to partner with us. The zerorisk™ idea works for us, and I think it's working for zerotime, too. They want to be around for the lifetime of what we're doing. This is the way to do it. They're the type of partner we’re looking for."

Although new to the web development business, pay-for-performance programs are not unknown in the field. Online media, search engines and software companies have all used risk sharing strategies. "I anticipate that more Web development companies will do business this way," says Skinner. "We have found that being financially accountable for the success of our programs helps to demonstrate our commitment to our clients."

zerotime interactive has a staff of 20 interactive professionals offering clients customized strategies and solutions. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wyse Advertising, Ohio's largest independent full-service communications firm.

Contact: Mark Cerame
216.736.4185
mcerame@ztinteractive.com