Direct Digital Holdings,Inc, a leader in advertising and marketing technology, has released The Role of Data in AI Quality, a comprehensive guide developed by its AI Council. The resource aims to help organizations refine data management strategies, ensuring high-quality AI outputs with accuracy, integrity, and security.

Highlights of the Guide

• Why Data Quality Matters in AI

  • AI systems depend on high-integrity data for reliable outcomes.
  • Poor data quality can lead to inaccurate predictions, biased models, and security risks.

• Best Practices for AI Data Readiness

  • Establishing structured data governance frameworks.
  • Implementing effective data assessment and preparation methods.
  • Addressing compliance and privacy challenges in AI-driven environments.

• Eliminating Bias & Enhancing AI Integrity

  • Identifying and mitigating data bias to ensure fairness.
  • Leveraging data enrichment techniques for improved AI outputs.

• Strategic Resource Allocation for AI Success

  • Understanding the investment required in data preparation.
  • Setting realistic timelines for AI implementation.

Expert Perspectives on AI & Data Management

• Anu Pillai, Chief Technology Officer, Direct Digital Holdings

  • Emphasizes that AI systems are only as strong as the data they rely on.
  • Advocates for prioritizing data accuracy, completeness, and ethical sourcing.

• Christy Nolan, VP of Delivery Solutions, Direct Digital Holdings

  • Highlights the struggle organizations face in AI adoption due to poor data readiness.
  • Stresses the importance of structured data management for meaningful AI insights.

With AI adoption accelerating, The Role of Data in AI Quality serves as a vital resource for organizations aiming to establish a strong data foundation. By following best practices in data assessment, governance, and enrichment, businesses can optimize AI systems for accurate and ethical decision-making.

Data Axle, a leader in data-driven business intelligence, has been named a strong performer in The Forrester Wave™: Intent Data Providers for B2B, Q1 2025. The evaluation assessed 15 providers based on 21 criteria, recognizing Data Axle’s excellence in data collection, identity resolution, and intent-driven insights.

Highlights from the Forrester Report

• Strength in Identity Resolution & Data Compliance

  • Recognized for maintaining an individual identity graph, serving both B2B and B2C markets.
  • Strong data security and compliance standards, reinforcing trust and reliability.

• High Performance Across Critical Intent Data Criteria

  • Received top scores in six areas, including volume of signals, buying group prediction, and partner ecosystem.
  • Uses diverse data sources, including business co-ops, bidstream, partner networks, and campaign exhaust.

• Innovative Solutions for Lead Generation & Targeting

  • Salesgenie: A powerful prospecting platform for businesses of all sizes.
  • Audience360®: A comprehensive data management solution integrating zero-to-third-party datasets for enhanced targeting.
  • Direct integrations with CRM and marketing automation platforms for seamless data connectivity.

Industry Perspectives & Client Impact

• Andrew Frawley, CEO, Data Axle

  • Emphasizes commitment to privacy-compliant, high-quality intent solutions.
  • Highlights investments in identity resolution and seamless platform integrations.

• Aaron Shupert, AVP of Business Intelligence, Data & Reporting at Hibu

  • Praises Data Axle’s deep insights for refining targeting and sales outreach.

With over 50 years of expertise, Data Axle continues to be a trusted provider of intent data and business intelligence solutions. By offering scalable, privacy-compliant data-driven marketing strategies, Data Axle empowers businesses to connect with high-intent prospects and drive measurable growth.

Draftss.com, a subscription-based design and development service, is now offering copywriting services, enhancing its creative workflow. With over 8 years of experience and 1,000+ clients served, this expansion aims to help businesses unify design, development, and content under one streamlined subscription.

Why Integrated Copywriting Matters

• Brand Consistency: Unified messaging across design and content.
• Faster Turnaround: Eliminates the back-and-forth between multiple vendors.
• Cost-Effective: Unlimited requests & revisions under a single subscription plan.

Comprehensive Copywriting Services

Draftss’ new copywriting services cover:
Website & landing page content
Social media & digital ad copy
Blog posts & articles
Email marketing content
UX writing for better engagement

A Game-Changer for Businesses & Agencies

Startups, agencies, and businesses can now access end-to-end creative solutions—from visuals to compelling messaging—without hiring separate teams. With affordable, subscription-based pricing, Draftss continues to simplify the creative process for brands looking to scale.

By integrating copywriting into its unlimited design & development services, Draftss is redefining creative workflows. Businesses can now achieve seamless branding with a single, all-inclusive subscription.

The Sherpa Group, a leading Channel Marketing agency, has appointed Phil Gowing as Non-Executive Chairman. With over 30 years of industry experience, Phil brings strategic expertise and a passion for scalable solutions, further strengthening Sherpa’s data-driven approach to Partner Marketing.

Driving Growth Through Data & AI

Phil joins Sherpa at a pivotal time as the company:

• Expands its Partner Marketing services through investment in EdisonAI Data Analytics.
• Leverages data intelligence to accelerate growth and optimize partnerships.
• Redefines Channel Marketing with insights-driven strategies for tech sector clients.

Phil Gowing’s Industry Expertise

• Co-founder of bChannels, a global leader in Channel Partner Programs.
• Led partnerships with major tech vendors, including AWS, Intel, HP, and VMware.
• Proven track record in helping businesses scale through data-driven methodologies.

Leadership Perspectives

• Phil Gowing, Non-Executive Chairman, Sherpa Group
  • “It all starts with data—the key to solving problems and accelerating growth.”
  • “I’m honored to join Sherpa and help shape true differentiation in the market.”
• Tom Perry, CEO, Sherpa Group
  • “Phil’s expertise and strategic insights will be instrumental in our growth journey.”
  • “His belief in data-driven marketing aligns perfectly with Sherpa’s vision.”

With Phil Gowing’s leadership, Sherpa Group is poised for further expansion and continued success in the Channel Marketing space. By integrating AI-driven insights and scalable marketing strategies, Sherpa remains at the forefront of data-powered Partner Marketing innovation.

HelpMDs, a leader in healthcare digital marketing, has launched a suite of AI-powered solutions to help medspas:
Enhance online visibility and stand out in a competitive market.
Attract high-intent clients through strategic digital campaigns.
Streamline patient engagement with automation-driven solutions.

Tailored Marketing Strategies for Medspas

With the growing demand for aesthetic treatments, medspas must maintain a strong digital presence. HelpMDs specializes in:
Custom Website Design – Creating sleek, user-friendly medspa websites.
SEO Optimization – Improving search rankings to attract local clients.
Paid Advertising (Google Ads, PPC) – Driving targeted traffic for lead conversion.
Social Media Management – Building trust and engagement with potential clients.
AI-Powered Automation – Enhancing client scheduling and follow-ups.

A Commitment to Medspa Growth

“Our goal is to help medspa owners maximize their online presence and focus on providing exceptional services,” said Kavitha A., owner of HelpMDs. “With the right digital tools, we ensure sustainable business growth.”

Why Medspa Owners Trust HelpMDs

Industry-Specific Expertise – Focused solely on healthcare and aesthetics.
Proven Growth Strategies – Data-driven insights for real ROI.
Seamless Automation – Optimizing marketing efforts for efficiency.

HelpMDs is dedicated to helping medspas thrive by delivering scalable, results-driven marketing solutions tailored to their unique needs.

VI Marketing and Branding (VI), a leading full-service marketing firm, dominated the 2025 American Advertising Awards, securing 40 prestigious honors, including:
Best of Show – ‘Routes’ Campaign
Best Integrated Campaign – ‘Find Yourself in Oklahoma’
People’s Choice Award – ‘Oklahoma State Parks Water Bottle’ Campaign

Recognized Excellence Across Multiple Categories

VI’s award-winning work covered digital marketing, social media, branded content, and integrated campaigns, earning:
24 Gold ADDYs
9 Silver ADDYs
4 Bronze ADDYs

Honored clients include the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD), Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), and the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline.

Creative Strategy That Delivers Results

"Winning 40 awards, including three Judges' Choice honors, is a testament to our team's creativity, strategy, and dedication," said Tim Berney, CEO of VI Marketing and Branding. "These awards reflect not only our outstanding creative work but also the passion and collaboration behind every campaign we execute."

About the American Advertising Awards

The ADDYs is the largest and most prestigious advertising competition, with 40,000+ entries annually across local markets. The 59th annual Oklahoma City Ad Club Awards, hosted by the American Advertising Federation (AAF), celebrated the very best in advertising excellence.

VI continues to push the boundaries of strategic creativity and integrated marketing—solidifying its reputation as an industry leader.

Sinclair has become the first broadcast media company to implement real-time AI-powered translation for local newscasts, making news more accessible to Spanish-speaking audiences.

Now Live in Four Markets

The first-of-its-kind test is rolling out in:
Baltimore (WBFF)
San Antonio (KABB)
West Palm Beach (WPEC)
Las Vegas (KSNV)

Viewers in these regions can now access Spanish-language newscasts live, in real time, ensuring they stay informed with accurate translations of breaking news, weather updates, and community reports.

A Commitment to Innovation & Accessibility

"At Sinclair, we are committed to leveraging innovative technology to expand access to local journalism," said Rob Weisbord, COO & President, Local Media. "By implementing live AI translation, we’re breaking down language barriers and ensuring more viewers can engage with Sinclair’s trusted news coverage."

Partnership with Deeptune AI

Sinclair partnered with Deeptune, a leader in generative AI language technology, to power this initiative.

"This collaboration is a major step in making critical news accessible to diverse communities while demonstrating responsible AI deployment in media," said Tim Lupo, Founder & CEO of Deeptune.

Sinclair’s AI-Driven Future

Sinclair has been at the forefront of AI adoption since 2024, previously utilizing AI translation for:
“Petko Unfiltered” (Tennis Channel International expansion)
Hurricane Milton coverage at WPEC

The company is also a member of Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) and Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), reinforcing its commitment to responsible AI usage. Additionally, Sinclair established SAIF – Sinclair AI Forum to drive AI governance and compliance across its media network.

The Future of AI in Local News

This pioneering move sets a new standard in broadcast media, ensuring linguistic inclusivity and broader community engagement. As AI evolves, Sinclair remains committed to responsible innovation, making local news accessible to all.

LTK is redefining the creator experience with a brand-new consumer app, shifting from shopping-only to a video-first platform designed for discovery, connection, and engagement.

Find and Follow Creators Near You & Worldwide
Personalize Your Feed by Interests & Location
Connect with Friends & See Who They Follow
Engage with Creators via Chat & Activity Updates

A New Era for the Creator Economy

With the creator economy projected to reach $500B by 2027, creators are shaping trends and consumer behavior more than ever. As social platforms become interest-based, LTK is bringing back community-driven experiences where users can curate their feeds and connect meaningfully.

"We’ve rebuilt the LTK app from the ground up to deliver what consumers want and what creators need—connection, discovery, and a seamless way to engage with content."
— Amber Venz Box, Co-Founder & President of LTK

Features of the New LTK App

The Watch Tab: A video-only feed showcasing creators near you and worldwide, making it easier to discover trending content in fashion, beauty, fitness, travel, and more.

The Home Tab: A curated experience where you control your feed—scroll through content only from creators you follow, explore Daily Drops, and click into dedicated creator profiles.

The Profile Tab: Personalize your LTK presence, manage favorite creators, posts, and products, and soon, add friends to see who they follow.

The Activity Tab: Stay updated with real-time notifications on creator posts, messages, price drops, and sales. Engage with creators directly through chat and reactions.

All-New Creator Editing Suite
LTK is also upgrading the LTK Creator app with new video editing tools, making content creation easier than ever:
Splice, trim & edit videos seamlessly
Add text overlays & stickers to enhance content
Use filters & effects for aesthetic consistency
Record & insert voiceovers for deeper storytelling
Music integration (coming soon!) for engaging video content

A Social-First Platform Built for Creators & Consumers

With this transformation, LTK is bridging the gap between discovery, commerce, and community. Whether you're a content creator looking to grow your audience or a consumer searching for curated inspiration, the new LTK app is your go-to destination.