Topspin has been in business for two years and during that time their innovative methods and high profile CEO Ian Rogers have gotten a plethora of very positive press. But a visit to their web site to learn more usually led to more questions than answers. Even Topspin admits that they were hearing “I went to your Web site and I still have no idea what the hell y’all do” a bit too often.
This week Topspin unveiled a new site that begins to explain what their all about, the artists tthat hey are working with and how more of the industry can get involved.
Under the headline "Artist Focused. Data Driven", they share their elevator pitch: "Topspin is a technology platform for direct-to-fan marketing, management and distribution." Hypebot readers will be familiar with the examples of Topspin;s successes like the Byrne Eno release.
But the site now also shares some details about how their marketing system works and who might benefit from it. According to Topspin, it's not for everyone:
"The list of questions below will help you determine if you have the tools needed to execute a rock-solid direct-to-fan marketing plan.
1. Do you have 90-120 days before your next project launches?
2. Do you know the cost of goods sold for your digital and physical content?
3. Do you have accounts on social networks like MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter?
4. Do you have uncompressed WAV or AIFF files of your master recordings?
5. Do you have the means (or access to a designer) to create web-ready artwork?
6. Are you the person who grants approvals throughout the entire planning and execution process?
7. Are you able to provide accurate stats on your Web site traffic and past sales history?
8. Do you currently have marketing services, Web development, and physical distribution partners?
If you answered yes to all of these questions, please submit an inquiry about utilizing the Topspin platform. If you answered no to any of them, then please check out some of Topspin’s key learnings and information about the Berklee course."
There are also sections for fans, an open community, links to their online course with Berklee and an "ecosystem" of approved partners that have the skills to help implement an online music marketing campaign and are using Topspin's tools with their clients.
