Alterian reports 40% increase in first-half earnings

Analytics firm Alterian reported revenue of $24.1 million for the first half of fiscal 2009, a 40% increase from the first half of last year. This included a 44% growth rate in North America, up from a 19% growth rate this time last year.

"We've see data and analytics growth across the board with partners, whether they marketing service providers, agencies or brands," said Bob Hale, SVP of corporate development for Alterian. "Companies in general are struggling to have a better depth of understanding of customers or prospects."

The company credits its acquisition of social media monitoring company Techrigy and other initiatives for the strong growth. The initiatives, the company said in a statement, reflect a interest among its marketing partners in moving from mass-targeting activities to a more individual focus — something social media does well.

"Everybody is trying to somehow get involved in social media — that's social media monitoring," Hale added. "Most marketers have accepted that consumers and prospects control much more of the brand influence than they have historically."