RedSheriff monitors Internet traffic response to Iraq War situation

Online traffic increases dramatically as a result of the War declaration in the Gulf

New York, USA. (March 20, 2003) – While first air strikes are launched in Iraq with the intention of defending the world from terrorism, the global online population has been tracking progress via the Internet, increasing Web site traffic throughout worldwide regions over the past week.

With sophisticated US equipment that has provided the opportunity to keep the world informed on the progress of the War in real time, Internet access has enabled users to gain almost instant details on the activities that have been taking place in Iraq.

The incorporation of new reporting technologies in the form of satellite systems and broad access to the War scene by journalists has transformed the delivery of information on the War. In an unprecedented scenario, activities will be available live, within moments of taking place. Accessing this information will be based on print (usually delivered morning and evening), television or radio (delivered according to times set by the broadcasters) and Internet (at any stage new information is available) sources.

When comparing online traffic activities over the past week, it seems as though growing numbers of users are accessing the Internet from work in the afternoon to obtain updates on the War status. In the United Kingdom, general Internet traffic rose by an overwhelming 50% over that recorded for the same day last week. To date, traffic peaks were recorded on Wednesday 19 March around 2pm.

Both Australian and New Zealand traffic is also up by over 30%. In Australia, visitation to the News sites has been consistently building since Monday 17 March with peaks recorded around 2pm on a daily basis. In New Zealand, peaks have been occurring around 4pm per day.

RedSheriff’s Chief Technology Officer, John Griffin, has stepped up his team’s round the world monitoring of RedSheriff's systems to ensure that data is processed effectively and able to cater to these significant increases in traffic.

The availability of breaking news emails, access to global responses, instant coverage and special reports all make the Internet a conducive medium for obtaining updated and convenient information when the user is ready to receive it.

About RedSheriff

Headquartered in New York with global office locations, RedSheriff is recognized as the largest provider of Web Analytics. Established in 1996, the company has a comprehensive suite of measurement and market research products and services, catering to over 1,000 clients in more than 38 countries. The unique tools and methodology used by RedSheriff clients enables companies to use accurate and objective business intelligence to make educated decisions in a constantly changing digital marketplace. RedSheriff boasts strategic partnerships with global industry leaders such as WPP, AGB Group, Taylor Nelson Sofres, Video Research, Ericsson, Oracle, Sun Microsystems, Intel and Microsoft. For additional information about RedSheriff, visit www.redsheriff.com