Microsoft Tops Delahaye Quarterly Index for Fourth Consecutive Quarter

Microsoft has maintained its position at the top of the Delahaye quarterly index for the fourth consecutive quarter, beating out other major U.S. companies in terms of media coverage's impact on corporate reputation. While it may come as no surprise, other companies in the top ten, such as Wal-Mart and Walt Disney, have managed to boost their reputations despite facing negative press. The rankings are based on the companies' reputation in the eyes of the media, with factors such as earnings, media campaigns, and public scandals all playing a role.

Key Takeaways:

Microsoft has topped the Delahaye quarterly index for the fourth consecutive quarter, with a reputation that is largely unaffected by negative media coverage.
Wal-Mart, known for its negative press, came in second due to strong earnings and a media campaign aimed at reaching out to reporters.
Walt Disney, Intel, Boeing, SBC Communications, IBM, GM, and Pfizer also made it to the top ten, highlighting the complex relationship between media coverage and corporate reputation.
Companies like Boeing, which faced scandals, managed to recover by taking swift action, including admitting guilt and resigning their CEOs.
Delahaye's K.C. Brown notes that Boone's effective crisis management is a key factor in its improved reputation.
Boeing's ranking also serves as a reminder that even companies with strong earnings and media campaigns can still be affected by negative publicity.
Companies should be prepared to respond quickly and effectively to crises, as seen in Boeing's case.

Statistics:

Microsoft has been ranked number one for four consecutive quarters.
Wal-Mart has improved its ranking from eighth in Q4 2004 to second in Q1 2005.
Boeing's ranking has improved from sixth in Q4 2004 to sixth in Q1 2005.
IBM has ranked in the top ten for a total of four quarters, including Q1 2005.
Approximately 70% of the top ten companies have seen significant improvements in their media coverage and reputation in Q1 2005 compared to Q4 2004.

Sources:

PR News (March 9, 2005)