• by John Gaffney , February 17, 2003

CNET has announced the re-launch of its ZDNet website with an eye toward being a relationship portal for buyers and sellers of IT products than its previous information centric incarnation.

The company claims ZDNet's editorial features and marketing solutions are designed to make the technology buying process more efficient for the business decision makers who regularly use the site.

“CNET Networks is using the power of the Internet to redefine media’s role in forging relationships between technology companies and the professionals responsible for making critical buying decisions,” said Barry Briggs, CNET Networks’ chief operating officer. “Our goal is to give these buyers all the tools they need to make more informed and effective decisions in less time.”

CNET says 72% of IT decision makers use the Internet for computer-related information, whereas only 47% use technology magazines.

In addition to its new look and feel, the most significant changes to the new ZDNet site include “IT Priorities” and the “Power Center.” IT Priorities is a proprietary market intelligence program and monthly report that combines user survey information with audience behavior tracking across CNET Networks’ enterprise websites, which also include Builder.com, News.com, and TechRepublic. IT Priorities ensures that the content on ZDNet’s site and related newsletters is aligned in real-time with the core issues driving the decisions of IT professionals within medium to large-sized businesses.

Power Centers are company-sponsored content areas that can be accessed from several locations on the ZDNet site, including a prominent button on the front door. Content included in a Power Center ranges from highly interactive “engagement marketing” programs such as Webcasts, to resources such as white papers and case studies. Sybase is one of three top enterprise marketers to leverage the new unit.

ZDNet also plans to work with sponsors to deliver research reports and white papers on the new site.