• by May 6, 2002

NetRatings, Inc. and DoubleClick Inc. today announced NetRatings' acquisition of DoubleClick's @plan products and the formation of a strategic multi-year research partnership that provides for the integration of Nielsen//NetRatings and @plan research data into DoubleClick's ad management products and services. @plan is the syndicated survey-based audience measurement tool for Internet media planning, buying and selling. The price tag of the deal is $18.5 million in cash and stock.

Under the data license and integration agreement, Nielsen//NetRatings and @plan research will be integrated into DoubleClick's DART and MediaVisor products. According to the announcement, this integration will provide clients with a more efficient system of planning, reporting and analyzing online marketing campaigns and will further enhance DoubleClick's ad management offerings.

Company officials said Nielsen//NetRatings and DoubleClick will also collaborate on the development of reach and frequency campaign planning tools.

With the acquisition of @plan, NetRatings further expands its ability to help advertisers and marketers refine their online marketing strategy through an extensive array of user lifestyle, demographic and attitudinal information.

NetRatings has acquired the @plan research product line, including its base of over 200 clients, existing contracts, technology, historical data, and related intellectual property.