“The implosion of Howard Dean can be directly traced to poor audio management, as can John Kerry’s disastrous remarks over crooked Republicans” explained Alan Simpson, the International Media Consultant, to reporters and communications professionals in Washington, DC.

“The use of refined audio from a noise canceling microphone, without mixing the crowd noise for atmosphere, created the impression of Dean as a screaming madman. Had the audio been mixed correctly it would have shown him trying to be heard over an enthusiastic, cheering crowd. The effect of the cheering supporters was lost, in fact turned against the candidate by the selective filtering of the audio given to the media.”

“John Kerry on the other hand did not bother to check and switch off his lapel microphone, before starting to pull it off and hand to an aide. A procedure even a rookie speaker should follow. This goof was about crooked Republicans, heaven knows what the next one will be about. Audio is the least understood skill in the politicians, and corporate executive’s media training package. They are groomed in what to wear, how to move their hands and head, but few know one microphone from another.”

Alan Simpson is best known for developing new television network concepts, but has over twenty five years coached and advised leading executives, politicians, and diplomats on “Getting the Message Across”. With a fully equipped broadcast studio he has the facilities to demonstrate to audiences many different cameras and microphones. No stranger to public speaking, he has testified to the US Congress, US Senate and spoken at the United Nations on five occasions, as well as keynoting major conferences. He has worked in over 65 countries, including surveying and advising 125 US Embassies and Consulates for the Reagan Administration.

In response to questions he added that, with the number of high profile court cases going against key executives, and corporations, many companies are desperately seeking ways to create more effective news briefing procedures, and improved coaching of key corporate officers. "When the media circus begins it's too late to think about audio feeds, lighting and signal routing." Key executives can contact Alan Simpson on (202) 258-3239