Using their previous research as a foundation for their newest study, Wright and Hinson examine how technology and the emergence of blogs has challenged the way public relations is practiced.

"Examining the Increasing Impact of Social Media on Public Relations Practice" presents the conflicting viewpoints regarding whether employee blogs are good or bad for public relations and the resulting organizations.

The growth of blogs has been estimated to be approximately 34 million in 2005 to nearly 100 million blogs in 2007. With this expanding form of social media, Wright and Hinson address the following topics:

• Have blogs and social media enhanced the practice of public relations?
• Do blogs and social media influence traditional, mainstream news media?
• Has the emergence of social media (including blogs) changed how organizations communicate?
• Do blogs and social media complement or conflict with mainstream traditional news media?
• Is it ethical for representatives of organizations to monitor information their employees have written on weblogs?