eReleases and IssueWire can both put a release into public distribution, but they describe different combinations of wire access, online publishing, and editorial support. eReleases says its packages include national Cision PR Newswire distribution and editorial review. IssueWire lists free and paid tiers with different distribution breadth. The right choice depends on where the announcement needs to appear and what proof of publication the buyer requires.
Compare the exact distribution circuit
On eReleases, check the PR Newswire distribution and industry targeting included in the selected package, along with any direct journalist email option. On IssueWire, inspect the specific tier's published destinations, media asset limits, and geographic reach. Do not compare eReleases' broadest add-on list with IssueWire's entry-level price; put equivalent deliverables and restrictions on one sheet.
Ask both providers for recent sample reports. Open each URL and distinguish a syndicated copy from a reporter's original article. Publication on a network partner does not mean that outlet's newsroom investigated or endorsed the company. Neither service can guarantee independent coverage from a journalist.
Budget for the complete release
Length and images
Verify word allowance, image and video handling, and fees for an extra asset or revision.
Editorial review
Ask what the editor checks and how rejection or required edits affect timing and payment.
Scheduling
Check the time zone, embargo options, holiday processing, and corrections process.
Proof
Require live links with clear labels rather than a potential audience total alone.
Evaluate the campaign result
A lower fee can be sensible for a narrow, factual update; a wider circuit may be useful for a national announcement. Neither choice substitutes for a credible news angle and a spokesperson who can answer questions. Keep an authoritative release on the organization's own site as well.
AMEC's framework separates publishing outputs from what the audience understood or did. Track relevant referrals, inquiries, and independent reporting along with syndicated URLs. PRSA's ethics guidance supports truthful claims about paid and earned exposure. Check the current first-party pages before buying, because plans and partner lists can change.