In the past week Google+ launched a feature called Google+ Pages, which allowed businesses and brands build a profile. People have been critical of Google+’s Pages because they have banned promotions and competitions on brand pages directly, but they are allowed to do it from their own external websites. To allow social media management companies manage their presence on multiple social networks, Google+ is allowing Buddy Media, Context Optional, Hearsay Social, Hootsuite, Involver, and Vitrue test out their management tools on their service. These companies will be allowed to manage circle, publish to Google+, and monitor usage. [Google Inside Adwords]

Vitrue is a social media management company that has raised $17 million in Series C funding. Scale Venture Partners and Advent Venture Partners led this round of funding. Existing investors General Catalyst Ventures, Comcast Interactive, and Dance Ventures also participated. Some of Vitrue’s customers include Ford, Intel, MTV, Best Buy, and McDonald’s. Vitrue will be using the funding for expansion. [Mashable]