Technology and Web-Based Services

Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

Since you’re competing for eyeballs with millions of other businesses, your business’s domain name—the web address/URL that people use to find your website—should be decided at the same time you’re naming your business. Preferably, the web address should match your business name and if it doesn’t you may consider changing the name of your business—it’s that important. When customers search for your type of business, a great domain name will help your business move up the ranks and draw traffic.  Here are some tips to remember when choosing a domain name.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

Most small businesses use outside Web hosting companies to host their websites. Here are the most important factors to consider when selecting a Web hosting service.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

If you do not have the in-house expertise needed to create your own website, one option to consider is hiring an outside Web development team. This typically includes the Web Developer, Graphic Designer, Programmer and the Internet Marketing Consultant.Use this checklist to assess each company or individual you are considering working with.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

The cost of owning and operating a technology product or service over time is referred to as the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Since the TCO may be substantially higher than the initial upfront cost, a TCO comparison can help you decide between competing solutions that at first glance may seem equivalent. Here are the key elements to consider in determining TCO.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

Speeding up customer payments so that the cash gets into your account faster is one of the best ways to boost your business. Here are some technology tools that can speed your customers’ payments.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

For most business owners, buying business related technology is a stressful endeavor. Spend too little or go too low tech and you’ll find yourself needing to upgrade almost immediately. Spend too much or go too high tech and inevitably the manufacturer will come out with a new version or the technology is so complicated you’ll need to hire someone who understands it. Make sure you protect yourself from unforeseen hassles by following a few preemptive steps.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

Creating a “call to action” is key to driving sales for a small business. Technology can help drive your business’s sales by making it easier for customers to take action. Use this three-step process to create a call to action for your website.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

If you’re currently using your website as a marketing tool and/or to give customers valuable information, the next obvious step is to add ecommerce capabilities. Selling products or services isn’t as hard as you might think and creates a new source of cash flow for your business. This tactic can allow even non-retail businesses to create new income streams. Here are some ideas for what to sell.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

Viral “deal of the day” sites have become popular in the past few years. (Groupon is probably the best-known.) These sites help you harness the power of email and social media to attract new customers and create new sources of revenue for your business.

Download
Published Mar. 27, 2012 application/pdf icon

Today, many consumers do research online before ever visiting a retailer or deciding on a service. To make sure your business gets the customers it deserves, you need to be listed on as many ratings and review sites as possible, especially the ones specializing in local businesses.

Download
Syndicate content