Hello everyone-
This is my first post to this site and I should start by saying that I will be expecting GREAT THINGS from all of you out there.

Here is where I could use some help... I am planning on building an online business. However, I am looking for a company to work with that not only can build a great website (storefront) but one that also is well versed and able to support the web marketing aspect of my new venture.

I know that this kind of company exists, but I don't know how to find them. Anyone with any ideas???


Doug McBride - Vancouver, WA

Welcome Doug! We expect great things from everyone here too. Now to your web help question...

1. Look at your competitors to see who made there sites.
2. Check your local chamber of commerce or tech council.
3. Look for buying guides. Marketing Sherpa may be a good resource for you there.

IMO the keys to a successful site (one that sells in your case) are usability and targeted marketing efforts. Take a look at Don't Make Me Think. It's a great resource for the non-technical in web usability.

Hopefully these will get you going. Keep us posted on the search.

How about the rest of you? Any experience chasing this particular goal? Let us know what worked for you!

Doug,

Thanks so much for joining the conversation. I'm glad to hear about your new enterprise.

To best make a recommendation, I'd love to learn more about your business at a high level. The reason I ask is because in my experience, a good storefront should be expected to handle the technology and administrative aspects of your venture. The true marketing side will likely require a different set of considerations - you'll need to find channels that will reach a targeted customer base.

I think we should consider the business in a broad context in order to best make decisions about how to fit the parts together.

Does that make sense?

If you're interested in working together, I'd ask that you click over to our Bullhorn section and craft a goal regarding your online business. That way, myself, Jim, and other community members can help you along the way.

I hope you consider doing that. I'm excited to learn more about your project and how we can help!

KAED!

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