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As a business owner, you can't help but be aware of the significant impact the Internet is having on the market, with over 200 million people currently using it for everything from shopping to entertainment to research and education. In fact, as that number continues to rise each year, it has become increasingly clear that the Internet is a marketing force that no business or organization should ignore, and that Web activity is just as important to a company's communication strategy as its business cards and brochures.
With that in mind, perhaps you're considering creating a business presence for yourself on the Internet. To help you make an informed decision, here are several things a well-designed web site can do for you:
Increase awareness through advertising
Having a web site available for your customers to access gives them something they can't get from conventional advertising media customer interaction. This is a unique way to showcase your benefits and offerings with not just the traditional copy and graphics, but with audio, video, and customized animation as well. You can provide your audience with an abundance of Information from which they can select what interests them and explore it in-depth, increasing awareness of detailed aspects of your business and all it has to offer.
Increase sales through e-Commerce
Your site can serve as a virtual storefront for your company. You can display products and pricing information and conduct commerce with online ordering. The ease of adding the latest product information and updating prices makes the Internet an ideal sales tool, and one that can save time and money otherwise spent on catalog printing and distribution.
Create a positive image
Time and time again, studies have shown that a business with an Internet presence is perceived as modern, advanced and sophisticated. And while image shouldn't be the only reason you create a site for your business, this fact should definitely be considered. Right now, businesses are the fastest growing segment on the Web, so making your company available online will only reinforce your business-savvy credentials and help your customers relate better to your company and its product or service.
Generate loyalty through customer support
A web site makes it easier for your customers to reach you on their schedule. They can obtain the information they need 24 hours a day, whether it be product descriptions, company information or technical support. This kind of one-to-one communication with your customers can create a relationship with them that can lead to a strong sense of loyalty on their part. And for you, it is a cost-effective, labor-efficient way to distribute information and maintain that positive relationship.
Gather user data for test marketing
With tailored feedback forms, surveys, online registration forms and the information supplied while making an online transaction, a web site is and unbeatable way to obtain important information on your customer base and to test the market for your product or service. You can also track the number of hits your site receives and use this data to your benefit. Remarkably, the Internet has become the most powerful way for companies like yours to create successful marketing plans, providing an effective way to have a relevant dialogue with consumers and to test their attitudes and opinions.
Provide sales support
Your web site can be a useful tool not only for customers, but for your sales staff and distributors as well. Maintaining up-to-date postings of product information and prices allows them to continually access the information they need to properly promote and sell your product or service. Your distributors can also use your site as a means to place and track orders.
Distribute public relations information worldwide
A web site is the perfect way to provide current public relations information to interested parties worldwide, whether it be new product announcements, problems needing to be addressed, upcoming events, product recalls or legislative news.
Distribute company publications electronically
Any publication you are currently producing in printed form can be reproduced electronically and placed on your site. This can include newsletters, magazines, training manuals or catalogs. And better than a printed piece, you can add impact by including sound and downloadable mini-movies to your electronic publication.
Reduce costs
Advertising and providing information online can save your business money in a variety of areas. First, by allowing customers to order and track purchases on your web site, you will significantly reduce staffing and overhead costs by reducing the use of invoicing and customer service. Second, by producing catalog, brochure and other publication information electronically, you cut down on the high cost of printing and distributing those same materials. And finally, you'll also save money by communicating with customers through e-mail and online feedback forms rather than incurring expensive long distance or 800 number charges.
If you've found that any one of the opportunities above matches the needs of your company, it's probably time for you to establish your presence on the Internet and get your site up and running. By incorporating it into your overall marketing strategy and making it a top priority, you, too will become a force that can't be ignored. If you need help building your web site and your online store, give us a call. Through our Cystar product, we can get your business online in minutes!