Ask The Technology Therapist Blog

Successful Websites - Part 1

2008-05-05T16:45:00.005-04:00

My husband watches a show on the Discovery channel called "Holmes on Homes" and as we rode the train the other morning he was talking to me about a recent episode. Host Michael Holmes was helping a women whose roof was caving in due to a contractor's error. The episode recap goes like this: To make better use of space, the woman wanted to move her kitchen to another part of the house, and build a new bathroom where the kitchen formerly was. The contractor she hired, referred to her by her interior designer, did as she asked. However, when moving heating vents, the main support beam - the piece that structurally holds up the roof - was cut! Subsequently, the roof began to sag and if Michael Holmes had not been there to help, the roof would have caved in before too long.

This very interesting story hit home for me. I can't begin to tell you the number of people who come to me near tears about their experience with sub par web designers. This made me wonder if people really understand what goes into a successful website?

The keyword here is successful. No man is an island when it comes to developing a website. So, what do I mean by that? I am nothing without my team. Most people who have visited my website or read my blogs know that I believe there is a recipe for creating a successful website and it is unlikely for any one person to be an expert at all of the items needed to make a successful website. In case you're wondering the key ingredients are: design, development, copywriting and marketing. If you are missing any one of these elements you may find your website lacking the success you had imagined.

But the element most closely related to my narrative above is development. The development of your website is the programming or the code - this is what makes your website function. Thankfully, poor code will not cave in your roof, but it can cost you sales and cost you money in web updates if done improperly. Someone who understands how to be a good programmer means that they test their work across multiple web browsers to ensure the site looks and functions the same for all users. A good programmer is someone who writes well-organized, clean code and uses web styles to make universal changes quickly and efficiently. The main support beam of your website is the coding done by your developer.

How do you know if you have a good developer? Just like you should interview contractors even if they are referred, you should ask your potential web developer some questions:

Research their work.

Ask to talk to present and former clients.

When discussing their work, ask if they found any of their programming to be problematic.

How long did it take to fix errors?

Do you feel a personal comfort level? Ask their references if they feel comfortable with their relationship.

What is their testing phase like? (If they don't have one run the other way!)

Ask what causes a fluctuation in the pricing?

Inquire about your growth and if you ever decide to hire an in-house developer, will there be a problem? (This question usually shakes people up a bit, but what you are looking at is a developer who is afraid to share. This should give you a bit of a red flag.)

Some people ask - who owns the code? This question is a bit of a tough one because it is really not an easy question to answer. You may get an answer that is more confusing than the question. Instead, you may want to ask if the project you are engaging them for is a "work for hire" or will they be using any proprietary applications that may require future licensing fees. If the web application is expensive to develop, be sure there is a licensing buy out option.

This is only one ingredient to my recipe for a successful website. If you choose your contractor wisely, you won't accidentally cut your main support beam and have your roof cave in, thus alleviating the need for Michael Holmes to rush to the rescue.

Hopefully reading this blog has made you a smarter consumer when it comes to hiring a web developer. We have all heard the saying you get what you pay for and when it comes to technology and building contractors, I think my dad, of All Phase Carpentry said it best, "When you pay peanuts you get monkeys."

This blog has been the first of a series. Look for blogs on the rest of my "ingredients" for a successful website in the coming weeks!

Live from BlogHer Business 2008

2008-04-03T17:18:00.009-04:00

My head is ready to burst from all the conversations I was excited to be a part of today at the BlogHer Business conference in NYC. For those of you not familiar with this conference, BlogHer Business is a wonderful event focused on social media but geared toward women. I know many of my clients are women business owners who sell to women and my reason for attending this amazing event was to listen to other women businesses discuss their success with the social media world.

Anyone who knows me, knows I speak often about considering new media as an important component to your web marketing strategy, and today's conference further proves my point. You need to ask yourself, "Is my customer active in social media?" More often than not the answer is yes. But if you're not involved in this world, the power of social media is easy to dismiss. One of the panelists had a great comment, she said (this is not an exact quote,) "When I wanted to use social media for HP I need to have a social media lobotomy." I think that maybe that is what we need to do as small business owners. We need to erase everything we think we know about this world and throw out our preconceived notions about what social media is. (Look for a discussion on what exactly social media is in the coming weeks!)

I heard so many different case studies today but the one theme that seemed to be common across all of them is that large or small, businesses need to understand that the old rules aren't cutting it in 2008. Consumers and business owners are not buying because you sell to them anymore. You need to connect with your clients and potential consumers and build a personal relationship without face to face contact. Social media, whether it be podcasting, blogging or using social tools to connect, allows you to make that personal connection via technology. People, specifically women want to feel that you're building a relationship with them. One speaker said it best, customer's don't want a "one night stand, they want to know you're committed to being in a relationship."

So let's start with this question: How are you building relationships with your customers? (Leave us your comments. )

Never Mind What You Want - What Does Your Customer Want?

2008-03-21T14:55:00.004-04:00

I think there needs to be a shift in how we approach web design and development. When I talk to a new or perspective client one of the first things I hear is, "This is the way I want to see things laid out on my website." During the initial meeting the first thing I ask clients to do is to let go of "I want" and instead, start by focusing on the goal of the website. The myriad of goals range and often include:

Generating new business for my company.

Updating my existing customers about company changes and acting as a customer service tool.

Selling my products; I want to get people to buy from my website.

Showing that I am a legitimate company.

Marketing my business.

No matter what the goal, they all relate to the customer; without your customer there is no point to having a website.

I believe we need to take a step back and start asking the question, "How do my customers want to see things?" By switching our point of view we open ourselves and our company up to meeting the needs of our clients.

Customer centered questions are helpful. Be upfront and let your clients know that not only are you are trying to improve your company, but you're also striving to create a website to better serve their needs. It is also important to let them know that their feedback, both positive and negative, is an integral part of your success.

Here are some things you can do before designing or redesigning your website. Take the time to ask some questions like:

What was the determining factor that played a role in why a customer chose you?

What do customers like most about your company, product or services?

Would they refer you to another company?

What issues would they like you to adjust about your firm?

The feedback you receive from your customers will help you to determine what resonates with them. This will allow you to make decisions about what to focus on for the growth of your site. Ultimately, your website needs to send a cohesive message, and by focusing on your customers wants and needs, you can tailor your site to achieve maximum success.

Website Update Pains? Get Over It

2008-02-24T10:39:00.005-05:00

I started holding web classes again two weeks ago, the first discussed creating your website strategy. We talked about the importance of setting goals, understanding you conversion rate, and places to market online; oh yes, and creating and implementing a plan of action. Not bad for a 75 minute interactive web class. At the conclusion one of the attendees said, "This is all very interesting, but I can barely keep my website up to date. How am I supposed to do this too?" After that, a few other people felt relieved that they were not the only ones feeling that pain. I expressed my understanding for their issues but explained, "If you don't market your website, why does it have to be up to date?" If your not driving people to your website, why have one? A website is meant to be a marketing tool that works for you 24/7. After I expressed my comments, I have to say, I began to wonder why keeping up a website is such a painful task for so many people?

How many people feel the pain of keeping a website up to date? If you're reading this and are relieved to hear you are not alone, I think it is time we take a step backward and look at the tools available for you to use to update your website.

If you have a website, what tools are you using to keep it up to date? There are web design and editing programs like Adobe's Dreamweaver or Contribute, just to name a few. These applications while useful, do require (in my opinion) some time for training. When we create a website for clients I recommend, and actually now require, they use a content management system. A content management system allows you to edit your website copy through a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) type interface, similar to a word processor. The main design elements are put into an include, or header file; something like a template. This setup allows the designer to make a change to a design element and have it populate all the pages associated to that template quickly and efficiently. A content management system, depending upon the style and setup, can allow you to grant permission to certain staff members for editing designated areas. For example, the Human Resources department can edit the career opportunities page and the marketing department can edit the upcoming specials, without either author having access to other pages.

The success of your company's web marketing initiatives relies on the maintenance of your website. You will not be able to run creative marketing specials or launch new ideas if you can't edit your website. A website is never done and is the one area that should be constantly growing, so don’t let editing your website hold you back. Get the keys to your website, take back the control and eliminate the pain of managing a website.

Does Your Networking Pitch Match Your Web Pitch?

2008-02-18T13:30:00.006-05:00

There is a great book titled "Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty" by Harvey MacKay. The book focuses on the importance of having a network to rely on to generate sales. This left me wondering, "Why is it that so many businesses will make the time to grow their network and not their website?" Don't you realize your website is your network? Your website speaks for you, reaching an audience far more extensive than the alphabetical contacts in your Blackberry. Your website tells your story when you are not there. Your website represents your voice, your vision and your business when someone refers you to a business or college.

On Monday February 11th, I spoke at the Small Business Summit in New York City. I sat on a panel with 3 other wonderful speakers: Laura Allen (15SecondPitch.com), Marshall Makstein (eslide.com), and Adrian Miller (adrianmiller.com). Each of us focused on our own elements of expertise. After we all spoke, an audience member asked Laura about the importance of creating a pitch unique for certain business events. Let me elaborate; many businesses have different specialties under one business umbrella. For example: here at the Technology Therapy Group, we provide web design and development services, software training and emarketing plans. How do you pitch each different area of your business? Laura's advice is to craft a pitch for each specialty to not only keep you focused, but to help the listener stay focused as well. I very excitedly chimed in, "Please be sure to do this on your website as well! So many individuals say one thing in person and then their websites say something completely different." Your message must be cohesive across all your materials; website, email communication and in-person. Your website represents you when you are not available, and the message, (your pitch,) needs to be the same as the one you vocalize in person or on the phone.

Today, I ask that you to take a few minutes to review your pitch; give it to someone in your network, (preferably someone new,) and then ask them to go to your website and see if the message is the same. If it is not, it may be time to think about a site redesign or change in content. If your pitch and your web message don't line up, your website may be costing you business.

Super Spending for 30 Seconds - Are they Remembered?

2008-02-04T17:06:00.000-05:00

The Super Bowl; one game after a season of wins and loses, and at the end it all comes down to one game. On this night the team with the best plan and the best strategy wins the title. On this very important evening there is another battle; the battle for the most talked about commercial. Monday morning radio stations and talk shows across the country discuss in great detail the advertisements they most remembered. This 30 second commercial, if done right, can give you more than just 30 seconds of air time. It can give you a viral campaign that will cause people to rush to YouTube or Myspace to see it over and over again.

Which commercials stood out to you? Was it the Coke commercial with the hot air balloons? The dancing lizards to the sounds of Michael Jackson's Thriller? Or The Dalmatian training the Clydesdale to be the well-known Budweiser mascot? I personally found the Pepsi commercial to Hadaway's song Baby Don't Hurt Me quite funny.

Take a moment to think about what stood out to you? Why did it stand out? Do you remember who or what the commercial was for? Did the commercial make you want to try the product? Or was it just branding?

Now think about your business and your 2008 marketing plans. You don't have to spend millions to get people talking about you. What can you do to create a little buzz around your business? Just something to think about this post Super Bowl week.

Too Many Ideas & Too Much Time Can Spoil A Website

2008-01-07T14:12:00.000-05:00

For the longest time I have carried a notebook around to jot down ideas that come to me as I go about my day. My idea journal has played an important role in the choices I make for marketing my company, adding new services and changing my web site. Every few months I take time to review my idea log. Sometimes I laugh at myself and wonder, "what I was thinking," and other times I wonder, "why haven't I developed this idea further?" After much reflection on my own ideas and time spent managing many client projects I realized that "a good idea can lead to positive changes or chaos."

An idea by itself seems harmless; it can be a way of brainstorming, thinking through concepts or inspiring us to move forward. However, an idea becomes a monster when you allow it to expand without boundaries. If you do not write down your ideas and begin to control them - one idea becomes two, then three and so on while your website or project has stalled. Too many ideas without deadlines and budgets can lead a 3 month project into a yearlong endeavor. Too many times I see my clients let their ideas delay the launch of their web projects.

My expert advice:

Keep an idea journal. Write down your ideas and the benefits you see in them. Let them simmer for a few days before acting on them.

Recognize that change is good. Understand that a website, like all marketing is meant to change. Once you realize this fact you can plan ideas around marketing strategies instead of trying to rush a multitude of changes into a website launch or re-launch all at once.

Use your experts. Let your web design or marketing team play devil's advocate; ask them if they see cons to your pros. Take the advice seriously and plan ideas into phases.

These three important things to keep in mind can save your web site launch or re-launch and save your bottom line. Undeveloped ideas cost you time and money as web design and development costs are based on the scope of a client's project. When you change ideas, you change scope, therefore changing the budget. Clearly defining your ideas will help you plan your expenditures and create strong communications with your web design firm.

If you're planning any changes to your web site or web marketing in 2008 this tip may be a great beginning to a truly successful project.

Do You Want an Expert or Technician?

2007-12-12T11:22:00.000-05:00

Running a small business is hard, a statement that every business owner can identify with. One item we learn early on, is that we can't do it all. We can try to do it all for many reasons, often times because we can't always afford to hire an expert. I understand this issue, and in the past, have dealt with the same thing. How many of you have tried to create your own company logo in Word or Publisher because a graphic design firm was out of your price range? I know my first logo was done that way. However, there comes a time where we all need to realize as business owners, that experts are needed and should be seen as an investment instead of a cost.

The question you need to stop and ask yourself before moving forward is "Do you want an expert or technician?"

Hiring an expert means letting go and putting your trust in someone else who usually knows more than you do about a particular area. In taking that leap, making an investment in the knowledge and experience of someone else, you should see a growth in your business. Our clients hire The Technology Therapy Group because we are experts. We understand the way a customer shops online, what is important in a web site, how to drive traffic and how to retain customers. Hiring an expert means paying more of a premium for their knowledge and experience, and letting their ideas guide the process. Do you want an expert?

Hiring a technician is a completely different experience. Technicians are there to do what you tell them to do, carrying out the ideas you put on the table. Technicians may offer some feedback, but overall they act as an extra pair of hands for your ideas. In the web world, they may know how to code in HTML or create a graphic for your web site, but they are taking your ideas and your way of doing things to the web. Do you want a technician?

As you can see it is important to understand the differences. I try to advise my clients of the importance of certain elements for their web site. For the most part many listen to my advice, while others listen and just do what they want. Be honest with yourself, what are you really looking for? An expert with proven experience to bring your web site to a new level, or someone with the technical knowledge to carry out your ideas? I understand; as a business owner I sometimes had to work through issues myself, but don't hire an expert and ignore their advice. In the end you will both end up disappointed.

Are We Living in a Bullet Point Society?

2007-10-31T00:34:00.000-04:00

We live in a fast paced world of emails, text messages, advertising and phone calls. The question is-how much does anyone read anymore? I'm not talking about sitting down and reading a book. I am referring to reading emails, web sites and advertising. How often has this scenario happened to you? You spend a good 10-15 minutes composing an email that outlines a project or has agenda items, and when the person responds they only answer 1 or 2 of your points. You go back, look at the email, and ask the person why they didn't respond to the other items? Their answer - "I didn't even notice them or I just figured you'd call me with the rest." Frustrating isn't it.

For the past few years during seminars and while advising clients, I have made this comment - "we live in a bullet point society." What does this mean? When you are crafting your web site text or emailing marketing pieces short bullet points seem to draw in your reader. Too much copy can overwhelm the reader who is bombarded daily with so many other communications. Providing your reader with bullet points and an option to read more is a way to accomplish a few key items. Bullet points:

keep your message clear and focused
cut back on overwhelming your audience
track the messages they are reading

Clear and focused points: when you write about your business services and products, stop and think about the words that draw in your audience. Less is more.

Overwhelming your audience:too much text on a particular page may cause your customers eyes to glaze over and move on to another web site. And I do recognize that you need to put important items on your site like privacy policies and FAQ pages. So, when creating these pages try to format the text in a way that is easy to follow. Beware the wordy paragraphs that ramble on.

Track the message: if you are using Google Analytics or something similar you will be able to follow the content your customers find important. Give your audience the information they want right away, and then look at what else they are reading more about.

Marketing Specialist Point of View:
I asked David Cucinotta of the Hue Brand Group a marketing and strategy specialist to give me his Point of View on this topic.

David explains: "Unfortunately bullet point communication is synonymous with the Power Point Presentation....I for one, believe that PowerPoint, and all things resembling a PowerPoint Presentation should be stricken from the business world. The style is over-used and has created an everyday culture that presents information through incomplete thoughts... because there's always another bullet point to clarify the last bullet point.

My personal dislike for the style aside, younger audiences have grown up with and live by this style. The bullet-point has become their thought process, their norm in many ways (insert text message here). In most other instances, I would emphasize that solid writing skills and the ability to present your product or service clearly and concisely, probably has greater bearing on keeping your reader engaged, than does the format in which that information is presented. When coupled with good design fundamentals, your reader will see and absorb the words you want them to focus on. Remember, it's about the attention and engagement of your reader. Once you have their attention, they will drill deeper for additional content."

Let me know your thoughts leave a comment. Do you think we are living in a bullet point society?

Off to the Races: Holiday Marketing

2007-10-22T09:33:00.000-04:00

Over the past few weeks I have been reminding my clients that the holidays are just around the corner, and the need to plan their web changes is an important strategy for sales growth. It seems to many of us as consumers that the holiday marketing and promotions start too soon, and yet as a business owner I recognize the need for the early push. I know you might be asking yourself if I have a service business this blog doesn't apply to you - that is just not the case. Shoppers today not only buy a physical gift but also services in the form of gift certificates. I have had family members purchase a software training package to help their father or aunt better understand how to use computers in their business. This is the time of year for businesses selling products or services to focus on what they have to offer for the holidays.

Start with What You Know--Your Existing Customers
Your existing customer has already invested in your goods and/or services now is the time to reach out and ask them what they would like to see for the holidays. This is a slightly different approach than just throwing a sale at someone. It takes extra time but you will find it profitable and enlightening. Customers like to know their opinions matter and asking them what they want to see will cut down on the time it takes you to create packages that just won't sell. Before you reach out prepare a few ideas to discuss with them everyone needs a conversation starter. If your audience is too large to start calling, why not create a special page on your web site exclusive to existing customers for a week in November. This will remind them to shop early and give them a sneak peak at what you have to offer. I would recommend creating a promotion for existing customers only like free shipping. Free shipping seems to be everyone's favorite discount online.

Planning Prevents Poor Profits
We all know we have to plan but it is good to be reminded. Sit down today look at a calendar and work backward. When is the last day you can ship anything to be there on time? You will want to put that on your web site right away and even in your emails. Cyber Monday (this is the Monday immediately following Thanksgiving) it is a busy day for online shopping. You may want to plan an email blast to be in your customer's mailbox on that Monday morning. You should also plan for exactly what date your holiday graphics show up on your web site? When planning do not only plan up to the holiday, plan for after the holiday as well. Many people return presents, and may want your product instead, so don't forget to put that in your plan. If your a service business like a spa you will want to plan the mentioning of your holiday hours. Oh and don’t forget if your planning Pay-per-click campaigns for search engine marketing - now is the time to get started. Preparing your plan will help you stay on track with less stress for this busy season.

These are just a few ideas for getting your company engine ready to go for the holiday, there will be more to follow. Please add your thoughts, ideas and even your web site of products for the holiday, by clicking on comments below.

Pay-per-Click Web Marketing - Is it What You're Missing?

2007-10-01T19:15:00.000-04:00

You have a web site and you're hoping that its creative enough to bring you business. How are you marketing that web site? When your web site is just one among millions, how do you find customers? You advertise where the customers are online. Specifically the search engines. This idea is not a new one is it? But the questions so many of us want to know - is it working? How do you know?

On today's blog I have asked Michael Candullo from Path Interactive to answer a few questions about PPC (Pay-per-click) advertising and the unique service that Path Interactive offers its clients.

Listen to 8 minute interview

Michael and I will be discussing these questions:

Why does Path Interactive feel that Pay-per-click is a wise route for businesses to go for marketing their web site online?

When working with clients to create a PPC campaign, how often do you have to address their web site design and setup? Do you find this to be a factor that effects sales?

With the holidays rapidly approaching how much of an increase in a PPC budget should a business need to plan to increase?

Path Interactive is also offering all Technology Therapy listeners a 15% discount on the setup of their PPC campaign. Just tell Michael and Path Interactive that Technology Therapy Group referred you.

Do you have a comment?
Leave us your thoughts and feedback on this post by clicking the comments link below.

Please Don't Make Me Upgrade to See Your Web Site

2007-08-28T10:32:00.000-04:00

Today I came across three web sites that convinced me to see what they had to offer. Upon viewing the site, I was prompted to upgrade my flash player. I know it seems like a minor task, but like most of you, I am busy working on a multitude of things during the day. In addition to this inconvenience, the web sites did not even provide me with the link to upgrade my player. This simple step may have coaxed me into taking those extra few steps, but alas they have now quite possibly lost me forever. In a world where competition is thick, why are so many websites neglecting to harness the potential of new visitors?

Last week, I gave a workshop to a group of small businesses regarding how to start and operate a business. One of the key points I was conveying was "understanding your audience". This point is less about demographics and psychographics, but rather it addresses "tech-know-graphics" (yes it is a made up word). I define "Tech-know-graphics" as an understanding of the technological skills of the consumer. In greater detail, it is the consumer's knowledge of technology and their preferences like screen size, screen type, choice of web browser and plug-in levels. I know of many users who don't like to upgrade or download updates because they have finally gotten their computer to a point that is stable and performing well.

The flip side is that, the usability of the applications fall at the wayside. Designers and business owners want their web sites to be exciting and engaging to their audience. But at what cost? When you are planning to launch a site in Flash, why not make it compatible with at least the previous version? Businesses who have upgraded to Office 2007 are still saving their documents in 2003 formats to make sharing and communicating with outside partners easier. Is the design worth the price of losing a customer? I know I strayed from three different web sites today. How many sites have you left because you didn't want to take the time to upgrade at that moment? Let me know your thoughts, leave a comment below.

Is Printing Calendar Views in Outlook 2007 Easy?

2007-08-14T15:31:00.000-04:00

As the original "Technology Therapist ® ", many people seek my advice on everything from choosing the right computer equipment to understanding Microsoft office 2007, and of course marketing and developing web sites. Last week I hosted a 1-1 web class for a professional organizer. She wanted to know how to advise her clients the best way to make use of the new features Outlook 2007 has to offer. One of the more popular features that has everyone interested in Outlook 2007 is the calendars new overlay feature. This feature allows you to open your calendar and a co-workers calendar at the same time and literally put one calendar on top of the other.

This new feature is very helpful when you are planning meetings or organizing your life. Now my client asked a great question - How do I print this view? A simple question - right? Is anything really simple when it comes to Microsoft? The answer to the question is, with Microsoft Outlook 2007 off the shelf with no add-ons - NO you can not print the calendars in an overlay or side by side view. My solution is to take a screen capture of the calendars and print the screen capture, this is fast and easy. (Click here for directions on creating a screen capture)

If you think printing calendars is going to be important for you then you will want to download The Calendar Printing Assistant for Microsoft Office Outlook 2007.(Download here) This application will allow you to print out and customize how you view your calendar. It has many more options than Outlook offers and you can customize it. This application though helpful, took some patience to figure out, but once you get the hang of it you will be good to go. Here is a link to what the application can offer you

Are You Looking For Opportunities For Your Business?

2007-07-23T12:03:00.000-04:00

Opportunities to me are like apples you have to pick the ones that look right for you. Everyday on the web you will find thousands of opportunities, but which ones are the perfect fit for your business? Here are a few questions you should ask your self:

Does it Relate to Your Company's Goals? We all have goals and ideas for our company. Will the opportunities that present themselves help meet your goals? For example if you are trying to take your company from a local business to a national business look for opportunities that will have a wider reach like national press and awards.
What is the Time Investment? Time = Money for many small businesses look at each opportunity and ask your self what is the time commitment. This should then be followed by a question that I find important. If I don't win - will I find value in the process internally? I have applied for large projects and lost them but found the process very valuable because it helped my team organize our internal processes. Time was well spent.
What Will You Do With Success? I know this seems like a silly question, but I have seen many people get some wonderful opportunities with the press and then nothing. They don't tell their existing clients, they don't plan any marketing around the credit they received. The success, though well earned, will not help their business succeed.

Here are a few opportunities you may want to look into for your business. Oh and if you like my blog DON'T FORGET TO VOTE.

Is the car the only place you are held captive by Advertising?

2007-06-20T22:18:00.000-04:00

I was on my train commuting back from New York City and overheard two young businessmen who worked in radio advertising, discussing something I thought was interesting. I do not normally eavesdrop on people, but I could not help myself as they were a bit vocal. The comment one of the men made was; "I believe the car is the only place you can not escape advertising." I smiled internally being a marketer and I decided I should explore this comment.

Is the car the only place we are trapped by advertising? Let's look at the other mediums before I give my overall opinion. We have television, radio, print, and online. I believe that would be it! No, there are movies, video games, television shows, clothes and more.

My personal breakdown:

Television & Radio: I am a flipper when it comes to radio or television, if a commercial comes on I flip. I get tired of listening to the announcer rant about discount cars or the latest drug that I really don't need.

Print: There are so many areas in this particular category: Magazines, newspapers, postcards, bus banners, billboards and more. If I am in my car and stuck in traffic I do read the occasional billboard. If I am reading a magazine or a newspaper article I can’t help but notice an ad or two, especially if I am in my shopping mind. Postcards I glance at, and if they have something of interest I may save them.

Online: The web has taken the shape of some pretty traditional advertising by using banner ads like magazines do, and television style ads now as self-running pop-ups. The web is full of advertising large and in your face, and subtle like on social networking sites, search engine results or blogs.

Movies: In the actual theater of course they have the opening commercial before the previews and the local advertising slide show and trivia questions sponsored by items you can find at the concession stand. But the movie itself has advertising as well. Austin Powers pointed it out in a shameless manner. Action movies blow up advertising billboards and zoom in on products that the characters are using all the time.

Video Games: A captive repeat audience obsessed with reaching a goal, and yes in many video games there is tons of advertising. Racing games spotlight car makers and products on virtual roads. Music is many times an added advertising element, giving bands and record companies access to their core demographic in a video game.

Television Shows: Some reality TV shows are practically an advertisement wrapped around a talent like Top Chef and the Kenmore Elite line kitchen products, which they repeat at least 5 times in each episode. Oh and let's not forget the infomercial rolled into the latest tied into shows like CW's One Tree Hill and America's Next Top Model. But the ads don't stop there, they are the products used in the drama shows like Hero's and 24.

Clothes: That's right no matter which way I walk on the streets I see advertising from Sean John to Ralph Lauren. T-shirts are a walking billboard for companies to advertise on and now High School athlete's sports jerseys are the next big area facing the Advertising microscope. (See article in NY Times June 11th Business Section).

So back to where we started, do you think the car is the only place you are held captive by advertising? In my opinion it is not the biggest area at all. I find the non-traditional mediums have the biggest forced hold on us as consumers. I don't walk in late to see a movie for fear we won't get a seat so I am forced to watch the commercial at the beginning. I like to play an occasional video game, specifically racing games, and there are ads all over the cars, the stands, the streets and if I want to play the game I am held captive by the ads. If I want to watch a particular YouTube link I am forced to see the ads on the page.

My point of view is that you are not held captive by advertising in your car, but rather in your favorite video game, movie and reality TV show. I like watching what the chef's come up with or the designers create and I can't escape the sponsor's names every week and now some of them are ingrained in my brain with no escape.

What do you think? Do you agree with me? Let me know post your thoughts on our Blog by clicking comments.

Woman-To-Women

2007-06-09T20:17:00.000-04:00

In late 2005 Melanie McEvoy of McEvoy and Associates, a client of ours, introduced us to a wonderful organization - National Organization for Women - NYC chapter. Since that introduction to this very admirable organization we have been updating and editing their web site.

In 2006 Sonia Ossorio, President of NOW NYC, and I met to discuss the future of the NOWNYC.org website. We both agreed on the vision the founding chapter needed and deserved. As a result The Technology Therapy Group offered to re-design the new site as a contribution to the organization. As a woman in business this was an opportunity for me to give back, by paying it forward. The newly designed NOWNYC.org is also being hosted by our server, and additionally we will be adding on the eCommerce section in the next few months.

In August of 2007 the Technology Therapy Group, which has grown out of my first company E-Business Creations, will be celebrating 10 years in business. I feel like I just started yesterday because there is so much I want to accomplish, but I also see how far we have come. My business has grown by seeking out support and referrals from so many people and places, but the greatest strength I have found is in the women who have turned to me, and who I have turned to over the years. So today I would like to say "thank you" to all of you for seeing my company's potential and believing in us by referring other women businesses to our company.

NOWNYC.org is one of the newest websites we have launched that shows our commitment to women and their issues. Below is a list of some of our past and present clients and some great womens organizations we support. Take a look at what they can offer you and please feel free to add your favorite women's business or organization by commenting on our blog. I will be adding more as well - I know I will forget someone.

Women Businesses & Organization we have worked with:

NAWBONYC

Women's Radio

Audio Acrobat

WomenandBiz.com

Geri Stengel

Lillian Coury

Kathy Canfield Shepard

Karen Gedney

Women Owned Business Web Sites we have designed:

Baby-Energy

McEvoy & Associates

Mugwaz

Second Shift, LLC

Polka Dot Junction

Astron Solutions

JMK Arts

Computer Gremlins vs. Computer MoJo - How Do You Get "The Force" on Your Side?

2007-05-11T08:39:00.000-04:00

Kathy decided to treat herself to a new computer two weeks ago, and like many small businesses she reached out to the professionals she trusted to help transfer the information from her old computer to her new computer. In 2007 this should be a relatively painless process, at least that’s what Kathy thought. When her outside computer consultant was done transferring the information over and installing all her applications she was upset to find out that not everything worked as it had on her other computer. Her Microsoft Outlook, ACT and Palm were no longer working together. That’s when Kathy called me for a little technology therapy.

Kathy’s computer consultant did a fine job, but he was not familiar with some of the issues that ACT, Outlook and Palm users face when trying to get everything connected. Kathy and I worked together using GoToMeeting since she is in Texas and I am in New York. I reviewed everything the consultant did and then I tried to connect ACT & Outlook and Kathy and I started seeing error messages popping up with missing .dll files. Next, we attempted installing an update to her ACT software, and when we tried to apply the update a pop-up said the application was not installed. Kathy like most users was baffled – the computer gremlins were at it again! (At least this is what most people think). My response to Kathy was a calm one laughing and saying, “you must be patient and learn the ways of ‘The Force’”, this of course made Kathy laugh and relax. The trick that most users do not know is that Anti-virus software can some times cause a problem with applications talking to each other. Since most PC’s come with virus protection pre-installed now, unless someone like me makes you aware of this issue, most users start to blame it on the Gremlins.

To resolve this problem you have to:

uninstall ACT & the anti-virus application
Restart your computer
Install ACT
Sync ACT & Outlook
Install the Palm sync program
Run a sync – (Be Careful in your settings here or you may get duplicates on your palm)
Then re-install your anti-virus application

Kathy was relieved that I resolved the problem and thanked me by saying: “Jennifer who needs The Force – I have you – the Technology Therapist.” Thank you Kathy that was very sweet.

What’s the secret to being a good technical problem solver or having Computer MoJo?

Be Patient – Don’t get frustrated
Stop and think about the rules of the computer.
Take a moment to check help files or message boards – your probably not the only person who has had the problem.
When dealing with software – you may want to make sure you have all the updates. Microsoft Office also offers a Detect & Repair option under the help menu.
If all else fails when dealing with software call (888-874-7400) or email The Technology Therapist

Leave a comment about your computer mojo.

What's Your Web Message?

2007-04-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

I am a busy modern day women like so many others today, and I use the web to take care of things I do not have the time in my hectic schedule to accomplish. Last night I picked out some cute sundresses that should be arriving next week. Tonight I decided what I wanted for my birthday was a day at a spa. I have been to a few spas on recommendations in New York and visited a few vacation spas so I know what I am interested in and for me the first thing is ambience. The spa needs to have a certain relaxing feel. Next I usually evaluate packages, services and rates. This evening however, I am feeling rather stressed searching for a spa in New England. I know it seems silly to be feeling stressed when looking for a place to de-stress but I am. More than half of the spa web sites I visited did not have pictures of the actual facilities and the other half had maybe one or two images and then shots of people (most likely stock photography) enjoying spa services. I don’t have time to run around and visit each spa and see if it meets my needs so I tried to visit online with no luck. This made me wonder if company’s realize why people visit their web sites? Have they asked the important questions about the message their web site is sending?

Does your web site really express your message? A day spa’s message is to show potential customers how their location can help melt away stress. How can someone get a good sense of what that will feel like if they do not know what the spa looks like? As a customer I don’t want to arrive at a spa and be disappointed because I was hoping for one kind of environment and received another. That will cause me to be uncomfortable in a place where comfort is part of the experience. Your web site is part of the experience. It is a way to make a first impression. Each of the spas I found on my journey this evening were listed on Spafinder.com and I visited over 20 spas and only found 2 that gave me images of the actual spa itself. I had my credit card out ready to buy and each one lost the opportunity to close the sale because they missed the point of their web message.

When we work with our customers to design their web site, we don’t ask them to tell us about their company, we ask them to tell us about their clients. We ask them to give us reasons why clients chose to work with them over their competitors, and we build from there. This is just a starting point but an important one. If you’re driving traffic to your web site and no one is buying – maybe it is time to think about the message your sending. Show your potential and existing customers that your about their needs – not your own.

Do You Have Any Raving Fans?

2007-04-16T20:37:00.000-04:00

A few years ago a my client Legacy Builders told me to read this great book Raving Fans: A Revolutionary Approach To Customer Service
by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles and I did. What an ideal to strive for in business. It was a fantastic book and it became part of my business philosophy. If you are in business for yourself you should read this book. I have taken pride in being a small company being able to offer a level of service many larger company's have forgotten exist. I recognize this when I see that same service in other businesses. So today I am here to rave! I want to tell you about some actions that I have been a part of that need to be raved about, because the small business doesn't get enough rave. Please feel free to rave as well. Leave a comment about a small business you have been impressed with and why.

It is no secret we create and design web sites and many times we even pickup where other designers have left off. Recently a new client asked us to pickup the maintainance of their web site. While editing their site we found out that the designer they used purchased a third-party tool to create some dynamic navigation on the web site. So to make it easier on our selves we decided we would invest in the same tool called Web Menu Studio by Coalesys, Inc. We downloaded the application, made the change, and it did not work. We tried to find the problem and no luck. After readng the help files with no further clue we gave up and asked for help. I have to say I was amazed we received an email so quickly. Joe our contact has been trying to help, he even offered to look at the original project file. Talk about above and beyond - so Joe I say - "you rock" - we are now big fans, and we will check back to your web site for new applications that make our lives better.

Now it's your turn - tell us who has impressed you with their service. Rave about a small business that you love!

New Media - Is it Changing How We Market?

2007-03-27T00:04:00.000-04:00

On Thursday March 22nd I spoke to the Southern New England chapter of the American Marketing Association. The title of my talk was "Is New Media Changing the Way we Market?" A question that many of my business owners are struggling with everyday. This was my first opportunity to speak on this topic that I am so passionate about. I have been slowly acclimating my small businesses to really taking advantage of these tools, and having the opportunity to spread the word was an enjoyable occasion for me.

It is no surprise that I recommend new media tools, as I write this post on my blog. More and more people are learning what new media is all about. Every week I get at least 5 existing or new clients wondering if it is really worth looking into. During my presentation I covered many of the questions that clients ask. I supported my answers with some wonderful research found online from places like arbitron and eMarketer. If you attended the event, and would like a copy of the presentation in PDF format please click here. If you did not attend the event and would like information please contact me by clicking here. If you have any thoughts on New Media experiences, please leave a comment I am sure my readers would enjoy your point of view. As an added benefit here are some great websites and books I recommend to help you in your research into New Media.

Recommended Wesites & Books:
Book- Blog Marketing
Book- Podcasting: Do It Yourself Guide
Website - Seth Godin's Blog
Website - Ning
Website - eMarketer
Website- ClickZ

Is Office 2007 Worth Your Time?

2007-03-19T16:43:00.000-04:00

Have you been thinking about upgrading to Microsoft’s Office 2007?

With the release of both Windows Vista and Office 2007, you may be wondering if it is worth your time. Well the answer is – maybe it is? As The Technology Therapist, I would like to ask you to step back and ask yourself a few questions before you make the plunge.

Questions you want to ask yourself before you decide:

Is your existing computer capable to upgrade? Do you have enough space, ram and processing power?
What version of Microsoft Office are you running now? Are there new features in 2007 that would make you and your team more productive? You may want to take the time to do a side-by-side comparison.
Do you have money in your budget for training after you upgrade? 2007 is different and without an overview course you may find yourself wasting time looking for things that you use to find in the blink of an eye.

Office 2007 offers a completely new look, replacing the traditional menu and toolbars with a new feature called a ribbon. The ribbon is a cross between a toolbar and a menu offering more graphical representations of tools in the application. Office 2007 is laid out in a more logical manner for new users. However, for the existing users Office 2007 will take some time to get use to. As a power user of the office suite, I am disappointed to see that they removed some of my favorite tools from the ribbon, but do not fear you can add these tools to the quick access toolbar.

Each application boasts new features like an RSS Feeder in Outlook, and a new formula ribbon in Excel. Overall the biggest enhancement is that the new Office Suite provides some new graphics tools to help users create more eye catching documents and spreadsheets.

So is it worth the upgrade? Why not try it out for yourself and decide. Microsoft is actually offering a free trial download for 60 days. I’m happy to see they have finally started offering trials for free. This free trial will give you a true sense of what the application is capable of, and how it will run on your system. You can test all the applications and still leave your previous versions on, in case you decide it’s not for you. You can do this with every application except Outlook. To test Outlook you will need to remove the previous version.

And if you are wondering if I made the jump to 2007, the answer is yes, but only on one computer. Although I have to stay up to date, I am not ready to migrate my entire office just yet.

SCORE February Workshops

2007-02-25T20:57:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday February 20th and today Saturday February 24th I had the pleasure of speaking for SCORE-NYC. Tuesday’s seminar discussed web marketing and today’s seminar discussed building a web site. I decided to write an informal blog on these events to help connect the attendees, but also to remind other visitors about the importance of seeking out information.

Every time I give a seminar I am reminded how much information is out there. Every one is trying to gain as much knowledge as possible but my advice to those just starting a business or running a business is: understand that anything takes time and patience. It takes time to absorb and collect knowledge, and patience to eliminate frustration.

During both workshops we discussed issues that are not always covered in the handouts. Over the next few months I willl be using your questions as blog entries, and so I would like to thank you all. Please feel free to comment below and ask more questions, or submit them directly to me by clicking here. Also if you would like a copy of the handouts please click here and tell me which handouts you would like, and I will forward them on to you.

I would also like to thank anyone who attended for adding web sites and books to the discussion. Below are a few that I mentioned that may not have been on the notes. And again please add more by clicking the comment below. I have also added some new sites and books that I think you will all enjoy.

Web sites
W3c.org
Searchenginewatch.com
Websitesthatsuck.com
adwords.Google.com Intermedia.net
Hostsave.com now Gate.com

Books
Search Engine Optimization an Hour a Day
The Big Red Fez
Words that Sell
Blogging for Business

Internet Explorer vs. Firefox - The Ultimate Browser!

2007-01-25T16:58:00.000-05:00

Browsing on The Internet - we all do it. For many of us it is like driving on the local freeway; but what kind of car do you prefer to drive? Driving on the web prompts the same question; yet instead of a Honda or a Chevy, your choices are Internet Explorer or Firefox.

Yes, there are more choices than Microsoft and Mozilla, just as there are more car options than Honda and Chevy - but I think you understand where I am going with this discussion.

Which browser do you use, Firefox or IE? I asked a few different people and here is what they had to say:

“I choose Fire Fox because I like the tab browsing and the password save feature.”
  Tom – Mac User, Graphic Designer
“I choose Internet Explorer mostly out of habit.”
  Carly – PC User, Administrative Assistant

“I have both on my computer but use IE more often it seems to load faster.”
  Kim – PC User, Operations
"Our corporate standard is Internet Explorer because it works with all our applications, however, we here in the IT department prefer FireFox."
  Donna & Bruce - IT Department
“I love Firefox because when it crashes it restores the session I’m in.”
  Ramon Ray-Technology EvangelistSmallbiztechnology.com
"I understand the sexiness of Firefox's "speed". The Thunderbird email option is also easy enough to manage. What still compells me to trust Internet Explorer, is the fact that you are still forced to 'allow' something into your computer system, rather than simply not even having a door for any website you happen to visit. The web is a wonderful and scary place. I'm still working with IE as a preferred browser."

  Thomas Vesque - Vesque Partners Inc.

As you can see, the reviews are mixed, and everyone has a different opinion. Personally, I use them both. I use Internet Explorer for listening to my Satellite Radio because the plug-in is already installed; Firefox prompts me to install it. I use Firefox for certain sites because it saves my passwords. When we work on web pages for clients we test it in both IE and Firefox and sometimes we find what works for one browser, does not always work for the other. So be sure to look at your web site in more than one web browser.

Overall, you should use what you like and are comfortable with (not what others tell you to use), but be knowledgeable of the features for both to make an informed decision. Click here to see a comparison.

Let us know your opinion leave a comment – which do you prefer IE or Firefox?

Where Business & Pleasure Meet - The Gathering Place

2007-01-21T10:30:00.000-05:00

Where does business come from - networking, advertising or word-of-mouth?
Business comes from all three, but how about enjoying a cocktail, some luscious hors d'oeuvres and setting up tables on a Tuesday night for businesses to display their goods and services?

Alexander Achilleos and Jan Goldstoff have created a place where business meets pleasure at The Gathering Place. This monthly event focuses on a theme, inviting companies they endorse and work with to showcase their talents. On Tuesday, January 9th, along with nine other merchants, I was one of the selected vendors to have a table displaying cds, booklets, as well as our emarketing and web design services.

Throughout the evening there were over 100 people who came to the restaurant; enjoying the tasty morsels and walking the room to see what there was to buy. I purchased a few items myself helping to support my fellow exhibitors. It was inspiring listening to local business people discussing their hobbies, and their reasoning for attending this gathering, on a chilly January evening. This was not a typical networking or marketing event, it was a social event. I began to wonder, have we forgotten about the social side of business - going out to an event with no agenda and just seeing what comes our way? Are we relying too much on technology, Googling what we need instead of actually picking up the phone to ask a friend?

Social networking and Web 2.0 are all the rage, using the web to create communities… In creating this community online are we dismissing our actual community? The Gathering Place reminded me that people still want to meet people in real life – not just online. Now as the Technology Therapist I have not abandoned my passion for using technology to market and gain new business, but as in life, there needs to be a balance. Do you find balance in your business? Combining work and fun - it is possible and I am glad I was a part of this wonderful event.

Click here to see the list of exhibitors and details of the event.

Tell me your thoughts – click comments below to read or add a comment of your own.

Feedback = Success

2007-01-16T10:51:00.000-05:00

My husband, who I adore, knows me very well he is my best friend, but he can’t seem to pick out presents for me. Every year two-three weeks before Christmas I send him a list of things I like, tell him the right sizes and colors. I explain to him that I don’t want everything on the list he can choose what he likes. This is to give him some guidance so I am happy, and he feels relieved that he found something I will enjoy. I realized over time that without providing him with specific details of what I am looking for we did not always envision the same idea. Specific feedback and exact examples of my taste and preferences made gift giving more exciting for both of us. This annual ritual made me think about small businesses, and our relationships with the companies we hire to help us market and design ideas for our businesses.

When you work with a marketing company or design firm, print or web, you need to know what you’re looking for; your company’s goals and objectives. But it can not stop there you have to be part of the process, offering feedback to the people you work with explaining how you want things to work and what directed you toward those decisions. Every company has a personality and the market they want to focus on has characteristics, both items need to be fulfilled. It is my opinion that your web site should represent your company’s personality but it has to work for your audience. This same tactic is true for your marketing strategy.

Frequently, companies need to have multiple people involved in the design and marketing process and that is a wonderful idea. However, make sure you meet internally before you hire an outside firm. Discuss who will be the point person and make sure you’re all on the same page as far as look, feel and approach. Having too many opinions can spoil the process as well as increase the cost.

Successful web sites, logos and marketing campaigns come from company’s who are part of the process. Yes, you are hiring an expert and they will bring skills and ideas to the table but they can’t read your mind. You need to tell them what you like, what you don’t like and why. Listen when they offer guidance and be prepared to be part of the process.

My 2006 Christmas was very enjoyable. My husband picked out some great gifts and I was surprised by what he chose, but very happy because it was my taste and my size!

Share with us your thoughts and ideas about this blog – click comments