Saturday, September 16, 2006

Web Tools to Help Build Your Business

Here's an example of someone who made a false start with e-marketing, reported in "Help With Your Business, Often Free, on the Web" in The New York Times. Jennifer Gordon, a Chicago based handbag designer, attempted to promote her products through an e-mailed newsletter. However, she found that incorrect e-mail lists and outdated addresses led to undeliverable e-mail. Additionally, once a newsletter was sent out, she had no means of knowing if the document was ever opened.

But there are tools that can help you avoid the same pitfalls. Google Apps for Your Domain is a free group of web-based services. Small business owners can access tools to manage their website, as well as tools such as e-mail and instant messaging.

Numerous sites can also assist you with blogging. Ramon Ray, the publisher of smallbiztechnology.com, suggests that small business owners create blogs to increase Web rankings. Tools on blogger.com (owned by Google) and wordpress.com provide free assistance. Also, Typepad.com provides advanced blog features for $5/month. Another useful web tool allows numerous individuals to share and edit a document, kept on a company's server (Thinkoffice.org and zoho.com).

Build a stronger business by using powerful tools readily available on the web.

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