Live Connexus Blog

Is your Home or Business Network Secure? Follow these tips...

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 19:41:17 PDT

We normally don't think about Security until it is too late. How often do you change your passwords? Are you using a firewall? Is your wireless network protected? Too often we think this only happens to big corporations (which by the way spend huge amounts of cash in Security). The truth is that hackers are out there looking for opportunities, and if you leave an area unsecured, eventually they will hack your PC or network, and either do damage as joke, steal credit card or confidential information, use your e-mail system to send Spam or access illegal content. The next paragraphs will give you a few suggestions on things you can do now.

Passwords:
Researchers have found a way to crack alphanumeric passwords stored on Microsoft Windows computers in just 13 seconds, down from the previous average of 101 seconds. These days anyone can do it. So make sure you use upper case, lower case, special characters (i.e. $^#@*) and make it very long. Also, change them as often as you can (maximum every 3 months). I know it is a hassle, but this will discourage hackers from attempting to use you as a target and go to someone else.

Firewalls:
Most routers come with a built in firewall. This is the most basic type of firewall and can be cracked. But unless you want to spend some money, it should suffice. Just make sure it is enabled and it has the latest firmware.

Wireless Network Security
Enable at least one of the encrypted access to your network. All new wireless routers sold today have at least a couple ways. My recommendation is not to use WEP (old method) but to choose WPA with a long passphrase. New routers also have the option to disable the wireless radio at certain hours of the night or day. You can build a schedule disconnecting the WiFi from 12 midnight until 7 a.m. And if you are leaving for a long trip, disconnect it completely.

Other Recommendations:
Install an anti-virus and anti-spyware. I personally do not like Norton since I have seen it make PCs slow. My recommendation is to install Microsoft Security Essentials. Remember to uninstall other anti-virus first, even if they are demos.
Do not visit illegal sites like warez, porn or other questionable content sites. You heard it!! These sites are full of viruses and spyware that your anti-virus may not detect
Enable User Account Control if you have Windows Vista or Windows 7. You can find this tool by going to the Control Panel and then selecting "User Accounts". If you don't have these Windows versions, upgrade now to Windows 7!!
Install the latest patches on your Operating System. Very often companies like Microsoft will release security updates to close gaps discovered by hackers on how to control or access your PC. Make sure you enable the automatic updates.

These are my recommendations. If you haven't applied some of these, today is a good day to start. Good luck and stay secure (at least your network :).

HTML5 and the Impact to the Cloud

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 20:49:47 PDT

Have you heard about HTML5? HTML is a language for structuring and presenting content on the internet. So, you guessed it... it is the 5th revision to that language. Why should you care? Well, one of the key benefits is to allow a more sophisticated interface for the internet tools. Said what???$$#%#

In simple terms, do you like playing Farmville, Angry Birds, navigating menus in Gmail, dragging e-mails or content in some pages? Nice, that is the interface we have today for developers to create such fancy tools. HTML5 will improve the interface a lot. It is anticipated to enrich the webpages with movies, audio and graphical content, without having to resort to plugins and external applications.

Check this game made in HMTL5 (note: you need Internet Explorer 9): http://www.pirateslovedaisies.com/

I am excited and have been waiting to see what this will mean to the Cloud or the internet services such as Gmail, VoIP, videoconferencing, etc. (see my other post explaining what is Cloud Computing). For instance, Google is planning to enable offline support for Google Docs via HMTL5. That to me would boost acceptance for the Google Apps service getting more and more popular. Also, since this new language will allow programs to run from the internet browser (i.e. Internet Explorer, Chrome) rather than the Operating System (i.e. Windows), that means people will have the same tools available from any device regardless of the type. Speaking from a futuristic lense, a tablet or smartphone will catch-up with a PC.

Imagine watching a movie on the PC, but then you have to run some errands or go to another house. You could pick-up what you were watching from your smartphone or cable-box since they will all be connected and accessing the tools through the browser. For the business, I have already seen many applications moving to a browser interface. For instance the new versions of expense reports, purchasing and report tools, and asset tracking applications are changing from an installable software to a browser type at a very fast speed. It is already increasing efficiency, most particular when rebuilding a PC or recovering from an upgrade.

Furthermore, the cloud is reducing the need for high-end computing at the user level, and more on the server side. The need for powerful computing has leaned to the hosting servers that display the content, and reducing the need on PCs since the information or instructions are displayed from the browser. HTML5 is a new ground level to carry those instructions from the servers, and display or manipulate the data more elegantly on our side.

Very cool!!!

Update: Check what Pandora is planning to release on HTML5:
http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/pandora-radios-html5-redesign-hands-on/

2nd Update: Adobe Edge will enable Web designers to create content in HTML5, JavaScript

and CSS, instead of Flash. The new software will not replace Adobe Flash. Instead, it will

enable developers to create animated Web content on devices that do not run Flash like the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch.

Google Apps Script opens new ways to deliver workf...

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 09:13:30 PDT

Official Google Enterprise Blog: Google Apps Script opens new ways to deliver workf...: "Posted by John Gale, Solution Developer, Appogee Editors note: Guest author John Gale is a developer at Appogee , a Google focused system..."

500 reasons to switch to Google Apps

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:36:46 PDT

New and improved Google experience

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 11:07:01 PDT

You will see an updated look and feel rolling out across Google’s products. These interface changes will also be released to your Google Apps services, such as Gmail, Calendar, and Docs, over the next months. The goal is to give you a more seamless and consistent online experience -- one that works no matter which Google product you’re using or what device you’re using it on.

For now, some of these changes are available on an opt-in/opt-out basis. How can you enable the new interface?

From Google Apps e-mail, click on Options (top right button or link)
Select "Mail Settings".
Click on the "Themes" tab
Select the "Preview (Dense)" or "Preview" theme.

I have personally installed the new interface on Gmail and I like that it keeps the top bar menu frozen when you scroll up and down, and the menu options are simpler and easier to find. Go ahead and give it a try.

By the way, you can always revert the changes by going to your previous theme. Good luck.

Want a Faster PC?

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Sun, 01 May 2011 21:27:17 PDT

Easy tweaks in Windows

The quickest and simplest way to make your PC run faster is to run a few applications already installed by Microsoft. Go to Start - Programs - Accessories and run Disk Clean-up and Defrag. Disk Clean-up will remove temporary files clogging your RAM memory; the 2nd tool will make your Hard Drive read information faster. I also recommend installing anti-spyware programs like SpyBot to remove unwanted applications slowing down your internet connection and RAM memory.

Spending Money (not too much)

The best investment in hardware for a computer is by adding RAM memory and adding a more powerful videocard. Keep in mind that your PC requires specific types and configuration of memory and cards; check with your PC's manufacturer to find out which one your computer is compatible with. If you want to go a step further, move to an SSD drive; this is a recent technology development on hard disk drives that read and write information many times faster compared to regular ol' drives.

Change your Anti-virus

Chances are your current anti-virus is making your PC run slower. I have seen this especially with Norton. What do I recomend? Microsoft Security Essentials 2.0. It won't slow down your PC compared to other programs, and it has a high ranking on terms of effectiveness. Go to: http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/mse.aspx

Google Cloud Connect

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 21:03:29 PST

Google just released the Google Cloud Connect tool for Microsoft Office. What is it? Google Cloud Connect is a plug-in for Microsoft Office® 2003, 2007, and 2010 that lets you share and edit Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel documents simultaneously with other people in your organization. You get the collaboration benefits of Google Docs, while still using Microsoft Office.

This tool brings collaborative multi-person editing to the familiar Microsoft® Office experience. You can share, backup, and simultaneously edit Microsoft Word, PowerPoint®, and Excel® documents with coworkers.

How does it work?

Syncing and sharing documents: Google Cloud Connect tracks, manages, and syncs all changes on your Microsoft Office documents into one updated version for each document. Each document that you sync through Google Cloud Connect gets a unique URL or web address that you can share with collaborators through IM or email. Depending on the privacy setting you’ve selected for the document, other people will be able to click this link and view the document in the browser.
Collaborating simultaneously on documents: Google Cloud Connect for Microsoft Office lets you easily share documents with other people. When you add other people as editors to a document, they receive an email letting them know that you've shared a document with them. From there, they can open a link to view the document in the browser, or if they want to make edits, they can download the document and open it in Microsoft Office. When an editor makes changes to a document in Microsoft Office, all changes get synced and appear on your screen.
Revision history: Using Google Cloud Connect, you can edit a document online and offline. Every time you sync a document, the revisions of a document are stored so you can easily roll back to a previous version. You can go back to any prior revision of a document at any time.

E-mail me at info@liveconnexus.com or visit http://www.liveconnexus.com/officeapps.htm for more information on Google Apps and tools.

What is Cloud Printing?

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 21:39:07 PDT

Boy, it is hard to keep up with new technology. But don't worry, that's what this blog is all about. I want to keep you updated with the most important technology trends for businesses.

Ever heard of Cloud Printing? The word "Cloud" refers to an internet service; an outsourced service using a combination of web tools. In this case "Cloud Printing" refers to the ability to print from anywhere, to a printer that is connected to the internet. How is this useful? Up until now, Cloud Computing, or businesses with internet e-mail, file storage and other solutions still rely on a traditional network to print. Cloud Printing will eliminate the need to have a network just to be able to print.

Think about it, with an internet service you can store files, send or access e-mails and collaborate remotely, but you don't have the ability to share printing devices with other employees unless they are on the same network. Having a cloud printing feature definitely makes sense, particularly for small businesses.

And, who is or will be providing these services? To name a few, Google, HP and RIM are planning to deploy their own solutions. Google Cloud Print, still in development, is envisioning "cloud-aware" printers that users can share to other peers when using Google's cloud solutions. Google is working with printer manufacturers to bring cloud print capabilities to their devices.

HP on the other hand, is planning to introduce ePrint. It is targeted for consumers and Small Businesses. The low-end ePrint enabled printer is sold for $99 and the business-oriented Officejet Pro 8500 e-All-in-One will be on the market for $299.

Since businesses seem to be moving to the internet, it was somewhat obvious to expect printers to join the party. Want to know more about "this party"?:), post a question in this forum... we'll answer it soon.

Home Sweet Home Office - Entrepreneur.com

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:18:10 PDT

Home Sweet Home Office - Entrepreneur.com

Home Sweet Home Office

The first installment in Entrepreneur's three-part look at how technology and new ways of working are changing the form and function of the home office. Part One: finding the right tools to maximize efficiency and minimize pain

By Jonathan Blum | Entrepreneur Magazine - October 2010

Until recently, the evolution of the entrepreneurial work-at-home experience went something like this: First a small space--maybe just the kitchen table--would be carved out to chase a new opportunity. With luck and hard work, the business might grow significant enough to take over a dedicated space, like a spare bedroom, a corner of the basement or that room above the garage. Eventually, if the business really took off, it would outgrow the confines of the home office and move to a dedicated business space.

Today, though, technology and a growing awareness of the need for intelligent home office space have combined to change those dynamics. New ergonomic work tools transfer the benefits of dedicated work spaces to home environments. Advanced wireless networking brings full connectivity to any room. And a changing society has blurred the lines of where it is acceptable to do business.

Working from home took off in the 1990s, when laptops and mobile phones made telecommuting viable. Companies often looked to save on rent by giving workers a stipend to set up shop from home. Inexpensive modular pieces were shoehorned into cramped, ad-hoc home spaces with middling results: Hands ended up tilted at awkward positions, leading to repetitive stress injuries and a bum rap on working at home.

"There were a lot of lawsuits," says Mark Dutka, principal at InHouse Design Studio, a San Francisco-based home office design firm. "Plus it led to a perception that working from home was somehow generically less efficient--which really is not true."

The internet boom and bust, a surge in outsourcing by shrinking companies and a recent explosion of small businesses launched by downsized workers caught the attention of big furniture shops and tech firms. All that know-how translates to the availability of tools that can help make you more comfortable and productive in your home office while you work on making your business more profitable. Here's how:

Take care of yourself. Think ergonomics first. Choose a keyboard that tilts in and out and can be adjusted up and down as well as back and forth.Humanscale's 2G System ($419) is a solid pick. When you're typing, make sure your hands tilt downward to ease the strain on your long manual tendons. And for tasks like web surfing andresearch, noodle the keyboard around until it feels comfortable. (Surprisingly, experts say desk height doesn't really matter; the keyboard is what should adjust to your needs.) Your chair should be all about flexibility and support. A good entry-level model like theHerman Miller Celle Chair ($449) should move up and down, swivel right and left. It should have well-placed, adjustable armrests; and don't forget your head--your neck and lower back are all part of a (potentially painful) piece.

Every (small) thing in its place. Most office furniture is too big for homes. Look for a smaller, L-shaped desk instead of the traditional square. Then put the monitor directly in front of you at eye level and everything else--computers, peripherals, etc.--off to your right or left. Also, avoid sitting directly in front of a window. Yes, the view is nice, but the contrasting light confuses your retina, which can give you a royal headache. You can't make money that way.

Light it up. Task lights are great in the kitchen or for reading, but these direct, down-facing lights should be banished from the home office. They create glare on the screen, which can tire your eyes. Instead, bounce light off the ceiling or wall and give your work a cool bath of indirect illumination. For best results, choose a light you can point and spin depending on the time of day. Check out the personal desk lights with efficient LED bulbs from Group Dekko.

Get moving. Don't make things too accessible. Without that water cooler chat to pull you way from your desk, you will need to build in excuses to stop typing and move around. Use a next-generation wireless technology like the Netgear N300 Wireless dual band router ($99) to put the printer in another room. And then jack in a high-quality, cordless headset like Plantronics T20 ($80) that lets you make calls from the couch or the deck--or better yet, the exercise bike.

The bottom line: A home office can be not only as efficient, but potentially even more efficient than a dedicated out-of-home space. Never mind the zero spent on commuting or the savings on dry cleaning, there are real tax advantages as well. Done right, your home office can make money for you, even when you don't.

Productivity bonus: If you have a good chair and keyboard, a perfectly functioning fold-down work space can be attached to something as simple as the back of a solid core door. You may not need a dedicated office at all.

What's next: In subsequent issues, we'll highlight home office solutions for popular work-from-home jobs and crack the elusive code of how to meet with clients when your office is in your house.

Videoconferencing Tools - Meet using your iPhone

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:05:12 PDT

I started testing videoconferencing solutions since 1998. In those days, a company called CuSeeMe offered free video chat rooms for people who had web cams (not too many in those days). The internet was slow and therefore the conversations were choppy at best.

Videoconferencing has expanded to many devices and has added a lot of features due to the internet speed access we get at home or work. From the simple webcam sharing tools like Live Messenger from Microsoft, to very expensive Cisco high-definition devices that make you feel like you are watching a person through a glass window.

After testing more than 14 solutions, I prefer Adobe Connect Pro. It is stable, no software to install and comes with additional features like screen sharing, remote control, recording, chat and file sharing... all this without worrying about firewalls or complex configurations.

One of the features I was waiting for is the iPhone app. With it, you can join a meeting, see the other participants, chat and watch their screen. The potential is very high when traveling internationally, having to meet while on the road (airport, taxi, coffee house, etc.) or when pulling out your laptop is not an option.

If you want more information on how to access a meeting (step by step), go to this URL.

Enjoy :)

An Incredible Future - Coming Soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 11:41:03 PDT

I am always fascinated to learn about the latest gadgets and technology solutions, and when they are available for home and business. However, I am even more interested to see what will be available over the next 2, 5 or 10 years.

Here is a video that I found on YouTube that may impress you:

There are also amazing features that will be introduced like Google TV. This concept will integrate your cable or satellite TV service with the internet, and link other devices like your phone and computer. Apple TV implemented a similar concept, but is no where near the integration that Google is applying in this case. Check this video here:

Another couple of devices I was impressed with earlier this year, were related to the concept of a flexible and light screen that could be used as a Pad. Imagine having this device on your kitchen or breakfast table replacing your newspaper. Yes, I know, a regular Pad does that today, but they are heavy and cannot bend (at least not more than once :) ). Check the links here: Flexible Newspaper and Flexible Pad.

The future is definitely using the internet to help integrate what we do with where we are, however, much of the challenge is resolving compatibility or enabling devices like your phone, your alarm system, your kitchen, air conditioner, etc., be linked through the internet. Much of that is being solved with open code applications, operating systems, and companies allowing their technology to talk to other companies' technology.

I am excited to see what else is coming, so keep an eye on it. A cool "Star Trek" feature might be closer than you think.

What is Cloud Computing?

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 15:52:43 PDT

You probably have heard the this term many times, and more often now than ever. But what does it mean? In a few simple words, Cloud Computing is a service provided through the internet. It provides people access to web-based tools or applications through a web browser as if it was a program installed locally on their own computer. This is not only a new way of delivering services remotely, but also a new way for businesses to manage their IT infrastructure. In general, cloud computing users do not need to invest on a large physical infrastructure, because they are renting the usage from another company… pretty much outsourcing a portion of your IT department.

Many of us have a Hotmail, Yahoo or Gmail account; these are perfect examples of cloud computing because we don’t have local software or a server at home delivering the e-mail service. We just open a browser, go to a link, and access our information. But this is just the tip of the iceberg of what is currently available. Nowadays, services like Google Apps, Salesforce or Adobe Connect Pro, provide document storage, real-time collaboration, training, project tracking, etc., all of that with just a browser and an internet connection.

How can a Business Take Advantage of Cloud Computing? In most cases, Cloud Computing costs less than traditional in-house computing tools, have lower infrastructure requirements, need less support, and provide more flexibility and efficiency. For this reason, many small businesses are leaning on Cloud Computing. A small company will probably not have the resources large corporations have, yet they require much of the functionality. Think of telephony solutions, videoconferencing, anti-virus or anti-spam protection, e-mail administration… all of these needed regardless of the number of employees. Another reason companies use Cloud Computing is for data recovery; solutions like Google Docs allow users to store a large number of files, access them from anywhere, and reduce the time spent on recovery when a PC is lost or a HDD crashes. This certainly is a benefit for a business, regardless of the size or number of employees. Nowadays, the cost of losing a PC (i.e. stolen on an airport) has a greater impact due to the information in it, than the cost of replacing the hardware.

Cloud Computing is also lighter on terms of microprocessor and RAM requirements. This means a company can take longer to upgrade the laptop and desktops, which in turn save money. With the data and applications accessed through the web, employees can reduce their down-time when swapping a PC after a hardware failure.

Is it Always Better than Traditional IT Solutions? Not always. Some businesses have decided not to adopt this technology because they cannot directly control the system’s stability, the schedule to upgrade features, and are highly dependent on the provider instead. Also, using a cloud computing environment generally requires you to send data over the Internet and store it on a third-party system, which makes some people nervous about their privacy and how the data security is managed by the third-party provider.

My advice: before you sign any contract or transfer any of your e-mail or documents, review the Service Level Agreement and all of the fine print about up-time guarantees, data privacy and security measures. Also, go with a well-known and reputable brand… it just makes sense on any supplier selection.

Conclusion: Cloud Computing is a great tool that adds flexibility and reduces cost. It is a trend many companies are taking, particularly for the small and medium businesses. If you are thinking about integrating it to your technology infrastructure, get input from your employees so you can estimate how they will react with the change, set a goal (i.e. efficiency, cost, functionality, etc.), and implement a pilot with a small number of employees with good computing skills. It is a significant change in the workplace that will bring many advantages, but as with any major change, you have to be prepared and anticipate.

Top 10 Recommendations When Creating a Web Site

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 20:19:02 PDT

Currently, a business needs more than just a web site to attract potential buyers or get viewers. Today, sites are very competitive, and an adequate design is an area of concern to companies that want to use the Web to their advantage.

These are 10 suggestions we give to companies designing or redesigning a Web site:

1. Meaningful domain name: Pick a domain name that is easy to remember, short and related to your company. If your company name is not available, try adding a word at the beginning or end (i.e. mynameinc.com, mynameshop.com, mynamecorp.com).

2. Functional design: When you build your web site, consider how you want your viewers to navigate. Do they know what each menu will contain? Is it easy to find stuff or buy your product? Are you menus consistent? Is your company name clearly displayed?

3. Simple and fast: Keep in mind not everyone has a superfast internet connection. Heavy videos, flash animation or pictures can slow down the access. Although aesthetics are important, a busy site will push people away.

4. Keep it fresh: Viewers are always looking for new content. Nowadays there are tools available to edit your site without buying design software. When building your web site, look for a CMS solution or ways to link it to an RSS or blog feed.

5. Make sure all the links work: You'll lose viewers if they start seeing error messages on your links. For large sites, you may want to put a feedback form so viewers can let you know when they see an issue.

6. Your contact info: It is very common to have a “Contact Us” page, so your viewers can send you an e-mail or call you. Do everything in your power to reply in a timely fashion or use an auto-reply.

7. Track statistics: There are several tools (free or by subscription) that can tell you tons of information about your visitors. Keeping track of these statistics (i.e. location, internet speed, bouncers, new visitors, etc.) will tell you how to drive your marketing, design for the common visitor, or identify weak spots.

8. Good quality hosting: Yes, cheap is attractive but it may not be the best solution. Make sure your hosting service provider is reliable, provides security and has a good tech support infrastructure. A good host service will provide you 24/7 tech support and a service level agreement.

9. Use spiders: Work with a Search Engine Optimizer expert so that your website ranks high on search engines. The higher you rank, the most likely people will find your website when typing the key words or meta tags you have assigned.

10. Hire a Professional: The whole design and optimization is complex. To be visible and successful in the search engine listings, you need to hire a professional, especially if your business relies heavily on generating business from the Web.

The Basic Concepts of a Web Site

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:42:14 PDT

In this era, it is very difficult for a business to survive without a Web site. It doesn’t matter if you are not selling through a web shopping cart; the internet enables your company to provide information, services, reach people worldwide, and communicate your business value. However, one error people make is using the Web site as an internet brochure. Doing so ignores the opportunity that the Web can give your company to connect… a connection lead to influence and sales.

To start a Web site, you need a domain name (i.e. mycompany.com) and a host (a place to store your content). To select a domain, you first need to find one that identifies with your company name and service. Many one-word names (nouns, adjectives, etc.) are already taken, so if your company or product name is already taken, try combining it with other words such as: mycompanyinc.com, mycompanyonline.com, etc. Once you decide on the name, register it so you can use it and prevent others from taking.

In regards to the Hosting Service, it is a key decision because it will constrain or empower your Web site by the capabilities of your host. The main function of a hosting service is to store your Web site's files (that is, its pages, documents, images, and so on) and serve them on request. When you open any Web site, you're effectively sending a request to a server to display the Web site's content.

Constructing A Site

Before working on the content of your Web site, you must do a comprehensive research to discover what it needs to be, how your customer will use it, how it ties to your marketing strategy, and how much time and resources you can afford to spend. In other words, don’t rush just to get something up. When the goals and objectives for the site are clearly defined, it makes the design and deployment steps smoother and more successful, and saves you money on the long run.

Once you have your strategy defined and research completed, the next step is to design the content. This includes the layout, images, contact information, videos, text, and anything else you want on your site, such as links, forms, and interactive features.

If building a Web site from scratch sounds intimidating, that’s because it is complex and must be done carefully. At the basic level, a Web site requires good, attractive design that communicates your company’s mission, purpose, and style. It requires well-planned navigation and must be updatable. Web sites are written in HTML and frequently include additional coding for enhanced features such as Flash, JavaScript, and other languages.

Defining a budget is very important because it will determine what type of Web site you can build. At an entry level, you could look for pre-made site templates and use simple drag-and-drop tools, obviating the need to know much about programming. These options are usually less expensive, quick to implement and easy to update. On the negative side, it is more rigid when it comes to design and functionality, and may not have the professional appearance other Web sites (such as your competitor) may have.

The 2nd option is hiring a Web designer to build your site. This is usually more expensive and requires time for meetings to review the client’s concept, the website purpose, functionality, etc. However, the web designer can build a unique Web site that represents your business’ style… fitting your marketing goal and attracting potential customers.

How to Attract Viewers to your Website

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:41:01 PDT

OK, so you have nice website with all the bells, whistles and functionality required to run yourbusiness. What now? It will be a waste of money and time if no one is looking at it… right? You should start focusing your attention on how to increase the visibility. There are 3 segments that require different approaches:

· Search Engine Optimization or SEO: in other words, ensure search engines like Google can find your Web site. The SEO must have a strategy and focus on ranking your Web site high when certain keywords are queried. By including the right combination of keywords and phrases on your site, potential customers will quickly find your products and services when researching their options. It is critical to spend time on this, because people don’t use standard vocabulary for the same product or service. Research which terms are most commonly used by your audience and your competitors, then, include a broad range of those terms and phrases in the content you produce for your site.

· Social networking: leveraging on sites like Twitter or Facebook to expand your marketing reach and easily refresh your communication strategy. Create a Facebook group dedicated to your business and invite your current “Friends” to join. This is a great to get the word out about what you do and what value add your business provides. Describe your services, add pictures, videos and tips. If you keep your content fresh and relevant to your business, you’ll attract potential clients.

· Online advertising: tools such as Google AdWords enable you to design advertisements and campaigns, while targeting specific locations. It also allows you to define your budget and how much to pay for displaying each add (the more you pay, the higher the chance it will be displayed on the first page of the search engine results). Combined with Google Analytics, it gives you great visibility of how are your campaigns working, what pages are being visited more often, and how many new clients are visiting your site (as opposed to previous viewers or bouncers).

All of these efforts will help you boost site traffic and sales leads. The greatest advantage is the low cost in comparison to other marketing solutions, and the ability to track the results real-time.

Key Participants when Designing a Web Site

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:39:17 PDT

Consider the following list of stakeholders or participants, and disciplines required to develop and promote a website in today’s business environment:

Web Design / Development:

· Graphic Designers to build a visually engaging website.

· Code Programmers to link the design with the site features.

· Editors that review the site to guarantee site visitors are able to complete tasks intuitively.

Content Developers:

· Writers and copywriters to develop content.

· Photographers and graphic designers to create appealing visual content.

· Audio and video content developers due to the increasing popularity of podcasts and online videos.

Website Marketing:

· Search Engine Optimization professionals to improve the website’s visibility in search results.

· Search Engine Marketers to implement / manage online advertising.

· Social Media Professionals to leverage the power of social networks and community sites.

Key Components of a Web Site Plan

noreply@blogger.com (Live Connexus) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:33:10 PDT

Designing a website should not be treated like a digital brochure. A company that decides to create or redesign their web site needs a formal approach for the development and the promotional aspects. It is no different than any other business plan; it needs a clear understanding of the business’ objectives, a budget and project management skills.

Objectives: many people start their website idea by how they want it to look like. You must first think of what part of your overall marketing strategy is it going to fulfill. For example, how are you going to attract customers using the web? What kind of feedback mechanism are you going to allow (forms, e-mail link, blog posts)? Are you going to change the information frequently, will you place ads from other sites or external products, etc.? It is also good idea to establish a short-term and long-term development plan.
Effective Project Management: The first task the project manager is to complete is the identification of the key team members. Team members must identify the strategies they plan on implementing within their areas of expertise, communicate their plans and outline their future requirements. The Project Manager should also identify the elements that will support promotional efforts, visibility over search engines, and fulfill the business’ and website visitors’ needs. This may appear to be common sense, but it is not the common route. Skipping these steps often create the need to change the content and layout of the website after it is completed — a waste of time and resources.
Budget: Time is money and it couldn’t be more obvious than when you are paying a developer to design or create software code. So once you have established the objective of the website, the key players, and plans to get there, you must determine the amount of resources and cash available. You don’t have to create a web site with all the “bells and whistles” from the very beginning. Focus on creating a functional web site with the correct navigation first, and thendedicate resources for fancy details. This may turn into a Phase A (simple, functional) and Phase B (Plan A plus the “bells and whistles”).

I hope this all makes sense. It is not good when a company realizes that their website is not supporting their business after money and resources have been spent. This usually creates the situation where Managers become resistant to spending additional resources on the web, and the company never takes advantage of this awesome tool.