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| The following is a list of factors that IBM
has determined positively influence
Web sites.
According to industry experts, by the
end
of 1999, one in eight small businesses
will
have a Web site. But, what makes a
Web site
successful? The following are tips
IBM has
found to be common on successful Web
sites.
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1) Update your site regularly to keep customers
coming back. This includes adding new
products, offering new promotions and
updating
graphics and pictures.
2) Keep it simple and easy to navigate.
Your
initial Web site should be no more
than five
to
seven pages. The more complicated it
is,
the harder it will be for consumers
to find
the
information they want.
3) Allow customers to ask questions
and obtain
additional information. Provide an
800 number
and e-mail address. Customers greatly appreciate
a prompt response within 24 hours.
4) Provide links to other sites that
may
offer additional information. Your
Web site
is a tool
to better serve your customers. If
they find
the information they need the first
time,
they
are likely to come back.
5) Don't go overboard on graphics.
Potential
visitors might not stick around long
enough
to
let your site load on their computer.
If
your business calls for a graphics-intensive
site,
give consumers the option of loading
a "light"
site.
6) Provide as much customer service
as possible.
The key is to make your Web site convenient.
Save customers time by including FAQs
or
frequently asked questions and product
information.
This will help consumers get answers
to their
questions quickly.
7) Invite customers to give feedback
on your
site and/or products by way of e-mail
or
surveys.
This will keep you in touch with your
customers
as well as help you continue to improve
your
site.
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