Q2C Sales Process Step-by-Step Success Manual

Q2C sales process, or quote-to-cash, is a term used in the business world to describe the process of generating a sales quote and turning it into a completed transaction.

The Q2C sales process encompasses a wide range of activities, from customer engagement and product configuration to pricing and invoicing. It is a critical process for any company that sells products or services, as it ensures that customers receive accurate quotes and orders are processed correctly.

The Q2C process typically begins with a request for a quote from a customer.

This request could come in the form of an email, phone call, or even an online request through a company’s website. Once the request is received, a sales representative will engage with the customer to gather more information about their needs and preferences. This includes understanding the customer’s budget, timeline, and any specific product or service requirements.

Once the sales representative has a complete understanding of the customer’s needs, they can begin the configuration process. This involves selecting the appropriate product or service offerings and customizing them to meet the customer’s specific requirements. This step requires a deep understanding of the company’s product catalog and the ability to configure products in a way that meets the customer’s needs while also being profitable for the company.

Once the products and services have been configured, the next step in the Q2C process is pricing. The sales representative will work with the customer to establish a price that is fair and competitive, while also ensuring that the company can make a profit on the sale. This step can be complex, as it involves considering a wide range of factors, including product costs, labor costs, and market conditions.

Once the pricing has been established, the sales representative can generate a quote for the customer. This quote will typically include a detailed breakdown of the products and services being offered, the pricing for each item, and any applicable taxes or fees. The quote will also include terms and conditions, such as payment terms, delivery times, and any warranties or guarantees.

If the customer accepts the quote, the next step in the Q2C sales process is order management. This involves creating an order in the company’s system, verifying that the order is accurate, and ensuring that the customer has provided all necessary information, such as shipping address and payment details. Once the order has been verified, it can be sent to the fulfillment team for processing.

Fulfillment involves picking, packing, and shipping the products to the customer. This step requires coordination between the sales team, the warehouse team, and the shipping carrier to ensure that the products are delivered on time and in good condition.

The final step in the Q2C sales process..

is invoicing and payment. Once the products have been delivered, the finance team will generate an invoice for the customer, which will include the price of the products, any applicable taxes or fees, and any discounts or credits. The customer will then be responsible for paying the invoice, either through a payment portal or by sending a check to the company.

In summary, the Q2C sales process is a critical component of any company that sells products or services. It involves a wide range of activities, from customer engagement and product configuration to pricing and invoicing. The Q2C process ensures that customers receive accurate quotes and that orders are processed correctly, which ultimately leads to a better customer experience and increased revenue for the company.

To optimize the Q2C process, many companies use specialized software that can automate many of the steps involved. This can reduce errors, increase efficiency, and free up sales representatives to focus on customer engagement and relationship building. By leveraging technology and best practices, companies can streamline their Q2C process and improve their bottom line.

The Quote-to-Cash (QTC) process is a crucial aspect of any business that involves selling goods or services. It encompasses all the steps involved in a sale, from the initial quote to the final payment. In this article, we will explore the QTC process in detail and provide a step-by-step guide on how to implement it effectively.

Step 1: Quoting The first step in the Q2C sales process is quoting. This is where a seller provides a prospective buyer with a quote or proposal for the goods or services they are interested in purchasing. The quote should include all the relevant details such as the product or service being offered, the price, and any additional terms or conditions that apply.

To create a quote, a seller can use various tools such as quoting software or templates. They should ensure that the quote accurately reflects the terms of the sale, and all the details are clearly communicated to the buyer.

Step 2: Negotiation After the quote has been provided, the buyer may want to negotiate the terms. This step involves a back-and-forth between the seller and the buyer to reach an agreement that satisfies both parties.

During the negotiation phase, it is important to maintain open communication and be willing to compromise where necessary. The goal is to arrive at a mutually beneficial agreement that satisfies both the buyer and the seller.

Step 3: Order Management Once the terms of the sale have been agreed upon, the seller needs to create an order. This involves recording the details of the sale, including the product or service being sold, the price, any discounts or promotions, and the payment terms.

The order management process is critical to the Q2C process, as it ensures that all the details of the sale are accurately recorded and communicated to the relevant stakeholders.

Step 4: Fulfillment After the order has been created, the seller needs to fulfill it. This involves ensuring that the product or service is delivered to the buyer on time and in accordance with the agreed-upon terms.

During the fulfillment process, the seller should keep the buyer informed of the progress and provide any necessary updates or information. They should also ensure that the product or service is of high quality and meets the buyer’s expectations.

Step 5: Invoicing Once the product or service has been delivered, the seller needs to issue an invoice. This should include all the details of the sale, including the product or service being sold, the price, any discounts or promotions, and the payment terms.

The invoice should be clear and concise, and any relevant payment instructions should be included. It is important to ensure that the invoice is accurate and free from errors, as this can lead to delays in payment and potentially damage the relationship between the buyer and the seller.

Step 6: Payment The final step in the Q2C sales process is payment. This involves the buyer making payment for the product or service that they have purchased.

The payment process should be smooth and straightforward, with clear instructions provided to the buyer on how to make payment. It is important to ensure that all payment details are accurate, and any issues or errors are addressed promptly.

Best Practices for the Q2C Sales Process To ensure that the QTC process runs smoothly and effectively, there are several best practices that businesses should follow:

  1. Use a Q2C platform: Investing in a Q2C sales platform can help streamline the process and make it more efficient. These platforms automate many of the steps involved in the QTC process, reducing the risk of errors and delays.
  2. Maintain accurate records: Keeping accurate records of all sales, quotes, and orders is critical to the QTC process. This helps ensure that all stakeholders are informed and can quickly access the information they need.
  3. Communicate effectively: Effective communication is key to the Q2C sales process.

Q2C sales process

What is the QTC process in SAP?

Quote-to-cash Q2C software is an essential tool for businesses looking to streamline their sales process. Q2C software automates the entire sales cycle, from generating quotes to collecting payment, saving businesses time and money. With the rise of online sales, the demand for Q2C software has grown significantly, and many companies now offer their own solutions. In this article, we will suggest some of the best Q2C software available online.

  1. Salesforce CPQ  is a Q2C software that automates the quote-to-cash process for businesses. It allows companies to generate quotes quickly and accurately, and includes features such as pricing and discount management, product configuration, and contract management. With Salesforce CPQ, businesses can reduce errors and shorten their sales cycle, resulting in increased revenue and customer satisfaction.
  2. Zuora a is a cloud-based Q2C software that is designed for subscription-based businesses. It includes features such as subscription management, billing, revenue recognition, and financial reporting. With Zuora, businesses can manage their entire subscription lifecycle, from creating quotes to processing payments and renewals.
  3. Apttus  is a Q2C software that is built on the Salesforce platform. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, contract management, and e-signature. Apttus also integrates with other Salesforce products, such as Sales Cloud and Service Cloud, making it a great choice for businesses that use Salesforce as their CRM.
  4. Oracle CPQ Cloud  is a Q2C software that is designed for businesses of all sizes. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, contract management, and workflow automation. Oracle CPQ Cloud also integrates with other Oracle products, such as ERP and CRM, making it a great choice for businesses that use Oracle technology.
  5. SAP CPQ is a Q2C software that is designed for businesses that use SAP technology. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, contract management, and e-commerce integration. SAP CPQ also integrates with other SAP products, such as SAP CRM and SAP ERP, making it a great choice for businesses that use SAP technology.
  6. Cincom CPQ is a Q2C software that is designed for businesses in the manufacturing industry. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, and contract management. Cincom CPQ also includes advanced analytics and reporting tools, making it a great choice for businesses that need to track sales data.
  7. ConnectWise Sell is a Q2C software that is designed for IT service providers. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, and e-signature. ConnectWise Sell also includes a customer portal, allowing customers to view their quotes and contracts online.
  8. Experlogix CPQ is a Q2C software that is designed for businesses that use Microsoft Dynamics. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, and contract management. Experlogix CPQ also includes advanced workflow automation tools, making it a great choice for businesses that need to automate complex sales processes.
  9. Infor CPQ  is a Q2C software that is designed for businesses of all sizes. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, and contract management. Infor CPQ also includes a customer portal, allowing customers to view their quotes and contracts online.
  10. KBMax  is a Q2C software that is designed for businesses in the manufacturing industry. It includes features such as product configuration, pricing and quoting, and 3D visualization and engineering automation.

In this training manual, we will discuss the key steps involved in the Q2C sales process, and provide detailed instructions on how to implement the process effectively.

Step 1: Generating a Quote

The first step in the Q2C process is generating a quote for a customer. This involves identifying the products or services that the customer is interested in, and providing them with a price quote. To generate a quote, you will need to follow these steps:

1.1. Identify the Products/Services Required: The first step in generating a quote is identifying the products or services that the customer requires. This may involve reviewing the customer’s requirements, or discussing their needs with them directly.

1.2. Determine Pricing: Once you have identified the products/services required, you will need to determine the pricing. This may involve consulting price lists, negotiating with suppliers, or calculating the costs of materials and labor required to produce the products or services.

1.3. Create a Quote: Once you have determined the pricing, you can create a quote. This should include the products/services required, the pricing, and any other relevant information, such as delivery times or special requirements.

Step 2: Processing the Order

Once the customer has accepted the quote, you will need to process the order. This involves creating a sales order, allocating the products/services required, and preparing them for delivery. To process an order, you will need to follow these steps:

2.1. Create a Sales Order: The first step in processing an order is creating a sales order. This should include the products/services required, the pricing, and any other relevant information, such as delivery times or special requirements.

2.2. Allocate Products/Services: Once you have created a sales order, you will need to allocate the products/services required. This may involve checking inventory levels, scheduling production runs, or ordering materials from suppliers.

2.3. Prepare for Delivery: Once you have allocated the products/services required, you will need to prepare them for delivery. This may involve packaging the products, preparing shipping labels, or arranging for transport.

Step 3: Shipping the Products

Once the products/services have been prepared for delivery, they will need to be shipped to the customer. This involves arranging for transportation, tracking the shipment, and ensuring that it is delivered on time. To ship the products, you will need to follow these steps:

3.1. Arrange for Transportation: The first step in shipping the products is arranging for transportation. This may involve booking a courier, arranging for a pickup, or scheduling a delivery.

3.2. Track the Shipment: Once the products have been shipped, you will need to track the shipment. This may involve using a tracking number provided by the courier, or contacting the customer to confirm that the products have been received.

3.3. Ensure On-Time Delivery: Finally, you will need to ensure that the products are delivered on time. This may involve coordinating with the courier, following up with the customer, or resolving any delivery issues that may arise.

Step 4: Invoicing the Customer

Once the products/services have been delivered, you will need to invoice the customer. This involves creating an invoice, calculating any taxes or discounts, and ensuring that the invoice is sent to the customer in a timely manner. To invoice the customer, you will need to follow these steps:

4.1. Create an Invoice: The first step in invoicing the customer is creating an invoice. This should include the products/services delivered, the pricing, any taxes or discounts, and any other relevant information, such as payment terms and due dates.

4.2. Calculate Taxes and Discounts: Once you have created the invoice, you will need to calculate any taxes or discounts that apply. This may involve applying sales tax, deducting any discounts or promotions, or adjusting the pricing based on payment terms.

4.3. Send the Invoice: Finally, you will need to send the invoice to the customer. This may involve emailing it directly, mailing a physical copy, or submitting it through an online portal. It is important to ensure that the invoice is sent promptly, and that the customer is provided with all the necessary information to make payment.

Step 5: Collecting Payment

The final step in the Q2C process is collecting payment from the customer. This involves following up with the customer to ensure that the invoice has been received, tracking payment progress, and ensuring that the payment is made on time. To collect payment, you will need to follow these steps:

5.1. Follow Up with the Customer: The first step in collecting payment is following up with the customer to ensure that the invoice has been received. This may involve sending a reminder email, calling the customer directly, or using an online portal to track payment status.

5.2. Track Payment Progress: Once the invoice has been sent, you will need to track payment progress to ensure that the payment is made on time. This may involve monitoring payment due dates, tracking payment status through an online portal, or following up with the customer to request payment.

5.3. Ensure Payment is Made: Finally, you will need to ensure that payment is made on time. This may involve coordinating with the customer to establish payment terms, offering payment options such as credit card or ACH payments, or using collections services if necessary.

Best Practices for Effective Q2C Processes

To implement an effective Q2C sales process, it is important to follow some best practices that will help ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently. Some best practices to consider include:

  1. Automate Processes: Automating key processes, such as invoice creation, shipping label printing, or payment tracking, can help reduce errors, save time, and improve efficiency.
  2. Establish Clear Communication Channels: Ensuring that communication channels are clear and well-established between all stakeholders, including sales, shipping, invoicing, and collections teams, can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal.
  3. Regularly Review and Update Processes: Regularly reviewing and updating Q2C processes can help identify areas for improvement, streamline processes, and ensure that the process is up-to-date with current market conditions and customer requirements.
  4. Invest in Technology: Investing in technology such as CRM systems, inventory management tools, and online payment portals can help improve the accuracy and speed of the Q2C sales process, reduce errors, and improve customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

In summary, the Q2C sales process is an essential part of any business that sells products or services. By following the key steps involved in generating a quote, processing the order, shipping the products, invoicing the customer, and collecting payment, businesses can ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently. By implementing best practices such as automating processes, establishing clear communication channels, regularly reviewing and updating processes, and investing in technology, businesses can further improve the Q2C sales process and enhance customer satisfaction.

10 Best Practices for Computer Cleaning – Daily Maintenance

Computer Cleaning Service

Computer cleaning is a professional service, the deep cleaning procedure involves removal of dirt, dust, and germs from its parts and components.

 

Best Practices for Computer Cleaning

  • When you are not using a computer machine, it should always be covered with a computer dust cover to protect it from the buildup of dust and debris.
  • Never switch on the computer when the dust cover is around it.
  • When using a computer, try to stay away from food/drinks and never touch the computer with messy or contaminated fingers.
  • Daily surface cleaning must be done on your computer, especially the keyboard, mouse and monitor screen since they accumulate the highest number of germs and bacteria.
  • Clean your computer when you start and complete your work, as this will help to avoid excessive dust accumulation.
  • Use a keyboard cover protector to help protects the keyboard from dust and debris while still allowing you to type.
  • When your computer is switched on, make sure that no object is too close to the fan vents so that you allow for cool air circulation.
  • Schedule a deep clean once a month that covers all parts of the computer such as the keyboard, monitor/screen, mouse, fan, and tower vents.
  • Last but not least, for internal cleaning, consider hiring a professional service to avoid damaging the computer or machine and in turn voiding the warranty you may have on it.
  • As a rough guide, give your computer a clean every 3 to 6 months. Computers kept on the floor will need to be cleaned more often, as this low placement allows dust and dirt to creep in more easily. Our advice is to clean your computer now, then again in about 3-4 months.

 

Essentials of Computer Cleaning

The best computer cleaning practices ensure quality results while mainly focusing on safety of the workers and the office as a whole. Dust in your CPU can prevent your processors from effectively cooling and prevent excessive heat from staying trapped inside your PC. This, in turn, can affect the speed at which your computer performs.

Dust collects not due to static, but due to the computer fans drawing in air. The only way to avoid this, is to buy a computer that doesn’t need fans (passive cooling). For now: don’t place your computer on the floor. If you want to place it under your desk, put it on a shelf or plinth.

Use an anti-static cloth to lightly dust your computer casing. Do not use furniture cleaners or strong solvents. Use a can of compressed air to blow out debris from the air intake slots. Ammonia diluted with water—or glass cleaner comprised mostly of ammonia and water—is a safe cleaning solution for computer surfaces. The good news is that you can clean your computer without having to take the PC apart. Simply opening the case should provide all the access you need.

The most important factor is to adhere to the approved cleaning standards and procedures.

Professional computer cleaning training is an essential element of the process. Otherwise, nothing will help.

Similarly, eco-friendly computer cleaning products and anti-static computer cleaning tools are essential for safety.

While it may be true that customer comes first, it is far more effective when you put yourself in their shoes.

Cleaning your computer’s hardware and software is important for a lot of reasons. Clean hardware can help your computer run more smoothly and extend your computer’s lifespan, which can save time and money. Regular cleaning protects your investment and your data.

So, what happens if you don’t clean your PC for a year? The build-up of dust from a year can cause overheating because it clogs up the filters and fans. The negative effects of your computer overheating include your computer crashing, a shorter life span for your PC, and potential data loss.

Computer Cleaning is part of Q2C Computer Services.

Lowered Page Rank? The Truth About Too Many Links – 101

Page Rank

Page Rank

Page Rank is an algorithm developed by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, the co-founders of Google, which revolutionized the way search engines rank web pages. It is a crucial component of Google’s search engine and plays a vital role in determining the relevance and importance of web pages in search results. Page Rank assigns a numerical value, or PageRank score, to each webpage based on the number and quality of incoming links it receives from other web pages. In this article, we will delve into the concept of Page Rank, its significance, and how it works.

PageRank operates on the premise that a webpage’s importance can be determined by the quality and quantity of links pointing to it.

When a webpage receives a link from another page, it is seen as a vote of confidence or endorsement. However, not all votes are considered equal. Page Rank considers the importance of the webpage casting the vote, assigning a higher value to a vote from a highly reputable and authoritative page.

The algorithm works by analyzing the link structure of the web, treating each webpage as a node and each link as a directed edge. A webpage’s Page Rank score is determined by the sum of the PageRank scores of the pages that link to it. The PageRank score of a page is also influenced by its own importance, which is then passed on to the pages it links to.

The algorithm operates through an iterative process. Initially, each page is assigned an equal PageRank score. In subsequent iterations, the Page Rank scores are recalculated based on the incoming links and their respective scores. This process continues until the PageRank scores converge and stabilize.

PageRank also considers the concept of damping factor or teleportation probability.

It assumes that a user may randomly jump to any page on the web rather than following links. To simulate this behavior, a small probability is assigned that the user will teleport to a random page. This factor ensures that even pages with no incoming links have a non-zero chance of being visited.

One of the significant advantages of PageRank is its ability to provide an objective measure of a webpage’s importance.

Unlike keyword-based algorithms, which can be manipulated through various search engine optimization techniques, Page Rank relies on the web’s collective intelligence to determine relevance. It rewards pages that are naturally popular and authoritative, making it difficult to artificially inflate rankings.

PageRank has played a pivotal role in the success of Google as a search engine. By incorporating the link structure of the web into its ranking algorithm, Google was able to deliver more accurate and relevant search results. Pages with higher Page Rank scores are more likely to appear at the top of search results, increasing their visibility and driving traffic to them.

However, Page Rank is just one of many factors that Google considers in its search algorithm. Over the years, Google has introduced numerous updates and refinements to improve search quality and combat manipulation. Today, the search engine employs a wide range of algorithms and signals to determine rankings, incorporating factors like content relevance, user experience, and social signals alongside Page Rank.

In conclusion, PageRank revolutionized the field of search engine rankings by introducing a link-based approach to measure the importance and relevance of web pages. It considers the number and quality of incoming links to a page to calculate its PageRank score. The algorithm has played a vital role in the success of Google and remains a fundamental component of its search engine. While PageRank is not the sole determinant of rankings, it remains a significant factor in determining a webpage’s visibility and authority on the web.

There’s a general guideline in SEO that no one webpage should have more than 100 hyperlinks on it. The idea is that the less ranked your site is the more likely excessive links will reduce page rank further. There’s also the fact that Google will penalize you by removing your page rank completely if your website has more than 100 links per-page. But is that true?

Anyone who has ever attempted to get honest information on “accredited online colleges” or “reliable online pet meds” knows that search engine optimization is a particularly tricky business. Attempting to find success through SEO by way of amateur blog building can be incredibly tricky on account of the nature of links, back-links, and the way advertising is influenced by them. When grasping the fundamental fact that “websites with strong links” get picked up on search engines better, the first instinct is to often obsess ourselves with link building.

But Google has long since devised algorithms that decipher this strategy easily and adjust page rank accordingly. That’s despite the fact that theoretically, a popular enough site with innumerable links won’t see a reduce page rank. Hey, when I said SEO was complicated, I wasn’t lying.

So there’s this general rule that a page should never go above 100 links. However, this seemingly definitive number is in fact quite arbitrary. In fact, the whole fear surrounding exceeding 100 links – that Google will remove you from their rankings entirely – seems to either be an outdated fact or something that was never true to begin with.

Google’s technical guidelines suggest that websites don’t exceed 100 links, but nowhere does the search engine company warn web builders that exceeding this number will result in page rank removal. In fact, an interview with Google’s SEO guru Matt Cutts from 2007 included a bit where he openly explains that the 100 links thing is more of a “rule of thumb” than an actual regulation imposed by Google’s page rank algorithm.

This doesn’t take away from the fact that having that many links on a low-ranking site is sure to make your rankings worse and not better. Google’s page rank algorithms are built to lower the quality of links within a page relative to surrounding links. It simply just doesn’t pay to pack your page to the brim with hyperlinks to other places on the web.

But at least you don’t have to worry about Google blocking you from search results.

In conclusion, by checking whether or not a domain name has keywords that are part of a trademark, you lessen the risk that they will have legal problems in the future.  If there are problems, and a domain name arbitration proceeding does not rule in a webmaster’s favor, they can turn to The Domain Name Rights Coalition.

Q2C Mobile Friendly Website Design For Your Flexible Business

Mobile Friendly Website

Mobile Friendly Website Design

Mobile friendly website design is no longer an option but a necessity in today’s digital age. With the increasing number of mobile device users, having a mobile friendly website has become crucial for businesses to reach out to their target audience and stay ahead of the competition.

Mobile friendly website design refers to creating a website that is optimized for viewing on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. It involves ensuring that the website layout, content, and design are responsive and can adjust according to the screen size of the device being used to access the website.

One of the primary benefits of having a mobile friendly website design is that it enhances the user experience. Mobile device users are often on the go and need quick access to information. A mobile friendly website ensures that the website loads quickly, and the content is easily accessible, making it easier for users to navigate and find what they need. A good user experience can increase the chances of users returning to the website and engaging with the business.

Another benefit of having a mobile friendly website design is that it can help improve search engine rankings. Search engines such as Google prefer websites that are mobile-friendly and responsive. They consider mobile-friendly websites as providing a better user experience and are more likely to rank them higher in search results, increasing the chances of potential customers finding the business.

What does mobile friendly website mean?

Having a mobile friendly website design also ensures that the website is accessible to a broader audience. With more and more people using mobile devices to access the internet, businesses with mobile friendly websites can reach out to a larger target audience. This can be especially beneficial for businesses that cater to younger audiences who are more likely to use mobile devices to access the internet.

Mobile-friendly website design can also help businesses stay ahead of the competition. With so many businesses competing for attention online, having a mobile friendly website can help businesses stand out and differentiate themselves from competitors. A mobile-friendly website design can create a positive first impression and build trust with potential customers, giving the business an edge over competitors who may not have optimized their websites for mobile devices.

Mobile-friendly website design can also help businesses reduce bounce rates. Bounce rates refer to the percentage of visitors who leave a website after visiting only one page. Mobile device users are more likely to bounce if a website is not mobile friendly, as they may have difficulty navigating the website and finding the information they need. A mobile friendly website design can reduce bounce rates by providing a better user experience and making it easier for users to find what they need.

Finally, having a mobile friendly website design can help businesses save time and resources. In the past, businesses had to create separate mobile versions of their websites to ensure they were mobile-friendly. However, with responsive website design, businesses can create a single website that is optimized for both desktop and mobile devices, saving time and resources.

In conclusion, mobile friendly website design has become essential for businesses in today’s digital age. It enhances the user experience, improves search engine rankings, reaches out to a broader audience, helps businesses stay ahead of the competition, reduces bounce rates, and saves time and resources. With more and more people using mobile devices to access the internet, businesses that do not have a mobile-friendly website design may risk losing out on potential customers and falling behind competitors who have optimized their websites for mobile devices.

One of the more far-sighted actions you can take as a business leader is to prepare yourself for the age of mobile internet access. To be honest, we’re already in it. The release of HTC 4G Android Phone models and other latest generation devices are making it apparent that for websites to remain relevant in this decade they have to be accessible on-the-go. If consumers are unable to access your website while out and about, whether due to the limitations of their device or the excesses of your website, the only person who pays a price is you.

Business leaders and especially small time entrepreneurs managing their own web design need to know how to avoid letting their online existence disappear at the moment when a presence on the Internet has never been more important.

Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt recently mentioned at a speaking event that mobile traffic is growing at a faster rate than even Google anticipated. It’s expected that by the middle of the decade a steadily increasing majority of web traffic will be from people using mobile devices.

For businesses with websites un-adjusted for mobile visitors, that’s a potential crisis waiting to happen. That’s especially the case when you consider the fact that Google pagerank operates differently on mobile devices, essentially incorporating a website’s functionality through the particular browser of the user in determining which websites show up first.

So how do businesses make sure their websites not only work for mobile web users, but also show up on the top bracket of search engines as consistently on a mobile browser as a desktop browser?

The first part is understanding that the web browser on a phone is quite different from typical desktop web browsers. Not only that, each mobile browser has its own specifications. The only way a business website can confidently be considered accessible by mobile users is if the web designer utilized Cascading Style Sheets, or CSS. In particular, external CSS works best. Essentially you plug-in the dimensions and capabilities of multiple browsers so that when a user accesses the website, the particular browser is detected and the proper dimensions are presented.

The second part involves cutting back on the razzle dazzle of your website if it has too much of it. In particular, Flash is a big no-no if you want mobile users to be able to get to your site. Too much stuff going on is going to overload the basic capabilities of smartphone browsers. Images should be small files and so should anything else that’s ultimately going to have to load onto a small mobile device.

Thirdly, you stand to learn an enormous amount of intelligence from taking your own smartphone and looking up websites that do a profound job at transferring their standard site into a mobile form. Pretty much any top-notch corporation’s website will provide you an accurate portrait of what yours should look like.

Before you know it the majority of visitors to your website will be doing so via their pocket-sized phone. Make sure your awesomely huge website comes with a pocket-sized version or else you might just be too big to be noticed.

Online Presence – Improve Your Business

Online Presence

If your business deals with a lot of online presence activity, obviously, your site speaks volumes about your company. A company’s website is much like a business card, resume, and an advertisement all in one. It’s of the utmost importance to take the flow, feel, and look of your site very seriously that will increase your online presence. Committing to building your personal online face is the first step to branding yourself. Many companies have great products and services but don’t focus enough attention on their web site. Any business that’s guilty of this clearly doesn’t realize the full potential of having a great online presence. Here are some ways that you can begin to build your online presence and improve your success.

Anyone who is interested hears about, or does business with your company is going to Google you. This is a simple fact and search engine results are everything these days. Even if someone is just looking for a service that you provide might not find out about you because your search ranking on Google is too low. By using an SEO company you can greatly increase your online ranking and get the attention of potential clients as well as build your online reputation. So many businesses are increasing their online profile because they see this as the future of business, and it’s true. Acting now and taking your ranking seriously is a huge first step, as well as an essential one.

Getting the help of a leading online video platform will go a long way towards managing the content on your site. These services are designed to meet high-volume video needs but will assist any size site. These services power some of the top online publishers in media, entertainment, and enterprises offering them the best content management solutions. Your web site doesn’t just run itself. You’ll need the help of services such as these to improve the quality of your site and present a seamless product to customers and clients.

The world of social media is huge and average people and companies are interfacing on an increasingly social level. If your site or business isn’t actively engaged in social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, then you’re doing yourself a great disservice. The best thing about it is that it’s free and you’re going to increase your online profile over night. To get by in today’s online social world, you have to actively engage with people. It’s a great resource that people will use and will better your business across the board.

To do a job right you have to have the necessary tools to get it done. These are some of the tools that are essential to being successful in the online world. There are many different approaches but taking these steps will build your reputation and transform you venture into a leading competitor.

In conclusion, by checking whether or not a domain name has keywords that are part of a trademark, you lessen the risk that they will have legal problems in the future.  If there are problems, and a domain name arbitration proceeding does not rule in a webmaster’s favor, they can turn to The Domain Name Rights Coalition.Q2C Home

#1 Winning Marketing Tool For Your Business – Cheap Flash Drives

Marketing Tool

Utilizing Flash Drives as an Effective Marketing Tool

Introduction:

In the realm of digital marketing, businesses are constantly seeking innovative strategies to capture the attention of their target audience. One increasingly popular and impactful method is leveraging flash drives as a marketing tool. Flash drives, also known as USB drives or thumb drives, offer a multitude of benefits for businesses looking to enhance brand visibility, engage customers, and establish a lasting impression. This article explores how flash drives can be effectively employed as a creative marketing tool.

  1. Customization and Branding:

One of the significant advantages of using flash drives for marketing is the ability to customize them with your brand’s logo, tagline, and design elements. Personalizing the appearance of the flash drive allows you to reinforce your brand identity and leave a lasting impression on the recipient. A visually appealing and well-branded flash drive serves as a mini-billboard, reminding customers of your brand every time they use it.

  1. Content Distribution:

Flash drives provide an excellent medium for distributing digital content. Instead of traditional marketing collateral, such as brochures or flyers, businesses can preload flash drives with multimedia presentations, product catalogs, e-books, or promotional videos. This approach not only reduces printing costs but also allows recipients to conveniently access and share the content with others. The flash drive becomes a valuable resource for the recipient, reinforcing your brand’s expertise and fostering customer loyalty.

  1. Lead Generation:

To maximize the potential of flash drives as a marketing tool, consider using them as a means of generating leads. You can offer flash drives as incentives for customers to provide their contact information or participate in surveys or contests. By capturing leads through this approach, you can expand your customer database and establish direct communication channels for future marketing campaigns. Moreover, recipients are more likely to engage with your brand when they perceive tangible value in the form of a useful flash drive.

  1. Promotional Gifts:

Flash drives make excellent promotional gifts that can be distributed at trade shows, conferences, or corporate events. Offering a branded flash drive with useful preloaded content is a thoughtful gesture that helps differentiate your business from competitors. Recipients will appreciate the practicality of the gift and are more likely to associate positive sentiments with your brand. This tangible item can act as a conversation starter, facilitating networking opportunities and leaving a lasting impression on potential customers.

  1. Versatility and Longevity:

Flash drives have a high perceived value and are practical tools that people can use daily. They are compatible with various devices, including computers, laptops, and even some smartphones. This versatility ensures that your brand remains visible across multiple platforms, further enhancing its exposure. Moreover, flash drives have a longer lifespan compared to other promotional items, such as pens or notepads, increasing the likelihood of repeated exposure and brand recall.

  1. Sustainable Marketing:

Sustainability is a growing concern for both businesses and consumers. By opting for flash drives as a marketing tool, you can align your brand with eco-friendly practices. Choose flash drives made from recycled or biodegradable materials to showcase your commitment to environmental responsibility. This approach not only enhances your brand image but also resonates with eco-conscious customers who value sustainable choices.

  1. Data Tracking and Analysis:

Digital marketing relies heavily on data-driven insights. When distributing flash drives, consider including a tracking mechanism to gather valuable information about recipient behavior. By tracking the usage of preloaded content or monitoring the flash drive’s connectivity to devices, you can gain insights into customer preferences and engagement levels. This data can then be utilized to optimize future marketing strategies and tailor offerings to specific target segments.

Conclusion:

In the evolving landscape of marketing, it is essential to explore innovative and effective techniques to engage customers and promote brand visibility. Flash drives present a unique opportunity to accomplish these objectives. By leveraging the customizable nature of flash drives, businesses can reinforce their brand identity and leave a lasting impression. The ability to preload flash drives with valuable digital content allows for convenient distribution and sharing, showcasing the brand’s expertise and fostering customer loyalty.

marketing

Moreover, using flash drives as a means of lead generation provides businesses with a direct line of communication with potential customers. By offering flash drives as incentives for providing contact information or participating in surveys or contests, businesses can expand their customer database and nurture relationships for future marketing campaigns. This approach not only generates leads but also establishes a positive association between the brand and the tangible value offered through the flash drive.

When it comes to promotional gifts, flash drives stand out as practical and highly valued items. By distributing branded flash drives at trade shows, conferences, or corporate events, businesses can make a memorable impression on potential customers. The versatility of flash drives, being compatible with various devices, ensures that the brand remains visible across multiple platforms, increasing exposure and brand recall.

In addition to their versatility, flash drives have a longer lifespan compared to other promotional items. While pens and notepads may get discarded or used up quickly, flash drives can be reused and serve as a continuous reminder of the brand. This extended lifespan increases the likelihood of repeated exposure and further solidifies the brand in the recipient’s mind.

By choosing flash drives made from sustainable materials, businesses can align their marketing efforts with eco-friendly practices. Opting for recycled or biodegradable flash drives showcases a commitment to environmental responsibility, appealing to the growing segment of eco-conscious consumers. This sustainable approach enhances the brand’s image and resonates with individuals who value environmentally friendly choices.

Furthermore, the digital nature of flash drives allows for data tracking and analysis, providing valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences. By incorporating tracking mechanisms into the flash drives, businesses can gather data on content usage and connectivity, enabling them to optimize marketing strategies and tailor offerings to specific target segments. This data-driven approach ensures that marketing efforts are efficient and effective, leading to higher engagement and conversion rates.

In conclusion, utilizing flash drives as a marketing tool offers numerous advantages for businesses seeking innovative strategies to engage customers and enhance brand visibility. The ability to customize flash drives with branding elements creates a lasting impression, while preloading valuable content fosters customer loyalty. Flash drives also serve as practical promotional gifts, with their versatility and long lifespan ensuring continuous brand exposure. By embracing sustainability and incorporating data tracking, businesses can further optimize their marketing efforts and deliver personalized experiences to their target audience. Embracing flash drives as a marketing tool unlocks a world of creativity and effectiveness, providing businesses with a unique edge in a competitive market.

If you have a business and want to get additional notice for it then you can use Cheap Flash Drives as a marketing tool to garner customers.

Bulk Flash Drives have many uses which people have a need for. They are a substitution for floppy disks, and CD Rom’s from the past. They are lightweight do not cost a lot especially when purchased in bulk quantities and are now even used on many gaming systems. Whenever a customer uses your flash drive they can spot your company’s logo and it will remind them of your business.

There will always be a need for people that use computers to store data and information. Cheap Flash Drives can serve this purpose. They are portable and can easily be removed from one computer to another. Most weigh less than one ounce which is very light and easy to carry around. People want something that they can use which will not create a lot of problems for them. Flash drives answers their problem and creates a solution. This is how you can use this to propel your business.

In the past only computer parts and accessory manufacturers sold Bulk Flash Drives. Now you can buy them and at a reduced rate. You can even have your company’s logo imprinted in the colors of your choice on them with contact information. When people have a need for their flash drives your logo will be viewed on a regular basis depending on their need.

You can also go to trade and marketing events and hand out flash drives to potential customers.

Although for you it will not cost you a lot of money when Bulk Flash Drives are purchased cheaply. They are seen as a great value to your prospects. The future sales and business that you gain will reward you in large dividends. It is also something that you know they will actually use and not throw away or give to someone else. In this way you will be able to improve sales with your new marketing tool and lowered budgeting costs from Cheap Flash Drives. You can distinguish yourself from your competitors by providing customers something different and unique.

Q2C Maximizing Your New Business Online Potential

Business Online

Maximizing Your New Business Online: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction (100 words): In today’s digital age, establishing a strong online presence is crucial for the success of any new business. The internet offers endless opportunities to reach a wider audience, increase brand visibility, and drive growth. To maximize your new business online, you need to leverage various strategies and techniques that align with your goals. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of essential steps you can take to ensure your business thrives in the online realm, covering aspects such as website optimization, search engine visibility, social media engagement, content marketing, and customer relationship management.

Here are a few online business ideas..

  1. Develop a Professional Website : Your website serves as the foundation of your online presence. Create a visually appealing, user-friendly, and mobile-responsive website that reflects your brand identity. Optimize it for search engines by using relevant keywords, meta tags, and compelling content. Implement intuitive navigation and ensure fast loading times to provide visitors with a seamless experience. Incorporate clear calls-to-action to drive conversions and include contact information for easy communication. Regularly update your website with fresh content, such as blog posts or product updates, to improve search engine rankings and engage visitors.
  2. Enhance Search Engine Visibility : Search engine optimization (SEO) is vital for driving organic traffic to your website. Conduct keyword research to identify high-volume, relevant search terms and incorporate them into your website’s content, headings, and meta descriptions. Create informative and shareable content that positions your business as an industry expert. Develop a link-building strategy to earn backlinks from authoritative websites, boosting your search engine rankings. Monitor your website’s performance using analytics tools to identify areas for improvement and refine your SEO strategy accordingly.
  3. Leverage Social Media Platforms : Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity to connect with your target audience and amplify your brand’s message. Identify the platforms that align with your target market and create engaging profiles. Consistently share valuable content, including blog posts, images, videos, and infographics, to increase your followers and foster meaningful interactions. Respond promptly to comments, messages, and inquiries to build trust and cultivate relationships. Utilize paid advertising options on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to reach a wider audience and target specific demographics.
  4. Implement Content Marketing : Content marketing is a powerful tool for attracting, engaging, and retaining customers. Develop a content strategy that addresses your audience’s pain points and provides solutions. Create informative blog posts, videos, podcasts, or downloadable resources that showcase your expertise and offer value to your target market. Promote your content through social media channels, email newsletters, and guest posting on relevant websites. Encourage social sharing and comments to increase engagement and visibility. Regularly analyze the performance of your content and adjust your strategy based on user feedback and data insights.
  5. Focus on Customer Relationship Management : Building strong relationships with your customers is key to business success. Implement customer relationship management (CRM) systems to streamline communication, track customer interactions, and personalize your marketing efforts. Leverage email marketing campaigns to nurture leads, provide exclusive offers, and gather feedback. Offer excellent customer support through various channels, such as live chat or social media messaging. Encourage customer reviews and testimonials to enhance your credibility and attract new customers. Actively listen to customer feedback and continuously improve your products or services based on their needs and preferences.

Conclusion : Maximizing your new business online requires a multi-faceted approach that integrates various digital marketing strategies. By developing a professional website, enhancing search engine visibility, leveraging social media platforms, implementing content marketing, and focusing on customer relationship management, you can establish a strong online presence and drive business growth. Continuously monitor and analyze your efforts, adapting your strategies as needed to stay ahead of evolving trends and consumer preferences. Remember, the digital landscape is ever-changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with new tools, technologies, and strategies to maintain a competitive edge.

  1. Embrace E-commerce and Mobile Optimization : Incorporate e-commerce functionality into your website to enable online transactions. Provide a secure and user-friendly checkout process, offer multiple payment options, and ensure seamless integration with shipping and fulfillment services. With the rise of mobile usage, optimize your website and online shopping experience for mobile devices. Implement responsive design and mobile-friendly navigation to cater to the growing number of users accessing your site through smartphones and tablets. Streamline the purchasing process and minimize load times to enhance user experience and maximize conversions.
  2. Utilize Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC) : Pay-per-click advertising allows you to reach targeted audiences quickly and efficiently. Platforms like Google Ads and social media advertising networks provide opportunities to display ads to users actively searching for products or services related to your business. Conduct thorough keyword research and create compelling ad copy to maximize click-through rates. Utilize targeting options to narrow down your audience based on demographics, interests, and online behaviors. Regularly monitor and optimize your PPC campaigns to improve their effectiveness and drive qualified traffic to your website.
  3. Harness the Power of Email Marketing : Email marketing remains one of the most effective channels for nurturing leads and fostering customer loyalty for your new business online. Build an email list by offering valuable incentives, such as exclusive content or discounts, in exchange for email addresses. Segment your email list based on demographics, purchase history, or engagement levels to send targeted and personalized campaigns. Craft compelling subject lines and engaging content that drives opens and click-throughs. Automate email workflows for onboarding new customers, abandoned cart reminders, or post-purchase follow-ups. Regularly analyze metrics like open rates and conversion rates to optimize your email marketing strategy.
  4. Engage with Online Communities and Influencers : Participating in online communities and collaborating with influencers can significantly boost your brand’s visibility and credibility. Join relevant forums, groups, or social media communities where your target audience congregates. Actively engage in discussions, provide helpful insights, and establish yourself as an industry expert. Seek partnerships with influencers whose audience aligns with your target market. Collaborate on content creation, product reviews, or promotions to leverage their reach and influence. Encourage user-generated content and testimonials to foster social proof and strengthen your brand’s reputation.
  5. Monitor and Analyze Performance : Continuously monitoring and analyzing your online performance is crucial for making data-driven decisions and optimizing your strategies. Utilize web analytics tools like Google Analytics to track key metrics such as website traffic, conversion rates, and user behavior. Regularly review social media insights, email marketing metrics, and advertising campaign data to identify trends and areas for improvement. Conduct A/B testing to optimize landing pages, email subject lines, or ad creatives. Stay informed about industry trends, algorithm updates, and emerging technologies to adapt your business online marketing efforts proactively.

Conclusion : By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your new business’s online presence, reach a wider audience, and drive sustainable growth. Remember, success in the digital realm requires a holistic approach that integrates various elements such as website optimization, search engine visibility, social media engagement, content marketing, customer relationship management, e-commerce functionality, pay-per-click advertising, email marketing, community engagement, and data analysis. Continually adapt and refine your strategies based on consumer preferences, market trends, and emerging technologies to stay ahead in the competitive online landscape. With dedication, creativity, and a customer-centric mindset, your new business can thrive in the digital age.

Congratulations on starting your new business online!

You’re all set up, got your fancy new business cards, and you’ve even gotten your own website together. But now it’s time to build, grow, and develop your little startup into a profitable enterprise that clients and investors alike would crawl for.

Q2C Business Online Services..

Sounds like you need the help of an SEO company. SEO companies–companies that build business potential through Search Engine Optimization–provide opportunities for your organization to receive the exposure it needs to expand.

Through search engine optimization, key terms or phrases about your business are extracted directly from your website and used to increase your website’s visibility through search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo. SEO companies use a variety of methods in order for your business to reach maximum visibility.

Some companies rely on “organic,” or unpaid, search engine optimization by ensuring the keywords on your website and within your HTML coding are directly relevant to what consumers are searching for. Ideally, the more relevant your key terms, the higher your placement on the search engine’s results pages. This could be under any search type, whether it be photos, video, news, shopping, or more.

Meanwhile, others rely on SEM, or search engine marketing, to create purchased ads that appear similar to organic search results and are placed strategically below the search bar. A study by the Pew Research Center revealed that only 38% of ordinary users realized that the paid results weren’t organic. Yet there is a risk: a report by Google Analytics noted that users are less likely to click on advertised results anyway, and that those who do recognize the ads avoid them or have ad-blocking plugins downloaded for their browsers.

Considering contracting an SEO company is an investment no business owner should pass up. It is a chance to give you less time in business development, and much more time working with the clients that come to you.

Powerful Backlinks and Page Ranking 101

Backlinks

The Impact of Backlinks on PageRank: Unveiling the Power of Link Building

Introduction : In the world of search engine optimization (SEO), backlinks play a crucial role in determining a website’s visibility and authority. Backlinks, also known as inbound links, are hyperlinks from external websites that direct users to a particular webpage. Search engines, particularly Google, consider backlinks as votes of confidence, indicating the relevance, trustworthiness, and popularity of a webpage. One of the key algorithms used by search engines to rank webpages is Google’s PageRank. This article delves into the relationship between backlinks and PageRank, highlighting the significant impact that effective link building strategies can have on improving a website’s ranking.

Understanding PageRank :

PageRank, developed by Larry Page and Sergey Brin at Stanford University, revolutionized the way search engines determine the importance of webpages. It assigns a numerical value, ranging from 0 to 10, to each webpage based on the quantity and quality of inbound links it receives. The underlying principle of PageRank is that a webpage with more backlinks from reputable and relevant sources will be considered more authoritative and will be ranked higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).

Enhancing PageRank with Backlinks :

Backlinks serve as a vote of confidence for search engines. When a webpage receives a backlink from another website, it essentially signifies that the linking website trusts and values the content provided on the target webpage. Consequently, search engines interpret this as a sign of the webpage’s credibility and relevance, leading to an improvement in its PageRank.

Quality over Quantity:

While the quantity of building backlinks does matter to some extent, it is the quality of backlinks that has a more profound impact on PageRank. Backlinks from high-authority websites, such as government or educational institutions, popular news outlets, or established industry leaders, carry more weight in boosting PageRank compared to links from low-quality or spammy websites. Search engines consider the reputation and relevance of the linking domain when evaluating the importance of back-links.

Anchor Text and Relevance:

The anchor text, which is the visible and clickable text of a hyperlink, also plays a crucial role in the impact of quality backlinks on PageRank. When the anchor text accurately reflects the content and keywords of the target webpage, search engines interpret it as a strong signal of relevance and improve the PageRank accordingly.

Diversification and Natural Link Building:

Search engines highly value diverse backlink profiles. Websites with a wide range of sources linking to them are considered more authoritative and trustworthy. Natural link building, which occurs organically over time, is essential for building a diverse backlink profile. By creating high-quality content that others find valuable and share-worthy, websites can attract backlinks naturally, thus enhancing their PageRank.

Link Quality and Authority:

It is not only the quantity and diversity of backlinks that matter, but the authority and reputation of the linking domains are also crucial factors. A single backlink from a highly reputable and authoritative website can have a more significant impact on PageRank than multiple links from less influential sources. Search engines consider the overall domain authority and trustworthiness of the linking website when determining the value of a backlink.

Back-links are fundamental to improving a website’s PageRank, influencing its visibility and organic traffic. By earning high-quality back-links from reputable and relevant sources, website owners and SEO practitioners can enhance the authority, credibility, and ranking of their webpages. However, it is crucial to focus on quality rather than quantity when building back-links. Websites should aim to attract back-links from authoritative domains, with anchor texts that accurately reflect the content of the target webpage. Additionally, diversifying the backlink profile and focusing on creating a natural link-building process are essential for long-term success.

It’s important to note that the impact of back-links on PageRank is not static. Search engines continuously refine their algorithms to ensure the most relevant and trustworthy results for users. This means that the effectiveness of certain link-building strategies may change over time. It is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and best practices to adapt your link-building efforts accordingly.

Furthermore, the influence of back-links on PageRank should be seen as part of a holistic SEO strategy. While back-links are undoubtedly significant, other factors such as quality content, user experience, website structure, and on-page optimization also contribute to a webpage’s overall ranking.

In conclusion, back-links have a profound impact on a website’s PageRank. By acquiring high-quality back-links from authoritative and relevant sources, website owners can improve their webpage’s visibility and authority in search engine results. It is essential to focus on quality over quantity, diversify the back-link profile, and ensure relevance through accurate anchor texts. However, it is crucial to recognize that back-links are just one aspect of a comprehensive SEO strategy. By combining effective link building with other optimization techniques, website owners can maximize their chances of achieving higher PageRank and attracting organic traffic.

If you are a new website owner or novice designer, you will quickly become overwhelmed with a large number of acronyms and web terminology that your head will begin to spin. You may even wonder what you have gotten yourself into. The most important thing you need to know is the rule of “build it and they will come” does not apply to the internet. With literally billions of webpages available, yours will not be noticed unless you understand how to get your site noticed. A valuable term that you need to understand is back links. These are links that point to your website.

The importance of these Backlinks cannot be overstated.

Originally, there were link exchanges where various website owners would join up and share links with each other hoping to generate a significant amount of traffic. As technology improved, code was developed that would handle this automatically. Content management systems often include code that tracks and provides back links automatically. If you have heard of page ranking with a search engine then you are more familiar with these links than you know. The search engines use quality links from one site to another to judge the importance and page rank of a site.

While the search engines change their algorithms on a regular basis to accommodate for scamming, the fact remains, the main way for them to know what sites are important is based on back links.

If you write a blog, you probably read blogs and stories on other sites as well. If you decide that a story you read is high quality and want your audience to see it, you create a link from your blog to theirs. This is called a back-link. The search engines notice this link from your blog and probably from many others and realizes the importance of this particular posting is higher than others are.

Even though the formulas for web page ranking will change on a constant basis, if no one links to your site, you will be ranked lower regardless of how high the quality is. The majority of people find websites through search engines, not advertising. Developing these back links with other sites is hugely important in order for your site to foster.

2010: A Year of Progressive Online Advertising

Online Advertising

Reflecting back on 2010, online advertising may be finally entering the golden age. With 28% of time spent on the internet only 13% of total advertising dollars is spent online. In the first six months of 2010 advertisers spent approximately $12.1 billion on online advertising, with a potential growth of $50 billion per year global opportunity. Google’s paid clicks shows acceleration of avg 16% quarterly y/y growth since 2008. Global users are spending twice as much more time on social networks surpassing email users since 2008. Digital video recorded the greatest growth, from January to June, an increase of 31% from the first half of 2009. Mobile connectivity drives new ways to do old things faster, better and cheaper. China has reported its active users is now at 420 million and  may more than double within five years.

We’ve seen several new innovations this past year. One being Groupon using social group buying to capture an audience effected by today’s economic challenges who are looking for the ‘deal of the day’. With leading indicators of economic growth still showing some weakness, these internet trends in technology may be a safe haven for investors. Smart online marketing strategies will propel new and old businesses into a new economic cycle.

This brings us back to the subject of marketing with domain names, a time tested and proven online strategy that drives traffic. In 2011 expect a continued growth in mobile internet across 10 billion+ units, requiring more advertising. Marketing firms will focus on brands, products and services with new creative slogans. Advertising agencies will continue to shift their efforts from print and TV into online ads.  All bidding for hundreds, thousands and millions of potential users.

“Nothing draws a crowd like a crowd” – P.T. Barnum

The Evolution of Online Advertising in 2010: A Paradigm Shift in Marketing

The year 2010 marked a significant turning point in the realm of advertising, as online advertising experienced unprecedented growth and became a prominent channel for marketers worldwide. The emergence of advanced technologies, changing consumer behaviors, and the expanding reach of the internet laid the foundation for a new era in advertising. This article explores the evolution of online advertising in 2010, highlighting its key features, challenges, and the impact it had on the marketing landscape.

  1. The Rise of Digital Advertising

With the proliferation of internet access and the growing popularity of smartphones, online advertising gained momentum in 2010. Marketers recognized the potential of digital platforms to reach a vast audience and engage with consumers in innovative ways. Display advertising, including banner ads, pop-ups, and interstitials, became prevalent on websites and online platforms, offering advertisers increased visibility.

  1. Pay-per-Click (PPC) Advertising

Pay-per-Click (PPC) advertising witnessed significant growth in 2010. Search engines, such as Google, introduced targeted advertising programs like Google AdWords, allowing advertisers to bid on keywords relevant to their products or services. Advertisers paid only when users clicked on their ads, ensuring a higher return on investment (ROI) and precise targeting capabilities.

  1. Social Media Advertising

The advent of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn revolutionized online advertising in 2010. These platforms offered marketers an opportunity to engage directly with users, target specific demographics, and personalize their messages. Brands leveraged social media advertising to create compelling campaigns, build brand awareness, and foster customer loyalty.

  1. Video Advertising

The popularity of online videos surged in 2010, leading to the rise of video advertising. Platforms like YouTube provided an ideal space for marketers to showcase their products or services through engaging and visually appealing content. Pre-roll and mid-roll video ads became prevalent, capturing users’ attention before or during video playback.

Mobile Advertising

The proliferation of smartphones in 2010 transformed the advertising landscape, giving rise to mobile advertising. With the increasing number of users accessing the internet via mobile devices, marketers focused on optimizing their ads for smaller screens and implementing location-based targeting. Mobile advertising enabled brands to reach users on the go, delivering personalized and contextually relevant messages.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

As online advertising gained prominence, it also faced challenges and ethical considerations. Ad-blocking software emerged, allowing users to filter out ads and impeding advertisers’ ability to reach their target audience. Advertisers had to find creative ways to deliver relevant content without being intrusive, respecting users’ preferences.

Privacy concerns also came to the forefront, as users became more aware of data collection and targeted advertising practices. Advertisers had to strike a balance between personalized messaging and respecting users’ privacy, ensuring transparent data usage and consent.

Measurement and Analytics

In 2010, the importance of measurement and analytics in online advertising became increasingly evident. Advertisers sought ways to track campaign performance, optimize strategies, and justify their investments. Metrics such as click-through rates (CTR), conversion rates, and return on ad spend (ROAS) provided valuable insights, enabling marketers to refine their approaches and drive better results.

The year 2010 witnessed a paradigm shift in advertising with the rapid growth and evolution of online advertising. Digital platforms offered new and exciting avenues for marketers to reach and engage with their target audience. Pay-per-Click (PPC) advertising, social media advertising, video advertising, and mobile advertising became essential components of marketing strategies. Despite challenges such as ad-blocking and privacy concerns, the online advertising landscape continued to thrive and innovate.

The developments in online advertising during 2010 set the stage for the future of marketing. The success and effectiveness of online advertising in 2010 demonstrated its potential as a powerful tool for brands to connect with consumers, drive sales, and build brand equity.

Looking beyond 2010, online advertising continued to evolve and adapt to the changing digital landscape. Advancements in technology, the emergence of new platforms, and shifts in consumer behavior have shaped the strategies and tactics used by marketers.

One significant development is the increased focus on personalized and targeted advertising. As data collection and analysis capabilities improved, advertisers gained insights into consumer preferences, behaviors, and demographics. This allowed for highly tailored and relevant ad experiences, resulting in higher engagement and conversion rates.

Additionally, programmatic advertising gained traction during this period. Programmatic advertising uses automated systems and algorithms to purchase and display ads in real-time, optimizing ad placements and targeting. This streamlined the ad buying process, improving efficiency and effectiveness for advertisers.

Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies into online advertising brought about further advancements. AI-powered algorithms enabled advertisers to automate ad creation, optimize campaign performance, and deliver personalized content at scale. This allowed for more efficient targeting and enhanced user experiences.

Another notable trend was the growing emphasis on native advertising. Native ads seamlessly blend into the surrounding content, providing a less intrusive and more organic user experience. By aligning with the format and style of the platform, native ads were able to capture users’ attention without disrupting their online activities.

Social media platforms continued to play a crucial role in online advertising, with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn evolving their ad formats and targeting capabilities. These platforms offered advertisers highly granular targeting options based on users’ interests, demographics, and behavior, enabling precise ad placement and effective reach.

In terms of measurement and analytics, marketers in subsequent years further refined their approaches. Advanced tracking technologies and attribution models provided a more comprehensive understanding of the customer journey, allowing for better assessment of the impact and effectiveness of online advertising efforts.

However, with the growth of online advertising, new challenges arose. Ad fraud, click fraud, and brand safety concerns became prevalent issues that required ongoing vigilance and countermeasures from advertisers and ad platforms. Striking the right balance between personalization and privacy remained an ongoing consideration, necessitating transparent data practices and compliance with evolving privacy regulations.

In conclusion, the evolution of online advertising in 2010 paved the way for a transformative era in marketing. The advent of digital platforms, advancements in targeting technologies, and the increasing prevalence of mobile devices set the stage for the rapid growth and innovation in subsequent years. As online advertising continued to adapt and evolve, marketers leveraged its potential to connect with audiences, drive business objectives, and shape the future of advertising.

DNS Propagation – Speed Up the Process

DNS propagation

DNS Propagation – Anticipation

The first step to creating a website is to find a hosting solution for your site, or sites, and to register your domain name. Next, you will most likely upload the photos, videos, and data which you wish your site to contain. After all of this is completed, you might have the unfortunate result of…nothing. If you are not able to see the results of all of your hours, days, and weeks of hard work, it most likely has to do with a term known as “DNS propagation”.

Why dns propagation takes so long?

The first step to understanding what the term  means is to understand the process by which DNS functions. The acronym refers to “domain name system” and this is what is created when you start a website. The host will create a “master DNS record” which is located inside of the hosting DNS server. The registrar for your domain name will then name the host’s server as your domain name authority.

Regardless of where your website is hosted, the site’s network will have its own personal DNS server. Sometimes, a host may even have multiple servers which are the authority for each domain. Your ISP or Internet Service Provider will then enter data in their server. One of these entries is your domain name which states that you are on the site and the other is the MX or Mail Exchanger record which designates the location where any web hosting email will be received by your domain name.

How dns propagation works.

There are countless DNS servers in thousands of locations across the globe. Each of these servers acts, in a way, as a book of addresses. It contains information regarding your personal domain name, which acts as your Internet “address”. Keep in mind, however, that there is no one server which contains all Internet domain names. They will simply contain those names for which they are responsible. Some DNS servers have the sole responsibility of storing these domain names while others act to “look up” these names.

There are several aspects of information that are contained on the server in regard to your domain name, the compilation of which is known as the “DNS Record”. When a guest enters a particular domain name, the computer is then able to access the database which will give information regarding the DNS authority of your site. They then visit the indicated servers for the given domain name’s IP address and attain the information that is contained within that address. After this information is retrieved, it is delivered to the guest in website form.

The difficulty with this process, however, consists of the speed with which the website can be viewed on the Internet. In order to make the process quicker, the ISP caches the name servers. This means that the Internet Service Provider copies the records for their own use and then reads the information from these copies. They do this instead of using the Internet to find the information when a visitor requests a site. This allows for a visitor to surf the web more speedily by having the information on hand in the form of the locally copied record. This also serves to reduce the traffic on a given site, allowing the site to load more rapidly than it would otherwise do.

The difficulty with this method of caching is that the majority of ISPs do not copy the information any more than every two to three days. This makes the updated website not available for viewing until this update has taken place. There is no standard for copying so any given ISP is able to copy the records at their own discretion. As the information is propagated through all of the Internet’s DNS servers. After the propagation is complete, the visitor is able click on and view the updated website. Because the time it takes to cache differs depending on the server, the changes may take anywhere from 36 to 72 hours to be made visible on the site to visitors.

Therefore, when you are creating and setting up a new site, you will know why it is that you are not able to view all of your updates right after uploading them to the site, consider DNS propagation. This also explains why you may not be receiving all of your emails that are sent to you via the website email address. Do not become overly concerned. The website has not been infiltrated and will be running according to plan shortly. More than likely, the information on your site is simply being copied, sent, as well as cached to every server on the Internet. Keep in mind how many servers there are on the globe and you will begin to understand why the process might take some time. Before you become needlessly worried, give the website between three and four days to update due to DNS propagation  before contacting your host over a potential problem.

Website Propagation

How to Speed Up DNS Propagation: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction : DNS propagation refers to the time it takes for changes made to your domain’s DNS (Domain Name System) records to propagate across the internet. While DNS propagation typically takes up to 24-48 hours, there are steps you can take to expedite the process. This guide will provide you with valuable techniques to speed up DNS propagation, enabling your website to be accessible to users faster.

  1. Minimize TTL (Time to Live) : TTL is a value set in your DNS records that determines how long a DNS resolver or cache can store the information before checking for updates. By reducing the TTL value, you can instruct the DNS resolvers to refresh their cache more frequently, leading to faster propagation. Decrease the TTL value to the lowest allowed by your DNS provider or to a reasonably short time (e.g., 300 seconds). However, keep in mind that extremely low TTL values can cause increased DNS traffic and affect performance.
  2. Prepare in Advance : If you anticipate the need to make DNS changes, it’s advisable to lower the TTL well in advance. By doing this, the lower TTL value will be cached by DNS resolvers, ensuring a shorter propagation time when the actual changes are made. Keep in mind that some DNS providers impose a minimum TTL limit, so plan accordingly to allow sufficient time for the changes to propagate before making new modifications.
  3. Use a Reliable DNS Provider : Selecting a reliable DNS provider with a robust infrastructure and a wide network of servers can significantly impact propagation speed. Popular providers such as Cloudflare, Google Cloud DNS, and Amazon Route 53 have efficient global networks that help distribute DNS updates quickly. Evaluate the performance and reputation of different DNS providers to choose one that suits your needs and ensures faster propagation.
  4. Clear DNS Caches : DNS resolvers and internet service providers (ISPs) cache DNS records to reduce query times and improve performance. Clearing the DNS caches can help accelerate propagation. You can clear your local DNS cache by flushing the DNS resolver cache on your operating system. Additionally, you can use online tools that provide DNS cache clearing functionality to clear the caches of various DNS resolvers distributed across different locations.
  5. Communicate with Your ISP : If you’re experiencing slow DNS propagation, it can be helpful to contact your internet service provider and request them to clear their DNS cache manually. Some ISPs have longer caching periods, which can delay the propagation process. By requesting them to clear their cache, you can ensure that the updated DNS records are fetched promptly, reducing propagation time for your website.
  6. Monitor Propagation : Once you’ve made DNS changes, it’s essential to monitor the propagation progress. Utilize online DNS propagation checking tools that query DNS resolvers from different locations to determine the status of your DNS changes. These tools provide real-time information about how your DNS changes are propagating across the internet. Keep in mind that while some regions might reflect the updates quickly, others may take longer due to various factors like network latency or cached records.

Instant dns propagation…

Conclusion : While DNS propagation time is primarily influenced by factors outside your control, implementing the techniques outlined in this guide can help expedite the process. By minimizing TTL, planning ahead, using reliable DNS providers, clearing caches, communicating with your ISP, and monitoring propagation, you can reduce the time it takes for DNS changes to propagate, ensuring faster access to your website for users worldwide.

Is Your Domain Name Spam?

Domain Name Spam

I’ve always believed that SEO starts with a domain name, it is the first ingredient in driving traffic to your web site and making it successful.  Exact keyword domains have its advantages, having said that, abuse has its disadvantages. While I’m a fan of hyphenated domains as mentioned in a previous post: Are Hyphenated Domain Names Dead?, too much of this practice can be a deterrent to your web site.

Today, domain name spam is very a common practice which is frowned upon by web surfers and search engines. The general belief among SEO experts is a domain spam is flagged by search engines, resulting in the site not being indexed and possibly blacklisted. What are the basics in spam detection for a domain name? Here are a few good pointers.

  1. Long tailed domain names: visitors have a hard time spelling or remembering a domain with too many characters which may be intentionally overlooked in search results.
  2. Alternative extensions such as .info, .cc, and other cheap, easy to grab TLDs can have a negative effect at the way a site makes its first impression.
  3. The use of common, high-commercial value spam keywords in the domain name, i.e. poker, games, casino, drugs..
  4. Spam domains are more likely to contain multiple hyphens. General rule do not use more than one dash.
  5. They are less likely to have .com or .org extensions. Org and com are usually seen as trusted sites, but throw in the mix any of the above mentioned and you risk as being flagged as domain spam.
  6. Almost never have .mil, .edu or .gov extensions. These site are regulated and are considered highly trusted.

Unraveling the Mystery of Domain Name Spam

In the vast digital landscape of the internet, there exists an unpleasant phenomenon known as domain name spam. This relentless practice involves the dissemination of unsolicited and misleading communications to internet users, typically through email. Domain name spam can cause annoyance, waste precious time, and even pose security risks. In this article, we will delve into the world of domain name spam, exploring its characteristics, motives, and the steps individuals can take to protect themselves.

Understanding Domain Name Spam :

Domain name spam refers to the unsolicited emails that flood inboxes, often promoting various products, services, or fraudulent schemes. These emails typically contain misleading subject lines, enticing users to open them. Once opened, the messages may contain false claims, misleading information, or attempts to extract personal or financial data from recipients.

The primary goal of domain name spam is to drive traffic to specific websites, boost sales, or generate revenue through deceptive means. The senders may employ techniques like phishing, where they mimic legitimate organizations or brands, luring unsuspecting individuals into providing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, or social security numbers.

Characteristics of Domain Name Spam :

Domain name spam exhibits several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from legitimate email communication. Some common features include:

  1. Unwanted Solicitation: Domain name spam is unsolicited, meaning it arrives in your inbox without your consent or prior interaction with the sender.
  2. Deceptive Subject Lines: These emails employ attention-grabbing subject lines that often use sensational language or make false promises to entice users to open them.
  3. Poor Quality Content: Domain name spam messages frequently contain poorly written or nonsensical content, riddled with grammatical errors and excessive use of capital letters, symbols, or emojis.
  4. Impersonation: Spammers may impersonate well-known companies, banks, or government entities to deceive recipients into believing the emails are legitimate.
  5. Call-to-Action: Domain name spam often includes requests for immediate action, urging recipients to click on links, download attachments, or provide personal information.

Protecting Against Domain Spam :

To shield oneself from the nuisances and potential dangers of domain name spam, individuals can take the following proactive measures:

  1. Use Spam Filters: Enable spam filters in your email client or service to automatically divert and categorize potential spam emails.
  2. Be Cautious with Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information in response to unsolicited emails, especially those requesting financial or login details.
  3. Verify Sender Authenticity: Scrutinize sender email addresses, domain names, and look for signs of suspicious activity or impersonation.
  4. Exercise Caution with Links and Attachments: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or suspicious sources, as they may contain malware or lead to fraudulent websites.
  5. Unsubscribe and Report: Utilize the unsubscribe option available in legitimate marketing emails to reduce the volume of spam. Report persistent spammers to your email service provider.

Domain spam is an unfortunate byproduct of the digital age, targeting unsuspecting users with misleading and fraudulent emails. By understanding its characteristics and employing proactive measures, individuals can minimize the impact of domain name spam on their online experience. Remember to remain vigilant, verify sender authenticity, exercise caution with personal information, and leverage available tools to combat spam effectively. By doing so, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, free from the clutches of unwanted domain name spam.

Q2C Domain Name Branding – Your Business Memorable

Branding Domain Name

An effective branding plan online, starts with a great domain name. Unless you choose a good name for your company that will distinguish it, you cannot proceed with creating a brand. It is similar to a newborn child, who must first be named before he or she can create their unique identity. Only then can you proceed with succeeding methods that are aimed at creating your mark in your market and enabling business growth.

Unfortunately, creating a brand domain name for a company  is not as easy as naming a newborn child. Many factors come into play such as 1) creating a domain name with a good consumer recall  2) describing the product you have in your business, its features and usage 3) describes other benefits that consumers can experience from using it. These are just some aspects of what you need to consider when naming your domain name branding.

The other end, the formula requires you to envision yourself in the mindset of the customer or in this case visitor. How is the product useful to me? And what benefits can I get from using it? Add to that all other competing businesses that offer the same product as you do. These are all things you need consider if you want to get a share of the market and increase sales.

Do’s and Don’ts

  • Creating a business domain name can be confusing sometimes, usually for lack of creative ideas. Below are a few tips you should consider when naming a business domain:
  • Opt for memorable, catchy and generic names that will register well with consumers.
  • Consider using generic domains that literally describes the product with your branding.
  • Using geographical domains may limit the scope of your business. However, this is an advantage if your product or service is associated with a given locale.
  • Refrain from restrictive domain names where you may have trouble in the future in expanding your line of business.
  • Know that domain names with special characters such as hyphens and numbers are harder to describe to the customers over the phone or word of mouth.  It is perhaps one of the main reasons that you may accidentally send customers to your competitors if they have the same names without special characters.
  • Keep them short so as to produce functionality, it’s easier to type and remember than the long tailed domain.

Domain Names as Part of a Branding Strategy

A business domain name is not just a name; it represents your business identity.  And in the business community, the way you represent and project your image is crucial in determining success. This is because perceptions, more than the actual value of the product or services, is essential in helping consumers decide on whether to buy that product or not. On top of the brand itself, it makes association with the company and its reputation. That is why most of today’s businesses invest most of their efforts on building a trusted business reputation that will strengthen the trust of consumers on their company.

Your business domain name essentially determines how far your company will go in your internet endeavors. When people visit your online business, you have only a small amount of time to catch their attention. If you fail to do so, then you would have lost a potential customer. More than just intriguing, a good business domain name is one the compels your target market. If you can find one, then it will surely catapult your business to your desired commercial success.

A good business domain name is not just a superficial aspect involved in branding but rather a legitimate business factor that must be taken into serious consideration.

Domain Name News – Court Rules Thumbs Down: 2010 AOL Cannot Block Advertise.com

Domain Name

In the news today a U.S. federal appeals court unanimously ruled against AOL domain name Advertising.com TM lawsuit. Lifting a portion of a preliminary injunction placed back in January by AOL against Advertise.com. The three judge panel agreed with Advertise.com that AOL did not have the exclusive right to use the mark, but upheld the portion of where similar logos were used by Advertise.com.

Jonathan Stempel of Reuters / Yahoo : reported “The U.S. Ninth Circuit of Court in Appeals reversed a lower court ruling in AOL’s favor, accepting Advertise.com’s argument that the “Advertising.com” mark is generic enough not to warrant protection.”

The judge stated: “A mark is not descriptive merely because it conveys some minimal information about a product or service,” Judge Betty Fletcher wrote. “If all it describes is the common name of the product or service, it is not protectable as a trademark.”

This is good news for the domaining industry as it sets some standards on how generic terms can be used in domain names. This ruling makes it very clear that domains with TM generic terms used as it’s described and adding “.com” are too generic and have a slim chance of winning in a court of law.

Advertise.com is a well-known domain name in the realm of online advertising. Its history traces back to the early days of the internet when the concept of advertising on the World Wide Web was just beginning to emerge. The domain has played a significant role in the evolution of digital marketing, becoming synonymous with online advertising itself. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history of Advertise.com, exploring its origins, development, and impact on the advertising landscape.

The story of Advertise.com begins in the late 1990s, a time when the internet was rapidly expanding and transforming the way businesses operated. As companies started recognizing the potential of reaching a global audience through online platforms, the need for effective advertising solutions became apparent. It was during this period that Daniel Yomtobian, an entrepreneur with a keen eye for emerging trends, registered the domain name Advertise.com in 1997.

Yomtobian understood the power of a memorable and straightforward domain name that encapsulated the core purpose of the website. Advertise.com was instantly recognizable and conveyed its purpose explicitly—providing a platform for online advertising. The domain’s simplicity and clarity made it an ideal choice for companies looking to promote their products and services in the digital realm.

Advertise.com quickly gained recognition as a leading player in the online advertising industry. The website offered various advertising solutions, including display ads, contextual advertising, and search engine marketing. By leveraging the power of targeted advertising, Advertise.com enabled businesses to connect with their desired audiences more effectively.

As the internet continued to evolve, Advertise.com adapted its services to keep pace with the changing landscape. The company embraced emerging technologies and trends, such as programmatic advertising and mobile advertising, ensuring that its clients had access to the latest tools and strategies. This commitment to innovation allowed Advertise.com to remain a prominent player in the digital marketing industry.

Over the years, Advertise.com expanded its reach and established strategic partnerships with leading publishers and advertisers. The company’s network grew, allowing advertisers to tap into a vast pool of online inventory and reach a diverse range of audiences. This network effect further solidified Advertise.com’s position as a go-to platform for businesses seeking to maximize their online advertising efforts.

In addition to its services, Advertise.com also became a trusted source of industry insights and knowledge. The website offered educational resources, blog articles, and case studies, helping advertisers stay informed and make informed decisions. By sharing expertise and staying at the forefront of industry trends, Advertise.com cultivated a reputation as an authoritative voice in the realm of online advertising.

The impact of Advertise.com on the advertising landscape cannot be overstated. It has played a pivotal role in shaping the way businesses reach and engage with consumers online. The domain name itself has become synonymous with online advertising, representing a powerful brand that is instantly recognizable and trusted within the industry.

In conclusion, the history of Advertise.com is a testament to the transformative power of online advertising. From its humble beginnings in the late 1990s to its current status as a leading digital marketing platform, Advertise.com has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of businesses and advertisers. With its memorable domain name and innovative services, Advertise.com has left an indelible mark on the advertising industry, empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age.

10 Creative Marketing Ad Slogans used in a Domain Name

Ad Slogans

An advertising slogan is one of the basic concepts of marketing. Using ad slogans in a domain name to promote your product or services is another way of establishing brand recognition. Here are some examples..

“Breakfast of champions.” Wheaties 1935 – BreakfastOfChampions.com has a developed site, promoting their new product Fuel, with endorsements from sports figures like Hunter Kemper, Kevin Garnett, Peyton Manning, Albert Pujols and Bryan Clay.

“Got Milk?” Milk 1993 – GotMilk.com This site is promoting the Health Benefits of milk with Recipes, News & Events, Brand History and a link to online Stores.

“Snap! Crackle! Pop!“ Kellogg – SnapCracklePop.com Ad slogans has been used since 1932. Domain is forwarded to RiceKrispies.com where you can find Recipes and Fun Stuff.

“Think different.” Apple Macintosh 1998 slogan ad – ThinkDifferent.com another simple easy to do domain forwarding to the main site Apple.com, promoting the new iMac all-in-one ultimate display.

“We try harder.” Avis – WeTryHarder.com has been the ad slogans since 1962. This domain name is forwarding to Avis.com where visitors can make Reservations, find Locations and Deals for car rentals.

“Have it your way.” ad slogans Burger King 1973 – HaveItYourWay.com is used as a non profit organization. The “Have It Your Way Foundation” focuses on Scholarships, Grants, BK Family Fund and a Annual Giving Campaign.

“Save Money, Live Better” WalMart – SaveMoneyLiveBetter.com This new ad slogans showcases their TV spots and is separate from their main WalMart.com site.

“Keep Walking” Johnnie Walker – KeepWalking.com domain is forwarded to JohnnieWalker.com the web site describes their whisky Labels, their historical Heritage, also promoting the Blue Label and offering membership to the Striding Man Society.

“Always Coca Cola” Coca-Cola – AlwaysCocaCola.com this 1929 Ads slogan is simply forwarding to main Coca-Cola.com site, promoting their well known products.

“Feel Better” ad slogan from Tylenol – FeelBetter.com this domain ad slogan is a mirrored site of their main website, detailing information on their products.

Slogans: Amplifying Brand Connection

The Significance of Ad Slogans: Amplifying Brand Identity and Connecting with Consumers

 

Introduction:

In the realm of advertising, ad slogans hold a crucial role in capturing the essence of a brand’s message and establishing a lasting connection with consumers. Often concise and memorable, these short phrases act as powerful tools, capable of encapsulating the brand’s values, unique selling propositions, and overall identity. In this era of information overload and dwindling attention spans, ad slogans play a vital role in cutting through the noise and leaving a lasting impression. This article explores the importance of ad slogans in modern marketing and highlights their ability to amplify brand identity while forging strong bonds with consumers.

  1. Creating Brand Recognition and Recall:

Ad slogans act as a brand’s calling card, aiding in the creation of instant recognition and recall. They condense the brand’s essence into a few impactful words, making it easier for consumers to remember and identify the product or service in a crowded market. Memorable slogans, such as Nike’s “Just Do It” or Apple’s “Think Different,” have become deeply ingrained in popular culture and synonymous with their respective brands, leading to increased brand awareness and recall.

  1. Conveying Brand Values and Differentiation:

An effective ad slogan has the power to communicate a brand’s values and set it apart from the competition. By crafting a slogan that aligns with the brand’s core principles, marketers can establish an emotional connection with consumers. For example, Coca-Cola’s “Open Happiness” reflects the brand’s emphasis on joy and shared experiences, setting it apart from its competitors. Slogans allow brands to convey their unique selling propositions, highlighting what makes them special and why consumers should choose them over alternatives.

  1. Building Brand Loyalty and Trust:

Ad slogans contribute to the development of brand loyalty and trust. When a slogan resonates with consumers on a personal level, it creates an emotional bond that goes beyond mere transactions. Customers who feel connected to a brand’s message are more likely to develop loyalty and advocate for the brand. Slogans, such as McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It,” evoke a sense of familiarity, comfort, and trust, fostering enduring relationships between brands and consumers.

  1. Simplifying Complex Messages:

In a world inundated with information, ad slogans serve as powerful tools for simplifying complex messages. They distill a brand’s mission, features, and benefits into a concise and easily digestible format. By condensing information into a memorable slogan, brands can effectively communicate their value propositions to consumers, ensuring the message is not lost in a sea of advertising clutter.

  1. Enhancing Brand Consistency and Cohesion:

Ad slogans contribute to brand consistency and cohesion across various marketing channels. A well-crafted slogan serves as a unifying thread that ties together different campaigns, platforms, and mediums. It ensures that a brand’s messaging remains coherent and reinforces the desired brand image. Consistency in slogans reinforces brand recall and fosters consumer trust, as it demonstrates that the brand stands by its core values and promises.

  1. Stimulating Emotional Connections:

Ad slogans have the ability to evoke emotions and forge deep connections with consumers. When a slogan resonates with an individual’s values, aspirations, or experiences, it can trigger an emotional response, leading to a stronger affinity for the brand. Successful slogans tap into consumers’ desires, dreams, and aspirations, positioning the brand as a facilitator of their goals and aspirations.

Conclusion:

Ad slogans serve as indispensable tools in modern marketing, allowing brands to create instant recognition, convey their values, and build lasting connections with consumers. By encapsulating a brand’s essence in a few impactful words, slogans simplify complex messages, enhance brand consistency, and stimulate emotional connections. In a fiercely competitive marketplace, the importance of ad slogans cannot be overstated. They act as a beacon that cuts through the noise, capturing consumers’ attention and leaving a lasting impression.

Moreover, ad slogans play a significant role in brand positioning. A well-crafted slogan can position a brand as innovative, trustworthy, eco-friendly, or customer-centric, among other qualities. It shapes consumers’ perceptions of the brand and helps differentiate it from competitors. For example, FedEx’s slogan, “The World on Time,” reinforces the brand’s commitment to reliable and efficient delivery services, positioning them as a leader in the industry.

Furthermore, ad slogans serve as powerful marketing tools for product launches and promotional campaigns. They provide a concise and memorable way to introduce new products or highlight specific features and benefits. Catchy slogans can pique consumers’ curiosity and generate interest, leading to increased sales and market share. Consider the impact of Subway’s slogan, “Eat Fresh,” which not only emphasizes their commitment to using fresh ingredients but also resonates with health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious food options.

Ad slogans also have a lasting impact on brand identity and longevity. Over time, a well-established and recognized slogan becomes synonymous with the brand itself, becoming deeply ingrained in popular culture. As consumers consistently encounter the slogan across various touchpoints, it reinforces the brand’s identity and values, creating a sense of familiarity and trust. Iconic slogans like McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” or Volkswagen’s “Think Small” have endured for decades, transcending generations and solidifying the brands’ positions in consumers’ minds.

In today’s digital age, ad slogans have taken on new significance in social media and online advertising. Short and memorable slogans lend themselves well to shareability, allowing consumers to easily recall and spread the message across different platforms. Brands can leverage slogans as hashtags, creating a sense of community and encouraging user-generated content. This interplay between slogans and social media amplifies brand exposure, engagement, and reach, further highlighting the importance of these concise phrases in the modern marketing landscape.

However, it is important to note that crafting an effective ad slogan is a delicate art. It requires a deep understanding of the brand, its target audience, and the competitive landscape. A slogan must strike a delicate balance between brevity and impact, delivering a powerful message without being overly complicated or vague. It should be timeless, adaptable to evolving market trends, and reflective of the brand’s values and aspirations.

In conclusion, ad slogans play a pivotal role in modern marketing by capturing the essence of a brand’s message and establishing a strong connection with consumers. They create brand recognition, convey values, and differentiate the brand from competitors. Ad slogans simplify complex messages, enhance brand consistency, and stimulate emotional connections. In an era of information overload, ad slogans are essential tools for cutting through the clutter, leaving a lasting impression, and building enduring brand loyalty.

 

Are Hyphenated Domain Names Dead? N0.. Here’s Why

domain names

With the recent record breaking sale of a hyphenated domain names fetching top dollar, one would think that perhaps these names are not dead after all. For those  who own these domains, this is good news. The question is, how do we best use a hyphenated domains for development?

The down side of hyphenated domains has always been the obvious reasons ‘most people are not accustomed to using hyphenated domain names’ and ‘people simply forget to include the hyphen’. There’s also some belief that multiple hyphens, more than 3 in a domain is largely used by spammers and search engines may discriminate against it. While some of this is true, we really need to take a good look at the pros and cons.

Think out of the box – by using both hyphenated with non-hyphenated domains together, you can increase your marketing and SEO efforts. You simply redirect one to the other depending on what you would like to achieve.

SEO – the advantage of a keyword-rich hyphenated domain names is it has a greater chance of getting a good ranking from a search engine than a non-hyphenated domain. Similar to adding hyphens to a directory or file names making the search engines index it well. In certain specific cases, search engines will recognize hyphenated domain name better than non-hyphenated, i.e. expertsexchange.com vs experts-exchange.com. In this case you would probably want to use or redirect to the hyphenated. 

Marketing – a word can project many images. A domain name with a hyphen is understandable, users find it easier to read and quickly recognize it, having a certain stickiness to memory. These domains are great for a visual ads such as billboards, big screens or television. When used in this manner, you would forward the hyphenated to the non-hyphenated, making it easy for the end-user to type in.

Branding – one good example of a hyphenated domain names use is by Harley Davidson Motorcycles. If you type in the address bar HarleyDavidson.com, HarleyDavidsonMotorcycles.com or HarleyCycles.com, you get the hyphenated Harley-Davidson.com. Another example is tmobil.com, t-mobil.com or tmobile.com forwarded to t-mobile.com.

Now if you had to choose one over the other, between the two, the non-hyphenated is always best due to its inherited type in traffic, but in developing a site using both can have its advantages. So in choosing a domain name, stick to the basics keep it short, memorable and it may be worth while getting the hyphenated too.

Premium Characters in a Domain Name: Unleashing the Power of Distinction.. Easy as 123

Premium Characters

In the vast landscape of the internet, where millions of websites jostle for attention, standing out from the crowd is a daunting challenge. In this digital age, a domain name is not just a mere address; it has transformed into a powerful brand asset. Every element of a domain name plays a crucial role in capturing attention and leaving a lasting impression on users. One such element that holds tremendous potential is premium characters.

Premium characters refer to specific letters or numbers that are considered valuable due to their uniqueness, memorability, or aesthetic appeal. These characters can significantly enhance the impact and distinctiveness of a domain name, making it more engaging and enticing to potential visitors. Whether it’s a captivating letter, a memorable number, or a symbol with symbolic significance, premium characters can infuse a domain name with a touch of exclusivity and prestige.

The choice of premium characters can elevate a domain name to new heights, helping it transcend the ordinary and become a brand that resonates with users. Imagine stumbling upon a website with a domain name like “LuxeToys.com” or “4EverMemories.net.” The inclusion of the premium character “x” in the first example exudes a sense of luxury and elegance, immediately capturing attention. In the second example, the combination of the numeral “4” and the word “Ever” creates a sense of permanence and longevity, making it memorable and intriguing.

Premium characters can also lend a domain name a sense of credibility and professionalism. For instance, a law firm with a domain name like “ExpertLawyers.com” instantly establishes its authority and expertise. The word “Expert” in this example conveys a sense of trustworthiness, while the premium character “x” adds a touch of sophistication. This combination makes the domain name more memorable and creates a favorable impression on potential clients.

Moreover, premium characters can be an excellent tool for branding and marketing strategies. When used creatively, they can help build a unique identity and reinforce a brand’s message. Consider the domain name “TechXperts.com.” Here, the letter “X” not only gives the name a modern and tech-savvy vibe but also serves as a visual representation of expertise. This combination effectively communicates the brand’s core values, positioning it as a go-to resource for technology-related knowledge and solutions.

In addition to their visual impact, premium characters can also have a positive influence on search engine optimization (SEO). Search engines strive to deliver relevant and high-quality results to users. A domain name with premium characters can have an advantage in SEO, as these characters can make it more distinct and memorable. When users search for a particular keyword related to a premium character, a domain name incorporating that character is likely to stand out in the search results, increasing the chances of attracting organic traffic.

However, it is essential to strike a balance when using premium characters in a domain name. They should complement the brand’s image and purpose rather than appear forced or irrelevant. Careful consideration must be given to the target audience and the industry in which the brand operates. The chosen premium characters should align with the brand’s values and aspirations, ensuring a cohesive and authentic representation.

In conclusion, premium characters possess the power to transform a domain name from ordinary to extraordinary. By incorporating these unique and memorable elements, a domain name can capture attention, establish credibility, and enhance its brand value. Premium characters not only leave a lasting impression on users but also contribute to search engine optimization efforts. When used judiciously and creatively, these characters can be a valuable asset in crafting a distinctive online presence. In the ever-evolving digital landscape, where competition is fierce, premium characters can be the key that unlocks the door to success.

When choosing a name for branding it’s helpful to know the frequencies of the word, phrase, letters and numbers. Here are some compiled stats which can help in deciding your brand name for your website using premium characters.

Frequency are of English letters in a domain name.

E 12.51%
T 9.25
A 8.04
O 7.60
I 7.26
N 7.09
S 6.54
R 6.12
H 5.49
L 4.14
D 3.99
C 3.06
U 2.71
M 2.53
F 2.30
P 2.00
G 1.96
W 1.92
Y 1.73
B 1.54
V 0.99
K 0.67
X 0.19
J 0.16
Q 0.11
Z 0.09

The most common first letter in a word in order of frequency
T, O, A, W, B, C, D, S, F, M, R, H, I, Y, E, G, L, N, O, U, J, K

The most common second letter in a word in order of frequency
H, O, E, I, A, U, N, R, T

The most common third letter in a word in order of frequency
E, S, A, R, N, I

The most common last letter in a word in order of frequency
E, S, T, D, N, R, Y, F, L, O, G, H, A, K, M, P, U, W

More than half of all words end with
E ,T, D, S

Letters most likely to follow E in order of frequency
R,S,N,D

The most common digraphs on order of frequency
TH, HE, AN, IN, ER, ON, RE, ED, ND, HA, AT, EN, ES, OF, NT, EA, TI, TO, IO, LE, IS, OU, AR, AS, DE, RT, VE

The most common trigraphs in order of frequency
THE, AND, THA, ENT, ION, TIO, FOR, NDE, HAS, NCE, TIS, OFT, MEN

The most common double letters in order of frequency
SS, EE, TT, FF, LL, MM, OO

The most common two-letter words in order of frequency
of, to, in, it, is, be, as, at, so, we, he, by, or, on, do, if, me, my, up, an, go, no, us, am

The most common three-letter words in order of frequency
the, and, for, are, but, not, you, all, any, can, had, her, was, one, our, out, day, get, has, him, his, how, man, new, now, old, see, two, way, who, boy, did, its, let, put, say, she, too, use

The most common four-letter words in order of frequency
That, with, have, this, will, your, from, they, know, want, been, good, much, some, time, very, when, come, here, just, like, long, make, many, more, only, over, such, take, than, them, well, were

The most commonly used words in the English language in order of frequency
The, of, and, to, in, a, is, that, be, it, by, are, for, was, as, he, with, on, his, at, which, but, from, has, this, will, one, have, not, were, or, all, their, an, I, there, been, many, more, so, when, had, may, today, who, would, time, we, about, after, dollars, if, my, other, some, them, being, its, no, only, over, very, you, into, most, than, they, day, even, made, out, first, great, must, these, can, days, every, found, general, her, here, last, new, now, people, public, said, since, still, such, through, under, up, war, well, where, while, years, before, between, country, debts, good, him, interest, large, like, make, our, take, upon, what

Source: NamePros Premium Characters

—————————————————————————————————————-

Detail on statistical occurrences of letters in the English language.

Letter Percent
E 13
T 9
O 8
A 8
N 7
I 7
R 7
S 6
H 6
L 4
Letter Percent
D 4
C 3
U 3
P 3
F 3
M 2
W 2
Y 2
B 1
Letter Percent
G 1
V 1
K <1
Q <1
X <1
J <1
Z <1

So, in set of 100 letters of English text, on average 13 of them would be ‘E’, 9 would be ‘T’, and so on.

Sources: ETOAN Premium Characters

—————————————————————————————————————-

A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, L, M, N, O, P, R, S, T are considered premium letters. Other lesser high quality letters include: J, K, U, V, W. Lower quality letters include: Q, X, Y, Z.

premium letters in Chinese language: J, K, U, V, W, Q, X, Y, Z

1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9 are all considered premium numbers while 4, and 6 are not as nice and 0 is the worst possible.

Sources: DNforum Premium Characters

Trademark Infringement & Brand Protection 101- The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Trademark Infringement

Trademark and Brand Protection: Safeguarding Intellectual Property

In today’s competitive business landscape, trademarks and brands have become invaluable assets for companies around the world. A trademark represents the distinctive identity of a product or service, while a brand encompasses the overall perception and reputation built around that product or service. As such, it is crucial for businesses to understand the significance of trademark and brand protection in order to safeguard their intellectual property and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Brand protection is the legal mechanism that grants exclusive rights to the owner of a trademark, allowing them to use, license, and protect their brand identity from unauthorized use by others. By registering trademarks, businesses can prevent competitors from creating confusion in the marketplace and diluting their brand’s reputation. Trademarks can include words, logos, slogans, or even distinctive packaging designs that uniquely identify a particular company’s products or services.

One of the primary benefits of trade-mark registration is the ability to enforce exclusive rights. When a trademark is registered, it becomes a public record, notifying others of its existence and granting the owner the legal presumption of ownership. This means that if a dispute arises, the burden of proof lies with the alleged infringer to demonstrate that they are not violating the registered trademark. This significantly strengthens the position of the trademark owner and simplifies legal proceedings, should they need to take action against infringers.

Brand protection also extends beyond the national level. Through international agreements and treaties, such as the Madrid Protocol and the Paris Convention, businesses can seek trademark protection in multiple countries by filing a single application. This streamlines the process and provides global brand protection, allowing companies to expand their operations and establish a consistent brand presence worldwide.

In addition to trade-mark registration, brand protection encompasses various strategies and measures to safeguard a company’s reputation and intellectual property. These include:

  1. Monitoring and Enforcement: Regularly monitoring the market for any unauthorized use or infringement of the trademark is essential. Companies can employ specialized services or software to identify potential infringements and take appropriate legal action to enforce their rights.
  2. Brand Guidelines: Creating and disseminating brand guidelines ensures that employees, partners, and suppliers understand how to properly use and represent the brand. Clear guidelines help maintain brand consistency and prevent the dilution of the brand’s identity.
  3. Domain Name Protection: Registering and monitoring domain names relevant to the brand is crucial in preventing cybersquatting, where individuals register domain names similar to established brands with the intention of exploiting or selling them at a higher price.
  4. Intellectual Property Audits: Conducting periodic audits to assess the value and strength of a company’s intellectual property portfolio helps identify potential vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to mitigate risks.
  5. Counterfeit Protection: Counterfeit products not only harm a brand’s reputation but also pose significant safety risks to consumers. Implementing anti-counterfeiting measures, such as product authentication technologies, supply chain controls, and working with law enforcement agencies, helps combat the production and sale of counterfeit goods.
  6. Trademark Watch Services: Engaging professional trademark watch services enables businesses to receive timely notifications about potentially conflicting or infringing trademarks, allowing them to take appropriate actions to protect their brand.

Effective trademark and brand protection strategies are crucial for companies of all sizes. Not only do they help establish brand recognition and customer loyalty, but they also provide legal recourse in the event of infringement or unauthorized use. By investing in trademark registration, monitoring, and enforcement, businesses can safeguard their intellectual property and maintain a strong competitive advantage in the marketplace. Ultimately, a robust trademark and brand protection strategy helps preserve the uniqueness and integrity of a company’s products or services, fostering trust and differentiation in the minds of consumers.

Many people believe that just because a domain name registrar says a particular domain name is ‘available’ that it is for the taking.  This is not necessarily true.  Even if a domain name is physically available, it may not legally be open for use for your website development. Why? It’s because there might already be a company that has the rights to the phrase used within the domain name.

If someone claims the domain name anyway, they are at risk of losing it through a domain name arbitration proceeding.  They could even be charged with trademark/copyright infringement if things get really ugly.  For this reason it’s best to make sure the keywords used in a domain name aren’t protected for someone else.

Brand Protection

First, one needs to check and see if their chosen domain name resembles any existing trademark that is registered.  They will want to do this before actually investing any money in the domain name.  To search existing trademarks, you can visit the website of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office which is USPTO.gov.  From here you can search a database that contains current trademarks as well as those that are pending.

If a domain name is similar to a registered or pending trade-mark, you then need to evaluate whether the domain name is still worth taking.  Usually, if a site is not selling the same types of merchandise or services that the other business is selling and the trademark is not popular, a webmaster probably won’t get into legal trouble if they decide to go on and register the domain name.  To be completely sure, you can run the domain name by a trade-mark attorney.

Of course, if you would prefer zero percent risk, they can simply try to think of another domain name.  When they go about doing this, they need to be more generic and less creative in what they come up with.  Using search engine keywords for a domain name is one such strategy.  You can also look into using dictionary terms.  If all else fails they can take a generic term and combine it with a term that is less likely to be taken, such as their first and last name.

Either way, once a suitable domain name has been chosen, one should consider getting it trademarked themselves, especially if they are using it to help brand their business.  With an official trademark, you then have more legal power should another company try to take them to court.  And since there’s no shortage of domain name bullies, (companies that try to steal profitable domain names from smaller enterprises), you should use all legal avenues available to protect the rights of their business.

In conclusion, by checking whether or not a domain name has keywords that are part of a trademark, you lessen the risk that they will have legal problems in the future.  If there are problems, and a domain name arbitration proceeding does not rule in a webmaster’s favor, they can turn to The Domain Name Rights Coalition.

How do Spammers get my Email Address? Here’s 18 ways..

spammers

darn spammers got my email..

There are many ways in which spammers can get your email address.

The ones I know of are :

1. From posts to UseNet with your email address.
Spammers regularly scan UseNet for email address, using ready made programs designed to do so. Some programs just look at articles headers which contain email address (From:, Reply-To:, etc), while other programs check the articles’ bodies, starting with programs that look at signatures, through programs that take everything that contain a ‘@’ character and attempt to demunge munged email addresses.

There have been reports of spammers de-munging email addresses on occasions, ranging from de-munging a single address for purposes of revenge spamming to automatic methods that try to un-munge email addresses that were munged in some common ways.

As people who where spammed frequently report that spam frequency to their mailbox dropped sharply after a period in which they did not post to UseNet, as well as evidence to spammers’ chase after ‘fresh’ and ‘live’ addresses, this technique seems to be the primary source of email addresses for spammers.

2. From mailing lists.
Spammers regularly attempt to get the lists of subscribers to mailing lists [some mail servers will give those upon request], knowing that the email addresses are unmunged and that only a few of the addresses are invalid.

A different technique used by spammers is to request a mailing lists server to give him the list of all mailing lists it carries (an option implemented by some mailing list servers for the convenience of legitimate users), and then send the spam to the mailing list’s address, leaving the server to do the hard work of forwarding a copy to each subscribed email address.

I know spammers use this trick from bad experience – some spammer used this trick on the list server of the company for which I work, easily covering most of the employees, including employees working well under a month and who’s email addresses would be hard to find in other ways.]

3. From web pages.
Spammers have programs which spider through web pages, looking for email addresses, e.g. email addresses contained in mailto: HTML tags [those you can click on and get a mail window opened]

Some spammers even target their mail based on web pages. I’ve discovered a web page of mine appeared in Yahoo as some spammer harvested email addresses from each new page appearing in Yahoo and sent me a spam regarding that web page.

4. From various web and paper forms.
Some sites request various details via forms, e.g. guest books & registrations forms. Spammers can get email addresses from those either because the form becomes available on the world wide web, or because the site sells / gives the emails list to others.

Some companies would sell / give email lists filled in on paper forms, e.g. organizers of conventions would make a list of participants’ email addresses, and sell it when it’s no longer needed.

Domain name registration forms are a favourite as well – addresses are most usually correct and updated, and people read the emails sent to them expecting important messages.

5. Via an Ident daemon.
Many unix computers run a daemon (a program which runs in the background, initiated by the system administrator), intended to allow other computers to identify people who connect to them.

When a person surfs from such a computer connects to a web site or news server, the site or server can connect the person’s computer back and ask that daemon’s for the person’s email address.

Some chat clients on PCs behave similarily, so using IRC can cause an email address to be given out to spammers.

6. From a web browser.


Some sites use various tricks to extract a surfer’s email address from the web browser, sometimes without the surfer noticing it. Those techniques include :

1. Making the browser fetch one of the page’s images through an anonymous FTP connection to the site. Some browsers would give the email address the user has configured into the browser as the password for the anonymous FTP account. A surfer not aware of this technique will not notice that the email address has leaked.

2. Using JavaScript to make the browser send an email to a chosen email address with the email address configured into the browser. Some browsers would allow email to be sent when the mouse passes over some part of a page. Unless the browser is properly configured, no warning will be issued.

3. Using the HTTP_FROM header that browsers send to the server. Some browsers pass a header with your email address to every web server you visit. To check if your browser simply gives your email address to everybody this way.

7. From IRC and chat rooms.
Some IRC clients will give a user’s email address to anyone who cares to ask it. Many spammers harvest email addresses from IRC, knowing that those are ‘live’ addresses and send spam to those email addresses.

This method is used beside the annoying IRCbots that send messages interactively to IRC and chat rooms without attempting to recognize who is participating in the first place.

This is another major source of email addresses for spammers, especially as this is one of the first public activities newbies join, making it easy for spammers to harvest ‘fresh’ addresses of people who might have very little experience dealing with spam.

AOL chat rooms are the most popular of those – according to reports there’s a utility that can get the screen names of participants in AOL chat rooms. The utility is reported to be specialized for AOL due to two main reasons – AOL makes the list of the actively participating users’ screen names available and AOL users are considered prime targets by spammers due to the reputation of AOL as being the ISP of choice by newbies.

8. From finger daemons.
Some finger daemons are set to be very friendly – a finger query asking for john@host will produce list info including login names for all people named John on that host. A query for @host will produce a list of all currently logged-on users.

Spammers use this information to get extensive users list from hosts, and of active accounts – ones which are ‘live’ and will read their mail soon enough to be really attractive spam targets.

9. AOL profiles.
Spammers harvest AOL names from user profiles lists, as it allows them to ‘target’ their mailing lists. Also, AOL has a name being the choice ISP of newbies, who might not know how to recognize scams or know how to handle spam.

10. By guessing and cleaning.
Some spammers guess email addresses, send a test message (or a real spam) to a list which includes the guessed addresses. Then they wait for either an error message to return by email, indicating that the email address is correct, or for a confirmation. A confirmation could be solicited by inserting non-standard but commonly used mail headers requesting that the delivery system and/or mail client send a confirmation of delivery or reading. No news are, of course, good news for the spammer.

Guessing could be done based on the fact that email addresses are based on people’s names, usually in commonly used ways (first.last@domain or an initial of one name followed / preceded by the other @domain)

Also, some email addresses are standard – postmaster is mandated by the RFCs for internet mail. Other common email addresses are postmaster, hostmaster, root [for unix hosts], etc.

11. From white and yellow pages.
There are various sites that serve as white pages, sometimes named people finders web sites. Yellow pages now have an email directory on the web.

Spammers go through those directories in order to get email addresses. Most directories prohibit email address harvesting by spammers, but as those databases have a large databases of email addresses + names, it’s a tempting target for spammers.

12. From a previous owner of the email address.
An email address might have been owned by someone else, who disposed of it. This might happen with dial-up usernames at ISPs – somebody signs up for an ISP, has his/her email address harvested by spammers, and cancel the account. When somebody else signs up with the same ISP with the same username, spammers already know of it.

Similar things can happen with AOL screen names – somebody uses a screen name, gets tired of it, releases it. Later on somebody else might take the same screen name.

As spammers not caring too much for invalid addresses, and with lists of email addresses burned on CDs and sold, this scenario is probable.

Learn HTML 101

learning HTML

learn html

This page is dedicated to helping people learn HTML and write their own homepages for the world wide web. Through it you can access most of the tools and tricks you need to get going. Please note that this page is done on a volunteer basis (thanks for all those correcting my spelling which stinks!). Unfortunately I can’t devote as much time to it as I would like. If you notice a link has changed, please let me know. HTML or Hypertext Markup Language is used to create webpages for websites on the World Wide Web. Once you have seen a bit of what is out there you may want to contribute a page of your own. HTML is a relatively simple language that utilizes elements, such as TAGS to create the desired features of the page.

TAGS are used to translate the text so that a viewer can understand what to display. A viewer (a.k.a. browser) can be Netscape, Mosaic, Cello, or whatever you use to view the World Wide Web. Many HTML programs are available and they often include pre-written tags in the form of radio buttons. Below you will find links to various HTML editors. Tags are also used to link various pages together. Each time you click on the blue (in Netscape) text of a page a tag is called upon to address and link to another place. Tags are the basis for the HTML language are fairly easy to understand.

There are many sites that offer good introductions to HTML, they can be found on search engines. Here is a very basic HTML program to give you a better idea of the language:

<HTML>
<HEAD>
<TITLE> Sample HTML Page </TITLE>
</HEAD>
<BODY>
<H1> This is a simple page written in HTML </H1>
<HR>
This would be your first paragraph of text.
<P>
This would be your second.
</BODY>
</HTML>

 this is what it looks like..

This is a simple page written in HTML

This would be your first paragraph of text.

This would be your second.

As you can see, HTML is not that difficult. There are of course things in HTML that take a bit longer to learn. These include forms and imagemaps, but you don’t need to know them to get started. The sites listed below offer more indepth coverage of HTML and all its aspects. Always remember that HTML is an evolving language (the 3.0 standard is being worked out now) and that different viewers can interpret HTML a bit differently.

HTML reference

The HyperText Markup Language (HTML) is composed of a set of elements that define a document and guide its display. This document presents a concise reference guide to HTML, listing the most commonly used elements from Versions 1 and 2 of HTML, and giving a brief description of those elements.

Users should be aware that HTML is an evolving language, and different World-Wide Web browsers may recognize slightly different sets of HTML elements.

Introduction

An HTML element may include a name, some attributes and some text or hypertext, and will appear in an HTML document as

<tag_name> text </tag_name>
<tag_name attribute_name=argument>
text </tag_name>, or just
<tag_name>

For example:

<title> My Useful Document </title>

and

<a href="argument"> text </a>

An HTML document is composed of a single element:

<html> . . . </html>

that is, in turn, composed of head and body elements:

<head> . . . </head>

and

<body> . . . </body>

To allow older HTML documents to remain readable, <html>, <head>, and <body> are actually optional within HTML documents.

Elements usually placed in the head element

<isindex>
Specifies that the current document describes a database that can be searched using the index search method appropriate for whatever client is being used to read the document. For example, a Lynx user will use the “s” keyboard command.
<title> . . . </title>
Specify a document title. Note that the title will not appear on the document as is customary on printed documents. It will usually appear in a window bar identifying the contents of the window. HTML header tags perform the functions usually reserved for titles.
<base href="URL">
Specify the name of the file relative to which partially qualified pathnames in URLs should be interpreted. If not otherwise specified the URL containing the document being displayed is used as the base.
<link rev="RELATIONSHIP" rel="RELATIONSHIP" href="URL">
The link tag allows you to define relationships between the document containing the link tag and the document specified in the “URL”. The rel attribute specifies the relationship between the HTML file and the Uniform Resource Locator (URL). The rev attribute (for “reverse”) specifies the relationship between the URL and the HTML file. For example, <link rev="made" href="URL"> indicates that the file maker or owner is described in the document identified by the URL. (Note that link tags are not displayed on the screen as part of the document. They define static relationships, not hypertext links.)

Elements usually placed in the body element

The following sections describe elements that can be used in the body of the document.

 

Text Elements

<p>
The end of a paragraph that will be formatted before it is displayed on the screen.
<pre> . . . </pre>
Identifies text that has already been formatted (preformatted) by some other system and must be displayed as is. Preformatted text may include embedded tags, but not all tag types are permitted. The <pre> tag can be used to include tables in documents.
<listing> . . . </listing>
Example computer listing; embedded tags will be ignored, but embedded tabs will work. This is an archaic tag.
<xmp> . . . </xmp>
Similar to <pre> except no embedded tags will be recognized.
<plaintext>
Similar to <pre> except no embedded tags will be recognized, and since there is no end tag, the remainder of the document will be rendered as plain text. This is an archaic tag. Note that some browsers actually recognize a </plaintext> tag, even though it is not defined by the standard.
<blockquote> . . . </blockquote>
Include a section of text quoted from some other source.

Hyperlinks or Anchors

<a name="anchor_name"> . . . </a>
Define a target location in a document
<a href="#anchor_name"> . . . </a>
Link to a location in the base document, which is the document containing the anchor tag itself, unless a base tag has been specified.
<a href="URL"> . . . </a>
Link to another file or resource
<a href="URL#anchor_name"> . . . </a>
Link to a target location in another document
<a href="URL?search_word+search_word"> . . . </a>
Send a search string to a server. Different servers may interpret the search string differently. In the case of word-oriented search engines, multiple search words might be specified by separating individual words with a plus sign (+).

An anchor must include a name or href attribute, and may include both. There are several optional attributes, but they are rarely encountered.

The structure of a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) may be expressed as:

resource_type:additional_information

where the possible resource types include: file, http, news, gopher, telnet, ftp, and wais, among others, and each resource type relates to a specific server type. Since each server performs a unique function, each resource type requires different additional_information. For example http and gopher URLs will have a structure like:

resource_type://host.domain:port/pathname

The colon followed by an integer TCP port number is optional, and is used when a server is listening on a non-standard port.

Strictly speaking, the anchor_name
 and search_word information included in the name and href attributes in the examples above are part of the URL. They are presented as separate entities for simplicity. A more complete description of URLs is presented in http://www.w3.org/hypertext/WWW/Addressing/Addressing.html

Headers

<h1> . . . </h1> Most prominent header
<h2> . . . </h2>
<h3> . . . </h3>
<h4> . . . </h4>
<h5> . . . </h5>
<h6> . . . </h6> Least prominent header

Logical Styles

<em> . . . </em>
Emphasis
<strong> . . . </strong>
Stronger emphasis
<code> . . . </code>
Display an HTML directive
<samp> . . . </samp>
Include sample output
<kbd> . . . </kbd>
Display a keyboard key
<var> . . . </var>
Define a variable
<dfn> . . . </dfn>
Display a definition (not widely supported)
<cite> . . . </cite>
Display a citation

Physical Styles

<b> . . . </b>
Boldface
<i> . . . </i>
Italics
<u> . . . </u>
Underline
<tt> . . . </tt>
Typewriter font

Definition list/glossary: <dl>

<dl>
<dt> First term to be defined
<dd> Definition of first term
<dt> Next term to be defined
<dd> Next definition
</dl>

The <dl> attribute compact can be used to generate a definition list requiring less space.

 

Present an unordered list: <ul>

<ul>
<li> First item in the list
<li> Next item in the list
</ul>

Present an ordered list: <ol>

<ol>
<li> First item in the list
<li> Next item in the list
</ol>

Present an interactive menu: <menu>

<menu>
<li> First item in the menu
<li> Next item
</menu>

Present a directory list of items: <dir>

<dir>
<li> First item in the list
<li> Second item in the list
<li> Next item in the list
</dir>

Items should be less than 20 characters long.

 

Entities

&keyword;
Display a particular character identified by a special keyword. For example the entity &amp; specifies the ampersand ( & ), and the entity &lt; specifies the less than ( < ) character. Note that the semicolon following the keyword is required, and the keyword must be one from the lists presented in:
http://www.w3.org/pub/WWW/MarkUp/html-spec/html-spec_9.html#SEC9.7
&#ascii_equivalent;
Use a character literally. Again note that the semicolon following the ASCII numeric value is required.

HTML Forms Interface

The HTML forms interface allows document creators to define HTML documents containing forms to be filled out by users. When a user fills out the form and presses a button indicating the form should be “submitted,” the information on the form is sent to a server for processing. The server will usually prepare an HTML document using the information supplied by the user and return it to the client for display.

The following tags implement the forms interface:

  • <form> . . . </form>
  • <input>
  • <select> . . . </select>
  • <option>
  • <textarea> . . . </textarea>

The last four tags can only be used within a <form> . . . </form> element.

Define a form

<form> . . . </form>

Defines a form within an HTML document. A document may contain multiple <form> elements, but <form> elements may not be nested. Note that non-form tags can be used within a <form> element. Attributes and their arguments:

action="URL":
The location of the program that will process the form.
method=data_exchange method
The method chosen to exchange data between the client and the program started to process the form: One of get or post. post is preferred for most applications.
Example:
<form action="http://www.cc.ukans.edu/cgi-bin/register" method=post> . . . </form>

 

Define an input field

<input> (there is no ending tag)

Defines an input field where the user may enter information on the form. Each input field assigns a value to a variable which has a specified name and a specified data type. Attributes and their arguments:

type="variable_type"
Specifies the data type for the variable, where:

  • type="text" and type="password" fields accept character data
  • type="checkbox" fields are either selected or not
  • type="radio" fields of the same name allow selection of only one of the associated values
  • type="submit" defines an action button that sends the completed form to the query server
  • type="reset" defines a button that resets the form variables to their default values
  • type="hidden" defines an invisible input field whose value will be sent along with the other form values when the form is submitted. This is used to pass state information from one script or form to another.
  • type="image"defines an image map within a form and returns the coordinates of a mouse click within the image.
name="textstring"
where textstring is a symbolic name (not displayed) identifying the input variable as in:
<input type="checkbox" name="box1">
value="textstring"
where the meaning of textstring depends on the argument for type.

  • For type="text" or type="password", textstring is the default value for the input variable. Password values will not be shown on the user’s form. Anything entered by the user will replace any default value defined with this attribute.
  • If type="checkbox" or type="radio", textstring is the value that will be sent to the server if the checkbox is “checked”.
  • For type="reset" or type="submit", textstring is a label that will appear on the submit or reset button in place of the words “submit” and “reset“.
checked
No arguments. For type="checkbox" or type="radio", if checked is present the input field is “checked” by default.
size="display_width"
where display_width is an integer value representing the number of characters displayed for the type="text" or type="password" input field.
maxlength="string_length"
where string_length is the maximum number of characters allowed within type="text" or type="password" variable values. This attribute is only valid for single line "text" or "password" fields.

Define a select field

<select> . . . </select>

Defines and displays a set of optional list items from which the user can select one or more items. This element requires an <option> element for each item in the list. Attributes and their arguments:

name="textstring"
where textstring is the symbolic identifier for the select field variable.
size="list_length"
where list_length is an integer value representing the number of <option> items that will be displayed at one time.
multiple
No arguments. If present, the multiple attribute allows selection of more than one <option> value.

Define a select field option

<option>

Within the <select> element the <option> tags are used to define the possible values for the select field. If the attribute selected is present then the option value is selected by default. In the following example all three options may be chosen but bananas are selected by default.

<select multiple>
<option>Apples
<option selected>Bananas
<option>Cherries
</select>

 

Define a text area

<textarea> . . . default text . . . </textarea>

Defines a rectangular field where the user may enter text data. If “default text” is present it will be displayed when the field appears. Otherwise the field will be blank. Attributes and their values:

name="textstring"
textstring is a symbolic name that identifies the <textarea> variable.
rows="num_rows" and cols="numcols"
Both attributes take an integer value which represents the lines and number of characters per line in the <textarea> to be displayed.

Miscellaneous

<!-- text -->
Place a comment in the HTML source
<address> . . . </address>
Present address information
<img src="URL" alt="Alternate Text">
Embed a graphic image in the document. Attributes:

src
Specifies the location of the image.
alt
Allows a text string to be put in place of the image in clients that cannot display images.
align
Specify a relationship to surrounding text. The argument for align can be one of top, middle, or bottom.
ismap
If ismap is present and the image tag is within an anchor, the image will become a “clickable image”. The pixel coordinates of the cursor will be appended to the URL specified in the anchor if the user clicks within the ismap image. The resulting URL will take the form “URL?m,n” where m and n are integer coordinates, and the URL will specify the location of a program that will examine the pixel coordinates, and return an appropriate document.
<br>
Forces a line break immediately and retains the same style.
<hr>
Places a horizontal rule or separator between sections of text.

BACKGROUNDS & COLORS

The simplest, yet possibly most effective spice to add to a page is a nice background. I very rarely write a page using simple web-page gray as the background color.

How to do it
<BODY BACKGROUND="filename"> is all you need.. It’s nice to also add an ending </BODY> at the end of the file, as well.

<BODY BGCOLOR="#RRGGBB"> allows you to set the color of the background to something specific.

<BODY TEXT="#RRGGBB"> sets the color of all normal text within the document.

<BODY LINK="#RRGGBB" VLINK="#RRGGBB" ALINK="#RRGGBB"> sets the color of all other text in the document. LINK is just a regular, never before visited link, VLINK is a previously viewed link, and ALINK is an active link (“The color when you click on it”). Any or all of these three options can be omitted, of course.

RR, GG, and BB are two-digit hex numbers (00-FF) representing the amount of red, green, and blue in a particular color. Since it would be too difficult to have a good defined list of color names, hex numbers are used as well, so you get to invent your own colors. “#FFFFFF” represents white and “#000000” is black.

Can’t get background colors working?

If you can’t get the background color working, make sure you’re following “The Background Rule.” This rule states that your page must have the following format or backgrounds may not work:

<HTML>
<HEAD>
<TITLE>My Title</TITLE>
Any other heading information goes here
</HEAD>
<BODY (and background/bgcolor info if you wish)>
The document body goes here...
</BODY>
</HTML>

As long as all of those tags are in the right place, you’ll be fine.

THE BARE BONES GUIDE TO HTML

Thanks for visiting.

learn html

How to Tip – 101

how to tip

The following list suggests what are generally considered to be adequate amounts on how to tip various people for services rendered.

It should be kept in mind that tips are a way of expressing satisfaction.

Larger tips should be left for those who provide extraordinarily good service; smaller tips or no tip at all should be left when service is poor.

This table is by no means a RULE. Use your own judgment when you think amounts should be adjusted.

Again, these are just suggestions.

 

Location Person Amount
Airport skycaps $1 or more per bag
in-flight personnel none
Wheelchair $3 to $5 unless the person goes out of their way or the trip is unusually long; in that case be more generous
Electric Cart Transport $1 to $2 depending on how nice the driver is
Barbershop hair cutter 15% of the cost, generally a 
minimum of $1. If you do not 
get your hair cut often, then 
$5 is suggested 
owner none
person who shampoos or
washes hair		 $1 to $2
Beauty Shop/ Hair Salon one operator 15% of bill
several operators 10% of bill to person who 
sets hair; 10% divided 
among others
manicurist $1 or more, depending on 
cost
owner none unless he / she is doing
your hair, then follow above rules
person who shampoos or
washes hair		 $1 to $2
Buffet Style Restaurant Waiter / Waitress 5% to 10% of the total bill is suggested. This depends heavily on exactly how much work is done by the waitstaff. In some restaurants, the waitstaff does very little. Usually is simply bringing fresh linen and/or utensils. In some other restaurants, the staff brings drinks, and some orders from the kitchen directly.
                                          
Casino    A “check” is a chip Blackjack Dealer $5 Check (or more) per session. Also it is common to place a bet beside yours for the dealer. This side bet can be as large as 10%
of  your bet but usually is a $1 check.
Craps Dealer Craps Dealers like to be part of the action with you! It is common to place as much as 10%
($1 Check is common) beside your bet whether betting pass line, Don’t Pass, Place bet or Prop box. Craps Dealers are usually only allowed to
let a “Prop” box bet ride one time (if it hits)
before they have to take it down. The
designation for these “dealer” bets is called “Betting for the Boys”. “$1 ‘Yo for the boys!”
Drink Waiter/Waitress $1 Check (or more) per drink
Poker Dealers $5 (cash or check) per session,
win or lose. Winners should tip at least $10 (cash or check) but 10% or more is not uncommon.
Roulette Dealers $5 Check (or more) per session
Slot Machine Changer $1 Check or more per change
serve
Cruise Ship cabin steward $3.00 to $3.50 per day per person
waiter $3.00 per day per person
bus boy $1.50 per day per person
maitre d’ your choice, extra for special 
occasions like birthdays
cabin boy, 
bath steward, 		 5% to 7 1/2% % of total 
fare divided among them, 
paid at the end of each 
week
bar steward, 
wine steward 		 15% tip added to bill 
automatically
massage therapist Please refer to Personal Services
automatically
Deliveries Pizza
Andy’s Rant Pages
more info		 $1-$2 if short distance 
$2-$3 for longer distances 
$5 or more for large deliveries
Furniture / Appliances 
Large Delivery of 
any kind (e.g. exercise 
equipment, air conditioner, 
refrigerator, etc.)		 $5-$10 per person minimum. 
If delivery is large, heavy or 
difficult, or requires assembly, 
a larger tip is suggested, 
perhaps $20 per person.
Flowers $2-$5 for flowers
$5-$10 if it is a large plant or for heavy
or large deliveries
Disc Jockey (DJ) Dance Club The general rule of thumb is a dollar
to hear a song.  If the person wants it IMMEDIATELY, (if not sooner), the
general rule is from $5.00 to $10.00. (In a “Dance Club” atmosphere, since
a bad or strange request can clear a dance floor, the person has to make it
worth the D.J.’s effort for doing this no-no)
 
Food Delivery Service Driver / Delivery Person No to be confused with a regular delivery person such as for Pizza or Chinese food. This is for people who deliver food for a restaurant and usually deliver large orders such as entire meals. Sometimes this might involve a number of different restaurants. A tip of 15% to 20% is suggested depending on the size of the order and the distance traveled.
Holiday How to Tip Guidelines
Apartment Building Staff Custodian $20 – $30
Doormen $25 – $100 each. Depends on how fancy the building. Take into consideration how nice they are to you. If you get lot’s of visitors or lots of deliveries. If they have actually opened the door for you always. To maintain this level of quality service, you have to pay for it. So just do it.
Handymen $20 – $30 each
Superintendent $30 – $100 Depends on the type building and how the super has been with you through the year.
Health Club or Spa Locker Room Attendant(s) $5 – $10
Trainer(s) $50 more or less depending on how much personal attention you get
Others – how to tip
 Baby Sitter two nights pay or more, maybe a gift as well
Beauty Salon the cost of a regular session plus a gift. No less than $5 per staffer. Depends of course on the setup of the place and how much work you regularly get done.
Cleaning Person a weeks pay or more
Day Care Service $15 – $25 and a gift
Garbage Collector(s) $15 – $20 each
Mail Carrier As with any civil servant, government agencies prohibit employees from receiving money as a gift or gratuity. The U.S. Postal Service is no exception, but they do allow people to be nice during the holidays and they accept the fact that it happens. The USPS asks that gratuities have a cash value no more than $20 and a letter of appreciation to the supervisor.
Newspaper Delivery Person  Daily delivery $15 – $25
Weekend Delivery only $5 – $15
Parking Attendant(s) If you care enough about your car, tip generously to each and every attendant individually. As a rule, you can give each attendant $10 to $20 dollars each. If you have unusual times when you bring your car in or take it out, or if you like to have your car ready when you get there, or any other service where they go out of the way for you, a half month’s rate divided amongst the attendants is considered good practice. If you don’t care much about your car park it in the street. 
Hotel chambermaid $5 a night minimum. More 
if long stays (over a week) 
Consider $7 to $9 a night.
room service waiter 15% of bill
bellhop  $10 for bringing 
you to your room with 
luggage; $5 dollars for 
opening and showing the 
room
lobby attendant none for opening door 
or calling taxi from 
stand; $1 dollar or more 
for help with luggage or 
finding a taxi on the 
street
desk clerk none unless special service is 
given during long stay; 
then, $5
concierge $5-$10 Average. More for 
special services or favors
Limousine driver 20% of the bill
 
Motor Coach Operator and Tour Guide(s) Driver $1 to $2 per person per day. 
Tour Guide $1 to $2 per person per day.
Parking garage  parking attendant  $1. 
If attendant helps 
with luggage/packages 
$5 is customary. If attendant 
has to go a great 
distance to get your car 
$2 or more is suggested 
Pet Related Services Dog Groomer 15% of the bill. No less than $2
per dog
Personal Services
Massage Therapist
rate suggested by massage
therapist Cathy Forbes		 Typically, for a one hour massage ($50 range) a tip of 10% is acceptable. This can be adjusted following the guidelines for a full service fine restaurant. A 20% tip for a good massage is not uncommon
Restaurant (it is customary to calculate the tip on the total bill, including the tax)  waiter or waitress  15% of bill. 20% If it is 
a 4 star + restaurant or 
for large parties.
headwaiter/

maitre d’

 none, unless 
special services 
are provided; 
then, about $5
owner none
wine steward 15% of wine bill
bartender 10-15% of bar bill
busboy none
servers at counter 15% of bill
coat check attendant $1 for one or two coats
rest room attendant 50 cents
car park attendant $1
Sports arena  usher  50 cents to $1 per party
if shown to your seat
Taxi driver 15% of fare, no less than 
25 cents
Train  Dining car waiter 15% of bill
stewards/bar car waiters  15% of bar bill
redcaps posted rate plus 50 cents

 

e-mail.. A 123 Guide for Writing a Winning Electronic Mail

e-mail

Never put anything in e-mail that you wouldn’t want to become public knowledge. You can’t trust e-mail’s security and therefore you shouldn’t use it when security is an issue.

Make sure that your email message isn’t abusive, harassing, threatening, or bigoted. A good rule to follow is if a recipient complains about the e-mail you are sending, STOP. E-mail can be traced to its originating machine. If there are complaints about your behavior you could lose your account.

Do not send “junk” email. This is very poor netiquette and your account may be terminated for this offense. If someone didn’t ask for the information that you have, don’t send it.

Be careful how you word your messages. When you discuss things with someone in person, that person can judge what you are saying by your body language and facial expressions. With e-mail you don’t have these visual cues and thus your message could be misunderstood. This is why smileys came into being :-).

Use mixed case. If you use all upper case it sounds harsh, like shouting. USE UPPERCASE FOR EMPHASIS ONLY!

Don’t use special features of your terminal such as bold, italics, etc. These frequently send a string of control characters, which wreak havoc on some terminals.

Read your message before you send it and decide if you’ll regret it in the morning. Always remember once you send it, you can’t get it back.

E-mail is easily forwarded to someone else. Although this is convenient, it is not always appropriate. If you are unsure, ask the sender before you forward a message.

E-mail replies may go to more people than you realize. When replying to a message, be sure to look at the list of recipients.

E-mail takes up computer space, so delete messages you no longer need.

If you only read a few messages a day you will probably remember them for a few days. but people who receive dozens of messages need reminders. Use the forward message option and include the relevant portions of the text to help clue them in to the context of previous messages.

10 Basic Rules in Writing a Winning Email

In today’s fast-paced digital world, email has become the primary mode of communication for both personal and professional purposes. Whether you’re applying for a job, reaching out to a potential client, or simply networking, crafting a winning email is crucial to ensure your message is heard and well received. Here are some essential tips to help you write a winning email that grabs attention and gets results.

  1. Start with a Strong Subject Line: The subject line is the first thing recipients see, so make it compelling and concise. It should summarize the purpose of your email and entice the recipient to open it. Use action words and keep it short, ideally under 50 characters.
  2. Personalize your Greeting: Address the recipient by name and tailor your greeting based on your relationship with them. A personalized greeting shows that you’ve taken the time to do your research and establishes a connection right from the start.
  3. Keep it Concise and Clear: Busy professionals receive countless emails daily, so it’s essential to get to the point quickly. Keep your email concise and avoid unnecessary details. Use short paragraphs and bullet points to make it easier to read and scan.
  4. Clearly State your Purpose: State your purpose or request upfront in a clear and direct manner. Be specific and avoid ambiguity. Make it easy for the recipient to understand what you want or what action they need to take.
  5. Highlight the Benefits: If you’re making a proposal or requesting something, highlight the benefits for the recipient. Explain how your proposal can solve their problem or improve their situation. Focus on the value you can provide to capture their interest.
  6. Be Professional and Polite: Maintain a professional tone throughout your email. Use proper grammar and spelling, and avoid using slang or informal language. Show respect and politeness, even if you’re addressing a complaint or disagreement. A courteous tone goes a long way in building relationships.
  7. Provide Relevant Context: If necessary, provide some background information or context to help the recipient understand the purpose of your email. However, be mindful of keeping it concise and relevant. Avoid overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.
  8. Use a Call to Action: Clearly state what you want the recipient to do or how you expect them to respond. Use a call to action to guide them and make it as easy as possible for them to take the desired action. Be specific about timelines and any necessary steps they need to follow.
  9. Proofread and Edit: Before hitting the send button, proofread your email for any grammatical or spelling errors. Read it aloud to ensure it flows smoothly and sounds professional. Double-check all the details, including attachments and links, to avoid any mistakes.
  10. Follow Up: If you don’t receive a response within a reasonable time frame, it’s okay to follow up politely. Sometimes emails get lost or overlooked, so a gentle reminder can be helpful. However, avoid being pushy or impatient.
  11. Use a Professional Signature: Include a professional signature at the end of your email. Include your name, job title, contact information, and any relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile. A well-crafted signature adds credibility and makes it easier for the recipient to get in touch with you.

Remember, writing a winning email is not just about the content but also the overall impression it creates. Be respectful, genuine, and concise in your communication. By following these tips, you can increase the chances of getting your message noticed, understood, and acted upon.

FTP (file transfer protocol) 101 – Still Going Strong

FTP

Many computers on the Internet support FTP (file transfer protocol) access.

It is a simple way to interactively exchange files between computers. The FTP program is designed specifically to simplify file access between network computers. You may move from directory to directory on a remote computer, examine the contents of its individual directories, transfer files from the remote computer to your computer, and put files from your local computer onto the remote computer.

It is extremely useful for transmitting data rapidly between sites that are working jointly on projects. Using File Transfer Protocol eliminates many of the usual considerations including the following:

  • Both computers aren’t required to use the same types of floppy disks or tapes to transfer files.
  • You can transmit large files as is, you don’t have to break up a file into several smaller files because the larger file won’t fit on a single floppy disk or mail messages.
  • You can File Transfer Protocol to a computer where you have your own account and password, or, some systems allow anonymous file transfer protocol. Many facilities have information they allow people without accounts on their computers to access. These common types of connections are called anonymous File Transfer Protocol. This means when you are logging on to a remote computer you simply enter anonymous as the user name. The system gives you instructions for entering an appropriate password. Often you are asked to enter your e-mail address for the password.

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol, is a widely used network protocol that enables the efficient and reliable transfer of files between computers on a network.

Developed in the early 1970s, FTP program has become one of the fundamental protocols for file transfer and has played a significant role in the development of the internet.

At its core, FTP is a client-server protocol, meaning it relies on two main components: the FTP client and the FTP server. The client is responsible for initiating the file transfer request, while the server manages the storage and retrieval of files. FTP sites operate on the application layer of the TCP/IP protocol suite, using TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) for reliable data transfer.

ftp protocol

How do I run FTP?

File Transfer Protocol employs a simple command-response model, where the client sends commands to the server, and the server responds with status codes and messages. The commands used in FTP encompass a wide range of functionalities, including file navigation, directory listing, file uploads, downloads, and more. Some common FTP commands include “USER” for specifying the username, “PASS” for entering the password, “LIST” for retrieving a directory listing, “GET” for downloading a file, and “PUT” for uploading a file.

One of the key features of FTP is its support for two different modes of operation: the active mode and the passive mode. In the active mode, the client specifies a port for the server to connect to, establishing a direct connection. On the other hand, in the passive mode, the server provides the client with an IP address and port number, and the client initiates the connection. The passive mode is particularly useful in situations where the client resides behind a firewall or a Network Address Translation (NAT) device.

What is difference between FTP and SFTP?

Security in FTP is a significant concern, as the protocol was initially designed without encryption mechanisms. However, several extensions and variations of File Transfer Protocol have been developed to address this issue. FTP Secure (FTPS) and FTP over SSH (SFTP) are two popular secure alternatives to the standard FTP Protocol. FTPS adds support for SSL/TLS encryption, while SFTP uses the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol for secure file transfers.

ftp protocol

Despite the emergence of more secure protocols, FTP remains widely used due to its simplicity and wide support in various operating systems and network devices. It is commonly employed for tasks such as website maintenance, software distribution, and data backup. Many web hosting providers and content management systems also offer File Transfer Protocol access to allow users to manage their files remotely.

In recent years, advancements in technology have led to the development of alternative file transfer methods, such as cloud storage and peer-to-peer sharing. However, FTP continues to be a popular choice in situations where reliability, performance, and control are critical. Its versatility and compatibility make it an essential tool for system administrators, developers, and individuals seeking a straightforward and efficient way to transfer files.

In conclusion, FTP is a foundational protocol for file transfer on computer networks. Its client-server architecture, command-response model, and support for different modes of operation make it a versatile and widely adopted solution. While security concerns have prompted the development of more secure alternatives..

FTP-program remains relevant and valuable for a range of applications, serving as a reliable and efficient method for transferring files over networks.

USENET News – 1st Fast and Free

USENET News

USENET (short for users’ network) is not actually a part of the Internet, but it uses the Internet to propagate itself. USENET News is made up of all the machines that receive network news groups, which are something like computer discussion groups or forums. People who have access to these USENET news groups can read messages, post messages, and reply to a particular poster, among other things.

There are currently over 9,000 news groups. News groups have names made up of several components, separated by periods. The different components tell you something about the topic of discussion in the group, with the left-most name component being the most general and the right-most name component being the most specific.

The most general of the name components are the so-called “top-level” names or hierarchies. These hierarchies are well established and new top-level hierarchies are created very rarely. The most commonly used hierarchies include the following:

HIERARCHY

comp
rec
sci
soc
news
talk
misc
alt
bionet
k12
co
 

 DESIGNATES

Computer-related topics
Recreational topics
Topics related to the sciences
Topics related to social issues
Topics related to the operation of a netnews system
Conversational topics, often controversial
Miscellaneous topics not covered elsewhere
An alternative hierarchy with relaxed rules for new group creation
A hierarchy devoted to biological sciences
A hierarchy devoted to education in grades kindergarten through 12
A group concerned with issues of interest to those in Colorado
 

Guidelines to Posting

Keep your line length under 80 characters (the maximum line length of some displays). Use mixed case, because text in all uppercase is hard to read and is generally used for emphasis in your message. A message in all uppercase is considered shouting and should be avoided. Commercial advertising is not permitted on netnews groups. Some forms of advertising do occur on the netnews groups but a blatant advertisement posted to inappropriate groups is not a good idea. Posting an e-mail message without the sender’s permission is greatly frowned on and may in fact violate copyright restrictions.

Get to know a group before posting. Read the group’s frequently-asked questions list (if any), and a few days’ worth of articles. Do some research before you ask for help; then describe what you’ve already done to solve your problem. Don’t ask for help in a group you aren’t willing to read (at least temporarily). Don’t attempt to share late-breaking news announcementsÑUsenet isn’t that fast.

Frequently Asked Questions Lists (FAQS) from Newsgroups

Many Usenet news groups maintain FAQ section, or Frequently Asked Questions listings, which attempt to collect the accumulated wisdom of the news groups. These are intended to provide handy collections of facts on particular subjects, as well as to cut down on the number of new news group readers asking the same questions that have been answered a thousand times before in the news groups. It is highly recommended that you read the FAQ for a news group (provided there is one) before posting a question. Regular news group readers (i.e. the most knowledgeable ones) get awfully tired of reading and responding to the same questions over and over again, and will often be quite rude to “newbies” whose questions could have been answered by reading the FAQ.

Aside from their value as a means of cutting back pointless question and answer sessions, FAQs are one of the most valuable sources of information available on the Internet. The material contained in FAQs typically represents what most people want to know about a specific subject, as the material is distilled from the ongoing stream of questions encountered in discussion groups.

The FAQs for Usenet news groups are typically posted monthly in their “home” discussion group, but there are also special “Answers” news groups that consist entirely of FAQs from various other news groups.

Some of these are:

Group

alt.answers
comp.answers
misc.answers
rec.aviation.answers
sci.answers
soc.answers

 Category

As if anyone on alt has the answers. (Moderated)
Repository for periodic USENET articles. (Moderated)
Repository for periodic USENET articles. (Moderated)
Frequently asked questions about aviation. (Moderated)
Repository for periodic USENET articles. (Moderated)
Repository for periodic USENET articles. (Moderated)

 

World Wide Web

The newest information service on the Internet at this time is the World Wide Web (WWW). The Web is a land of hypertext, color graphics, digital video, maps and lots of information. The WWW is a system of servers on the Internet tied together by hypertext links. Hypertext is a technology for linking collections of documents. With a Web browser, you will be able to look at these documents called “web pages.”

“The Web” is surely the most exciting service available, but we will limit our discussion of it here as it is very simple to use and understand, and is much better explained through experience.

How to Setup Dialup Modem in 5 Easy Steps

dialup modem

Setting up a dialup modem on a PC might seem like a daunting task, especially for those who have never done it before. However, with the right steps, it is possible to set up a dialup modem quickly and easily. In this article, we will go through the steps required to set up a dial-up modem on a PC.

Step 1: Check for Compatibility

Before setting up a dialup modem on a PC, you need to ensure that your computer is compatible with the modem. Check the specifications of your PC to see if it has a dial-up modem slot. If your computer does not have an internal modem, you can purchase an external modem and connect it to the PC using a USB cable.

Step 2: Install the Dialup Modem

Once you have a modem that is compatible with your computer, you need to install it. If it’s an external modem, connect it to the PC using the USB cable provided. For internal modems, switch off the computer and open up the computer’s case to locate the slot for the modem. Once you have located the slot, gently insert the modem into the slot, making sure it is securely in place.

Step 3: Install the Modem Drivers

After installing the modem, you need to install the modem drivers. The modem drivers are software programs that allow the modem to communicate with the PC. Most modems come with a CD containing the modem drivers. Insert the CD into the computer’s CD/DVD drive and follow the prompts to install the drivers. If you don’t have a CD, you can download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

Step 4: Configure the Modem

Once the modem drivers are installed, you need to configure the modem. Open the Control Panel on your PC and select the option for ‘Phone and Modem Options.’ Click on the ‘Modems’ tab and select the modem you have installed. Click on ‘Properties’ and select the ‘Advanced’ tab. Here you can set the maximum speed of the modem, and other settings such as flow control and error control.

Step 5: Set up the Dialup Connection

The final step in setting up a dialup modem on a PC is to set up the dial-up connection. Open the Control Panel and select the option for ‘Network and Internet.’ Click on ‘Internet Options’ and select the ‘Connections’ tab. Click on ‘Add’ and select ‘Dial-up Connection.’ Follow the prompts to set up the connection, entering the phone number and login details provided by your ISP.

Once you have completed the steps outlined above, you should be able to use your dialup modem to connect to the internet. To connect to the internet using the dial-up modem, simply click on the dial-up connection icon on your desktop or in the network settings, enter your username and password, and click ‘Connect.’

In conclusion, setting up a dialup modem on a PC is not as complicated as it may seem. With the right steps, anyone can set up a dialup modem and connect to the internet. Remember to check for compatibility, install the modem, install the modem drivers, configure the modem, and set up the dialup connection. Once you have completed these steps, you should be able to connect to the internet using your dial-up modem.

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