Name of your website?Two-Lane Livin'
Your name?
Lisa Minney
Your Location (city, etc)
Stumptown, West Virginia
When did you start your website and why?
I started the publication and web site this month to empower and promote the lifestyle and culture of Central West Virginia.
Please give us a short summary of your website, business model, etc
Each month, 10,000 free print copies of our magazine are distributed into the eleven counties of Central West Virginia. Once distributed, the features of the print edition are presented on line.
What has been the most difficult part of creating and running your website?
Organizing it for easy navigation. With more than 18 columnists to feature, organizing them and archiving their monthly installments will be a challenge.
What has been the easist part of operating your website?
Telling people about this exciting new publication! I am so excited to present the local culture to others, and empower and educated our communities.
What was your biggest mistake?
Waiting so long to get everything started. I wish I had done this years ago. Time has come for such an endeavor.
Who maintains your website and why?
I maintain the site so I have ultimate control and easy access to make edits 24 hours a day. With 10 years web design experience, I couldn't see asking someone else to do it.
Tell us how your business has benefitted from your website?
Already, I have sold advertising for the print pubication through the web site. The site has drawn in contest entries, because the entry forms are online. The free downloadable booklet offers new and potential clients the basic information they need to start a marketing campaign, without forcing me to spend on ink and paper printing it myself.
What are your views on ecommerce and the future of the internet?
In Central West Virginia, there are still those with no internet or on dial-up. As technological infrastructure expands in the area, so will ecommerce. I hope to help bring attention to this need for our region.
What are your views on Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
I think it is shameful that people charge so much to SEO web sites for small businesses. Some of the SEO strategies are basic, anyone could do it. Others are teditous. Sure, it is valuable knowledge, but not worth thousands of dollars.
What are your views on Search Engines? Have they helped or hindered your website?
Search engines are the standard. Once your site shows up, they are a benefit. With so few web sites in our region, search engines that are region specific are very helpful.
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
Advertising on a local news web site. The popular site sent hundreds of visitors.
What method has been least successful for promoting your website?
Purchasing print ads in a local newspaper. The results were minimal.
What would you like to see change with respect to the internet?
I would love for high-speed internet to come to our rural region. Some of us have access, but others will have to wait years.
You can enter a question of your choice and the answer here:
What is so special about Central West Virginia that you would develop a magazine to embrace it?
Central West Virginia has strong traditions, and good communities. Our region needs a solid, positive presentation, in print and online.
What is your website address?
Two-Lane Livin'
