Website Design Tampa, Search Engine Optimization, Florida Full Service Marketing

Is Your Tampa Graphic & Web Designer Asking the Right Questions?

2011-12-10T19:14:00.000-05:00

Asking your Tampa website designer the right questions prior to launching your website is crucial, but in turn, your Florida website designer or graphic design firm should be asking questions that will enhance and expedite your logo design or website design project.

Communication is the key to success in any relationship, including one you have with your clients. Many Tampa logo designers or web designers aren't asking the appropriate questions and that's wasting time and money and can lend unfavorable results. Listening to what your client needs, often times depends on asking the right questions. Don't depend on your client to thoroughly understand the logo design or web design process. Many clients will have a general idea on what they want, but it's up to the designer to help the client understand the importance of the finer details of their project.

Logo design can be simple or complex, finding a logo designer in Tampa, Florida is easy, but be sure you choose carefully, and look for one that asks plenty of questions, and who has great listening skills. These are just as important as the artistic and graphic design ability and skill.

Same goes for website designers in Tampa. Florida website design firms come at a dime a dozen with varying skill sets so find one who can accommodate your project, who will engage you in your web design project, one question at a time. Read more about choosing a website designer in Tampa, Florida. >

Tampa Florida Search Engine Optimization Options & Advice

2011-11-30T19:24:00.000-05:00

SEO or "search engine optimization" is a fairly well defined service and most Florida business owners understand at least the basics of SEO. Deciding to hire a Tampa SEO or Florida search engine optimization firm is a big decision. Hiring the right company who offers the search engine optimization and marketing services for your Florida business that will improve your business website will save you time and money. SEO simply put and properly done will over time, increase your revenue. Efforts to enhance your Florida website's ranking will pay off but, if done improperly, you can certainly risk damage to your website and your business reputation including but not limited to your ranking.

Understanding the potential advantages, disadvantages of SEO services as well as the difference in SEO and SEM services for your Florida business, is crucial. Many Tampa Search Engine Optimization firms should be able to provide you with a good understanding of how they will develop or market your Florida website and should include some of these services to help you gain good organic ranking for your website.

Review your website's content and offer high quality content management and copywriting services for your Tampa, Florida website.
Review the structure of your website and make improvements to boost ranking
Provide you with recommendations regarding hosting issues, which can include necessary redirects, incorrect redirects or errors and back-end issues
Provide you with analytic reporting and also be willing to provide you with physical keyword searches, which are very important
services
Provide you with blogging services, help you with directory and social media back links and listings, as well as ongoing support and service for these services.
Manage and reduce or even eliminate costly online campaigns through SEO services that concentrate on building organic placement.
Keyword research
SEO training for owners -Some of our clients are very proactive in website marketing and SEO. Be advised that there are things that an owner can do that can damage your reputation. Ask an SEO expert before you jump in! Make sure your Tampa search engine optmization service will work together with you, should you wish to be involved.
Demonstrate experience in SEO for Florida markets and geographical locations.

Differences in SEO Services
Keep in mind that the Google search results page includes organic search results as well as paid ads and inclusions. Although Google states that adertising on Google won't affect your ranking, or presence. "Advertising with Google won't have any effect on your site's presence in our search results." Even Google will tell you that it is preferable and should be a business owner's goal, to obtain good organic ranking.
Many SEO firms in Tampa bay, offer SEO services but really, they are setting up services for SEM such as PPC ads and other ad campaigns. Some are hardly proficient at producing organic ranking or using the recommendations that Google sets forth. Check to see if your SEO company has a "paid ad." If they do, you may want to ask yourself how they're organic ranking is. If they can't rank their own website, will they be able to rank yours? Although it is an owners choice to run ads or not, it is always preferable and in the long run less costly, to avoid them if at all possible. Save that money for other cross marketing campaigns for your Florida business.
Other SEO firms, approach website marketing in a purely organic way, meaning, they are following Google's recommendations to a "T" and although it may seem time consuming, the lasting results on your organic ranking is priceless. Once established on the engines, depending on your industry and geographics, many companies can get SEO services on the fly, when needed, or proactively market their website with monthly SEO services such as blogging, link building, content management, and social media integration.

PSA - NO ONE CAN GUARANTEE PAGE ONE ON GOOGLE, ACCORDING TO GOOGLE.
Google also advises:SEO Services to Avoid ( Not a comprehensive list )
Source: Google Webmaster Support

There are a few warning signs that you may be dealing with a rogue SEO. It's far from a comprehensive list, so if you have any doubts, you should trust your instincts. By all means, feel free to walk away if the SEO:

owns shadow domains
puts links to their other clients on doorway pages
offers to sell keywords in the address bar
doesn't distinguish between actual search results and ads that appear on search results pages
guarantees ranking, but only on obscure, long keyword phrases you would get anyway
operates with multiple aliases or falsified WHOIS info
gets traffic from "fake" search engines, spyware, or scumware
has had domains removed from Google's index or is not itself listed in Google

Source:http://www.google.com

SEO "NO-NO's" Retaining Your Website Domain

2011-11-22T20:34:00.000-05:00

I'm a business owner who cares very much for the success of my clients. For over a decade, my niche has been helping small business owners in the Tampa bay area develop market and increase their revenue on the web. Affordable pricing for web design and search engine optimization services for my Tampa area clients is coupled with quality work and personalized customer service. Let's face it; everyone is extremely budget conscious these days, but in particular, small businesses cannot afford waste. Each marketing dollar must be put to good use and have lasting effects.

The minute you build a website, whether or not you are aggressively optimizing (marketing) it or not, you will eventually establish a position on the search engines and your domain will be associated with your associated keywords. Maybe you have worked on marketing your website, or perhaps you have a Tampa area search engine optimization firm building your back links and social media presence, or like many, you've done a bit of both. Think about all the directories you've listed yourself in over the years, blogs that have referenced your site, people and businesses who have reviewed or referenced your site on their blogs, pages or directories and the results you have produced. Even if it's not high ranking, you're website is clearly indexed after a few years.

Taking that site (domain) down and building a new site, either because you no longer like it, or because some other designer, hungry for work and eager for a few bucks, has persuaded you to, is an SEO "NO." Often times designers who are concerned only about their own bottom line, have no problems running their businesses this way. They could do the right thing and suggest that you take the existing site and rebuild it, including in their quote the tasks that are needed to retain the integrity of your site-- But they know that this may be time consuming, forcing them to quote you properly, causing you to re-think your options. Often times, a designer will convince the owner of an existing website to build a new site because they don't know how to manage or make website updates their current site. Why? Not all designers speak the same language. Either way, this "hypothetical" designer is not looking out for the overall best interest of their client either due to lack of knowledge or lack of caring.

Perhaps you have convinced yourself there is a better way, or you think that you can save a few bucks to get an updated website, simply by choosing to purchase another domain and then by either opting for a DIY website template or hiring the cheapest web designer to build a new site for you. Again, I urge all new and nearly new business owners to get fully educated on how this will affect you and your business. If the revenue you may save becomes the same revenue you lose...plus some more, it will not have been worth the effort.

Maybe by posting this blog, I'll run the risk of sounding like a disgruntled service provider, but my intentions are to be more of a public service announcer. There is nothing I dislike more than another web design company in Tampa, Florida or freelancer to provide inaccurate advice to an unsuspecting, vulnerable client, in an effort to take their business. Further, allowing a client to let their old business website shut down or expire without telling them the truth about how this can affect their revenue, and doing so simply to make a few bucks while building a web portfolio, is very bad business. If a client of mine ever wishes to go on their way-- and I've had one or two over a decade do so, then I walk them through the correct process of shutting their site down. Fellow developers have asked me, "what if my client won't listen?" I tell them that you can rest knowing you did the right thing.

Shutting down an existing "seasoned" website without considering the effects of doing so is a bad idea on multiple levels. If you are still in business, and you wish to shut down your domain, move your domain, or create a new domain, ask a trusted source if it's a good idea. If that source does not provide you with information regarding how to handle your existing links, walk away. Don't be afraid to be up front with your current Florida website designer, or call other web developers to verify what needs to be done before you shut your site down.

The last thing you want is to have a bunch of dead links, going to an old site that makes you appear to be out of business. There are some fairly simple fixes, and there are also some time consuming and even costly tasks (depending on your site) that can be performed to ensure that this doesn't happen. Hiring someone to go back and fix year’s worth of bad or dead links to pages and subpages can get tedious and costly. If you insist on ditching your domain, and you are still operating the same business, do the work and don't be swayed just because you think the grass looks greener. There's an old saying, "Fast money goes fast." It will go fast for the designer who wants to make a quick buck and it will go fast when you lose business.

The truth is... nothing is free anymore. Look for a local Tampa, Florida search engine optimization and website design firm that can get you results with quality work, and who is reasonably affordable and honest. If you're tired of your designer, then take your content (everyone should have a copy of their own website that they paid for) keep your domain, and rebuild that website. Hire someone to do the necessary work to retain your status and make the changes that you desire before you let the old domain expire. If you insist on a new website for your business, and can afford to keep both, do so. Using both sites can increase revenue by enhancing your web presence.

For more information, visit us at http://www.websitestampabay.com

What You Should Expect From Your Tampa Website Designer

2011-11-17T10:45:00.001-05:00

What Should You Expect From Your Tampa Website Designer

1.) Affordable website design. Shop around for web design services in Tampa. Many of our clients were amazed by the vast pricing of web design services. Find a design firm whose pricing is in-line with the services offered.
2.) Marketing your Tampa bay website. Be sure your Tampa, Florida web designer is proficient in marketing and SEO. Bay Area Graphics & Marketing has an extensive background in marketing, and we pay close attention to optimizing your website.
3.) Website Updates - Get your website updates when need them and without being ignored or overcharged. Monthly maintenance plans are available yet not required. Simply call us when you need us.
For more information on what to expect from your Tampa web designer, visit us online at http://www.websitestampabay.com

Affordable SEO, Free Backlinks, Tampa

2011-09-22T04:48:00.000-04:00

Connect with us on Manta or stop by and "like" us on Facebook and we'll give you a free link from our website links page ( http://www.websitestampabay.com/links.htm ) Plus when you email us with your information for your link, or give us a like on Facebook, we'll send you a special discount for design, SEO, marketing or even printing services for your Florida business.

We believe there's true value in supporting Florida small business owners. We make our marketing, web and graphic design services affordable and we're always willing to share our talents and resources--What can your Florida business do for another? Join us on Facebook and let us know what you have to offer!
LA Fiore
bagraphics@gmail.com
http://www.websitestampabay.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bay-Area-Graphics-Marketing/114311105278114
http://webdesigngurutampa.wordpress.com/2011/08/13/florida-web-design-plus-much-more-marketing/

DIY SEO Florida Business Owners Can Avoid Costly Errors

2011-09-15T16:44:00.000-04:00

Small business owners who are attempting to market their own Florida websites are often mistaking good SEO practices for bad. Relying on their own research and understanding of search engine optimization is resulting in frustration and low ranking websites.

Although we love for our clients to be proactive in marketing their Florida websites, what business owners need to understand is that SEO is truly a simple process that requires good copy writing skills and a knack for linking your keywords properly and knowing how to decipher your position for desired key phrases and adding content to your site accordingly. It is a strategic task and a talented, affordable Florida SEO firm who understands back links, social media integration and who inevitably will cut the costs associated with ad words and ad campaigns should be retained to get the proper results.

There is so much information on the web regarding Google, SEO, ranking, backlinking, social medial and Ad Words, and you really do have to be cautious about what advice to follow. Marketing your website incorrectly can actually cause more harm than good. It's recommended that if you wish to be involved with marketing your Florida website, that you consult with a knowledgeable firm. Ask plenty of questions before you take it upon yourself to "do-it-yourself" as by doing so you can avoid costly errors in your SEO.

For more information on how Bay Area Graphics & Marketing can assist your business with website design and marketing visit us online. If you want to know how to keep your Florida small business website marketing simple and straightforward take note of the three "O's in website marketing for Florida small businesses or contact us at http://www.websitestampabay.com .

Florida Printers Benefit From Our Graphic Design Services

2011-08-11T12:47:00.000-04:00

It seems like many smaller printers in Florida have either eliminated their in house graphic designers, or are hiring Florida freelance graphic designers or graphic design firms to assist with their art requests. Hit hard by the state of the economy, some printers are struggling, and facing hard decisions. If they don't staff an in house graphic designer, they cannot offer assistance with their client's art requests. Many customers then opt to find a printer who can offer that service-- So, it's a double edge sword that plagues some smaller "mom and pop" printers in Florida.

There is a solution that some printers have been able to swing. Hire a freelance graphic artist or Florida graphic designer to design "on the fly." Printers can charge their client the fee to cover the designer's fee and a win-win situation is created. The key is to find an affordable graphic designer. Not too many customers will want to pay $80 or $100 per hour, but they will pay a reasonable fee to have their t-shirt logos or designs created and designed properly. Most of a printer's average customers don't have the slightest notion as to how to produce graphic files to provide to their printers or screenprinter, so they truly need their printer to assist in that process.

Bay Area Graphics & Marketing offers affordable graphic design service for Florida printers and for business owners and organizations who need assistance with providing the appropriate graphics files to their printers. Call us today for a no hassle quote.
For more information, visit us at http://www.websitestampabay.com or call us at (813) 778-9548.

Finding a Florida website Designer, Fast, Smart and Easy.

2011-07-19T19:27:00.000-04:00

1. Go Local - Support your local economy and use an affordable Florida website designer. As long as your web designer can reach you without stepping on a plane--we say, it's all good.

2. Reviews - Florida Website Designers Should Make Client Reviews and References Readily Available.
*Hiring a Florida website designer based on reviews alone is never recommended. Combine the strength of the reviews, with actual recommendations and references from other clients. Florida website designers with happy clients, won't mind providing you with references, if they do... keep looking.
3. Search Engine Results - Search: Florida website design or search your city in Florida, but--- don't let the results fool you into thinking that the #1 result, is the number #1 website design firm in Florida. The truth is, you have to do some research prior to hiring a website designer no matter where you are located.
Remember, search results don't always reflect accurately the stability, quality or affordability of a website designer in Florida. Google search results are simply paid advertisements and like any other ad, simply promotes the services that a web designer provides.

4. Beneficial Marketing Services - Not all website designers in Florida offer marketing services, beneficial to your business. Website updates, SEO, graphic design and affordable printing are services that your small business will always need. A company that gets to know you and your business, can be a positive alliance and can save you time. Many business owners are opting to work with one company for all of their marketing needs, eliminating the need for multiple vendors.

For more information, visit us online at http://www.websitestampabay.com

Small Biz Web Design Options for Florida Business

2011-06-16T17:48:00.000-04:00

If you're needing affordable web design options for your Florida business, you're most likely asking, the who, what, where and how much questions.
Every Florida business has different needs and making a decision on which Florida web design firm you should hire should first be based on your uniqueness. Your Florida business has been custom designed so you deserve custom websites, graphic design and marketing services. With so many DIY web design options and cookie cutter services that seem affordable---some small business owners are turning to these types of Florida Website Design and SEO services believing that it's the most affordable option. We've found that clients who have utilized these types of web design services, are re-thinking their choices, and are heading straight back to utilizing a local Florida web design firm who offers custom website design and website re-design services and updates along with marketing services that are tailor made for their business.
Why?
There are a number of reasons for utilizing custom website design services rather than cookie cutter web templates and like services but it boils down to cost, flexibility and customer service. Often times, customers are drawn into these services believing that it is the most cost effective way to obtain a website. However, when they realize the time and mothly fees that are involved for basically "renting" their websites, they come to realize that opting for a custom website design would have been clearly more affordable over time.
Small businesses can obtain custom web design and marketing services in Florida and we've been providing these services for over a decade. Not only do we build your website with your branding at the forefront, our service is excellent. We don't sell websites in "bulk" to make the "bucks." We are old school, and care about more than one aspect of marketing your business, online and off.
Visit us at http://www.websitestampabay.com/ and you'll understand why marketing your small business means offering unique and affordable web design, re-design and search engine optimization and marketing services to our Florida customers. Your website presence plays a huge part in your overall success, but at Bay Area Graphics & Marketing, we look at your business as a whole, not just your website when considering what you need to enhance your business, thus, increasing revenue.

We're unique, and so are you. Since 2001, we believe in providing the most afforable web design and marketing services to Tampa Bay and Florida small businesses, and we're "growing" strong!
Call us today at (813)778-9548 or email us for information at info@websitestampabay.com.

Cheapest Florida Web Design Can Cost You

2011-04-26T14:00:00.000-04:00

A high percentage of our Tampa, Florida website design jobs are considered web re-designs. Many website re-designs are born out of a client's "do-it-yourself" approach that went terribly wrong. Small business owners, in an attempt to save money, often times try to develop their own websites. Some of you may be asking "Really?" Yes, yes they do really---This most generally only leads to frustration midway through the challenge and then most will let the site sit unfinished and not functioning at all for a time---- THEN, in all of their embarassment and shame--- they will decide to call us. ( Don't worry, don't be ashamed, we won't judge you!)

Believe it or not, this cycle can continue for years with some small businesses who think they cannot obtain affordable web design or web re-design services in Tampa Bay. There are so many aspects of a web design, and particularly a website re-design and one must have a working knowledge of the life span of a website before diving into re-designing it, especially unassisted. I can tell you from experience, that taking the DYI approach rarely, if ever works out. All of the money you thought you saved by finding the cheapest or no cost website design service which possibly included the purchase of a website template, or some other similar service or web authoring program, ended up costing you paying CUSTOMERS who never saw, or probably simply saw and left your half built website.

So, if you need a website re-designed or updated or simply custom built from scratch --- do it the proper way and seek the assistance of an experienced Florida web design firm. It doesn't have to cost a fortune, but spending a little bit now, will save your image and gain you customers. If you insist upon a more hands on approach to your company website design... simply work together with your Tampa, Florida website designer. We always encourage our clients’ input and respect the fact that they know more about their business then we do. Your Florida web designer should understand that you have a specific vision for what your website and should accommodate your every need.

Web Design Options for Florida Businesses

2011-04-19T18:48:00.000-04:00

With so many web design options for Florida businesses, it can be overwhelming at best to obtain web design service options for your company. We've listed some things to consider to ensure that you will get the most affordable custom web design services for your Tampa Bay or Florida business:
.
Is Cheap Hosting and DYI Web Templates The Way to Go?
If you want a custom web design for your Tampa, Florida business, be sure you do not opt for a DYI (do it yourself) website. Godaddy and other companies who offer cheap hosting along with web templates that you can create and manage your own sites with, make it look like an affordable solution to web design. Unfortunately, these templates are often difficult to customize and are fairly restrictive. If you want a custom "optimized" web site design, certain constrictions with these templates often hinder the SEO process, as well. Keep in mind that you will never truly own your website. You pay monthly to utilize their templates and if you decide to find an alternative hosting company, you will lose your site permanently. This can negatively affect your ranking as well and certain tasks will have to be performed to ensure that potential visitors won't be clicking on "dead links."

Should Hire a Local Florida Web Designer?
If possible, use a local Tampa, Florida web designer, or at least a website designer who is located in your own State. Realistically speaking, a web designer local to your Florida town should already be familiar with your area and be privy to marketing your website online for your particular area. Also, it's preferable to be able to meet with your web designer if you have to, and although it's not entirely necessary to do so, it's good to know that meeting with your web designer in Tampa, Clearwater or even Orlando can be done with ease. Check to see how long your web designer has been in business. You can check out information at Sunbiz.org and also research them on various places online. If you do see a bad review or two, check the source out completely, consider how long the company has been in business and again, don't make your decision based on one bad or one good review. Take your time, do some research.

Choose a Web Designer Who Ranks the Highest on Google (True or False)
False. Choosing a web designer just by virtue of their Google ranking says nothing about job performance. Often times people automatically believe that high ranking equates to success and great service. This applies to any service you are seeking. So next time you search, go ahead, take a few minutes and browse to page two or three. Many times ranking means nothing more than someone has paid for advertising to ensure placement or they have great organic ranking.

But They're Reviews Online Were Fantastic!
Another thing to be careful of are online reviews. Although all web designers want to offer up their best reviews (we do too!), don't rely solely on this to determine a web designers worth and reliability. These can be written by an employee or owner of the company. Ask for references and ask pertinent questions such as, did the web design firm provide you with the design you had hoped for? How was the customer service? Did they deliver the website on schedule and according to the terms? And don't forget to ask if they handled website updates in a favorable manner.

Web Design Costs Can Vary from Too Good to Be True to You've Got to Be Kidding Me.
Many of our clients are amazed (and confused) by the price differences from one web design company to another. We've been told that other Tampa web design firms quoted as much as ten times more for what we charge for our Basic Plus Web Design Package. There are many things that will factor into how much a web designer will charge, right down to the designer's overhead expenses. A freelance web designer may charge far less than a web design firm with a high tech, fancy office and that's normal. however, if you wish to go that route, find out if they are an established freelance web designer, or if you are dealing with someone who is inexperienced or who is simply moonlighting for some extra cash. If you want longevity, a freelancer may not be your best bet, especially if you cannot establish longevity. Again, check around and make an informed decision. Many web design ads state that you can get a complete website for $199, and with that I will quote my Grandmother... "If it's too good to be true, it probably is."

Web Design - Tampa Bay You're Off to a Good Start

2011-01-10T02:09:00.000-05:00

January 2nd, 2011... The phone rang us into the New Year and it's apparent that Florida entrepreneurs are taking an "aggressive" approach to promoting their new and existing businesses. Our newest clients today are not unemployed nor are they solely self employed--just yet. They both have great jobs by most anyone's standards, however, they are planning for and launching a new online business. Based on a creative idea and a dream and modeled after an existing idea, yet, with a "cool" twist--- I was impressed with their lack of procrastination about going forth with what could be considered a "risky" investment. Let's face it, we all feel that many existing businesses could be improved if it had just a little something to make it unique--- "If only" we could produce a better service, or product, right? It takes a special person to take an idea and run with it-- no looking back. Given that, they've been well informed.... Read on...
So, what was on their list of things to do initially aside from the legal stuff? Hiring a web design firm in Tampa, Florida. They wanted to find more than just the cost or creative factor associated with finding a web designer. What they were looking for in addition to the aforementioned qualities was a comfort zone. "Comfort zone?" you ask? Personalized service, someone who will take the time to advise them, one who will give it to them straight. A team player, not just a web design service, but a service oriented designer. People want honesty, and customer service and they need someone to be excited about getting their project launched.
We know from over a decade of serving Florida businesses and entrepreneurs that most are looking for those same qualities in a Florida website design or website marketing firm. We always suggest that if you're looking for a web designer in the Tampa area, to call more than one website design company or freelance web designer, ask many questions (do your research, make a list of questions before you call). Take a look at samples of other websites they've designed and be sure they are custom designs, and obtain referrals if you feel the need to. Trust your gut feeling---verify. Ask about and get a feel for your prospective designer's response time. Will you wait for days to receive an answer to an email or phone call? Ask about the start up and projected costs of developing and maintaining your website. This should include the initial website development, graphic design fees that are not associated with your web design fees or special programming fees that may be involved, as well as cross marketing and basic SEO (website marketing) services.
Be realistic. Remember, your designer's time is money and they will expect to be paid for the results and service they provide. Be honest with your designer and forthcoming with your budget. Let them know up front if you will require payment plans or extended credit of any kind. Some designers offer this, many do not.
Graphic design projects are flowing in as well. From catalog design and printing requests from Sarasota to graphic designs for apparel for upcoming Tampa fashion shows, logos, and printing for new current customers ---we are pleased that the New Year is starting off on a productive note. Simply put, this makes me happy. Certainly, it's great for our full service Florida web design and marketing business, but mainly because it implies that people are not giving up hope, in short, they aren't taking it lying down and are being proactive. Many Florida entrepreneurs are going forward with fervent devotion, doing whatever it takes to build successful businesses. Hard work and even risky investments aren't deterring these pioneers.
Tampa Bay, you're off to a good start and with a supportive, affordable Florida website design and marketing team, you're onward to valuable and exciting enterprise. We want to express how thrilled we are to be chosen to assist you in your efforts.
For more information or to obtain a fast, friendly quote, call us today at 813.948.1062 or visit http://www.websitestampabay.com/.

What's in "Your Web Store" for the New Year? Website Design Tampa, Florida

2010-12-30T00:16:00.002-05:00

I'm personally counting the days until I ring in the New Year! It's been quite a year for website design and marketing. We've kept busy helping Tampa bay and Florida business owners launch and market their small businesses and websites in 2011. We're always elated when we see a small business owner reach their goals. Hard work, determination coupled with a realistic sense of what it takes to run a successful business is what makes a business shine-- Add a good team of people behind you and the sky is the limit. ( A bit cliche' yet true.)

With the holidays nearly behind us, we're gearing up for a great year in 2012. Surprisingly, around November, many retailers and service providers started taking a little time off... But, the majority of our clients never skipped a beat and worked diligently to insure an easy and productive transition into 2012.

Part of their planning focused primarily on their on-line business-- That meant we were busy with e-commerce website designs and updates for our Tampa retailers providing social media, SEO and website updates for Tampa service providers. Many prepared for upcoming product and price changes. We helped them review, revamp and schedule search engine optimization, social media marketing campaigns and developed website marketing strategies for products and services that they will offer in 2012. Time off? Heck NO. These matters took precedence over just about everything else.

Although we all prioritize in life...and need balance, taking a lot of time off during the holidays, relaxing in the Florida sun on a whim or even being "being present" while burying your head in the sand pretending the tasks that come with owning a business will just "go away"... will be enjoyed at a "price." At some point business owners have to ask "What is my competitor doing that I am not and how is that affecting my overall success? Am I really making my business, my priority?"
When we look at our most successful clients it's always the same ones who are doing whatever they can do within their budgets to obtain and maintain a competitive edge. Whether it's obtaining website design, web updates and website marketing services, or even using cross marketing services that require our graphic design, writing and printing services, these successful business owners are succeeding due in part from planning and initiating their marketing strategies. This requires a bit of "showing up, and making some tough decisions, even when that's the last thing you want to do. Those who wait get left in the dust and often end up playing "catch up." Catch up can be costly. There's certainly some validation to "the early bird theory," I admit.

If you consider a company's revenue is generally calculated in "quarters", who can afford loss in the first quarter of the year? This is especially true for online retailers and service providers. Given that, at the risk of sounding "geeky" we pose the question, "What's in your "Web Store" for the New Year?" We hope it's plenty of goods and services! Be sure to obtain the necessary and appropriate services such as custom web designs, website updates, social media and marketing services that will help you to increase, manage and maintain a competitive edge in 2012.

Make it a great year in 2012 Tampa Bay and enjoy the success you've had in 2011-- If you're experiencing it...it means you've worked hard for it.

For more information, please visit http://www.websitestampabay.com or email us at info@websitestampabay.com .

Should the New Year Bring a New Web Design for Your Tampa Business?

2010-12-18T20:26:00.000-05:00

Website design, it can be said, is ever changing, complicated and very personal to most Tampa area business owners and many are wondering if their company websites are "making the grade." It's tough to say without asking clients some complex questions however, if they are wondering, the answer very well be "no." Depending on the client's industry and overall goals, when it comes to whether or not a client should consider a website re-design or not, will most likely be determined based on their overall revenue expectations.

I generally will ask my customers what percentage of their total revenue is derived from online sales or promotions and if they believe it is competitive with others in similar industries. If they do not feel they are being as competitive as possible, then I ask if they feel that it is a matter of incorrect pricing, product availability or even if it could be the integrity of the product (or service) itself. If it's none of those things, the issue could be the website itself. If it has no call to action, or if the website is confusing with too little or too much information with graphic layout or other related design flaws, then it's most likely time for a new website design. Now launching a new website doesn't have to be a painful process, and giving your existing website a new look is often times much easier than client's would believe. When my clients see how quickly new life can be breathed into their business overall once their website is updated, they are pleasantly surprised.

Additionally, if your Tampa website cannot be found on the search engines organically, then clearly your particular problem could be a traffic (SEO) problem. If your product and pricing is spot on, and your website is pleasing to the viewer, then it could be that you're simply not getting the website traffic needed to build revenue. The most well thought out and beautifully designed website or e-commerce website, can sit unnoticed. Sadly, often times, those are the ones that usually are. Flash websites, expensive templates that were just beautifully when you bought them, are now defunct simply because nobody but YOU can find your website. These in particular can be the most difficult websites to get ranked and your Tampa website designer must know how to optimize these types of sites. In short, if you ignore your website, if you don't market it in an effort to stay competitive... you will not remain competitive. I cannot stress this enough. No traffic, no sales.

So, here's the good news. Often times it takes very little to keep your website updated to remain alive in Tampa or other Florida markets and it is necessary not only for the search engines but also as a courtesy to your your customers. Many people will want a new web design to accommodate the launching of their start-up businesses in Tampa, many others will integrate a fresh look to their existing Tampa website. In short, it's safe to say that the New Year will bring new and custom website designs for many Florida businesses who wish to showcase their products and services.

Making a List... Checking Your Website Links & Listings Website Marketing Tampa

2010-12-13T12:09:00.000-05:00

Good morning Tampa Bay! In keeping with the holiday spirit, we're busy little elves here at Bay Area Graphics & Marketing designing , re-designing websites and marketing websites for our Tampa clients. We want to take a quick minute to post this blog as we feel it's an important part of marketing your Tampa, Florida business online. One of the tasks of SEO and managing your business is the appropriate tracking of your website listings and reviews. Recently, while performing some basic SEO services for a client, we researched their back links and business listings, including their company reviews. What we found were some reviews that were quite derogatory and we promptly brought it to their attention. After researching the situation, we determined that the reviews did not belong to this company, but a company who shared a similar name. Although we were able to help them fix the error, this review had been online for some time, negatively affecting her Tampa business reputation. Remember, it only takes one person to see that one bad review to negatively affect your revenue, and who can afford that?Given this particular circumstance, we wanted to share with you some quick tips on keeping control of your business listings, back links and reviews on the web.1. Keep a detailed list of the listings you personally set up. This can be done in various ways, using your email contact list, or basic spreadsheet. If your webmaster assists you with this, make sure they send any information with user names and passwords and other detailed account info to you upon set up. Add this to your list. At the very least simply write it down on paper and put this info in a folder. Include user names and passwords to all accounts, and dates opened and email address it is associated with. Double check to ensure your webmaster has set these accounts up properly. We suggest that if at all possible, always make sure that notification of reviews is enabled on your listings. This means, that customers are able to post reviews on your business listings, but only upon approval by you or a moderator. This can save you time and worry in the long run. Inevitably, you are in control of your business.
2. Check this list against any listings you may find on your Google webmaster account. Do you see any listings or links that you aren't familiar with? If you do, immediately research these to avoid complications or poor SEO results.
3. Do a search on Google and other engines for your site's links and perform a physical search utilizing keywords associated with your business name (including your name, business name, etc.)
What you may find may surprise you.
4. Understand that there is plenty of competition for your Florida business. It is a dog eat dog world and often times, desperate competitors will resort to unethical SEO practices to sabotage your business, in an effort to promote theirs. It's sad, but true. Don't just assume that since you have nothing but satisfied customers, there wouldn't be negative feedback on the web regarding your business.

If you have any questions or concerns or would like us to assist you with your website marketing, please feel free to email us at bagraphics@verizon.net or visit us online for our website design and marketing services.

Have a super Monday---enjoy the festive weather and stay warm Tampa Bay!
Purchase gift certificates for marketing services for the business owner, or self employed entrepreneur in your life and help their business soar!Bay Area Graphics & Marketing Gift Certificates are Back and in Popular Demand!
Good for Website Design, Website Marketing, SEO, Website Updates, Graphic Design, Logos and Much More! Serving Tampa Bay and surrounding Florida cities since 2001.
Visit us online http://www.websitestampabay.com for information or contact us at 813-948-1062.

Is Your Website Ready for the New Year?

2010-12-06T10:50:00.000-05:00

It may be one of the last things that most small business owners are thinking about right now, however, many are actually in the process of either launching a new website for their Tampa, Florida business or, thinking about how they can rev up their existing website. Despite the holiday season, business for the serious minded, is in full force!

As a website designer in the Tampa area I offer Florida businesses web design, SEO, Marketing, Graphic Design and Printing services at an affordable rate. It's during the rush of the holiday season when I realize what truly separates small biz owners into categories of those who will be successful online and those who may not succeed at all. Those who are obtaining website design and website marketing services prior to the year end seem to understand that now (the holiday season) is not the time to "take a break." Others, whether new business owners or existing business owners may be waiting until the first of the year to get a handle on their online presence. The second group may be missing the boat (as it were).

There is truly no better time than the present to begin your website design project. Waiting could easily put you well into the first quarter, maybe even the second by the time you take into consideration all of the final touches and other factors that go into a well designed, custom website. Also, you should take into consideration the "aging" of your domain. Aging is one crucial factor to be considered when considering search engine (site) optimization. Delaying your new website design for your Tampa business or ignoring your existing Florida small business e-commerce website design until the first of the year, could determine your success or failure as early as the second quarter.

For nearly a decade, I've been providing website design and website marketing services in the Tampa bay area. What I have learned is that timing can make a big difference in revenue and there is really no time to waste when it comes to marketing your business online. Whether you are just launching a website, maintaining or even re-designing your Florida website, once the need is realized, that is the time to act. Procrastinating is never a good idea yet, many small business owners often seem to have their reasons. For many it boils down to the top reason for delay--- cost. Keep in mind that Bay Area Graphics & Marketing offers affordable website design services to our Tampa and Florida clients with hosting and payment options to get you "growing." We've been successfully providing Tampa area business owners who are just starting out with the web design and web marketing services needed, and at a fraction of the cost of what other website design firms in Tampa are charging. We understand that our economy needs innovative people with ideas and products that will stimulate our Florida economy as a whole and therefore, providing affordable marketing and web design services is truly a win-win situation.

So, whether you are re-designing your Tampa website, need a new website designed or require SEO (search engine optimization | website marketing) services, Bay Area Graphics & Marketing suggests getting a start on it prior to the first of the year, in order to be a success throughout 2011!

For more information about website design, marketing or printing services, please visit us online at http://www.websitestampabay.com or call 813.948.1062 for a hassle free quote.

So what does this have to do with my blog or web design business?

2010-10-20T16:47:00.000-04:00

Let's face it. Business means working for a profit for most everyone. We need money to live, money to help others with. Everyday, we are connected with clients, business partners etc., promoting and running our small businesses for profit-- because that's the American way. I've always been fortunate to see the blessing in every client that comes to me. There is most always a clear spiritual reason behind each client that comes to me. I'm not saying God brings only believers, but God brings me people who I will remember, and who will benefit from my talent, and even those that I need to learn from. It may sound silly, but it's an honest observation. I believe that God provides all of our daily connections, and further believe that there is a reason we are all connected. Every meeting, every client brings meaning to my life. I believe it.

Yet, I am surely human and run my business like anyone else, and get caught up in the daily grind like the majority of small business owners. I'm not making millions, in fact, I'm just like most freelancers, I have my ups and downs, peeks and valleys. That's the nature of any business lately. We fight, fight, fight, but often so much so that we lose site of what's truly going on around us.

Most recently, my mind has not been "in the game" so to speak. This week in particular, I've been deep in prayer for a boy named Ezra, who has Neuroblastoma. Every inch of my soul wishes to "do something" and although I feel that God is certainly in control, being apathetic in these circumstances isn't always the answer-- Yes, God is in control, complete control, and most agree, he doesn't need us to accomplish His will. I believe he wants us to put forth effort, nonetheless. If someone asks for our help, we don't say.. "Well, God is in control so it won't matter what I do." (I have had that happen.) It's my worst pet peeve and drives me crazy.. APATHY, in my opinion is for weenies. Anyway, I've found myself engrossed in prayer this week, also have been writing letters, making phone calls, researching--but most of all, I've been learning so much. I have been inspired by the number of people putting forth the effort to do what they can to help this family and it is heartwarming and--- totally heartbreaking too at times. I've sat with baited breath for every update on this child. When I'm not doing that, I'm working, or trying to work, at least.

So here is where I'm at. I will be taking a percentage of what I make from this point on directly to Ezra's family. It will be my next step in helping this family I will continue to pray fervently, write letters if I have to, make phone calls if need be. I challenge you to do the same. Hey, it doesn't have to be a fortune, any little bit would help I would imagine. While caring for their sick children, they have the added expense of meals, gas and more... We hope to never have to identify with that need.

So what does this have to do with my blog or web design business? Nothing really. It's times like this when being drawn away from the craziness of commerce, to step into another's journey- even if it's just to take a glimpse into the life of another, seems more pressing than the daily grind of the web design world.

Lori
http://www.websitestampabay.com/

Web Design and SEO, We Take Pride in being "Basic!"

2010-10-05T01:44:00.000-04:00

Recently, one of our Tampa SEO clients wrote... "We have an extra one hundred dollars, can you get us back up to ranking one and two for our keywords/key phrases... *###*, Tampa , Tampa ****## ?"(We've used special characters to preserve our client's privacy!) It had been about a year or so since we had done any type of website optimization and although they were still ranking nicely-- they recognized that one and two placement on page one, is most always preferable.

Although we never guarantee placement, we know SEO basics and we understand what is and what is not necessary to get your Tampa website ranking in Google and the other major search engines. First and foremost, we keep our web designs and SEO approach basic for our Tampa clients. Since 2001, we have remained consistent in our SEO and SEM strategies. In business through a decade of massive technological change and online marketing strategies and techniques, we have had continued proven success utilizing the same "basic" approaches to marketing Tampa websites.

So many of our clients have in the past unfortunately spent their marketing dollars unwisely. Hiring an affordable Tampa SEO and web design firm to build and/or update their website utilizing meaningful, keyword rich content that serves purpose to the engines as well as their viewer could have saved them money on many levels. Many continued on monthly with campaigns and contracts when it was not necessary. Results could have very well been delayed based on budget constraints and other variants.
The majority of small business owners underestimate the value of adding a page or two their site. Fresh content, is worth it's weight in gold when worked properly. This task alone, coupled with a few of our other basic SEO tricks ( not tricks at all actually, just smart content writing and keyword anchoring with other content and design "must haves") is worth the minimal expense incurred. Within two weeks (or often times even less ) our clients will see a marked improvement in their organic ranking. Affordable, painless and truly, quite basic defines our SEO service, and it's worked for our clients for nearly a decade.
Interestingly, while exploring other Tampa web design and SEO companies strategies and pricing, often times we begin to feel like maybe we were missing something, yet we are getting great results for our clients so what exactly is it that we're doing that enables us to charge so little to get like (stated) results? (In short we ask ourselves... why don't we charge THAT?) Most SEO and web design firms in Tampa offer SEO services and make suggestions that seem so detailed and time consuming that one might believe that obtaining SEO services would prove to be far too costly for the site owner. It may also leave one wondering... if it doesn't cost a lot, then how can it be effective? It certainly can give the wrong impression to a small biz owner wishing to update and market their Tampa website.

So, how do we obtain results for our clients utilizing the "basics" of optimization, while keeping it affordable and why do the other Tampa SEO and web design firms imply that (they = the SEO firm) must jump through hoops of fire, often for long periods of time---to get results for their clients? I came to the conclusion that maybe it's not an intentional money making plot of the service provider. I took the high road and decided to avoid the conspiracy theorist train of thought---well, at least this time. I concluded that not everyone is swift at research, reviewing and producing keyword rich content on the fly. I realized that quite possibly it does come more naturally for some to produce and also work with a variety of subjects, industries and their content to create a quick return on the client's dollar--- plain and simple. I also considered that we do all of the work and do not employ any other service that may or may not contribute to the short or long term ranking of our client's site.
In short, we've always taken the basic approach to marketing and design-- And, even though the basics do have a tendency to change accordingly with time, as technology changes and alternative methods are discovered and tried...we stick with the tried and true. (If it's not broke, don't fix it?) So, although one might believe that basic means "boring" to us it means "simple." Keeping it simple for the client, has been our approach for nearly a decade and if it pleases our client, their visitors and the search engines, then who can beat that? Consistence in our marketing approach and stability in our pricing is what gets fine results for our clients, and we take pride in that basic approach.

Form more information or to obtain SEO, fresh content or web design service, please call us directly at 813.948.1062 or email us at bagraphics@verizon.net

Website Design Special Offers in Tampa...$199, Really?

2010-07-07T15:18:00.000-04:00

Website design options in the Tampa Bay area are becoming increasingly more vast, making it difficult for the average business owner to decide who to hire. This is going to be a quick post, and I'll try to get right to the point.

I don't know about you, but my grandmother always told me that one generally gets what they pay for. She was not extravagant by any means, in fact, she was the one who would negotiate a dollar item at a garage sale down to fifty cents and save her receipts-- even if she bought a pack of gum it went down on her accounts journal. I cannot explain the horror---the shear embarrassment I would experience when "Nanny" would successfully walk away from a yard sale with an item that was well worth the one dollar price tag---"Really, Nan, just give them the dollar," I would argue. Yet, even though she would always 'dicker," Nan stood firm by her basic belief, "you get what you pay for." Although I too am frugal, I do believe that our discount culture has become more of a disadvantage than an advantage and it's not only the consumer that is harmed, it seems to be affecting industry as a whole.

I'm not going to talk about garage sale items here, but it seems to me that graphic designers and web designers in the Tampa area could very well put their signs and balloons on the street corners and advertise their web design services, much like one advertises their garage sale. OH WAIT! They are doing just that. Yep, I've seen the signs. $199, Lutz Web Design. Full custom websites for your small business.
Really? Could it be true? There has to be a catch, there always is.
Any website designer, whether in Tampa or New York, who has an ounce of respect for their profession, or shall I say the industry as a whole should be as appalled as I. Understanding how much work really goes into a custom website design, many designers agree that these types of deals are an insult to the service graphic and web designers provide. I see "gimmick, hidden fees, hosting promotion" as well as many other underlying details to the website design $199 or $299 specials offer. For the most part, I'm not alone. Most small business owners have had to trim the fat, no doubt, but those who have done their research fully, understand what my grandmother was trying to convey to me, probably even having been told the same thing by their grandmothers. When I get a call from a prospect who is looking to hire a website design firm in Tampa and who has either already had a bad experience with this type of deal, or who had considered it briefly before coming to their senses, it makes me, well--- mad.

Why?Tampa entrepreneurs and small biz owners for the most part can often see right through these website design deals, but then again, there are those poor unsuspecting, honest souls who know nothing about the industry or what launching a successful website really entails. There are many aspects to be considered prior to launching a company website, and one shouldn't settle for a template that five thousand other folks have used, tweaked up a bit to hold some basic business card information. Why not purchase a template and fill in the company info yourself and get the same results? Because it's wrong too. Although one might argue---I'm getting the site for "free" when I sign up for their hosting (starting at $9.95 per month, as an actual example) And, with that, they've lost their own argument. They just didn't know what they should be looking for (in the small print, even.)

But, how do you know what to look for in a web designer if you don't know about web design? It's similar to me not knowing anything about car repair and being sold a kanooter valve on the sly. Honesty is the key to providing any service and in my case, I have a true desire to see my clients succeed.

When you take into consideration the process of designing a client's website, it should sound something like this: Sit with client to obtain their vision and company goals, find out what they like, colors, layouts, other sites they enjoy, logo colors and other images that will need to be incorporated. Determine if what they have in mind is actually the right choice for their industry and overall goals. Discuss how they intend to build their "brand" over time. Assist them with their website content, find and/or optimized images, re-write or edit content if necessary to develop relevant content, write awesome page titles and descriptions, alternate text and long descriptions on images, set up hosting, then proceed with the actual development and design of the website. Keep the back end tidy and search engine friendly, create and add site maps to the website and Google (after we've set up their Google account for them). Edit the site with client, make any changes or additions, add their sites to local search engines and perform other optimization tasks per the client's request and according to their specific package. And, I'm sure I'm missing some steps!

Now, if anyone will and can do all of this for $199, then God bless them for that. I know that times are tough but, I can tell you this, there is not a chance in the world that any reputable, self respecting web designer in Tampa Bay would do what it takes to launch a functional website (and I mean functional not only in the sense that the site can be viewed, my cat can do that.) Many would argue that what I've mentioned above is not a practical scenario, but again I stand firm; if one wishes to have a successful and as well as an aesthetically pleasing website designed for their business, then the steps I've listed above are very practical, as well as necessary.

So if you are searching to find a deal, I can offer payment plans for website design services but I cannot give my time away for free -- I have my portfolio built ( I mention this only because that was one designer's reason for selling his sites so dirt cheap on Craigslist) and I want my clients to not only be proud of their websites, but pleased with the success that comes from it.

In closing, here are some other famous "Grandmother" quotes for fun:

What we obtain too cheap, we esteem lightly.
If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.
(That's what will occur when you purchase a dirt cheap site design!)
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

For more information about Tampa's Bay Area Graphics & Marketing, visit us online at http://www.websitestampabay.com or email bagraphics@verizon.net.

Website Designers for Florida Businesses Since 2001!

How Much Can You Expect to Pay for A Basic Website Design in Tampa

2010-05-26T23:53:00.000-04:00

It's the ten million dollar question! "How much should a small business pay for a "basic" website design in Tampa or surrounding areas?"

Those of us in the web design industry in the Tampa bay area (if we're honest) would like to roll our eyes back in our heads because we understand how website design pricing can fluctuate depending on who you hire. Although we post our prices clearly on our site describing exactly what our clients will receive, we (and many of our clients and prospects) are surprised that most web design firms in the Tampa area do not.
That's right...They Do NOT.

The true frustration with many fellow Tampa web designers I've spoken with is that no matter how affordable you make your small business website design services or e-commerce website design services in the Tampa area, there is always someone who can offer it even cheaper. What many clients don't understand initially, is that in the long run, those less affordable options will end up costing more money and problems for their online business, but too often it's not realized until the damage is done.

The more important questions that should follow "how much" is how marketable will their "cheap" website design be on launch date, how will they obtain their website updates or SEO for their Tampa locale...or will they, how long will it take to build the site, who will build it and-- something that hardly anyone asks...will a copy of their site be provided to them and will they own it outright once completed.

I've posted to websitestampabay.com, some of the most upfront questions a small business owner should ask a website designer in Tampa prior to utilizing their services. It's wise to seek out 3 or 4 different web design quotes but I highly suggest that price should never be the sole deciding factor when hiring a Tampa web design firm. Local Tampa website designers are pretty much a dime a dozen these days but having been around for nearly a decade, I have heard too many sorrowful stories from clients who had unfortunate experiences with even some of the top local Tampa design firms. Customer service and dependability is a key factor and a must for small business owners and customers will pay a fair price for a service that exceeds their expectations.

We believe that providing design and marketing services that are priced right as well as packed with personalized service, we're accomplishing what we set out to do nearly a decade ago. If you're a Tampa, Florida web or graphics designer and wondering how you can boost your business, always remember to ask yourself if you would be satisfied with the service and prices that you are offering. If the answer is an honest "yes" then you're on the right track to improving your customer base. Just ramp up your own marketing but treat all of your customers right. Remember that referrals and return business is nothing to scoff at. You'll be glad that you worked hard for your customers who in turn think highly of your Tampa web or graphic design business--- especially during slow periods when this type of business revenue comes your way!

If you're a small business owner looking for a company who can stand up to the challenge of providing graphic design, web design and marketing services to your Tampa business then please visit us at http://www.websitestampabay.com or call us directly for a fast, friendly consultation.

Web & Graphic Design Firm Offers Tampa Clients Affordable Variety

2010-04-28T00:51:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted so thought I would catch up reading, and writing a blog or two-- It seems that the failing economy has resulted in a boom of entreprenuerism here in the Tampa Bay area which in turn has been keeping me quite busy! Kudos to the new small business owners who continue to shine a light on my business and others in like industries.
It's heart warming and occasionally even heart wrenching to watch small businesses being built from ground zero. From those who were in construction, to CEO's of major corporations, I see a diversified bunch developing great ideas and turning them into thriving companies. It is a show of strength in the midst of an ever changing economy. In other words, in an effort to survive in hard times, many have found no other choice than to get creative and take a chance on self-employment--- and most are on their way to great success. Self employment can be difficult, but with the rolling up of the sleeves, a good idea and some careful planning, the rewards can be many.

In the nine and a half years that I've been in business providing website design and graphic design to Tampa Bay business owners, I've come face to face with the ins and outs of small business ownership. I came to the realization early on that taking the time to truly listen to each one of my clients is what would enable the future diversification of my own business. Tampa Bay business owners want and need marketing, design and print services that are affordable but----they do not want to forgo good if not excellent customer service. In fact they want "more" personalized service and they want to save time. Dealing with one trusted vendor is a plus for our customers, as well. We give our clients the attention they deserve, in turn, they treat us to repeat business. Often times a web design client also needs catalog printing and design, and a logo design client, may need t-shirt printing. Ah, growth is a wonderful thing! Each year we've added a little more variety to our existing services. To date, we provide a great "combo platter" of design and marketing products and services that serve the Tampa Bay small business community well.

On a heartfelt note, I see how God paved the way for me to meet the needs of my clients by putting tools in my toolbox---tools that I thought I would never need or utilize for that matter. With an accounting and marketing background that was built out of need more than desire, I was a self-employed "bean counter" for years, muddling through to put the food on the table for my two beautiful (and hungry) kids! When I decided to make the transition into Corporate American, I was fortunate enough to learn how to market like a pioneer and I served under the President of one of Tampa Bay's largest retail jewelry business' Ad Agency. From scheduling radio and television station ad time to creating billboard and print ads, I learned the ropes of marketing and advertising under the best of the best--- and I loved it. I wrote advertorials for the Tampa Bay Business Journal and rekindled my love for writing. I've freelanced as Editor for local Tampa Bay area newspapers, and am published in print as well as online. An avid artist since I was a little girl, I was finally able to quench my thirst for creativity (without starving) when (thank the lord!) the 90's brought us the World Wide Web! Wow, does anyone remember CompuServe back in the day? Hmmm, I suddenly feel old. (g) I have to smile about those first days online. I remember what the cost of obtaining a business website was back then as well, and it quickly became my goal and dream to start my own web and graphic design firm that would provide Tampa area small business owners with an affordable way to get the products and services they needed to become successful and competitive---without forgoing quality and customer service.

So, here I am years later and customer service and reliability has continued to be a top priority. Offering a variety of design, marketing and printing services to our Tampa clients has kept return business in an upward swing. But, how do you know when offering services outside of your "specialty" is the right thing to do? For instance, should a freelance website designer also offer catalog design and printing or.... would it hinder your ability to provide your clients with the customer service and support needed to keep them happy? Will you still be able to meet stringent deadlines without skipping a beat? My fellow Tampa web and graphic designers know that our clients need what they need ---and they benerally need it yesterday! The last thing your small design business needs is to do anything that would create unhappy clients-- Let's face it, word spreads like wildfire and a bad reputation can destroy your small business, no matter what industry you're in.There are variables to consider and those in any industry must decide if diversifying is the right move or not. Business owners should trust their gut instinct and should accept their limitations. Proliferating services or products that weren't part of the original business plan is not for everyone and certainly not for the fainthearted. For instance, Bay Area Graphics and Marketing offers website design and e-commerce web design, graphic and logo design as well as printing services. If you need a product catalog designed, printed and shipped directly to you, or an e-commerce website to showcase and sell your products online...we can do both for you efficiently and effectively. We can assist you with all of your marketing services such as SEO (marketing your Tampa website) as well as marketing and design services and ad campaigns for email and snail mail! Our video editing services help those who would like their T.V. interviews or commercials put on their websites, often video clips that require editing for content and time. We can create videos or flash from your stills as well. One call gets most of what you need to run your Tampa Bay business smoothly.

Truly, our customers can take much of the credit for our steady growth. We take the credit for listening to our clients and delivering to them the services and products that they want. Our marketing and design background coupled with having had owned other small businesses in different industries, helps us to understand what it takes to ensure that our clients are happy. First and foremost, we know that what we do (or don't do) will affect our client's bottom line, hence affecting ours. Obtaining one or more of the services we offer, can be done with ease. We treat clients the way we would want to be treated and will go above and beyond to help launch and expand Tampa small businesses.

Website Design Tampa - http://www.websitestampabay.com/
Graphic Design Tampa - http://websitestampabay.com/graphic-design.htm
Printing Tampa- http://websitestampabay.com/brochures_flyers_tampa_printer.html
bagraphics@verizon.net

Do You Get Service With Your $1 Website?

2009-08-25T16:52:00.000-04:00

I couldn't even bring myself to read the ad--- Websites $1 --Up Same Day ( or something to that affect.) I shivered, cringed, and then wondered... who would actually think they could purchase a website for one dollar and get any reliable website design service guarantee?

What I've come to realize in the many years that I've been providing Tampa web design and web marketing services is that most of my clients care less about price than they do about quality and service. Although price matters to most small businesses who are hiring a designer, and finding affordable website design and marketing services is part of adhering to a stringent budget in a struggling economy, service is so much more important and in most cases at the absolute forefront of the decision making process.

Reliable, friendly and available website designers are often born out of experience in their field. Someone fresh out of college with a degree in design often has the technical know-how but lacks the sense of urgency, accuracy and marketing skill that is needed to appease the masses.
Freelance developers and website development firms who have worked with numerous clients and on many levels often times deliver more simply because they have an understanding of business operations. It helps tremendously if a developer has managed their own business not only in the design industry but outside the industry as well. Having done so often develops a healthy insight of what a business owner expects from a service provider, including their website designer.

Equally as important for many clients is where their prospective website designer is located. Not that it necessarily affects the outcome of the design or marketing of a client's website, but because it adds to the client's overall comfort level. With business and even social aspects of our lives becoming less and less personalized it still matters to many business owners that they receive personalized service. And afterall why shouldn't they? A website is generally an ongoing part of day to day operations with many businesses, even small ones. Knowing that you can call your website designer today or a year from now and feeling confident that you'll receive the same dependable and affordable website design service is what most small business owners strive for. Often times, meeting just once with a designer is enough to instill a sense of camaraderie that we all still enjoy.

I've had clients who have worked with many designers prior to using my services-- As a website designer and business owner in the Tampa area and in an attempt to understand my client's likes and dislikes, I always inquire as to why they did not remain with their original web developer. It never seems to be a money issue, it is a service issue. Providing top notch customer service and custom website designs for my Tampa clients takes time-- a lot of time as well as total commitment. I work in excess of 14 to 15 hours a day (on a slow day.)
So when I see the advertisements for $1 websites, and assuming one would obtain any kind of decent service that goes along with it, I can only ask, "Why didn't I think of that?"

For more information or to find out how to locate an affordable website designer in Tampa without forgoing service, visit http://www.websitestampabay.com or call us at 813.948.1062.

Tampa Website Designers Should Meet Specific Criteria

2009-07-28T10:47:00.000-04:00

Have you decided that it's time to hire a Tampa web designer? Doing some legwork prior to hiring a website design firm or Tampa freelance designer, may save you a lot of money and even save you from disappointment. Which Tampa, Florida website designer you decide to hire should meet certain criteria and you shouldn't decide based on website design pricing alone. Affordability, Availability, Flexibility, Reliability, and of course Reputation and talent, should all play a role in who you hire to design your Tampa bay area website.

With many small business owners being affected by the economy, now more than ever people are searching for the "cheapest" Tampa website designer. Sure, everyone wants to obtain the best deal when it comes to any purchase, but you have to compare cost to quality.

I see the stenciled website design signs in Tampa, Lutz and all around the Tampa Bay area-- "$299 Website Design and I want to ... uh... run it over with my car. I know that whomever writes that check will end up writing subsequent checks to get a finsihed product.

In short, working with a stable website design firm in Tampa is a good start if you're searching for a website designer, yet...that's not always enough. Stable isn't everything and some Tampa website design firms cater to only high end customers. In other words, if you're a small business on a limited budget, you should probably look elsewhere. Freelance website designers are another option and there's plenty of talent with regards to this option. But be careful-- If you're in the online business for the long haul, your freelancer may not be. Do they have what it takes to stay in business? What happens when you need website updates or website marketing for your Tampa website and they're no longer around to assist you?

Asking the appropriate questions of your potential website designer can save you time and money. The most important thing to remember is don't simply look for cheap website designs without considering all of the variables. If you rush into hiring a designer based on price alone, you may -- you probably will, end up feeling regretful at the very least.

Visit http://www.websitestampa.com or www.websitestampabay.com to read more about how to choose a website designer or website marketing firm, Tampa.

Branding Your Tampa Business With Graphic Design

2009-07-15T00:18:00.000-04:00

I can't tell you how many times I've heard a small business owner tell me that they don't need to brand their Tampa business---after all, they're only a small business, why spend money on branding? The truth is that no matter how large or small, whether you're offering a product or service, branding is of the utmost importance to any size or type of business and can be achieved through utilizing custom graphic designs for your Florida website and for your print and promotional products.

Tampa businesses such as The Urban Exchange in Tampa (http://www.theurbanexchange.com/) recognized this concept from the start. Although they are a small Tampa clothing reseller, branding using creative graphic designs was an important part of their marketing strategy right from the beginning. The graphic design placed on their homepage when we designed their Tampa small business website, was built to accommodate their existing logo design. Over the years, their Tampa print ad designs and campaigns have been custom designed so that even if their logo and contact info was omitted-- today, most people would recognize their advertisements because of the consistent "vibe" their graphic designs offer up.

This (branding with graphic designs) certainly isn't a new concept but it's a concept that all Tampa businesses should consider however, many are not. Some business owners believe that all they need to do is to obtain a decent logo design for their Tampa business. Yet branding your Florida business requires much more than obtaining a great logo design. Your logo, although most important should be accompanied by an overall style and feel that your printed brochures, postcards and even your website graphics initiate. Building your brand through the utilization of great graphic designs is a sure way of captivating the consumer. No matter how small you think you are, your designs should be big and bold even if the graphics are soft and subtle---Most importantly, they should reflect your company's personality. Although ad content is important as well, often times, "words are truly cheap" and using visuals can be worth their weight in gold.

Then why aren't more small business owners doing what it takes to get better graphic designs for their websites and printed promotional products and ad designs?

The biggest misconception about custom graphic designs? Affordability. Companies don't have to pay a fortune to obtain graphic design services in the Tampa area. Tampa businesses can contact Bay Area Graphics & Marketing directly or visit our website to view our affordable graphic design prices or Google, Graphic Design Tampa to do some comparison shopping.

Whether it's an ad design, logo website design or web graphics for online ads, make sure you are branding your business with awesome graphic designs and undoubtedly, your small business won't just exist, it will outshine your competitors.

Web Designs That Get SEO Results

2009-06-11T16:07:00.000-04:00

It seems to be increasingly difficult to obtain website design in the Tampa area that are affordable, functional (yes, I said it) and also built to be SEO "friendly." Bay Area Graphics & Marketing is mindful of search engine optimization for our Tampa clients and always prior to launching their sites. Although no one can promise immediate or guaranteed fist page results, it is well noted that key word rich written content combined with aesthetically pleasing designs and great structure, "take the cake" with Google and other major search engines. So, why don't some design firms build them this way from the start? It's hard to know the exat reason yet I can only speculate that it has much to do with either expertise ( or lack thereof) or the designer or web design firm's way to ensure additional income from their web clients. Don't get me wrong, often times, depending on a client's industry and locality, additional SEO service is needed however, great content goes a long way.

Many of my Tampa Bay clients are of the understanding that website development is separate from search engine optimization services. Often times website owners are paying far too much money for SEO services after their sites are launched. We've found that in the majority of cases had the website content been written properly prior to launching the site, site owners would not have had to pay someone to come in at a later date to re-write the copy.

To learn more about finding quality website design in Tampa, visit http://www.websitestampabay.com/seo.htm.

Sluggish Economy Makes Way for Innovation

2009-04-27T14:02:00.000-04:00

Have you or are you thinking of launching a new business in the Tampa area this year? Many people are contemplating starting new businesses despite the sluggish economy and in many cases have done so only after having been forced to find innovative ways to survive.

I've always been a "glass is half full" kind of person and I would like to believe that although some of us are facing devastating times economically my motto stands firm. "Where there's a will there's a way." This applies to one's desire to start a business based on natural talents and/or innovation.

I've spoken with a few people recently who share in my sentiment. Having recently experienced a layoff after having devoted all of their time and efforts to a company who seemed stable---like many were railroaded. To be let go with no notice and little or no severance they found out how deep their "will" ran. Despite their predicaments, these folks decided to rely on their talents and abilities to find niches that will not only help sustain them financially but some have realized that they are much happier than previously perceived! I was so impressed with their motivation that enabled them to move forward and to take a chance on a new endeavors. I've learned much about human resilience and how to look within to find the strength to embark on something new in the midst of a trial. It is admirable to say the least. It's tough to start over and to begin new ventures. It can nearly suck the life out of you at times (if you let it) but nine times out of ten, there'll be no regrets.

Most said the biggest challenge in starting over was determining what type of small business they wanted to build. With little money for start up costs they had to take a good look at their financial picture and allocate monies to areas that would bring forth the largest return. With a huge leap of faith these brave entrepreneurs decided to take what they had and first and foremost get a websites up and running. Surely it would produce the most favorable outcome in time. In other words, they were taking their business ventures seriously and---they had done their homework. Service based businesses don't require much in the way of product or inventory so luckily, there is more to invest into marketing. Selling product can require more of an investment and you still have to be conscientious of maintaining reserves to market that product. The key was to limit the product initially, then build on your inventory as online sales increase.

What Every Small Business Needs, Bay Area Graphics & Marketing Has. Each one of the new small business owners recognized that they needed website design and graphic design services to start. Business Cards, Brochures and Postcards were next on their agendas and in small increments, they have obtained what they need to get off to a good start. With a lot of hard work and at times more faith they are succeeding. I know these new business owners will enjoy continued success in their local markets. Working for yourself is one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences you can ever have even if you've been "forced" into it.

About Bay Area Graphics & Marketing

Bay Area Graphics&Marketing; offers affordable services such as website design, graphic design and other marketing services-- and clients can make just one call to obtain what they need to get started or to jump start their existing small business. Not all Tampa website design firms cater to small businesses but we do. We keep our prices affordable for everyone.

We offer just about everything a business owner would need to get their dreams off the ground and to keep it thriving. From logo design to SEO (Website Marketing)---we've got you covered.
If you're starting a new business give us a call, we would be glad to provide you with a friendly, comprehensive quote for services. If you need affordable website marketing or printing services for your existing business we'll offer you fast, affordable and friendly service. Visit www.websitestampabay.com for more information.

Tampa Website Marketing and Updates Easily Obtained

2009-04-25T12:18:00.000-04:00

If you have a small or large business in Tampa and you've had difficulty obtaining website marketing services or updates from you original webmaster, then you're not alone. Many of our clients who come to us to obtain website maintenance and updates for their websites have expressed their frustration with their former Tampa area website design firms. Most tell us that they were fairly satisfied with the design process but-- once completed, it was either difficult or impossible to receive updates.

Often, cost was an issue and there was the issue of "communication breakdowns." No call backs on requests for service was a huge problem. Tough as it is to believe... it's true that many Tampa Bay area website design firms would rather make their money on designing websites and do not however make a priority of maintaining or updating the websites they've built.

Search engine optimization services usually come with a high price tag and often with mediocre results. So, what's the solution to obtaining affordable small business website marketing and maintenance services in Tampa?

Choose a Tampa area website design and marketing company who is proven effective in offering above average customer service as this is in most cases, the key to success. There are more than enough talented website designers in the Tampa Bay area, and SEO (website marketing, search engine optimization services) seem to be easy enough to find as well. However, just because the talent is there, it doesn't mean the service will be good. Website updates and website marketing is easy and affordable when you hire Bay Area Graphics & Marketing. Since 2001 we've been offering affordable web design, web maintenance and web marketing for Tampa area businesses. Visit our website at http://www.websitestampabay.com and read our reviews. Feel free to contact our clients for a reference or input and as always, contact us directly with any questions you have by calling (813) 948-1062 or email bagraphics@verzion.net.

Guide to Choosing a Website Designer in Tampa

2009-04-06T09:21:00.000-04:00

With so many web designers to choose from in the Tampa area, how do you know exactly which one to hire to accommodate your small business website design needs?

Well, the answer is to take time to do some comparison shopping and to use a reputable website design and website marketing firm in Tampa, one that is established and who can provide you with good references. Pricing plays an important role in your decision making process. Most small businesses have a strict budget for their online business however, choosing the "cheapest" website designer isn't always the best idea. Often times, using a Tampa web designer whose prices seem too good to be true, will often end up costing you more money in the long run. Fixing a poorly developed website, or correcting mistakes that challenge your website ranking, can end up costing a great deal more than you had planned. But how do you find a website designer in Tampa that can offer affordable website design and website marketing without forgoing quality?

Make a list of questions that you want to ask the prospective Tampa web designer. Some questions may be obvious and may include the cost of the website, how many pages will be included in your design, will your website include graphic design or hosting. You may want to know how edits, updates and changes to your website will be dealt with and the cost that will be involved.

Other questions may concern the writing of your website's content. Is the designer an experienced writer with a background in website marketing? Can they initiate a call to action when writing your web content including page titles and descriptions? You should inquire as to how many clients the firm handles at any given time and always ask who will be designing your website and that person’s experience.

One of the most important questions to a prospective Tampa web designer is regarding the website design firm’s customer service policy. It may sound trivial a very high percentage of customers who switch over to Bay Area Graphics & Marketing after having been with another web designer or website design firm in Tampa, have sited poor customer service as a top reason why they found a new company to handle their website design and SEO/SEM needs for their Tampa small business. Ask if (yes, I did say if ) who-- and when you will be able to speak to your designer directly with requests and concerns about your website as well as their policy for response times when you do have questions. You may wonder what this has to do with a good design but, experience shows us that poor communication is directly correlated with poorly designed websites. Additionally, inquire as to a completion date, if one will be provided and guaranteed. These are just some questions that should be asked however you will also want to have your own list handy based on your personal needs.

Website Marketing is usually not at the forefront of most of our client's minds until after their site is built. That is why we address this matter at the start of development. Unfortunately, many Tampa website design companies will build eye catching websites that are unfortunately lacking good content, titles and descriptions. Why is this important? A website must be more than aesthetically pleasing and it needs a variety of qualities to rank organically, in other words based on content and proper linking. We believe that utilizing proper development techniques that address the issue of ranking should be discussed and initiated from the start of your website design project. Additionally, we submit to the major search engines as part of your website design package and additional website marketing services can be included at an affordable price either at the time of service or after your site has been developed.

Lastly, always make sure your website design firm is willing and able to provide you with at least three solid references. Do not rely solely on testimonials and examples of websites they've designed (from their site) but real people that will provide you with information about the service that was provided by that particular Tampa area website design company.

Website Design & Search Engine Optimization Tampa

2009-02-27T10:49:00.000-05:00

Thanks Tampa Bay!

Running your own small business can often be hectic at best! Finding time to give proper thanks to our customers can be challenging! Tampa Bay is a great place to live, work and play and we all contribute wonderfully to our local economy and community.

So for that, we say "Thanks Tampa Bay!" We look forward to helping you continue to grow your business by providing you with afforable design and marketing services.

Website design, graphic design and search engine optimization services for Tampa small business are always one call away!

Greek Dressing www.farmerboygreekdressing.com
The Hungry Greek www.thehungrygreek.com
Marriage Counseling (Christian)www.victoryinjesus.net
Real Estate www.tampalots.com
Rentals&Investments;www.rentpasco.com www.renthernando.com
Weight Loss Doctor www.myhealthyweightsolution.com
Brand Name Clothing Re-seller www.theurbanexchange.com
Medical Billing www.medproanswers.com
Communications/ Telephone Systemswww.selfstoragephones.com
For a full list of our clients, visit our website at www.websitestampabay.com or http://www.websitestampa.com/websitedesigntampaclients.html

Do It Yourself Website Design Tampa, Fl

2009-02-23T09:56:00.000-05:00

In Tampa, Florida, we're seeing more people starting new small businesses. With fears brought on by economic suggishness, some Tampa area small business owners are attempting the "DIY" or "Do-it-Yourself" methods of website design and graphic design.

Unfortunately, in an effort to save money designing their own websites, logos, postcards, business cards, (etc.) what most have ended up with are websites and promotional products that leave much to be desired-- and that lend no value to the branding of their business. Additionally, many end up with a website design that lacks functionality. Worse than that (if it can get any worse than that!) the majority of "DIY" websites include content that leaves much to be desired by the viewer as well as the search engines. Once realized, "DIY" website designers end up hiring us to perform their website re-designs for their Tampa small business. People are amazed at the quality of our affordable website design service and regret having not hired us to do it in the first place. Saving money on your Tampa Website Design does not mean having to compromise quality.

We understand the ins and outs of operating a business. The start up costs can be staggering. Since 2001 we've offered affordable website design for Tampa samll businesses. With any business comes investment and that includes and is emphasized with your on-line presence. Although you don't have to spend a fortune to get a quality, custom small business website design for your Tampa area business, you should rarely attempt to "DIY!"

Don't waste your time trying to save money only to have to start all over from scratch! Leave your Tampa website design and graphic design projects to a professional and spend that time using your time and talents building the other aspects of your Tampa area business. We want you to do what you do best, while we do what we do best--- Website Design, Website Marketing and much more!

Visit us at www.websitestampabay.com or www.websitestampa.com for more information.

Is There an End to Your Website Marketing?

2009-02-20T10:48:00.000-05:00

Marketing your website can leave you feeling confused and discouraged and in competitive markets such as Tampa. You can bet that there are many Tampa web marketing and website design firms that will promise to get you ranked number #1 in Google.

Although possible in most cases and probable in many, there are numerous factors involved in getting your Tampa website ranked high in Google. Age of your website, your website content, titles, descriptions, internal and external linking, all play important roles. They type of business you have also weighs in. Is yours a saturated market? Doctors, Lawyers and other high profile Tampa businesses must be competitive. How do you remain competitive without spending a fortune in website marketing? SEO (search engine opimization) and SEM (search engine marketing) is what we love to do for our Tampa website clients. Our website marketing services are affordable for everyone and our techniques have "lasting rewards." Paying monthly for marketing services, may not be necessary for the online success of your website, although some will tell you that it is.

Content is the number one most important factor in any good website design, and content is also the key to external sources linking back to your site. It is the key to successful online marketing. Sure, you may know how to write about your business, blog and to list your company on various other websites-- but, do you know the strategies involved to make it all count in your favor?

Bay Area Graphics & Marketing enjoys saving Tampa small businesses money and while we grow your businesses on the web! Since 2001 we've been providing Tampa Bay with awesome website designs and website marketing services and we're going strong! Give us a call and let us save you money on your website marketing, SEO, and SEM.

Communication Skills and Graphic Designers

2009-01-19T18:52:00.000-05:00

Graphic design is a form of communicating visually using text and/or images to present information, or promote a message. The art of graphic design embraces a range of cognitive skills and crafts including typography, image development and page layout. Graphic design is applied in communication design and fine art.

The problem with many graphic artists is that they lack the listening skills necessary to turn their client's vision into reality. It's a tough job really and many of my clients come to me disappointed in their existing logos and designs. I usually don't contribute it to the lack of skill on the designer's part--but, most often, lack of listening skills. Many times ego gets in the way. Designers are artists and we all know how artists can be, right? (Hey, watch it...I'm one too!) But, with age comes wisdom and patience and lots of other things I won't discuss--and often we learn via the school of "hard knocks!"

See what our clients have to say visit www.websitestampabay.com.

Website Design Tampa

2009-01-15T18:15:00.001-05:00

Website design services in the Tampa Bay area are easy to find. There's almost an overwhelming number of firms and freelancers to choose from. Curiously, I've spoken with some local website design firms and freelancers as well in an attempt to find out how they are fairing in today's economy. Some actually have contacted Bay Area Graphics & Marketing for website design contractual and overflow opportunities. I saw this as a good opportunity to ask some questions.

Design firms as well as freelance designers are feeling different effects in today's economy. I'm pleased to say that my design and Tampa website marketing business has more than tripled since the start of 2008 and I'm grateful for that. It was predicted that online marketing and web design firms would be positively affected by the slowing economy--and thus far those predictions have held firm for some of us in the industry.

Not all Tampa web design firms and freelancers are feeling the same positive effects, however. It's my opinion that reputation and price structuring has much to do with whether or not one can succeed at any business in the current conditions. If your reputation precedes you, whether bad or good, your bottom line will likely reflect the same. In addition to that, when times are tough the very first thing some design company owners or freelancers will do is take advantage of the situation and raise their prices for their website design services. Keep in mind, this isn't the case for all and there are many factors, but I think it's fair to say these are contributing factors.

Now, having (bravely) said that --I'll go on to say that we all should get paid what we're worth and believe me--most designers aren't compensated nearly enough to equal their talent or manpower... but these days, who is? Many website design firms were simply overpriced to begin with and savvy consumers have found out that they can obtain quality website design and marketing services without selling the farm. Longevity counts as well. If you've been in business for some time in the Tampa area, and if you've treated your clients right-- you will have had certainly built a good client base that will follow you in good and bad times.

Business owners need online marketing services and today's online marketing trends are moving upwards. Oddly enough, people wonder why-- To spell it out in simple terms...More people have constant on-line access and when they want something they Google it-"Even Grandma Googles." It's just that simple.

My point is that existing small businesses,entrepreneurs and the self employed need website design services as well as SEO and marketing services to help them succeed. Remember the old saying "In good times people want to advertise, in bad times they have to." In bad times, however, there's less money to spend on advertising-- so it's obvious that every dollar that your client spends--must be spent right.

In short, Bay Area Graphics & Marketing continues to offer affordable, quality website design, website SEO and website content to the Tampa Bay business community and has been doing so since 2001. Website Design Website Re-designs Content Provider Marketing Graphic Design Printing.

http://www.websitestampabay.com
http://www.websitestampa.com

Surviving Black Friday Again--Buy Gift Certificates!

2008-11-26T07:59:00.000-05:00

Original Post November 2008.

Bay Area Graphics & Marketing wishes everyone a very happy, safe and blessed holiday! Relax,take a breather from the madness, eat some turkey, and watch some football (ornot), take a nap and my recommendation--- watch Home for the Holidays for agood laugh.

I was thinking this weekend, about Black Friday and about those who surviveit year after year. (Updated for 2011 - Black Friday Will Apparently Begin onThursday this Year)
All I can say is God bless you for attending. Honestly, I've never beenbrave enough, nor have I ever thought it a good idea to face the intense crowds(at 5 a.m.) just to get a sale price for something. I prefer to shop all yearfor the gifts I intend on giving -- Usually by July, my closet is overflowingwith gifts that I've purchased (on sale) throughout the year. My last minutepurchases consist of gift cards or gift certificates, however. I've always feltthat gift cards were"impersonal" but, to my surprise, most people, including my familymembers, prefer gift certificates or gift cards over a gift that is useless,doesn't fit, or otherwise never gets used.

Last year, Bay Area Graphics & Marketing offered Gift Certificates that can be usedfor all of our services, with the exception of printing services. We neverexpected them to be such a hit, and so we are offering them again this year.Most everyone knows someone who needs smallbusiness services. Family members or friends who have their own business,your Doctor, Dentist, Stylist or your business vendors, can all realisticallybenefit from one of our many marketing and design services. From graphic design, logo design, website marketing and design, brochures,postcards or other business marketing services, your gift recipient willhave plenty of services to choose from. Our gift certificates can be redeemedfor help with social media or blogging services to promote their currentwebsite or business and can be redeemed to update an outdated website orcontent.

Our favorite gift certificate picks are--- We especially promote giftcertificates that come from local or Florida small businesses. Spas, salons,travel agencies, massage therapists, restaurants or even custom made jewelry,candy or clothing businesses would benefit and so would your recipient! Howabout treating your wife or mother to a maid for a day?

Visit http://www.websitestampabay.comfor more information about our website and graphic design services. If you'rein the Tampa Bay area, we will even wrap your gift certificates up in a prettybasket for your gift recipient or we can email your vendors with their giftcard code should you be one of the many forgetful or procrastinating giftgivers this year.
Happy Thanksgiving and Safe Travels from Bay Area Graphics and Marketing.

Tampa Small Business Appreciates Website Design Firm

2008-10-31T18:16:00.000-04:00

With so many website design firms in Tampa to choose from, we've asked many of our clients why they decided to hire Bay Area Graphics & Marketing for their small business service provider--- The answer was the same across the board.

Bay Area Graphics & Marketing has built up a reputation for providing many of the services that most Tampa area businesses need such as; website design, logos, corporate identity packages and services to SEO and full service printing. Our website design clients can obtain custom brochures, business cards and postcards, conveniently and affordably.

Affordability and accessibility are the two things small business owners look for when looking for quality marketing services. From web design to SEO (content provider) to custom designed e-mail ads and newsletters, Bay Area Graphics & Marketing has a business strategy that offers up win-win results. Our clients love the convenience of obtaining many services with just one call-- and we enjoy the repeat business.

For information about our company, visit www.websitestampabay.com! If you're a freelance graphics or website designer and are interested in submitting your resume to us, feel free! We appreciate the talent that Tampa freelance graphic and web designers have to offer and we have the business experience to back that talent.

Look for us on-line at www.websitestampabay.com. Since 2001, we've been building websites, and we continue to build long lasting business relationships, year after year.

Website Designer Tampa....(1 of 467,000?)

2008-07-21T16:42:00.000-04:00

If you're trying to find a Website Designer in Tampa, Florida --get ready to be overwhelmed. Not so much by the number of website designers or web firms in the area but by the fact that there's an obvious lack of service with many...and many there are. It brings to mind another industry, that not so long ago had a similar influx of professionals who would lie in wait for their next...client. (grin)
Remember when real estate was booming and everyone and your mother was a licensed Florida Real Estate Salesperson (REALTOR)? I had numerous website and graphic design clients in that industry. Over time, it became ever so painfully evident that anyone was allowed to sell real estate in Florida, everyone wanted to sell it ---and so they did. I knew that the day would come when the "boys would be separated from the men," (apologies to my lady friends) as it were, and so, the fly-by-night-ers were inevitably forced to find alternative ways of making money, and the really great Realtors, are still hanging tough in this crazy, unstable housing market---God bless 'em!
I've been thinking---"Did some of the Realtors in search of a new career go into freelance website design?" Having said that--- (against my better judgment) I'll go on to say that I've worked with many in the Real Estate Industry who I considered to be true professionals and I've learned much about what it takes to be an "exceptional realtor" (although I could never be one.) Looking back on that period of time when everyone seemed to hold a license to sell real estate "exceptional realtor" wasn't easily found. No, not because it's an oxymoron (silly) but because the industry standard was actually based on a substandard code of acceptable practices.
You could FIND a Realtor without a hitch---Truthfully, most of us could probably say that all we had to do was dial up a family member or neighbor and "bingo" you've found a Realtor. However, if finding an "exceptional Realtor" was one's goal---one would certainly feel as if they were looking for a needle in a haystack. Why? Well, because everyone figured
it a grand idea to get a real estate license and it is fairly easy to obtain. Who could have known the effect it would have had on that industry? I admit that I figured it out before most-- Maybe it's because I was on the outside with a good view to the inside and also---I'm a firm believer in Karma and the Golden Rule or the "what goes around comes around" theory but, I knew that all that "bad business conduct" would eventually come to a screeching halt. Now, everyone knows.

Where am I going with this?
I'm beginning to wonder if the same type of scenario isn't occurring in the website and graphic design industry. I had to laugh when the thought entered my mind, yet if you've looked for a website designer in the Tampa area, or anywhere really, you'll quickly see what I mean. The options are many---which can be a good thing, or similar to the real estate industry---it may just end up being a terribly bad thing. I suppose time will tell and well--quite possibly-- I'll have the pleasure of being the "town crier" when it does.

But I see the tell-tale signs such as sub-standard service and unacceptable practices and that's just the start of what's to come---and what has come. This isn't simply my opinion. It is unfortunate truth based on some of the horror stories that I've verified via my clients. And in all seriousness, it's a shame to the profession.
With so many web designers to choose from how do you know where to begin or what to be aware of prior to hiring a website designer or graphic designer? If you know nothing about how a website is built, how then will you recognize the difference between a good website designer and a bad one? Aren't they all the same? Again, let's compare this to the hiring of a Realtor. Not all Realtors offer the same level of service (even though they should) to reach the same end result for their clients. In both industries some people have more or less experience, some charge more or less, some will provide more service for you and some may do "just enough to get by on." Some have a big name and are high profile... some of the best in the industry who aren't highly exposed--- will work harder for you. Depending on who you hire, you may pay for actual services rendered or you may be paying more to cover the overhead of your fancy firm's fancy stuff only to be rendered a "just barely-okay service." Some web design firms or independent designers may have too much business to manage and cannot give you the desired attention; or worse, they may not be there for you the week after next because they only design websites "part-time."
Let's get down to business. When purchasing a service, consumers look first and foremost for the most affordable service ---regardless of the type of service they're seeking. Yet, others prefer to obtain their services from the company that has the most amenities. (Big corporate office, big corporate company cars, big honking payroll, etc., etc.) Folks that fall into that category don't mind absorbing the cost of their website design firm's luxurious habits. That's not a bad thing-- just a preference. My mother once said, "You can fall in love with a rich attorney just as easily as you might a general laborer," and yes, she was probably right. But, she always did choose nearly everything based on "appearances," as do many other people. Again, it's not a bad thing, it's simply a choice.
But, to do so believing that it is a sure fire way to ensure quality service, is simply nonsense. It's equal to choosing a Realtor based on the fact that she's adorned both hands with giant diamond rings and drives the car that costs more than your house, who lets the teeny-weenie, million -dollar pooch with hot pink poochie-dog toenails (you know the one--- who attends poochie palates with her purse pup twice weekly--- simply because "that is" what really successful brokers do, right?) (Pheewww that was a mouthful!) Don't laugh, it happens! Choosing a designer, graphics or otherwise, shouldn't be based on appearances alone or talent, alone. Many things come into play and I can't imagine how frustrating and difficult it must be to have to make that choice.

It apparent that for Tampa's small business community, it's becoming an increasingly difficult task, again not for lack of designers or web and graphic design firms---but because there are so many to choose from. Narrowing it down to an intelligent choice is difficult, so if you're a designer, keep that in mind when you're speaking with a prospect. Help them along and be honest and forthcoming. I encourage my prospective clients to speak with other Tampa website design firms or designers prior to committing to Bay Area Graphics & Marketing for their business services. I give them a gauge to go by, and suggest to them certain things they should do prior to hiring a website designer. First I suggest that they ask specific questions of their web designer or web design company. I then show them how to obtain information about their designer. I recommend the right way to calculate a cost comparison and how and what to look for in the "boilerplate" should the company offer a contract--- which they should. I advise them to have the designer spell everything out in clear terms, terms during the construction of their webiste as well as after the site is launched. Unfortunately, it's tough to gauge what type of service will be offered to a client once they've signed on the dotted line, yet, if a person does a bit of research prior to making a decision, they will at the very least, know that they did everything they could should their business relationship and quality of service with that designer "go south."
And it does...and they do...and that's when my phone starts to ring.

But--- is service more important than talent? You would be surprised to know that most small business owners would rather trade a little less talent for a website design company that goes above and beyond in service. That company will always get it right; always make it right for their client---one way or the other.

Talented, Knowledgeable, Affordable, Reputable, Reliable, Available, Flexible--
Website Designers/ Tampa, Florida (1 out of 467,000?)

With all of the many web designers to choose from in the Tampa area , to the small business owner choosing a website or graphic designer usually boils down to making one or two phone calls---then, selecting someone based on one of two things. Money and money. Why? Most small business owners know nothing about the website design and/or marketing process--- so, out of frustration most will decide based on what they know for sure---Which is generally their bank account balance and considering the talent, knowledge, reputation, loyalty, availability and flexibility of the designer is to some, a moot point---A responsible designer will make it important to their client by reiterating the significance of those qualities and how it will affect the client, long term, and to solidify the overall integrity of their profession.
Be Kind.
Most small business owners don't know what questions to ask their website or graphic designer or how to ask them. They have a vision of what they want and some can even explain it quite well , actually. They just don't know how to make sure the person they are speaking to can firmly be entrusted with that vision. Still, many end up hiring "on the fly" and then must look forward to initiating some level of damage control six months later. Once they get over the shame of it, they come to my company (or another company) for assistance in re-designing or fixing their website. I tell them it's nothing to be ashamed of. I admit to my clients that I know nothing about many things so when it comes time for me to "consume" something that I know nothing about---I educate myself and investigate the companies who could provide the product or service first. I further admit that there have been times that I've thrown caution to the wind and against all better judgment ---have jumped headfirst and blindfolded into a purchase. On more than one occasion I've been hopelessly disappointed after making such reckless decisions. Hey...It happens to the best of us.

What Should You Consider Prior to Choosing a Tampa Website Design Company?
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The Good News Is? Bay Area Graphics & Marketing

2008-06-09T12:51:00.000-04:00

I watched the news today (oh boy?) and wished I hadn't (again.) But-- like many others who are members of what I refer to as "The secret society of news junkies," I just had to do it. And much like anyone with a vice--it felt good to indulge, initially that is. Then came the remorse.

I should have stuck to watching another episode of "The Deadliest Catch" or "John & Kate Plus 8" or just listened to the Counting Crows again but--I did not. Instead of watching the men on the Cornelius Marie pull in a record catch, I've been left with a sinking feeling that....

Everything is bad?

That's my conclusion. With the exception of the piece on the "Potty-Whisperer" which was a bit odd actually, but the outcome was good. Seven kids pottied trained in one day. This lady is a freak of nature for sure but what a racket she'll have! Yes, most of this mornings news was bad news--again. The economy stinks, gas prices are rising, Iran launched a test missile that could reach Israel without a hitch and we're still in an overall economical decline. More bad things: Food prices keep rising and milk costs nearly as much as fuel, health care still stinks, and the unemployment rate keeps climbing. Foreclosures are at an all time high, people have way too much credit card debt and American children ARE being left behind---Well, we all get the picture by now.

The truly weird thing about all of this is that my Tampa area website and graphic design company is having one of the best years yet. I'm not quite sure why this is-- although I have my theories. Many people have lost their jobs or are fed up with their jobs and are starting new and improved ventures. Others realized that they desperately needed to put the paddles to the heart of their existing business before it too becomes a statistic. We're launching more websites for more new businesses than ever before. My company, Bay Area Graphics & Marketing offers a variety of services as well, and these same companies use us for their logo and graphic design needs as well as for printing of their marketing materials. Tampa clients launching a business website usually need logo design, business cards, brochures, presentation folders, postcards and banners. These can be obtained through Bay Area Graphics & Marketing. Organizations and local Tampa Civic Associations who depend on grants and donations are reaching out more to local Tampa businesses and corporations for help and are purchasing beautiful and affordable marketing materials and packages. More people seem to be dabbling in multiple ventures too, so our repeat business is fantastic. People appreciate our friendly customer service and enjoy the fact that they can obtain much of what they need by using just one company. They also really like the fact that we actually answer our phones from 8 AM to 8 PM (Big smile.)
From ad design to website design, hosting and printing, we can offer it all with just one call.
(Yes, the slogan is old and lacks creativity-- but it's true.)

With so much bad news (that I just HAD to watch) it prompts me to put things in prospective, first to remember to say a big "thank you" to my current clients. They are the heartbeat of my business and they provide me with a sense of hope in these tough times. Americans are still capable of putting their noses to the grindstone and the smart ones recognize that this is a new game. Businesses are coming together via creative networking and marketing and some have cut their costs to accommodate the sluggish economy. Although we've always structured our costs for services at a highly affordable level, we know some other businesses who need to do the same to stay afloat. But unfortuneatly if you don't structure your business correctly from the start, your reputation will precede you. Since 2001, we've kept our prices for website design, SEO and graphic design at a reasonable rate knowing that in time we would build a healthy client base. Our reputation for quality business services that nearly every small business can afford precedes us.

We're committed to excellent customer service as well. The pain we've experienced from poor customer service is always a reminder to offer the best service at all time under any circumstance. Poor customer service almost always sends a client packing. It does me, anyway.

All and all, it may be really bad news as a whole but, we can ALL make it better in our little corner of the world. Do something nice for your clients today to make a difference. Collectively if we start making better choices and initiate change in our own businesses, it might eventually cause a domino effect of "good" which in time just may trickle it's way into my morning newscast. What a nice thought.

Website Design and The PHOTO Search

2008-03-31T15:30:00.000-04:00

There is one common frustration that many in my industry can agree upon--- The “photo” dilemma. It’s an issue that keeps some up at local b-2-b meetings and we've all shared in the late night search-a-thons for the perfect image. Most clients neither have the money to spend on quality images (yes, even if the cost is just a "few" dollars) nor do they possess the skill to capture the right photo for the content they've provided.

Many of my clients come to the design table with no copy and no artwork. As a published freelance writer, providing the copy is a breeze. I can muster up blocks of meaningful text worth publishing on just about any subject. Someone once told me that if I wrote about Grandma’s disgusting liver and onions it would most likely sound delicious on paper. I'm not so sure about that. But, finding an enticing photograph that flows with the content on
granniesliverandonions.com---well, that's a whole different story. What I'll need is the perfect image to match the colors of her chosen website color-scheme. She said she had one or could get one and would provide one, but she changed her mind. Liver and onions are brown. Great. That should be easy enough. Brown goes with just about anything. Or does it? I look at hundreds, no thousands of pictures of liver and onions and none will work. Too small, bad resolution, bad colors, too much liver, not enough onion...the list goes on. (2 hours later) The overall quality of the image HAS to be perfect. I want perfection. But, perfection comes with a price.

The most time consuming task of my job as a website designer is that of the "photo" search and often the music search (but, that's another blog) I truly am a bit of a fuss-pot (yes, I did TOO say fuss-pot) so much so that my meter pegs more towards the obsessive compulsive ratings. I will analyze a design, not to death, but to perfection. Locating the best “visual” aid for a website causes me to spend an enormous amount of time on this one task alone. Choosing the photo, designing the logo, tweaking, optimizing, polishing and so on and so forth---has kept me up for days at a time. Maybe it’s due to my marketing background and the realization that consumers are visually motivated. If consumers can be motivated, they can also be UN-motivated. This is always my main concern.

What’s wrong with this picture?

The photographs, artwork, clip art or logos on a client’s website must be the right dimension, crisp and visually stimulating. Once optimized and placed there must naturally flow together with the client’s website content. Most importantly, the visuals should portray the company's message and reek of branding and integrity. “That’s out of control," you say? Well, yes--yes it is. But, it’s only far out there if you’re not a website designer and one with an eye for art and a background in marketing. Let the pictures tell the story or even...every picture tells a story. If it was meaningful enough for Rod, it must mean something, and it does. It is simply all about marketing.

Another challenge of website development is rendering artwork that has been provided by your client--suitable for the web . Often it ends up to be a heartbreaking ordeal when I have to explain why the particular photo that the client took with his or her own hands, one that is treasured beyond belief, won't work for one reason or the other. It's almost like serving up some incurable health prognosis. I've had clients demand to use it anyway. Two months later, once denial, anger and depression runs the course, they call and ask me to remove it promptly from their website.

Now, because I am customer service oriented (sometimes to a fault--I have been nicknamed "Bay Area Graphics & Doormats") I want to provide the best of the best for my clients. I want them to be happy. Happy with me, happy with their website. Happy, happy. Now, after many years of eating the hours it takes me to find the perfect photo, I clearly state in my website design contracts that if I must search for the perfect photo, I'll charge @@### per hour. Actually, it's been there, I am just now beginning to enforce it. It frees me up and now I have more time to uh....scrub my kitchen grout with a toothbrush.