Word Press, CMS, Joomla, Oh my

Creating sites that give you control . . .

Content, content, content is what really makes your website work best for you. The more you can get your message and product to your clients the better. Up until a year or so ago, clients would request a 'brochure' site--a static site that basically mimicked the information they would have on a brochure. It was an easy solution for small budgets and small staffs that don't have time to update their site with new content. Now, with the emergence of affordable solutions that allow clients to update their site themselves, every site should have at least one element that is updated daily, weekly, or at least monthly. Linking your site to your blog, Facebook, or Twitter page are quick and easy ways to keep your clients connected.You can also have your site designed (or redesigned) as a WordPress or Content Management Site. Both options will allow you easy access to your site via any browser on any computer--all you need is a login. Not only do you have 24/7 access to your site but there is no software to purchase and maintain.

We've started a transition away from traditional HTML sites and are now programming new sites using WordPress or Joomla. We've also started converting current client sites to one of these more user-friendly options that maintains the same look but allows a lot more flexibility in keeping your site content new and fresh, not only with text but also link, photos, audio clips and more.

Our most recent example is our new site for the Contemporary American Theater Festival at Shepherd University. I have worked with CATF for the past 10 years on their websites and have watched technology evolve immensely over that time. Our newest site will be the fourth rendition in 10 years. I'd been pushing for a CMS site for years for CATF but the budget just wouldn't allow it. Then, last year, the pricing to develop a CMS reduced drastically allowing us to finally make the transition creating a site that is dynamic, has current information, and most importantly is easy and quick to update. This site was created in conjunction with Johnna Armstrong of Business Technology Source in Shepherdstown.

It's Always Nice to Win A Blue Ribbon

A few weeks ago one of our clients, Jane Tabb (Jefferson County Farm Day, Fresh Feast on the Farm, bringer of flowers and treats) surprised me with a First Place Blue Ribbon West Virginia Agritourism Marketing Award for Best Brochure. The brochure was one we designed for the 2009 Jefferson County Farm Day. Jessica Radlich did the majority (if not all) the design on this project. JC Farm Day is a project we've worked on every year since its inception in 2001. This year's 9th Farm Day will take place on June 19th from 10am - 5pm, is free, and features at least four farms throughout Jefferson County. This is a great event to do with kids because they get to see all types of animals and crops and see real working farms in action. 

Parade of the Everyday

My sister-in-law Kate Shunney has just published her first book of poetry (with design by us!). The cover image is from an Irish painter named Deirdre Keohane. To purchase a copy go to her website at: http://highstreetpresswv.com/

Above is Kate at her first reading and book tour.