How do you create a commercial website that delivers fundamental information in a functional way? Michael Schultz of Microsoft Office Live (a StartupNation sponsor) imparts his wisdom to the StartupNation listeners who are seeking guidance in the area of e-commerce.
Michael offers technology solutions for all types of business plans and outlines ways to leverage the e-commerce experience that already exists. Essentially, seeing what the other guys are doing that works and making it your own.
The Key Points to creating a functional, user-friendly website:
- Vital information should be prominent (hours, location, contact info.)
- Use graphics but don't make it too busy
- Don't lose sight of the reason they are there: transactions!
- Keep it simple
Listen in as Michael Schultz shares his expertise in combining marketing strategies with technology solutions.
Selected Q&A transcripts from caller questions:
Q&A - Obtaining a business license
Q&A - Manufacturing in small amounts
Q&A - Transitioning to a permanent patent
About Michael Schultz, Marketing and Business Lead for Microsoft Office Live
Michael Schultz is passionate about helping small businesses take their business online. Michael is the U.S. Marketing and Business Lead for Microsoft Office Live, a new Microsoft service for small business that launched in February 2006.
At Microsoft he has worked in various Sales and Marketing roles for a number of real-time technology solutions. Prior to joining Microsoft, Michael was Senior Director of Product Marketing and Channel Development for PlaceWare, Inc., which was acquired by Microsoft in 2003 (now called Microsoft Office Live Meeting). He has also worked as a management consultant and in marketing roles at various early stage start-up companies.