You may have heard the term Internet Strategy thrown around recently. With the rise in popularity of the Internet, businesses have felt the need to get on the Web bandwagon. Most businesses have a website, but many are feeling the need for a more thorough look at how to use the Internet effectively. So, what exactly is an Internet Strategy?
Like any good strategy, an Internet strategy is a process of deciding upon a goal and then figuring out how to work towards that goal. An Internet strategy should be intimately tied to your business strategy. If you don’t have a business strategy, start there and incorporate the Internet into your planning. The goal should be a business goal, not just an Internet business goal. The Internet has matured enough to be able to assist in reaching most business goals.
Once you have your business goal, an Internet strategy is the process of figuring out how the Internet can help you reach that goal. Think about your business website. What functionality and information should be available to your customers to help you reach your goal? What other Internet technologies can help? It helps to think broadly – email, internet advertising, twitter, social networking, blogs – can all help you reach business goals.
To differentiate yourself from your competitors, think about what makes your business different. What are you good at? What is your core competency? How can you apply that to your Internet strategy?
Your customers are the reason why you’re in business. Don’t forget about them. What benefits will you offer them through your products and services? How can you leverage these benefits on the Internet? How can your customers help you reach your goals?
(photo by compujeramey @ Flickr CC)
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