The Internet opens up a whole new world of business opportunities. Today's Web site isn't just for company public relations, research, or e-mail. Now it's a powerful sales tool. Here are just a few of the ways it can pay off for you:

Size shouldn't matter on the Web. When a customer arrives at your home page, it's more difficult to tell whether you're a small business or a multinational corporation. As long as they're able to buy the products or service they want and get quick, efficient service, the customer should be satisfied. You will need a well-thought-out Web site to succeed on the Internet.

In 1998, there were over 76.5 million people on the Web¹. And that number grows every second. It naturally follows that selling on the Web can give you immediate access to countless potential customers. Now you can extend your products or services to customers across the country and around the world.

The Web never closes. It's open 24 hours a day and consumers like the freedom to order products or services whenever they want-from wherever they are. Now you can use that to boost your sales around the clock. Plus the Internet is a great way to find out, through feedback forms, how you're doing from the people that matter most - your customers.

Now you know eCommerce can increase sales, but did you know it can potentially reduce the amount of money you spend to reach your customers? For example, you may not need to print and mail as many catalogs or brochures. Now customers can get all your product information directly from your Web site. Plus various sales, order fulfillment, or customer service processes can also be automated and may reduce the time and resources needed to conduct your business.