Fry, GCN Partner to Develop Web Site Creation Utility for Regional Publishers

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania-based magazine printer Fry Communications has partnered with Internet software services firm GCN Publishing to develop a module-based Web site creation utility geared toward regional publishers.

“As a natural extension, we wanted to offer our city and regional publishers an alternative to expensive custom Web site design that would allow them to expand their Web presence, increase their position as an authority on their region and increase their revenue-generating possibilities,” said Steve Grande, Fry’s vice president of sales.

The utility, according to Grande, is module-based and utilizes an enterprise-class content management system developed by Typo3 that incorporates online and print data presentation, and exporting of data and graphics in Adobe InDesign. Features include a suite of tools for sales tracking and delivery and subscription and registration.

“It also offers an optional e-newsletter template and distribution module, a video library module, as well as an online buyer’s guide module,” said Grande. “The sales lead tools allow advertisers to receive instant lead data from the Web site and to log in anytime to view and download lead reports. In other words, a visitor’s click-through on a banner ad or button generates immediate action, so that the advertiser realizes results in near-real time.”

The Web site utility software can operate on a publishers’ server, Grande said. Hosting services, however, are optional. “Information and data mapping of existing content is often a first step [in installation], followed by the implementation of the look and feel of the site,” he said. “The initial setup is characterized by an extensive dialog supported by a structured implementation program and training for the publisher to manage and continue with populating the site on an ongoing basis.”

Grande said implementation doesn’t require the ground-up building and long costly lead time often associated with site building.” In terms of costs, he said installation requires a “modest initial investment” and a nominal monthly maintenance fee.

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