This month's issue is chock full of information about the new features included in Version 4.0. As publishers, it's important not only to be informed about new technologies and assess how they impact our audience and our ability to deliver news to that audience. Clearly, publishers are also in tune with traditional business objectives as well, like meeting or beating revenue projections, controlling labor costs, and implementing efficient processes.
The addition of E-Commerce capabilities to news sites will enable newspaper managers to accomplish all of the afore mentioned objectives. Now publishers can offer a safe and secure site with a customized shopping cart for readers who want to pay online for classifieds and subscriptions. Not only will readers be able to use Visa and MasterCard at your site, but they will also have the option of paying be electronic check, debit cards, American Express, Discover, government cards, and more.
Thinking you'd like to sell more than just classifieds and subscriptions online? Maybe you have an archive of outstanding photos from your area -- sell them through your site. Several papers now offer "branded" items such as ball caps, coffee mugs, thermometers, etc. They can all be sold online via the new e-commerce tools available through MyWebPal.
Our e-commerce partner, BankCardUSA, is a top level processor of bankcards (1 of only 4 in the US). They are certified and regulated by Visa and MasterCard, and offer unparalleled customer service, not to mention the best rates going. We spent many months interviewing, comparing and investigating all the different e-commerce solutions trying to find the very best provider at the lowest possible rates with no surprises. The "No Surprises" issue was key since many of the providers we talked with had hidden fees, minimum monthly threshholds, long-term contracts (3-5 years) and hefty cancellation fees.
We are pleased to partner with BankCardUSA and know that you will be too. Steps for activating your e-commerce account can be found in the attached PDF document called "Application Form." As always, we're available to provide personal assistance by calling our office (660-269-9201).
Good Selling!
