Tortus Newsletter July 2010

July 22, 2010

Life Before Google?

What do grim reaper costumes, mouse traps, princess phones, martini shakers, and Mickey Mouse toasters have in common?

Don't think too hard about the logical connection between those items, because there really isn't one! But they all came up the other day on a list of items recently found on Google Product Search, otherwise known as "Google Shopping".

You may have stumbled across Google Product Search when you were looking for something online and noticed the small blue ‘Shopping' hyperlink on the top left of the Google homepage. What happens when you type in ‘frisbee' and then hit that link?  A list of available items for purchase that fit your search word or phrase comes up. Not only that, but Google Product Search then gives you options: you can narrow your search with additional keywords (‘Donkey Kong Frisbee'), sort the results according to price (under $20), find items with free shipping, and choose sellers who use Google Checkout, Google's online payment processing service.

When you click on an item you like, Google Product Search then lists comparable products for you to view. You also get product reviews, and you can place items that you like in "my shopping list" to refer back to when you're ready to buy. Could it be any easier? No, and that's why Google is so successful. With over 70% of all online searches done on its search engine, Google is the friendly giant that has become so embedded in our lives, it's inspired its own verb. Want to know something about anything? Just google it! It's nearly impossible to imagine life without Google...but let's try for a moment. Continue reading...  

Tortus Talk

Tortus MobileMail Has Been Upgraded!

Tortus Technologies' MobileMail has been upgraded to give users greater security and usability. While it looks almost the same as your old MobileMail, the new version gives you the ability to:

• view message threads
• break out and manage user preferences
• create contact groups in your address book
• access more print options

We've also done some behind-the-scenes performance tweaks that make your user experience better and snappier! Contact Tortus today to learn more about MobileMail.

Upcoming Seminars

Writing Content that Counts

Wednesday, August 25, 2010, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Writing professional copy for your marketing materials is always a challenge, but writing for the web presents additional considerations. You want your web content to be engaging for your visitors, but at the same time it should follow web best practices to ensure your organization is found on Google and other search engines.

Join us as we take a look at web copy writing and learn how to write for all audiences. Topics will include using keywords for search engine optimization, website usability, design aspects, and keeping your content fresh.

E-Marketing for Non-Profits

Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
E-marketing can be a cost-effective tool for non-profit organizations. Nowadays, you can send broadcast email, use social media, seek volunteers, accept donations, and share important news and information about your organization online. But how do you create a web presence that's worth the investment of valuable time and funding? In this seminar, we'll take a look at best practices for non-profit websites and emails that get viewers involved and engaged in the mission of your organization. See what other non-profits are doing online and find out how e-marketing can work for you!

Tortus seminars are held at the offices of Tortus Technologies in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Seating is limited (15 per seminar) and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Email us today to sign up.

Are You Smarter Than Tortus?

The department store Macy's is associated with the red star on its logo and with happy events, such as the Thanksgiving Day parade it sponsors every year in New York City. However, one of Macy's early owners, Isidor Straus, died under tragic circumstances -- and they also involve a star. What happened to Isidor Straus? Find out the answer here!