Launch: Premier Security, Inc.

Premier Security is a provider of protective services headquartered in Rochester and serving the entire state of Minnesota. With a radio-dispatched fleet and over 150 trained officers, the organization is well equipped to respond to a variety of security situations and committed to total client satisfaction.
It was a pleasure to work with Dan and Jacob on this project. We've also had the opportunity to work with Premier Security on other community events, such as Rochesterfest, that were in need of their security services. Each time, Premier Security has been there for our community and they deserve recognition for their efforts. Please check out their website and keep them in mind if you find yourself in need of security services.

Launch: Total Masonry and Construction, Inc.

CWS has recently launched a new website for Total Masonry and Construction, Inc. of Rochester. With a large presence in the Southern Minnesota construction industry, Total Masonry strives to combine quality craftsmanship and pride with competitive pricing to achieve excellence in both residential and commercial masonry projects. The company is also distinguished by a commitment to continuing education which, combined with many years of experience, makes them a leader in the industry.

Site Launch: KellyDomaille.com

CWS congratulates the Kelly Domaille Team on the launch of a new website at www.KellyDomaille.com.

The Kelly Domaille Team is led by REALTORS Kelly and Bruce Domaille, a residential real estate team working in Rochester and Southeast Minnesota. Their team is committed to your complete satisfaction. Whether buying or selling a home, they promise to listen to you and meet your individual needs.

Their new site includes features to help make the home buying and selling process smooth and hassle free, including a community info page, where newcomers can learn what the Rochester and surrounding communities have to offer. There are buyer and seller resource pages to help prepare you for the process and keep things moving smoothly from start to finish. You can learn more about the Kelly Domaille team here.

Site Launch: People's Cooperative Services

We are proud to announce the launch of People's Cooperative Services (PCS) new website.


Founded in 1936, PCS is a member owned electric power utility serving approximately 17,000 members in the rural areas surrounding Rochester, MN. Their mission is to provide reliable electricity to customers, while providing superior customer service and innovative energy solutions at a reasonable price.

The site was designed to serve citizens in rural MN who may not have access to high speed internet, while still presenting a modern and creative look. As a co-op, it was also very important to PCS that their members be able to access the website and quickly find everything they may need.

Examples include budget billing, which evens out your monthly electric bill to keep things predictable. You may also find safety tips such as what to do in case of a power outage and home safety tips. The site also helps save members money by offering energy conservation tips and rebates.

It was a pleasure working with People's Cooperative Services, and we look forward to their continued success as they continue to expand their online presence.

Site Launch: PompeiiPainting.com

CWS is pleased to present Pompeii Painting's new home on the web.


The new site was designed with a focus on the user experience, efficiency and search engine optimization. Simple navigation and a larger reading area improve findability, while a direct, minimalist approach to graphics makes the site responsive and steps out of the way of the business-oriented content while underscoring the quality of the work performed by Pompeii.

Check out the site for information on commercial and industrial painting services, a project showcase, safety information and more.

Launch: Digital Business Cards

Last week the Rochester Convention & Visitors Bureau unveiled a new sales tool produced by CWS. Each of the five RCVB sales managers has been given a "digital business card" in the form of a packaged USB drive that can be given to potential clients. The drive contains a video introducing the sales manager in a personal and unique way. At the end of the sequence, the viewer is invited to click through to additional information available on the RCVB website.

These tools will help the RCVB sales team to be memorable and to build the personal relationships that are crucial to success in business. The drives also contain some features to help measure how they're being used.

The videos are also available for viewing online (though for performance, the image and sound quality are not as high as the USB versions):

• Jay Gunnarson
• John Larsen
• Lori Odegard
• Mitch Stevenson
• Donna Zweibahmer

CWS shot and edited all the video footage and also designed the USB drive packaging. We wish the RCVB great success as they continue to drive growth in our community.

Site Launch: ChildrensMuseumRochester.org

CWS is proud to announce the launch a new website to promote the Children's Museum of Rochester project.

The new site, a pro bono work, aims to educate area residents about the benefits of the museum in hopes of garnering support to make the dream a reality.

On the site you will find a project timeline , learn how to help or volunteer, read FAQs, and donate.


What is a children's museum?

Children's museums are not just a collection of objects. Instead, children's museums emphasize interactive learning. Specially-designed exhibits allow visitors to explore educational subjects in a fun environment where touch and manipulation are encouraged.

Unlike more traditional museums, children's museums are lively, family-friendly places where kids learn through play. Currently, there are 243 children's museums in the United States, according to the Association of Children's Museums. Children's museums are the fastest growing segment of the museum industry.

Why does Rochester need a children's museum?

A Children's Museum of Rochester will not only benefit children and parents, but will also promote the economic growth and vitality of the entire community. The museum will attract visitors to Rochester, which will be good for local businesses, and will serve as a fun and educational destination for families who are already visiting the city.

Research shows that a children's museum would be well-received and self-sustaining. A survey of area residents conducted on behalf of CMR in 2008 showed that 81 percent of respondents felt there was a need for a museum in town. The survey also projected that the museum will draw more than 40,000 visitors annually from a 50-mile radius around Rochester.

Last but not least, a children's museum would enhance Rochester's already-strong image as a great place to raise kids!

Launch: KGP Telecommunications

KGP Telecommunications, Inc. is a national provider of supply chain, logistics and distribution services to the telecommunications industry. KGP is a recognized industry leader, TL9000 and ISO 9001:2000 certified, and Minnesota's largest woman-owned enterprise.



CWS worked with KGP over the past several months to develop both a new public website and a client portal application branded myKGP Live.

The portal is tightly integrated with KGP systems and offers customers a powerful interface to display and report on order data, track shipments in transit, and access KGP's extensive item catalog. Using the portal, clients can request expedited service on an order or report issues which are then tracked through to resolution. The application also includes a live chat feature, personalized to connect each customer to his or her personal support representative at KGP.

CWS specializes in helping businesses leverage the Web to gain efficiency and provide value to customers, and we have enjoyed the development process with KGP.

Site Launch: Kruse Lumber

CWS is pleased to present Kruse Lumber's new website.

Kruse Lumber has been providing quality service and products to Rochester and Southeast Minnesota since 1915. While they may be Rochester's oldest locally owned lumber yard, they wanted to have a new, modern website that was not only easy to manage, but also very search engine friendly.

If you take the time to cruise the site, you will find a variety of information about products, services, lumber, windows, doors and more. You may also subscribe to their newsletter to receive helpful home maintenance tips and other valuable information.

It was a pleasure working with Brian and Denny from Kruse Lumber, and we hope they enjoy their new home on the Web.

Site Launch: Midwest-Auto.com

When searching for used construction equipment online, it's important that users can find what they're looking for quickly. Even the slightest delay can have adverse effects on the attitude of your visitors as they shop your site.

With that in mind, CWS set out to reestablish Midwest Equipment's online image by designing a clean, modern and intuitive site that functions well and loads quickly for those with older computers, or slower connection speeds.

If you're in the market for used wheel loaders, forks and attachments, or other construction equipment, check out www.midwest-auto.com... They may have just the item you've been looking for.

Site Launch: Reedbrook.com

Reedbrook Consulting, LLC is a team of freelance writers, editors and information architects.


The layout was designed to be streamlined and simple in reflection of Reedbrook's mission statement. The site presents information about the company's service offerings, which include information architecture, technical writing and Web content authoring, and instructional design and e-learning development.

Candidates interested in becoming part of the Reedbrook team may also stop by their opportunities page.

CWS would like to thank Laura for the opportunity to work with her in building Reedbrook's new home on the Web, and we wish them all the best and continued success.

Note: Reedbrook.com was designed on our Do-It-Yourself plan, where CWS provides professional design services, setup and training, and the site owner develops and places all content.

Site Launch: Rochester Area Foundation

CWS is proud to announce the launch of a new website for the Rochester Area Foundation.


The Rochester Area Foundation (RAF) has been serving and strengthening the community since 1944. RAF promotes responsible and informed giving, assists donors in meeting their charitable objectives, and is dedicated to using its resources to help improve quality of life and assisting those in need in the greater Rochester area.

The new site features a modern look and offers improved accessibility to content including grant information, donor services, news and publications, and other RAF objectives. Visitors may adjust the size of text on any page to give a better experience to those with visual impairments.

If you're interested in giving back to the community, RAF offers a selection of funds along with direct donations which can be allocated for you. Just visit the donations page for details.

We'd like to thank the staff over at RAF for giving CWS the opportunity to rebrand their online presence, and we hope that the increased visibility, ease of use, and search engine optimization will help Rochester Area Foundation continue to strengthen our community for generations to come.

Site Launch: BirdJacobsen.com

A courtroom can be a very intimidating place, and no one wants to be caught up in litigation. That is why -- especially in these winter months -- it's important to know that there are experienced lawyers out there who can fight for you when the need arises, and uphold your right to a fair hearing. The law offices of Bird, Jacobsen & Stevens have been committed to providing individuals and small business owners with the highest quality legal representation for over twenty years. To help build their credibility, Bird Jacobsen has recently contracted with CWS to redesign their online presence. In doing so, we've given them a modern and professional new look with improvements to usability and search engine visibility. The content on the new site has also been expanded. Areas of practice (such as commercial litigation, employment law and personal injury) now include more detailed information, and the attorney profiles allow you to research the background and practice areas of each member on the Bird, Jacobsen & Stevens team. It's also important to note that we here at CWS are a team of designers and programmers (not lawyers). Rely on us for Web advice, and rely on legal professionals for legal advice. :)

Site Launch: Navy Visual News Service

CWS is proud to announce that we were selected by the Pentagon to redesign the Navy Visual News Service website. The purpose of the Navy Visual News Service (NVNS) is to provide the very best photos and video of the U.S. Navy to national and international media outlets, Department of Defense agencies, and other Federal agencies in a timely and accurate manner. Some of their customers include AP, Reuters, CNN, NBC, among others. The photography included on the site is very impressive. Some images will make you think, others will make you proud, and most of them are just downright cool! Luckily, NVNS offers much of their content to the public through popular social media websites such as Facebook and YouTube. I would highly recommend taking a look at some of the photos and video for yourself.

Site Launch: Minnesota First

Minnesota First is a small bank with locations in Rochester, Winona, Owatonna and Red Wing. They have been in business for over 50 years and are never too busy to assist you with any financial needs you may have. The new site design not only gives the bank a more professional online presence, but it also offers easier access to content. Looking to finance a new vehicle? Get all the information you need from their consumer loans page. You can even apply online if you'd like! Other loans offered at Minnesota First include home mortgages, home equity loans, student loans and more. If you"re wondering how much a loan will cost over time, take a look at the convenient loan and savings calculators. We thank Minnesota First for the opportunity to work with them in updating their online presence, and we hope they enjoy their new home on the Web!

Site Launch: 331 Bar and Grill

331 Bar and Grill is a new Rochester area restaurant that boasts "great food, friends and fun". And in my experience, they have delivered on all fronts (go ahead and check out their menus... I'll wait). Not only do they offer a great selection of food, they also offer live entertainment and even have an amphitheater for summer events! And if you haven't attended an event yet, you can check out their photo gallery to see what you've been missing. As with all of our projects, this site was custom designed to meet 331's individual needs. To stay consistent with existing marketing materials, we gave the site a "bubbly" and energetic feel. We also took care in making sure the site was cleanly built, easy to navigate and search engine friendly. We look forward to working with 331 Bar and Grill again in the near future to develop additional Web-based tools and to further increase their visibility to search engines.

Site Launch: Organic Wine Trade Company

If you're looking for earth-friendly, great-tasting wine, look no further! CWS is proud to present the Organic Wine Trade Company an organization that is "committed to finding delicious, earth-friendly wines for the socially conscious wine drinker." The purpose of the site is to promote Organic and Fair Trade Certified wines and tell the story behind each brand. With this in mind, we developed a simple layout in earth tones to carry the "organic" message and incorporated photos of various vineyards and people around the world to help tell the story of these diverse products. The OWTC logo, also designed by CWS, reinforces the message. Navigating through the site, you will find a variety of information about these wines, such as where they come from, how they're made, what they're made of, and the story behind each varietal. You can pass the information on to a friend using each page's "E-mail a Friend" feature! Enjoy these earth-friendly wines from the Organic Wine Trade Company, but always drink responsibly!

Site Launch: Olmsted National Bank

We are pleased to announce that we have just recently launched Olmsted National Bank’s new website. The redesign called for a simple, elegant design that helps inform visitors and promotes all of the exciting new products ONB has to offer. One such product, that you may have already seen on billboards around town, is their 5.01% Eagle Rewards checking. Interested in other options? Check out their consumer savings and checking pages. If you’re a business, they have options for you, too! It was a pleasure working with the group over at ONB, and we hope they enjoy their new home on the web.

Site Launch: Zumbro Valley Mental Health Center

CWS is proud to introduce Zumbro Valley Mental Health Center's new website! The focus of this redesign was to create a unique experience that leaves the user happy and hopeful, while at the same time relaying important information people need while dealing with mental health issues. To achieve this goal, we used light colors, took a minimalist approach to images and organized the content in such a way that allows visitors to find information quickly. The new site contains a vast quantity of information that can help you or a loved one seek appropriate help when needed. This includes the programs offered at Zumbro Valley MHC, educational resources, news and events, success stories and more. In difficult times, it's important to know where to go and who you can talk to when facing mental health struggles. The website offers a great way to take the first steps in gather information about available resources without leaving the comfort of home. It was a pleasure working with staff at Zumbro Valley MHC, and we look forward to working with them in the future as we continue building and expanding their new home on the web. Note: In the event of a mental health or substance abuse disorder emergency, please call 800-422-0670.

Site Launch: FindEquipmentOnline.com

FindEquipmentOnline.com offers a unique online experience for buyers and sellers in the industrial recyling equipment market. From balers, conveyors, and shredders FEO keeps an eye out for your equipment needs. Dealers large and small are provided with a wide range of features to buy and sell equipment. They can choose from an exhaustive list of categories, manufacturers, and models to create listings which can be actively managed online and include visitor tracking data. Additional private notes about the listed equipment can be stored for the dealer's future reference, giving the dealer a one-stop spot for all their equipment needs. Buyers in the need of equipment can browse category or manufacturer listings. A Power Search tool allows searches to be refined by a large set of options. Power Searches can be saved for easy access in the future, and even be set up as email alerts. Any new equipment listings that match saved Power Searches will be emailed to the buyer every day, eliminating the need to keep searching for a particular item. Customers are also provided with the free tool to post their want ads. It was a blast designing FindEquipmentonline.com and the rich set of tools it offers. Without a doubt, the site will help bring buyers and sellers together. CWS looks forward to its growth and the future expansion of available tools and services.

Site Launch: RochesterMnChamber.com

As our local Chamber members may have already seen, the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce website has recently undergone a major redesign. CWS was honored to be selected to develop the new site, updating our former design which was originally created in 2004. The scope of content included in the site has grown significantly since then, and the site architecture has been significantly improved to accommodate it. New navigation allows for easier access to important information, and the site search tool further improves access. The overall look and feel of the new site coincides with the newly redesigned Chamber Advantage newsletter.

"Our goal in redeveloping our Web site and the Chamber Advantage was to create a site and publication that better reflected the professionalism, value and merit of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, while making sure we didn't lose any of the previous site and publication's utility or integrity," says John Wade, president of the Chamber. "Working with Corporate Web Services (Web site designer) and Sign Here, Inc. (newsletter concept), we believe we accomplished that, and we believe both media will be ones that work for our members, partners and the overall community."

It was a pleasure working with the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce on this project, and we look forward to our continued relationship.

Site Launch: EssenceSkinClinic.com

CWS is pleased to announce the launch of Essence Skin Clinic's new home on the web. Essence Skin Clinic, owned by Jennifer Sanneman (Mrs. Minnesota 2005), is a physician-directed personal enhancement center for both men and women. Using the latest in cutting edge technology, they can help you look and feel your very best. Learn about the services offered at Essence by visiting their new website, and be sure to view their before and after photo gallery to see just how dramatic the results can be. You can also read actual customer testimonials to learn how the services of Essence Skin Clinic have improved people's lives. It was a pleasure working with Jennifer and Essence Skin Clinic, and we hope they enjoy their new website and services offered by CWS.

Site launch: PepinValleyConsulting.com

"Regardless of whether you know what you are looking for or not, we can make the process of buying the right franchise for you easier." Bob Hebert, President Pepin Valley Consulting needed a digital face lift. The new site not only needed to be very informative, it also needed to uphold the professional standard that Pepin Valley is known for. Throughout the site you will see photos of success -- entrepreneurs who achieved their goals and dreams by taking that leap towards owning a franchise. You will also find information on how to get started, learn the process, and get answers to questions such as, "Why is this service free?" and "Why should I use Pepin Valley Consulting?" Buying a new franchise can be a difficult, time consuming, and very stressful process. Lucky for all of you franchising entrepreneurs out there, Pepin Valley Consulting can help alleviate some of that stress -- for free! For more information, check out http://www.pepinvalleyconsulting.com/. We've enjoyed working with Bob Hebert and Pepin Valley Consulting, and we look forward to his continued online success as we continue to optimize his website for search engines.

Site Launch: www.TheShovelGuy.com

Like it or not, the winter season is upon us. Put away the shorts and sandals, and dust off the winter gear -- it’s time to condition ourselves for the back breaking work that is clearing our driveways and sidewalks of ice and snow. In the past, we’ve managed with rusty old snow shovels, or flimsy plastic shovels that snap and break while moving a hundred pounds of wet snow. A little bit of work never hurt anyone, but why torture ourselves? We’re pleased to introduce The Shovel Guy, Owned and operated by Wayne Venteicher of Venteicher, Inc. The Shovel Guy offers a variety of rust free, lightweight, and virtually unbreakable snow pushers that can cut your time and labor in half. Many local and surrounding area businesses carry the shovels, and can be found on the customer list at theshovelguy.com. We’ve enjoyed working with The Shovel Guy, and look forward to furthering his online presence by implementing our RapidNewsletter solution. To answer the question that is on everyone’s mind… Yes, a new shovel is in our foreseeable future. We’re designers and programmers – manual labor is not our forte.

Site Launch: lwfc-kidsworld.com

Think back to when you were just a wee tyke... when the sandbox was the closest thing to a safari you needed, and the Happy Meal toys at McDonald's were the highlight of your life. Now, imagine yourself at that age speaking fluently in a foreign language. Hard to imagine? Not anymore. Introducing the Language Workshop For Children at Kids' World, located in Rochester, MN. Kids' World, founded by Christopher and Rebeca Sedarski, provides quality foreign language classes to Rochester and the surrounding areas. The courses they provide focus on children ages six months and up. That's right, children can start learning a foreign language at a mere six months of age. How is this possible? The concept is simple -- the younger you are, the more "spongy" your brain is. This means that infants can absorb far more information than a teenager first learning how to drive. The process of developing a teaching technique, however, was a bit more complex. The original Language Workshop For Children (LWFC) was founded by François Thibaut, inventor of the Thibaut Technique. The Thibaut Technique was developed over 35 years, and is a teaching method that employs both sides of the brain using a series of games, songs, vocabulary, and more. You can learn more about the Thibaut Technique on the website, as well as course and tuition information, class schedules, and more information about LWFC at Kids' World. It was a pleasure working with Christopher and Rebeca of Kids' World, and we look forward to their continued success as they help shape the minds of the next generation. Adios!

Launch: Olmsted Medical Center

As our local readers may have already seen, Olmsted Medical Center recently unveiled a new visual identity to the public. We are proud to have been a part of this and excited to introduce OMC's new home on the web! Our main focus in the redesign process was making the site patient-oriented. This meant that great care and consideration had to be given to the overall user experience and accessibility of information. The oversized navigation along with brief, well-organized menus addresses this need, along with minimal use of graphics and scalable text to allow those with visual impairments to access the site more easily. The site covers a broad range of information about OMC. Learn how to live a healthier life, find a healthcare provider that can best serve you, learn about OMC's new branding, or read OMC newsletters! We have enjoyed working with Jeremy and the crew from Olmsted Medical Center, and we look forward to expanding the site in the future to make it even more useful.

Site Launch: Boys & Girls Club of Rochester

"The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester is a community-based organization that provides young people with a fun, safe, and constructive environment when they are not at home or school. The Club has a lineup of tested and proven nationally recognized programs that address today's most pressing youth issues, teaching young people the skills they need to succeed in life." CWS has recently launched a new website for The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester. The site's design reflects the club's atmosphere of fun in a positive environment, while maintaining the structure needed to serve a large volume of information. The Boys & Girls Club serves an important role in our community. Want to know how you can help? While visiting the site, you will see many paths you can take to contribute to the organization. Some of these options include volunteering your time, attending one of many events, or donating something from the wishlist. You can also choose to donate money to their KidStock program securely from the Web. Remember that these donations, no matter how small, will have a positive effect on the life of a child in our community (Read about success stories). We would like to thank Jill, Jodi, Jeremy and Larry from the Boys & Girls Club of Rochester for the opportunity to develop their new site, and we look forward to further helping them increase community awareness of their work with our RapidNewsletter application and Search Engine Optimization.

Site Launch: Nursing Analysis & Review

CWS is pleased to present you with Nursing Analysis & Review's (NAR) new home on the web. NAR provides professional consulting services in the areas of nurse care, transitional placement, legal nurse consulting, geriatric case management, and more. Searching for senior care facilities for loved ones can be a stressful task. The last thing any of us want is to place our elderly parents in an unfamiliar, uncomfortable environment. NAR helps to alleviate this stress by addressing many of your questions and concerns right from their website. Helpful information and frequently asked questions are only a click away. We thank Kimberly with Nursing Analysis & Review for choosing CWS to create her new image on the web, and we look forward to our continued business relationship.

Site Launch: RoederCattleServices.com

Roeder Farms has a long tradition of integrity, honesty, and a sincere concern for those with whom they conduct business. Combine this with extensive knowledge and experience in the international, domestic purebred, and commercial cattle industries, and Roeder Cattle Services (RCS) is the perfect choice for managing your next sale, or as a consulting service for marketing/adding to your herd. When visiting the site, you will notice it was designed to evoke the feeling of the old west, while maintaining the professional image that RCS has become known for. The site offers a glimpse into the history of Roeder farms, their sales catalog, upcoming sales events, and a list of marketing services offered. RoederCattleServices.com was designed on our Do-It-Yourself plan*. And aside from the hunger pangs experienced while discussing burgers, steak, and other fine beef products, it was a pleasure working with Cindy and Robby, and we look forward to our continued relationship as we further optimize their new site for accessibility to search engines. * Under the Do-It-Yourself plan, the site owner creates all text using Adobe Contribute. We provide professional design services, setup and training.

Site Launch: PatrickArendt.com

Being charged with a criminal act is a serious, life changing experience. It's important for anyone in this situation to choose an attorney who has the experience and knowledge needed to win your case. Licensed by the Minnesota Supreme Court since 1996, attorney Patrick Arendt has been successfully representing individuals in these kinds of circumstances throughout Southern Minnesota. The focus of Patrick Arendt Criminal Defense (PACD) is solely on defending those faced with criminal charges. This site design attempts to communicate the serious nature of the task of criminal defense. But as the tagline "Freedom's Last Defense" reminds the visitor, the constitutionally guaranteed right to a fair hearing is one of the core foundations of American society, and Patrick Arendt is committed to winning your case. Throughout the site you will find many resources relating to Minnesota law, with specific topics including DWI and other charges. It was a pleasure working with Patrick Arendt, and we look forward to working with him again in the future.

Site Launch: AlgalBiomass.org

With rising gas prices and the record-breaking cost of oil, research in alternative energy sources is becoming ever more urgent. A number of organizations have formed to advance the cause. The Algal Biomass Organization, is one such group -- a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of algal biomass production technologies through research and education. Tom Byrne (of Byrne & Company Ltd.) looked to CWS for a solution to make these research efforts known worldwide. Throughout the site you will find an array of information dealing with algae production technologies, including events, summit details, and what the Algal Biomass Organization is doing to expand and develop new technology. You will also find documents available for download that have been submitted by independent researchers. We have enjoyed working on this project with Tom Byrne and the Algal Biomass Organization, and we're excited to see important research being done in the field of alternative energy.

Site Launch: OhThoseGuys.com

In 1997, Savage, MN based Total Promotions was created as an ASI company that supplied corporate apparel and promotional items to small, medium, and large businesses. In 2001, they purchased the domain OhThoseGuys.com. In 2005, they officially changed their name to OH Those Guys. Now, in 2008, OH Those Guys still sells the same quality corporate apparel and promotional items; but with the addition of their athletic supplies, team apparel and spirit wear division "OTG Athletics," they were in need of an online facelift. After viewing a Rochester based sporting goods website, OH Those Guys gave us a call. The new site needed to incorporate both divisions of the company. The abstract shapes and sports photography created an edgy feel for the sporting goods division, while the soft blue gradients and inviting corporate photos appealed to the needs of those looking for corporate apparel. However, OH Those Guys and OTG Athletics are not limited to just corporate and team apparel. Throughout the site you will find a variety of content ranging from team order forms, suggested links, and a blog, to a page that offers fundraising services for free to non-profits, charities and benefits. It was a pleasure working with Bill from OH Those Guys and OTG Athletics, and we look forward to our continued relationship as we further increase their visibility online with our search engine optimization services.

4x4parts.com - Less Talk More Walk

Alan recently posted about emailing customers who have abandoned shopping carts in an e-commerce website. One of our clients thought this was a great idea -- Automotive Customizers (4x4parts.com) added this feature to a project already in development. Last week we took their new site live. If customers begin the checkout process and don't complete it, they will receive a helpful email asking if they encountered any problems. This is a great way to focus on user needs. It's obvious when someone walks out of your brick-and-mortar store, but with the anonymity of the Internet, a site owner could be losing sales over a simple issue and never know it. Automotive Customizers is based in Florida and specializes in supplying aftermarket Nissan parts to 4x4 enthusiasts. We have a long-standing relationship with their team, and the site was due for an upgrade. Both the front and back end systems were completely redesigned, and we built a number of custom features specifically tailored to their business. One of these tools allows users to specify what Nissan vehicles they own in a profile. This allows administrators to verify that customers have ordered the right parts for their vehicles, saving headaches for both customers and staff. They can also use this information to identify which customers own a specific vehicle in the event that something special is available for that model. My favorite feature is the lightbox photo gallery where customers can upload photos of their customized trucks. In the previous version of this site, users were restricted to uploading a very small image. The new gallery allows a much bigger image to truly show off all of those customized vehicles. Just one more user-focused feature to illustrate Automotive Customizers' commitment to their customers. Drop by 4x4parts.com to check out the new site. Our thanks to the AC team for a great project.

Site Launch: KASInvestment.com

CWS is pleased to announce the launch of kasinvestment.com, a Rochester, MN company established to operate three glass and glazing subsidiary companies: Ford Metro Inc., Architectural Contract Glass Inc., and Swanson Glass Inc. There is a definite art in designing glass, and we wanted to emphasize this by developing a unique site that reflect the architectural splendor and talent that goes into creating residential and commercial glass projects, while maintaining the quality and ease of use you expect from CWS websites. Throughout the site you will find information on doors and hardware, retail glass, commercial glass, and much more. There's an extensive photo gallery showcasing the work and craftsmanship of FMI, ACG, and SGI. It was a pleasure working with Mitch and Kevin of KAS Investment Co., and we look forward to our continued relationship as we further expand their web presence with our search engine optimization services.

Site Launch: premierbuildersmn.com

Premier Builders of Rochester, Inc. is a residential home builder focused on customer satisfaction and streamlining the often stressful home building process.

To help alleviate some of the stress, Premier Builders approached CWS to develop an attractive, user friendly website to showcase projects and to give potential customers an idea of what they can expect when they build with Premier. The site includes project photos, multiple floor plans, a list of frequently asked questions, and an extensive list of the highest quality vendors handpicked by Premier Builders.

We've enjoyed working with Jamie at Premier Builders of Rochester, and look forward to helping him further decrease the stress of the home building process through inspired ideas and innovative web applications.

Site Launch: semnrealtors.com

CWS is proud to present the redesigned Southeast Minnesota Association of REALTORS public website. This newly renovated site offers unlimited property and open house searches -- without the need to log in or register!

The ever-changing demographics of southeast Minnesota mean that there will be a variety of users in this real estate market with just as many varied needs. With that in mind, CWS set out to make SEMAR's site as accessible as possible for every user. What does this mean for you?

• To allow those with poor vision or other visual impairments to navigate the site freely, we minimized the use of images to allow screen reading applications to function properly. We've also added controls for users to increase or decrease text size on the page they are viewing.
• Because of the minimalist approach to graphics, the site will load faster for everybody -- helping you more efficiently find that dream home or business.
• The simple architecture of navigation makes it easy for anyone to find the information they need without searching.

We're also here to help any member REALTOR whose website may have been affected by the recent MLS conversion at SEMAR. We know your business is important, and we also know how important it is to receive up-to-date data when potential clients are searching for a home on your website. As a full service web provider, CWS is capable of making the transition for you quickly and seamlessly, and we can help you every step of the way.

If you have any questions or concerns about your website's property search, please give us a call at 507-289-2229, or e-mail us at sales@cws.net -- we're here to help.

Site Launch: FoxHillOfRochester.com

Fox Hill approached CWS to develop a simple, effective website to inform prospective buyers about this new residential land development project in southwest Rochester.

The result is an elegant site designed with a focus on plat maps, lot information, and profiles of the development's neighborhoods and surrounding communities.

We enjoyed working with John from Fox Hill and look forward to working with him again in the future.

Site Launch: UltraShopRochester.com

CWS is pleased to present you with The Ultra Shop's new home on the web - http://ultrashoprochester.com Nestled within the heart of Rochester, MN in the Kahler subway; this world famous boutique offers an extraordinary selection of interesting and fine merchandise. From mirrors, tables, and frames, to jewelry, hats, and rainwear - if you're looking for high class merchandise, look no further than The Ultra Shop. And now -- with the development of their new website -- finding that International Traveler Shiny Cow Print luggage you've been after is quicker and easier than ever! It was a pleasure working with Pat, and we look forward to our continued relationship as we help further their online success with search engine optimization.

Site Launch: autodatapubs.com

Autodata Publications has recently launched their new redesigned website and hosted by Corporate Web Services, Inc.

The new site offers an array of products and information for the professional auto technician who is looking for technical data for a large assortment of domestic, and imported vehicles. The site also includes product photos, distributor contact information, and even a newsletter to keep you up to date on new product releases.

It was a pleasure working with Autodata, and we hope they enjoy their redesigned home on the web.

Site Launch: AllegroDanceMusic.com

Following the addition of music to their curriculum, Allegro School of Dance and Music approached CWS to redevelop their home on the web. With our goals set and ideas racing through our minds- we got right to work.

The project called for a simple, elegant, and easily navigatable layout that would not only cater to the needs of Allegro's varied demographic, but also organize everything in such a way that would save parents time, and help get children to their dance and music lessons right on schedule.

The result is a beautifully simple site that includes a class schedule, registration information, calendar of events, faculty information, photos and more!

We have enjoyed working with Lance and Janet from Allegro School of Dance and Music, and look forward to our continued relationship with them as we further expand their business online with our RapidNewsletter application.

Launch: 300Financial.com

As previously mentioned, CWS has been working the past few months with 300 Financial, an organization providing services to financial advisors, on a variety of applications. Last week the company's public website was released along with a number of private web-based tools.

One of these tools allows advisors to collect some basic financial information from a potential client and automatically determine both things that are done well and potential trouble spots. The web-based application considers such variables as asset allocation, exposure to interest rate volatility, the impact of account expenses over time, and estate planning needs.

This system automatically assembles a report for the client in the form of an 80-page PDF document, with options that the financial advisor can tailor as needed to the client's unique situation. Armed with this information, advisor and client can quickly identify areas to target for improvement and make intelligent decisions together.

Another set of calculators helps those nearing or in retirement to design a series of structured investments that will provide the correct mix of portfolio growth and monthly income for their needs, again based on the individual's situation.

CWS has enjoyed developing these tools to help deliver the right knowledge to financial advisors and their clients, giving them the insight needed to make wise choices for the future. We look forward to ongoing development with 300 Financial.

Site Launch: www.tru-tain.com

Tru-Tain approached CWS requesting a new website with the ability for users to make purchases online. The final product featured a fully functional e-commerce solution along with a modern design to focus on products, and to emphasize customer service and information.

Tru-Tain offers a wide variety of products in orthodontics and dentistry in their new online store. They are even offering an additional 10% off all orders placed online!

We've enjoyed working with the friendly and courteous staff at Tru-Tain, and look forward to helping them achieve further online success with our web marketing services.

Site Launch: AdlersSportingGoods.com

Adler's Sporting Goods recently asked CWS to redesign their website. The finished project will allow users to find information easier and includes an updated design. Adler's Sporting Goods has been in business for over 50 years. They offer quality equipment to area teams and also specialize in custom embroidery and screen printing. Adler's also offers promotional products for businesses across the the area. It has been a pleasure working with the staff at Adler's Sporting Goods, and we look forward to continuing to work with them on improving search engine rankings as part of our Business Online Solution package.

Site Launch: FAER.org

CWS is pleased to announce a newly redesigned website for the Foundation for Anesthesia Education and Research (FAER). Since 1986, FAER has been a nonprofit charitable and educational organization working to promote the generation of new knowledge in anesthesiology. Its work advances patient care and fosters the development of anesthesiologists who are dedicated to research and education in preoperative, critical care and pain medicine. Visitors will find a multitude of information both for those seeking grants and for those wishing to donate to this worthy cause. The site also offers valuable links, monthly newsletters, program information, events, and much more. We have enjoyed working with FAER, and we look forward to working with them again in the future.

Site Launch: ByrneLtd.com

CWS is pleased to announce the launch of a new website for Byrne & Company Limited. Byrne & Company is a Minnesota based company in Preston. In 2007, the company expanded and opened an office in Rochester, Minnesota. The Preston office serves as the financial headquarters while the Rochester office serves as the project development headquarters. Byrne & Company has extensive experience in the grain-based ethanol and biodiesel industries. As new technologies have emerged, they have seen a movement towards the utilization of alternative feedstocks and the development of other renewable energies. In the future they expect expansion in the areas of algae to energy, solar power, geothermal energy, wind power, waste to energy, and cellulosic ethanol. It was a pleasure working with the staff at Byrne & Company on this project.

Site Launch: AllInStitchesMN.com

All In Stitches has just recently relocated from Rochester, MN to Stewartville, MN. They decided that a change in online appearance was in order to better represent their company, and their terrific new location. Our goal was to develop an eye-catching, easy to navigate, and informative website that appealed to all age groups. With an extremely tight deadline for their grand opening, we set out and made it our mission to have everything ready to go by the time their doors "officially" opened. The goal was met, and neither of us could be more satisfied with the results of their new online presence. It was a pleasure working with Sandy and the crew at All In Stitches, and we look forward to working with them on increasing their search engine rankings in the future!

Are you ready to network online?

Yesterday, a "soft launch" ocurred for a new social networking website dedicated to those living in SE Minnesota. SE MN Live! was created as a new source for online social networking (business networking, meeting new friends, searching for love, etc). Think of it as your local "MySpace"-- but for all age groups. SE MN Live! includes exciting social networking features very similar to popular website MySpace.com. For example, users of the website can have a friends list, join groups, write blog posts, upload photos/videos, customize their personal page, and much more. Users also have the ability to invite friends to join the network. The new website is 100% free to join and will never have a monthly fee. You can visit the new website at http://www.semnlive.com/ and start neworking today!

Site Launch: WingHouse.org

Wing House asked CWS to develop a new, contemporary logo that would reflect the character of the organization in a straightforward way. Our solution relies primarily on typography to give a sense of the personal, home-like atmosphere of the facility and its mission -- emphasizing the transitional nature of the care provided. Similarly, the understated design of the website gives a calm, thoughtful presentation of the organization with a number of photographs to give visitors a good picture of life in the welcoming, supportive community that Wing House provides. We've enjoyed working on this project for Wing House, and look forward to working with them again in the future!

How to Create Buzz for your Website Launch

Over the past few months, we've been working with 300 Financial, Inc. on the launch of their new company (which happens tomorrow at 11am CST). As part of this launch, we've set up a pre-launch website to help create buzz around the event. The website itself is small but includes a few key features to create the right atmosphere. Every pre-launch website must include the following elements: Date/Time of Launch: It's pointless to create a pre-launch website if you don't tell your visitors when you'll be going live. In this case, we created a countdown clock to the exact time of the official launch. This is important because it lets people know when they can expect to see your new website online. In addition, it forces your staff to commit to a specific date for website completion. This is the most important element to any pre-launch website, so don't forget it!

Create Excitement: In this case, the official website (soon to be unveiled) will allow a limited number of people to register for an informational meeting in Scottsdale. To handle the influx of questions about the new company, a blog was set up at 300financialnews.com to field some of these questions. This allows the pre-launch website to remain focused and uncluttered. It also allows people to start interacting, blogging, and talking about your new company before you officially "go live." Email Signup Box: Since registration space is limited, people need to know the exact time of launch so that they can return to "reserve a spot in history." But why make them try to remember it? Instead, you can give them a simple way to sign up for notification when the site is available. Then on launch day, you can send an email message letting them know that your website is live. Logo: Finally, placing your company logo somewhere on the page is an important element for any new launch. Building an identity for your new company can't start soon enough, and your prelaunch page is an excellent place to start establishing your brand. We hope that you've found these tips helpful in creating your own pre-launch website. Following these simple steps can create some buzz for any new site and get you started in the right direction to a successful future.

Site Launch: Chocolate-Time.com

As a gift or just a guilty pleasure, Chocolate Time offers high-end designer chocolates to tempt any palate. Located in Rochester, MN, Chocolate Time is a retailer of traditional, novelty, and designer chocolates and offers a variety of products from all across the nation.

CWS was chosen by Chocolate Time to design both a logo and a website.

The logo was crafted to reflect Chocolate Time's unique, elegant sense of style. It echoes the shop's impeccable interior and the attention to detail found in each hand-crafted artisan chocolate.

The website was designed under the same premise. A subdued, elegant look focuses attention on the products themselves, and the photos of mouth-watering truffles and turtles will leave you with a craving that can only be satisfied by taking a trip to locally owned Chocolate Time.

We have enjoyed working with John at Chocolate Time, and we look forward to working with him in the future!

Site Launch: Custom-Alarm.com

"If you need to feel safe, or you need to hear great sound... Get to Custom Alarm for the best service in town!"

Custom Alarm provides peace of mind by offering the best in sales, design, installation, service and monitoring of security systems. They also offer the best in design and installation of all your sound and media needs for your business, school, retail store, health care facility, city hall, restaurant, house of worship, etc. Want to know more? There is no such thing as too much information when it comes to the security and safety of your family, home and business. Viewing this same information shouldn't be a chore. In designing Custom Alarm's new presence on the web, we knew that a visually pleasing, easy to use navigation system was needed. The result was a clean, professional site that offers all of the information you need--quick and easy. It was an honor to be given the task to design a new website for such a well established, reputable company. We look forward to our continued relationship with Nikki and the rest of the crew at Custom Alarm.

Site Launch: RiggottPhoto.com

Based in Rochester, Minnesota, photographer Dean Riggott specializes in commercial, corporate, editorial, architectural and documentary-style wedding photography. His high-quality commercial photography and environmental portraits provide business-to-business image solutions for a long and loyal nationwide customer base, including Mayo Clinic, Marriott Hotels and Resorts, Cambria, Pfizer, Seneca Foods and Wells Fargo. To support his ever-growing client base and subsequent photo galleries, we knew Dean would need a specialized solution to create and publish new galleries on the fly. The solution was to create an Adobe Flash based slideshow application customized to the look and feel of the site, and to dynamically display an unlimited number of photo galleries published by the backend administrative tool. The concept was simple: Design a clean, professional site with a focus on Dean's extensive portfolio. The result was a spectacular display of professional photography and special moments that have been captured by one of Rochester's premier photographers. It was a pleasure working with Dean, and we look forward to our continued relationship in the future.

Launch: DowntownRochesterMN.com

CWS is pleased to announce the launch of Downtown Rochester MN.com, a new website developed for the Rochester Downtown Alliance. Occasionally, the complaint is heard that there's nothing to do in Rochester. In fact, the downtown district is quite active for those in the loop, and this website aims to substantially increase that number of individuals. The site is intensely data-driven and represents a joint effort between the hardworking staffs of both RDA and the Rochester Convention and Visitors Bureau. The pool of information will be kept up to date constantly by these organizations and by downtown business owners themselves. In addition to highlighting current and future activities in downtown Rochester, the site features information about new developments in the district and an itinerary planner that walks a visitor through the steps of planning a night out on the town. Information on parking downtown is integrated throughout the listings, so there's no excuse not to get out and explore. Rochester offers a host of sights and sounds -- theatre, music, art, comedy, unique shopping, and excellent restaurants both old and new. Keep yourself up to date by subscribing to email updates or RSS feeds from the website. Have an idea for something you'd like to see happening downtown? There's a suggestion box for you. Let us know what you think!

Launch: Church of Saint John

CWS is pleased to announce the launch of a new website for the Church of Saint John the Evangelist. The church was the first Catholic Church in Rochester. It was founded in 1863 by Rev. James Morris and still exists at it's original location downtown. The new website features a variety of valuable information for visitors and parishioners, including mass schedules, a calendar of events, community information, and even a photo gallery. St. John's Block Party is July 14th and features Sister Hazel as the headliner. This annual event is for families, seniors, singles, and everyone interested in coming together for a celebration of harmony, humanity and peace. Tickets go on sale June 2nd. It was a pleasure working with the Church of Saint John and we hope they enjoy their new home on the web.

Launch: Venture Computer Systems

CWS is pleased to announce the launch of a new website for Venture Computer Systems, southeast Minnesota's premier source for IT solutions and support. Venture has been a trusted partner of CWS and many other regional businesses for a number of years. Venture decided that it was time to make a better online presentation of their business case: all the reasons it makes sense to rely on a highly qualified staff of experts. The website was also given a more contemporary design and a structure that's easy to maintain. Venture Computer Systems has an impressively broad range of products to meet your technology needs, so be sure to see what they have to offer. You may be surprised at the variety of high-quality goods and services that are available right here in Rochester!

Launch: Rochester Public Library

On February 1, the Rochester Public Library unveiled a new website developed in partnership with CWS. This redesign addressed a number of objectives for the Library's complex web offerings. The website was rebuilt from the ground up to better meet accessibility guidelines and Web standards. It greatly simplifies access to common tasks and features, and highlights some useful tools that you may not have previously noticed. Finally, the website is now far easier for Library staff to manage and maintain using Adobe's Contribute Publishing System. Hats off to them for updating and restructuring an enormous body of content during this process. Response so far has been very positive. Here's what the Post-Bulletin's Digital Mike had to say:

I like it. All the stuff you looked for before seems to be there, and now it seems easier to maneuver and find information compared with the old site.

Rochester has a truly impressive library for a city its size, so be sure to check it out (no pun intended)! If you never visited the old site, you can find a copy by stepping into The Wayback Machine.