[tennisbiz] Re: Question about the TennisConnect service - is it any good?

We appreciate the positive comments about TennisConnect.org providing high
powered web features at a reasonable cost. We also agree that the internet
 is a very valuable marketing and communications tool that every business
should leverage.

The author however minimized the importance of providing convenience features
for players and productivity features for facilities, while missing the
connectivity of a TennisConnect powered web site.

TennisConnect leverages the power of the World Wide Web by "connecting"
to other industry web sites and influences. More than just hyperlinks
to other sites, TennisConnect provides true linkage. For instance, when a
tennis facility posts an event in their calendar and marks it as "open to
 the public", it becomes searchable to the find-a-program search tools on
 other tennis sites such as www.Tennis.com and www.MyTennisCenter.com.
This gives the member facility much broader exposure for their programs than
would otherwise be available using a stand alone web site. These search too
ls are also available to all TIA partners.

I would like to clarify a few other points in the post as they relate to the
TennisConnect.org service:

"Cookie cutter" vs. custom. We are pleased to offer several templates that
serve as starting points; however this in no way precludes a facility
from tailoring the site to their specific liking, or hiring professional
designers to add the eye candy. It just is not required to have a professional
designer. Look at the differences between one facility member in Tyler, Texas
(www.FaulknerTennis.com) and another in Durham, NC (www.HollowRock.com).
What these sites have in common is that they serve their purpose well.

Sponsors and advertising. TennisConnect does not place any advertisements
on any member sites, and does not restrict any member facility from using
their web site as they see fit, which may include selling advertising space, or
promoting their sponsors.. To our member facilities, "increasing
your income" comes from retaining frequent players, attracting new players,
and filling the courts.

Having a web site that provides convenience features for players, such
as online event enrollment and 24/7 online court reservations, is a benefit
 whether or not it operates the same way as the club across town.

"a faceless web site", does not describe the pride and accomplishment
our member facilities feel. Please visit the testimonials at
www.TennisConnect.org.

       Jolyn deBoer
       Executive Director
       Tennis Industry Association
       promoting the economic viability of tennis
 
Received on Mon Apr 11 2005 - 09:57:37 CDT