M-Web Business Solutions has launched its Genesis2 online Web site development and maintenance tool after a two-month trial with existing clients.
"The uptake has been phenomenal," says ASP product manager Derek van Wyk. "The Genesis2 application can provide any business with a low-cost way of acquiring and maintaining a professionally built Web site."
Although only local business will benefit initially, Van Wyk says there are plans to take this low-cost way of establishing an Internet presence to M-Web`s offices elsewhere in Africa.
The application is particularly aimed at small and medium businesses, enabling them to have an Internet presence without high capital investment in skills and equipment. An initial set-up fee of R650 and a monthly fee of R650 provide Internet access, two business e-mail addresses, a domain name, hosting space and Web site design.
"Genesis2 is a South African innovation that gives clients the ability to update and maintain their own Web sites at any time, from anywhere in the world, using a seven-step wizard that guides them through the process," says Van Wyk.
He explains that access to Genesis2 is only by username and password, ensuring that all Web content is secure.
The wizard is easy to use and enables users to choose from a variety of templates and settings for banners, fonts, colours, buttons, menu and home page layouts. Each change can be previewed before being added to the live Web site.
An editor facility enables users to add text and graphics to Web pages using familiar word processor functionality without having to know anything about HTML. Although all formatting for the Web is done automatically, the Genesis2 application also allows skilled users to add content using HTML and various kinds of scripting.
A reporting tool provides information on Web site traffic that can be used to build a business case for migrating to e-commerce. "Once up and running, a Genesis2 Web site can be upgraded easily and seamlessly to an e-commerce service for online trade," says Van Wyk. "Once again, there is an online wizard available for clients to administer online trading sites."
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