Have you ever noticed how many websites are listed on a cereal box? Of course one or two web addresses probably wouldn't surprise you. But how about five or sixe? All owned and operated by the same company but each with very different content! What is this? These are called supporting websites and it's a secret that you might want to consider using with your own business. Here are a few of the benefits of creating separate websites that support your primary site.

Reach new audiences.

Because all people are different we each see the world in a unique way. We have differing tastes, values and needs. This means that while your website may be enticing and effective for one individual it may not be equally so for the other. One solution to this problem is to create a supporting website that caters to the interests of a new audience. This separate website can either sell your product directly or it can redirect it's visitors to your primary site for purchasing.

Increase traffic to your primary website.

This is basically the principle of widening your net. More websites with unique content and features means more people that you will potentially reach.

Build community surrounding your website, product and industry.

There are many ways to build community on the Internet. Some companies create a separate website to present and coordinate their non-profit activities (i.e. craigslistfoundation.org). Another example of building community is a design or video contest. Often companies will create a separate website for these contests and develop a unique brand (i.e. www.showyourimpact.org).

Extend the features of your primary site.

One example of this is a forum website. Often businesses will setup a separate website with a user forum where users can share information with each other, review previous solutions and comments and get answers from your support team (i.e. forums.cingular.com. Not only can you save money by reducing customer support costs but the customer comments can be invaluable. There are lots of ways a supporting website can extend the valuable services available to your customers.

Form alliances.

Some companies will get together with another company and form an alliance. These alliances benefit both parties by helping them reach their strategic goals. Often times these partners will create a separate website to support their alliance goals (i.e. crashthesuperbowl.com

We know you've already got some great ideas for supporting website that can help your business make more money. Are you ready to take the next step?

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