Co-op Increases Online Services

(Continued from page 54) from an online Web library. Training covers all aspects of store management and employee training, from how to build a display to good customer service.

Because the redesign was so extensive, some 20 members were asked to preview the site three weeks before it went live. "It was a good cross section of our members," said Karla Wygant, Web development manager. "Some had expressed an interest in helping revierv the nerv site. We chose others based on geography and factors such as whether they have one store or several, and whether they are a hardware, home center, or LBM operation."

Each member of the preview group was encouraged to give the site a thorough review. "We wanted to replicate the way our members truly work," said Wygant. "Our members are busy, so we wanted to ensure that features like search boxes were available from any page. so you could quickly access a new part of the site even if a direct link was not provided."

The goal was to make the site completely user-friendly for every member, both savvy Web surfers and novices. "We focused on simplicity, but didn't sacrifice any features in the process," said Pensinger. "All of the tools are there, but even for those with minimal Internet experience. the learning curve is very, very shor1."

Although the new Web site will make it easier for members to connect with Do it Best Corp., the co-op remains committed to being available to members by phone. "The site enhances our relationship with our members." said Pensinger, "but it only replaces the phone during those times when our members decide it's more convenient to