"We had no support, very limited ability to update or change the site, and the site didn’t convey a professional feel…"

The Hamilton North Chamber of Commerce is a "onewoman show"—-executive director Jane Hunter—so she has to capitalize on every opportunity to make her chamber as efficient as possible; however, one area that was dragging Hamilton North down was their website. "Our old site, besides being outdated visually, was extremely limiting," Hunter says. "It just wasn’t what our chamber needed. We had no support, very limited ability to update or change the site, and the site didn’t convey a professional feel. In fact, the site had our old chamber name, which changed two years ago!"

Hunter also was unable to communicate electronically with members in an effective manner, and while members had the ability to "join" online, there often was a significant delay before she would receive notification a new business had joined. "I was at the point where anything would have been better than what we had. But what we got [with ChamberExpress ™] was perfect," Hunter says.

What’s the one function that’s become more efficient thanks to ChamberExpress™?

"The ability to change or update the site. Before ChamberExpress ™, we were not getting any site updates. Now, I have such flexibility to modify the site—I can add photos, events, information for members—and it’s posted immediately. I can go in anytime and make any changes I want and, best of all, working with the program is really easy."

How has ChamberExpress improved communication with members?

 "With ChamberExpress™ Fast Blast feature, the ease of communicating with members has improved dramatically. Before, we could send emails, however, the process was laborious and our members often would delete messages because they resembled email spam. With Fast Blast, our emails are on Hamilton North Chamber "letterhead" and look very professional, so members know the email is from the Chamber. We use the feature at least once a week now to communicate with members."

What other benefits have you seen from using ChamberExpress™?

"Potential members have always had the ability to join online, but because of the way the system was structured, it might be several weeks before I knew a new member had joined. Now when a new member joins online, I receive an immediate email, which allows me to contact and follow-up with them the same day."

Do you see new possibilities for generating revenue?

"Definitely. One of my goals is to expand our business directory section. With ChamberExpress™, we have the ability to add logos to this section, which we could offer as an opportunity for members. We also now have the ability to add advertisements throughout the site—I am currently working on an advertising plan to roll out to members. The best part? We’ll be able to post ads almost immediately!"

What would you tell other chambers that are considering ChamberExpress™?

"As a one-person staff with limited technical experience, I needed a company who could hand me everything I needed and wanted in a Web site that was ready to go. ChamberExpress ™ did that. The entire experience was very positive and I appreciate that they provide timely support when I need it. Even though I am a small chamber, I feel like I receive the same level of service as any other chamber."

 If your chamber is ready to maximize your potential and show what you can do, contact ChamberExpress™ today at info(at)chamberexpress.com.

About Hamilton North Chamber of Commerce
Website: http://www.hamiltonnorthchamber.com
Number of Members: 140

ChamberExpress™
http://www.chamberexpress.com
1-877-935-0300
fax 770-935-0300
2760 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite B,
Duluth, GA 30047