ExecutiveVoice

From the Chair
Eileen Eakins, Attorney at Law

On Deck:  Improvements to the Chamber's Web Site

Last month the Chamber took a big step forward in modernizing its member communications, by eliminating the monthly hard-copy print newsletter "Business News," and switching to a weekly, all-electronic format.  We hope to communicate in a way that is fresh, timely, and most convenient for you, while saving hundreds in printing and mailing costs for the Chamber.  

Our next major task will be upgrading the Chamber's web site.  A strong, functional web site is the cornerstone of our communications strategy.  Member feedback is that our current site is text-heavy and difficult to navigate.   The Communications Task Force believes that if the Chamber is to be responsive to its members, and convey the business-savvy image that a business-focused association should, our website needs to be modernized and its look refreshed. 

Led by Oregon Impact's Susan Lehr, the Web Redesign Task Force has done months of research and interviewed several candidates who offer website redesign services.  The result is a short list of three vendors who will be interviewed again in October to further clarify their proposals, followed by a recommendation to the Chamber Board at its October meeting.  Options range from minor improvements to the navigability of the current site, to a substantial redesign of its overall look and functionality.  The proposed costs reflect this range, from a low of a few hundred dollars to a high of $20,000 or more.  Funds are available, but they will be taken from the Chamber's reserves.

The key question for the Board will be: "In tough economic times, is it a better business strategy to invest in improvements now so we're ready when things improve, or to maintain the status quo until we know what the future holds?"  If you have an opinion on this question, or on the web site itself, let us hear from you.

President's Message

Wilda Parks, ACE; President/CEO

Expectations –

great when we meet them; ugly when we don’t

What do you expect from Your Chamber?
What can we provide for you and your business success?

For our more than 600 accounts, 1500 member representatives the answer may be something different, or somewhat different.  But we don’t know unless you tell us.

Many of our small businesses join to conduct Business To Business, using the personal networking opportunities to meet other businesses. Some non-profits and other businesses (and individuals) may join because Your Chamber keeps you connected and knowledgeable. Business of all types and sizes join for marketing and recognition.

Larger businesses and traded sectors may not need to use us to bring business to their front door, but they know that the benefits of our public policy positions, our research and resources and our personal and business training are important.

There are many who realize that supporting a Chamber of Commerce helps in many ways to enhance and maintain a strong local economy.

We often hear from others what a great Chamber this is; how active, how it offers such a variety of opportunity. We appreciate those comments.  However, what we also need to know is what are we missing? What are our weaknesses? How can we better serve you?

Help us answer these questions. Watch for comment cards at events, focus group invitations, on-line surveys and, of course, just email me with your thoughts.

It’s Your Chamber. Help me help you.