Mercury Web Solutions

Newsletter September 2008

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Greetings,

Facing the difficult challeges with our current economy many business's and organizations are trying to do everything they can to stay competitive and best serve their customers or members. As technology advances those who try and stay abreast of what is available and when feasible integrate those elements, will most certainlly be more successful in their efforts than competitors that don't.

Here at Mercury many of the clients we work with are now integrating elements to their websites that create operational efficiencies in addition to the marketing functions websites are most noted for. Like everything else in your business or organization, your online presence needs to be analyzed regularly, to see how much more that part of your process could be improved.

Please feel free to contact us to find out how Mercury Web Solutions might help you further improve the use of your current website..

Tim Kirsch-Sales Manager-Mercury Web Solutions.

Mercury News

	Mercury Designs New Wesbite for Albany-Troy Cataract & Laser Associates
	Mercury Launches Website for Parsons Child & Family Center
	Mercury Develops Website Information Portal for the City of Troy
	Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for Addictions Care Center of Albany

Mercury Client of the Month

www.downtownalbany.org

Submitted By: Pamela Tobin - Executive Director

Interesting Facts: The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) is an independent, non-for-profit organization established in 1996.

What is the Company's primary product or service? The Downtown Albany BID’s mission is to restore, promote and maintain the character and viability of downtown Albany and to improve the quality of life and overall image for those who live in, work in and visit the Capital City.

The organization partners with businesses, property owners, arts and cultural institutions, social service providers, government agencies and elected officials in a united effort to continue the revitalization of downtown Albany and create a vibrant environment for residents, visitors and employees.

Who is the primary target audience of your company? BID Members, local and regional residents, visitors and potential investors that are within approximately a 150 mile radius.

How has your website most helped you in your business? The BID’s website is one of its major communications channels and covers a wide array of news and information about the events, trends, promotions and opportunities in downtown Albany.

"The BID’s current website was re-created in 2004 by Mercury Web Solutions and its home page was redesigned in September 2008. The website has seen a steady growth in the average number of visitors/month over the past three years from 2,584 in 2006 to 4,950 in 2007 and year-to-date through September 2008 is averaging 8,650 unique visitors/month a 75% increase from 2007."

How was your experience working with Mercury? The BID’s experience with Mercury Web Solutions has been excellent. The staff is friendly and responsive. We are extremely pleased with our product.

Industry News

Top firms band together behind Mobile Broadband
Tue Sep 30, 2:41 PM ET-WASHINGTON (AFP) - Top computer makers, mobile operators and technology providers announced on Tuesday that upcoming laptop computers would feature mobile broadband making them ready to surf right out of the box.

Test Center: Sandbox security versus the evil Web
Tue Sep 30, 6:00 AM ET San Francisco - The Internet is a scary place. Criminal malware lurks on legitimate and illegitimate Web sites alike, looking to steal your money one way or the other.

Norway consumer body challenges Apple over iTunes
Reuters - Tue Sep 30, 1:01 PM ET OSLO (Reuters) - A Norway consumer agency said it aims to take computer group Apple to court over what it calls unfair barriers to playing music from the iTunes music store on devices other than Apple's iPod

Senate OKs Web Radio Bill, Sends to President
by Chloe Albanesius-Internet radio got a boost Tuesday when the Senate approved a bill that says Congress must honor any royalty rate agreement reached between online radio stations and copyright holders.

Mercury Blog

Can the spam!
In this electronic world where often our private information is not so private, we often find ourselves the target of unsolicited e-mail, or as we've all come to call it, SPAM.

Many thanks to those who submitted topics last month that they were interested in. We ask that any of you that have topics on Web development or online information technology you want to learn more about, to submit your questions through the Contact Us form on our website. (Note: we will not reveal your contact information in the Blog.)

- Mercury Web Solutions Bloggers

Newsletter August 2008

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Greetings,

With the summer coming to an end in the next few days we are finding many of our clients beginning to again concentrate on business instead of vacation thoughts. Along those lines, one of the purposes of this newsletter is to be certain you are best utilizing your online presence to assist your business or organizational needs. With information technology changing so rapidly, there will always be additional improvements that could be made to any website. In today's difficult economy you need to be utilizing the latest in operational and marketing elements available. I encourage you to view the websites of others in your industry to see if your site is keeping pace.

Please feel free to contact us to find out how Mercury Web Solutions might help you further improve the use of your current website..

Tim Kirsch-Sales Manager-Mercury Web Solutions.

Mercury News

	Mercury Develops Website Information Portal for the City of Troy
	Mercury Launches Website for Parsons Child & Family Center
	Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for Addictions Care Center of Albany
	Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for J&J Racing

Mercury Client of the Month

www.yankeetrails.com

Submitted By: Jeff Adams - Director of Marketing

Interesting Facts: Yankee Trails started in 1957 providing motorcoach transportation to Upstate New York patrons. In 1999, Yankee Trails expanded their services and changed their name to Yankee Trails World Travel.

What is the Company's primary product or service? Yankee Trails World Travel provides cruise, air and motorcoach travel services.

Who is the primary target audience of your company? Adults 35 and over within a 75 mile radius of Albany, NY.

How has your website most helped you in your business? Our website has been instrumental in providing information about all of the vacation packages and travel services we have to offer. It’s not only used by our customers, but also plays an integral role internally for our agents taking reservations by phone or in person. Additionally, the Reservation and Quote Request functions have helped increase online sales from 5% to 25% of all reservations taken..

How was your experience working with Mercury? "Working with Mercury has been absolutely fantastic from the first day we met to discuss our company needs. We’ve come to rely very heavily on our site and it’s comforting to know I can trust in its functionality and stability, while at the same time appreciate the overall design, which continues to receive compliments."

Industry News

Microsoft Plans Native Privacy Features for IE8
August 26, 2008-Microsoft on Monday revealed some new privacy features for Internet Explorer 8, the next version of its market-leading Web browser.

August 26, 2008-Google has a suggestion on your search
SAN FRANCISCO - Google expects to graduate a feature from its labs to its main search page in the next week to help users execute faster and more specific searches..

Apple ready to rumble on September 9!
August 26, 2008- Several blogs (see Techmeme) are reporting that Apple will roll out new products on September 9.

Newegg reverses practice of charging New York sales tax!
Online electronics retailer Newegg has stopped charging sales tax to its New York customers, according to a posting on the Consumerist.com.

Mercury Blog

The Mercury Blog is still in the process of being setup by our development staff. It should be up and running by the time you receive next months Newsletter. Again the purpose of our Mercury Blog is to provide a platform that will allow our professional staff to offer some of their working knowledge of web development and online trends. Our goal is to help keep you abreast of new technology and trends, which may also be utilized on your own websites.

- Mercury Web Solutions Bloggers

Newsletter July 2008

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Greetings,

As the newly appointed Sales Manager here at Mercury, I personally look forward to meeting as many of you as possible. Each month we will be updating you on our projects as well as featuring one of our many valued clients. Additionally, we plan to provide you with valuable information about the web and online technologies.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about how Mercury Web Solutions might help you further improve your online presence.

Tim Kirsch-Sales Manager-Mercury Web Solutions.

Mercury News

	Mercury Project Manager Sings National Anthem at Valley Cats Baseball Game
	Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for J&J Racing
	Mercury CEO Delivers Commencement Address at ITT
	Mercury Develops Website for Applied Robotics
	Tim Kirsch joins Mercury Web Solutions as head of Mercury’s sales organization.

Mercury Client of the Month

www.arobotics.com

Submitted By: Joanne Brown - Marketing Communications Manager

Interesting Facts: Applied Robotics started in 1983 and now has a global impact

What is the Company's primary product or service? Applied Robotics is a leading provider of automation end-of-arm-tooling and connectivity solutions designed to bring greater speed and flexibility to automation-based processes.

Who is the primary target audience of your company? Robot manufacturers, System integrators, end users, Universities and the media.

How has your website most helped you in your business? Our website is our main interaction with the world. It is how most people find out who we are and what we do. It is crucial to our business. It must be user friendly, interactive, clear and welcoming as well as reflect our values and mission.

How was your experience working with Mercury? "We have had a wonderful experience working with Mercury. Our account manager, Bev Hannay, has been extraordinary in making sure we were able to expedite our re-launch to coincide with our International Sales Meeting and was the perfect conduit between our dream list of what we want our website to do and the technical side of what can be done. She translates our wishes into reality through the extraordinary MWS development team. We have been so happy with all the work MWS has done and look forward to working with them into the future."

Industry News

Yahoo settles with investor Carl Icahn!
Ellen Keohane July 21, 2008-To avoid a proxy fight, Yahoo will appoint activist investor Carl Icahn to its board, in addition to two new members.

Google shares fall after disappointing earnings
SAN FRANCISCO - Google Inc. shares tumbled more than 9 percent by midday Friday after the Internet search leader's second-quarter earnings missed analysts' expectations.

Microsoft Feeds Cash to Online Services Business With the possibility of a Yahoo acquisition still uncertain, Microsoft is pouring additional investment into its Online...

New Worm Transcodes MP3s to Try to Infect PCs A new variety of malicious software could pose a danger to those who download music files on peer-to-peer networks.

Mercury Blog

The purpose of our Mercury Blog is to provide a platform that will allow our professional staff to offer some of their working knowledge of web development and online trends. Our goal is to help keep you abreast of new technology and trends which may also be utilized on your own websites.

In order to get this started, we are first going to reach out to you and ask what is it that you would like to learn more about with regard to web development and online information technology?

The opportunity to submit questions will be ongoing and will be facilitated by simply submitting your question through the Contact Us form on our website. (Note: we will not reveal your contact information in the Blog.)

- Mercury Web Solutions Bloggers

Can the spam!

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this electronic age where often our private information is not so private, we often find ourselves the target of unsolicited e-mail, or as we've all come to call it, SPAM.

While we all know what SPAM is, many often are left wondering what can be done to eliminate or minimize the amount of SPAM we receive. Here are a few tips that will help reduce the amount of time you spend deleting mail and hopefully increase the time you spend reading or writing.

1) Never "publish" your email address:

Anywhere that your email address appears as plain text on a website, that isn't protected by a login screen, makes it susceptible to bots, crawlers or spiders whose sole purpose is to harvest email addresses from the internet and pass them off to mail list networks.

If you have to publicly disclose your e-mail address you can use these methods to help protect yourself:

username-AT-domain-DOT-com
NOusernameSPAM@NOdomainSPAM.com

Any human can easily pull the "no spam" words out and convert the words to the proper characters. Variations of these will serve the purpose but to be 100% it's best to embed your address in a graphic image.

2) Read the fine print:

When you join many websites, blogs and forums there is usually a bunch of fine print that you have to agree to in order to register. Most of the time people don't even bother to read this and in doing so you may be agreeing to allow that website to sell your email address.

3) If it seems fishy, bring tartar sauce:

If you have to sign up for a website that you know is going to sell your address or is known for doing so, create a dummy email account with Gmail or hotmail that's only purpose is for internet registrations and the like. This way, all that SPAM goes to a mailbox that you don't really use.

4) Opting out may Opt you in:

While the CAN-SPAM act requires certain mailings to include an opt-out link, sometimes these links only serve the purpose of verifying that your email address is real/active and ends up putting you on more lists. If you haven't opted in for the e-mail you've received then it's best to just delete it. If you see another down the line it may indicate that it's a "legit SPAM" mailing and opting out at that point is safer.

While it's nearly impossible to avoid all spam, following these guidelines can greatly help to reduce the amount of SPAM you receive.

Brian Ellwood
IT Specialist
Mercury Web Solutions

Mercury Designs New Website for Albany-Troy Cataract & Laser Associates

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions proudly announces the launch of the redesigned Albany-Troy Cataract & Laser Associates website, www.albanytroyeye.com. The redesigned website has a simple, elegant design that spotlights Albany-Troy’s message. It is a beautiful site that offers wonderful informational video animations. The animations thrust the website well ahead of the Web presences of its competition.

Albany-Troy Cataract & Laser Associates treats patients of all ages and provides all facets of eye health care. They have state-of-the-art eye care facilities throughout the Capital District. The expert services they provide include the diagnosis and treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, corneal disease, eye injury and laser vision correction

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specialized in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. As one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Develops Website Information Portal for the City of Troy

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions announces the launch of an exciting new Web based information portal for the City of Troy, which can be found at http://www.insidetroyny.com and at www.visittroyny.com. The new website provides listings of businesses, services and attractions which can be found in Troy, of interest both to people who might be thinking of visiting, living or doing business in Troy.

As part of the website, Mercury developed a robust suite of tools. A registration tool allows users to register and add and edit information and images for their business for display on the website within appropriate categories, and with interactive map capabilities. An event tool allows registered users to post events on the website event calendar along with information regarding the event. Mercury provided an image portfolio for the website so that the rich display of imagery built into the website can be changed and updated as often as desired to continually provide new interest and visual attraction. Mercury used its custom content management system to provide a very high level of dynamic content change throughout the website.

The website was developed in partnership with Troy-based advertising agency Smith and Jones. Smith and Jones is leading a marketing campaign for the City of Troy, to better inform people of all the city has to offer. The website is a central focus of this campaign and conveys very well that Troy is “a city rich in history, character, and opportunity”. It is full of useful information, and provides excellent references for the City’s many offerings. Prior to the development of this new website, Mercury developed a “preliminary” website which allowed City of Troy to start collecting information from local businesses and service providers for display on the main website.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specialized in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. As one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232.

Mercury Launches Website for Parsons Child & Family Center

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions proudly announces the launch of a new website for the Parsons Child & Family Center, located at www.parsonscenter.org. The website creates a whole new look for Parsons using shades of green, brown, and white. Mercury organized site content into an intuitive, easy to navigate structure to provide a maximum level of usability and friendliness. An updated content management system enables Parsons to make significant changes to their site content as well as to add featured news and events. The new website provides the ability for Parsons to accept online financial and in-kind donations.

On seeing the site live, Bev Hannay, the manager for the project, said, “The site is beautiful with its new design. It’s great to see the new face of Parsons!” Don Buskard, Mercury CEO, stated also, “Mercury is very pleased to be associated with such a worthwhile cause within our community.”

Parsons Child & Family Center is the largest multi-services agency in Upstate New York dedicated to helping families and their children. The agency provides counseling services, parenting education, child abuse/neglect prevention and treatment, family strengthening programs, early childhood family support, special education, youth development programs, and mental health services.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specialized in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. As one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for Addictions Care Center of Albany

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions is pleased to announce the launch of the redesigned Addictions Care Center of Albany (ACCA) website, www.albanycitizenscouncil.org. The ACCA site has been reorganized into a more intuitive structure to ensure ease of navigation and positive user experience. Aside from a fresh, new, and sophisticated look, the ACCA website features a comprehensive registration system that allows members to choose, register, and pay for course offerings online. The redesigned ACCA site is an attractive, informative, and interactive resource for addiction treatment, prevention, and training.

ACCA is a private, nonprofit corporation, whose Board and staff are committed to providing high quality, comprehensive treatment, housing, intervention and education to those who suffer from alcoholism and other chemical dependencies. The main goals of the organization, reflected in the website, include “Educating Youth - Prevention Education”, “Empowering Individuals – Treatment”, and “Developing Professionals - Training and Professional Development”.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232.

Mercury Project Manager Sings National Anthem at Valley Cats Baseball Game

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solution’s Project Manager Beverly Hannay and daughter Sarah Hannay sang the National Anthem at last night’s Tri City Valley Cats baseball game against the Williamsport Crosscutters. Bev and Sarah have sung together for the Valley Cats on a number of occasions. Bev has individually performed the National Anthem for many of the local sports teams over the past years including the Albany River Rats, the Albany Conquest football team, and the Albany Patroons.

As the Project Manager at Mercury, Bev works closely with clients throughout Mercury’s comprehensive web development process. She maintains a critical link between Mercury’s internal design and development team and with the clients throughout each project. Bev has been with Mercury since 2003. Bev’s daughter, Sarah Hannay, is a sophomore nursing major at Cedarville University in Ohio and is currently working at the VA Medical Center in Albany.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for J&J Racing

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions announces the exciting launch of the redesigned J&J Racing website, found at www.jnj-racing.com. The enhanced design of the new J&J Racing website delivers a visually appealing, crisp, and bold presentation. The content and architecture has been reorganized into an intuitive, easy to navigate structure. The new website features a custom built media gallery that allows J&J racing to showcase select images on their homepage. In addition, there is a content editor which enables J&J Racing to easily maintain site content and add images and links directly to their pages.

The two companies are also pleased to announce a joint marketing partnership. Mercury will provide all of J&J Racing’s Web related needs and Mercury will be a featured sponsor for J&J Racing activities and events.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury CEO Delivers Commencement Address at ITT

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Don Buskard, CEO of Mercury Web Solutions, delivered the commencement address to the 2008 ITT Technical Institute graduates. From his place on the podium, Don urged the graduates to feel pride in their accomplishment,

“Earning your degree from ITT, a high quality and well respected institution, says quite a bit about your perseverance and dedication. These qualities are crucial ingredients to your long term success. By being here today, you’ve shown that you appreciate and recognize this. You’ve also shown you understand that perseverance and dedication are significant to attaining your goals.”

He also them to take advantage of the opportunity that they have created for themselves and to take stock of the sacrifices that they made to get there.

Don began his fifteen minute speech with a quote from Tom Brokaw, the keynote speaker at his own undergraduate graduation from Syracuse University. He ended the speech with a quote from Tim Russert, delivered in a commencement speech he gave in May, only a few weeks before his recent, sudden death.

In between, Don spoke of the myriad of changes the graduates were likely to see during the span of their careers and their lifetimes, both in technology and socially. He then described the changes which he has seen and experienced during the span of his twenty-five career.

“I was very pleased and honored to be invited by ITT to speak at the commencement”, Don said. “I have a great deal of respect for ITT’s programs and for the quality of their graduates.”

Mercury Web Solutions and ITT Tech have had a strong relationship over the last few years. Don has previously been a guest lecturer and speaker at the school.

ITT Educational Services, Inc. is a leading private college system focused on technology-oriented programs of study. It operates over 100 ITT Technical Institutes in more then 30 states which predominantly provide career-focused, degree programs to approximately 54,000 students. Headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, it has been actively involved in the higher education community in the United States since 1969.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Develops Website for Applied Robotics

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - June - Mercury Web Solutions announced today the exciting launch of the redesigned Applied Robotics website, found at www.arobotics.com. Delivering an updated website design with features to reinforce the Applied Robotics brand, Mercury is confident that website visitors will find the site visually appealing, sophisticated, and informative. The redevelopment includes an enhanced content management system that enables Applied Robotics to make significant updates to their site. The website includes online job posting and application, enhanced registration features and interactive as well as Flash elements. Custom technology enables Applied Robotics to showcase corporate videos on the website and add new products from their expanding product line.

Applied Robotics is a leading global provider of specialized end-of-arm tooling and connectivity solutions designed to meet unique application and market needs. Offering a customizable suite of products including tool changers, collision sensors, grippers and connection systems, Applied Robotics’ solutions increase speed, flexibility and efficiency for material handling, assembly, cutting, dispensing, machining and welding applications among others.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specializing in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. One of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Creates a New Website for National Direct Reprographics

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions is proud to announce the launch of the redesigned National Direct Reprographics website, www.nationaldirectrepro.com. The website has a new design which is sophisticated and professional. The architecture of the website has been restructured into an easy to navigate structure to ensure its effectiveness and a positive user experience. In addition, Mercury enhanced the online ordering tool with an improved design and more effective product search tools to improve ordering efficiency,

National Direct Reprographics is a New York State based equipment, supply, and media wholesaler. National Direct Reprographics’ services include designing blueprints, copying, binding, scanning, and microfilming. Additionally, National Direct Reprographics supplies large format printing equipment such as plotters, networked devices, copiers, and scanners, and sells media and supplies related to printing. Media and supplies are available for purchase online through the National Direct Reprographics website.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions Wins its Third W3 Award in Two Years

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions won the International Academy of the Visual Arts’ prestigious W3 Award in recognition of the website created by Mercury for Samuel M. Goldstein Productions. The website, www.samuelmgoldstein.com, won a Silver Award in the category of Best Video or Motion Graphic.

Last year, 2006, Mercury won two W3 awards. Mercury won as a Silver Winner in the Home Page category for the website, New York’s Tech Valley (www.techvalley.org). Mercury was also named a Silver Winner in the Government category, again for the Tech Valley website.

The W³ Awards honor creative excellence on the Web, and recognize the creative and marketing professionals behind award winning sites, videos and marketing programs. The W3 is sanctioned and judged by the International Academy of the Visual Arts (IAVA), an invitation-only association consisting of top-tier professionals from a prestigious list of acclaimed media, interactive, advertising, and marketing firms.

Linda Day, the Executive Director of IAVA, made the following statement about this year’s awards, “The 2007 W3 Awards received over 2,700 entries from top companies and agencies worldwide and the quality of the work was outstanding. Being selected a W3 winner is a tremendous achievement and proves the work you do represents our high standard of excellence.”

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an interactive marketing and technology firm. Mercury provides website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Launches a Redesigned Website for NYSDRA

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions proudly announces the launch of a redesigned website for the New York State Dispute Resolution Association, Inc. (NYSDRA). The redesigned NYSDRA website, located at www.nysdra.org, reveals a more dynamic and visually engaging design that better represents the association’s high level of standards and professionalism. The content has been reorganized into a more intuitive, easy to navigate structure to help improve the usability of the site.

Mercury included a variety of user function tools for the new NYSDRA website including provider search, a member login tool, a news tool and events calendar as well as a job postings tool.

The New York State Dispute Resolution Association, Inc. is a private not-for-profit professional membership organization committed to the use and promotion of peaceful dispute resolution. Through leadership, education, promotion of professional standards and training, and development of innovative statewide programs, NYSDRA provides opportunities for people, communities, organizations and businesses to effectively respond to conflict.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for Hill & Markes, Inc.

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions recently launched a redesigned website for Hill & Markes, Inc. The redesigned website, located at www.hillandmarkes.com, has a contemporary look and welcoming feel. The new site is functional and easy to navigate with a user-centric architecture. Mercury seamlessly integrated an existing online catalog and online ordering system into the new website. The website is supported by Mercury’s full-featured easy to use Web-based content management system.

Hill & Markes, Inc. is a 100 year old family owned wholesale distributor company dedicated to offering exceptional service, quality products, and fair pricing. Its four main divisions include food service, industrial packaging, janitorial supplies, and office supplies.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website and Corporate Extranet for Hartgen Archeological Associates.

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions is proud to announce the launch of the redesigned Hartgen Archeological Associates Inc. (HAA) website. The redesigned site, located at www.hartgen.com, reveals a dynamic and attractive design that illustrates the unique character, culture, and professionalism of the company. The architecture of the website has been reorganized into an easy to navigate structure to improve its effectiveness and the user experience.

The HAA website is directed primarily towards prospective and existing clients and staff. HAA clients come from the public and private sectors, including federal and state agencies, municipalities, engineering and architectural firms, developers, preservation groups, and non-profit organizations.

In addition to the redesign of the HAA website, Mercury also established a corporate extranet between Hartgen’s remote locations. The private extranet allows Hartgen personnel in all locations to reach Hartgen’s main servers and share information between locations.

Hartgen Archeological Associates, Inc. is an archeological service company based in Rensselaer, NY. The company offers a full range of archaeological and architectural history services to guide clients through the requirements of national and state historic preservation laws. HAA provides cultural resource management, historic, preservation, and environmental services to clients throughout the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specialized in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. As one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Tim Kirsch joins Mercury Web Solutions as head of Mercury’s sales organization.

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions is very pleased to announce that Tim Kirsch has recently joined the Mercury team as Sales Manager. Tim will be in charge of sales and business development for Mercury in the greater Albany area and will be in charge of expanding Mercury’s sales organization to address a greater geographical region.

Mercury recently opened a sales office in downstate NY, centering in Northern New Jersey, New York City and Long Island.

Tim comes to Mercury with over twenty years’ experience in sales and business development. His most recent position before joining Mercury was as President and Managing Consultant for Independence Marketing Systems and Solutions of Rensselaer, NY. Tim, a graduate of Siena College is a native of the Albany area.

Tim can be reached at 518-432-3200 X3153. Please give Tim a call to find out how Mercury can give your organization a great website and a strong overall Web presence.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm. One of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development. Mercury offers custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury provides independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury is awarded the Nori Award in Business to Business Web Design Category

Sat, 05 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - The Albany Ad Club selects Mercury Web Solutions winner in the 34th Annual Nori Awards

Mercury Web Solutions was awarded the prestigious NORI award last night at a ceremony held at the Albany Crowne Plaza and hosted by the Albany Ad Club Association of Professional Communicators. The NORI award competition is sponsored annually by the Albany Ad Club, the regional chapter of the American Advertising Federation. This year marks its 34th anniversary. The Nori Awards honor outstanding achievement in advertising and communications among Capital Region businesses.

Mercury won first place in the category of Business-To-Business Website Design for the website, www.samuelmgoldstein.com, designed and developed by Mercury for Samuel M. Goldstein Productions.

Don Buskard, Mercury CEO, was on hand at the ceremony to accept the award for Mercury and as a presenter for an award in one of the other categories.

This year, more than 500 entries were submitted for awards and judged by leading industry professionals from around the country, in categories ranging from television and website design to photography, illustration and direct marketing materials. Five entries were selected as finalists in the Business-To-Business Website Design category and Mercury was pleased to be judged against a very strong field of competitors.

Mercury Web Solutions won a Nori award last year in the category of Non-Profit/Government Website Design for design and development of www.techvalley.org, the online information portal for the Tech Valley region.

The Samuel M. Goldstein Productions (SMGP) website was launched this summer. The website is a wonderful example of the use of Web animation and intuitive navigation. SMGP is a video production company based in the capital region which prides itself in offering the highest quality film and video along with exceptionally personalized service. The website includes a portfolio of videos demonstrating SMGP work.

Mercury Web Solutions:

Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm. One of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development. Mercury’s offers custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury provides independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury is proud to be a Gold Sponsor for the 6th Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region Radiothon

Sat, 27 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. – Mercury is proud to be a Gold Sponsor for the 6th Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region Radiothon.

Mercury Web Solutions was proud to be a Gold Sponsor for the 6th Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region (RMHC) Radiothon, the official kick off to the 25th Anniversary of the RMHC. The fundraising event was a huge success, raising a record $159,000 for the Albany area’s local Ronald McDonald House.

The Radiothon was held live at the Crossgates Mall on Saturday, January 27th. Don Buskard, CEO of Mercury, participated in the event by speaking over the air during the radiothon on behalf of the Charity, encouraging listener donations. Mercury was proud to join other distinguished local companies including Hannaford, Albany Medical Center and MVP HealthCare and large national firms including Coca Cola, SmithBarney and Southwest Airlines in sponsoring this worthwhile event.

Mercury recently launched a new website for RMHC, www.rmhcofalbany.org. The new website has a warm and welcoming look. It provides information and services to families with children undergoing medical services for serious illnesses who may need RMHCCR services for the first time and to families who have stayed at their facilities in the past. It also addresses the general public so that anyone in the Capital Region can be kept up-to-date on news and activities of the chapter and so that people are persuaded to make donations to support RMHCCR.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specializing in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. One of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Launches New Website for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region, Inc.

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. – Mercury Web Solutions recently launched a new website for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region, Inc. (RMHCCR). The new site provides information and services to families with children undergoing medical services for serious illnesses who may need RMHCCR services for the first time and to families who have stayed at their facilities in the past. It also addresses the general public so that anyone in the Capital Region can be kept up-to-date on news and activities of the chapter and so that people are persuaded to make donations to support RMHCCR.

Internal members will be able to utilize the site to promote fundraising initiatives, provide recognition to contributors and volunteers, and access procedural manuals, policies and forms. Funding organizations and recipients will be able to utilize the site to learn of grant opportunities and application procedures, view grant recipients, view partnering/sponsoring organizations, learn about ways they can support RMHCCR, and make donations and contributions. The main objectives of the site are to enhance RMHCCR’s ability to accomplish its mission of serving families in need, effectively present programs and activities, and increase donation and volunteer support

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region, Inc. provides comfort, support and respite for families of seriously ill children through the operation of the Ronald McDonald House and the Ronald McDonald House Family Room in the Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, and enhances the lives of children in the community by providing dental services to kids in need, and awarding grants that support programs and organizations that benefit children.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm specializing in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. One of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, offering custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury also performs independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury is named finalist for Nori Award in Business to Business Web Design Category

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. – The Albany Ad Club selects Mercury Web Solutions as a finalist for the 34th Annual Nori Awards

Mercury Web Solutions has been nominated for the 34th Annual Albany Ad Club NORI Awards competition hosted by the Ad Club of Northeastern New York, the regional chapter of the American Advertising Federation. The winners will be announced at the Nori Gras event being held May 4th at the Crowne Plaza in Albany, honoring outstanding achievement in advertising and communications among Capital Region businesses.

More than 500 entries were submitted and judged by leading industry professionals from around the country, in categories ranging from television and website design to photography, illustration and direct marketing materials.

Mercury Web Solutions was nominated in the category of Business-To-Business Website Design for the website, www.samuelmgoldstein.com, designed and developed by Mercury for Samuel M. Goldstein Productions.

Mercury Web Solutions won a Nori award last year in the category of Non-Profit/Government Website Design for design and development of www.techvalley.org, the online information portal for the Tech Valley region.

The Samuel M. Goldstein Productions (SMGP) website was launched this summer. The website is a wonderful example of the use of Web animation and intuitive navigation. SMGP is a video production company based the capital region which prides itself in offering the highest quality film and video along with exceptionally personalized service. The website includes a portfolio of videos demonstrating SMGP work.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm. One of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies, Mercury works with hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development. Mercury’s offers custom Web tools and reliable hosting as well as video, graphics and multimedia services. Mercury provides independent website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web metrics analysis and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Times Union partners on Web

Fri, 06 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

By ERIC ANDERSON, Deputy business editor
First published: Friday, April 6, 2007

COLONIE -- The Times Union announced Thursday it has partnered with Albany-based Mercury Web Solutions to offer a full range of Web services, including site design, technology and optimization.

"It's another tool we can offer" to Times Union customers to better use the Web in their businesses, Publisher Mark E. Aldam said.

The newspaper previously had offered Web development services to businesses wanting to develop online applications, but the relationship with Mercury will further extend its range of expertise.

"Mercury brings an ability to plan and implement online strategies to improve business performance based on a unique combination of Internet marketing expertise and a deep understanding of how Web-based tools can be maximized to meet customer goals," said George R. Hearst III, vice president, associate publisher and general manager of the Times Union.

Mercury's clients range from Queensbury-based medical device maker AngioDynamics Inc. to the Palace Theatre in Albany.

Mercury was founded in 2000 and now serves hundreds of clients.

"Our focus on bringing enhanced Web tools and design to better market and position businesses is a perfect complement to the Times Union's ability to present the news that is relevant to the region as that news happens," said Don Buskard, Mercury's chief executive.

Mercury Web Solutions and the Albany Times Union Announce Partnership

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, NY - Mercury Web Solutions and the Albany Times Union announced a partnership agreement on March 27 to offer a full range of Web-related services. Mercury Web Solutions, the area’s premier website development and Internet marketing firm will team with the Times Union to provide expertise in Web design, technology and optimization.

In addition to an array of multi-media advertising and marketing services, the Times Union provides Web development services to area businesses interested in developing online applications. The partnership with Mercury Web Solutions will bring more professional Web design and development services to Times Union customers.

“Most businesses have already discovered the benefits of offering Web-access to customer services. And, while many have activated their websites to rival the services provided at their traditional brick and mortar centers, businesses continue to seek Web innovations which will lower their costs, give them a competitive edge, or offer a unique customer experience. By teaming-up with Mercury Web Solutions, we will be well positioned to offer the expertise our customers need to remain competitive online. Mercury brings an ability to plan and implement online strategies to improve business performance based on a unique combination of Internet marketing expertise and a deep understanding of how Web-based tools can be maximized to meet customer goals,” said George R. Hearst III, vice president, associate publisher and general manager of the Times Union.

“The Times Union is the paper of record for the Capital District and state government,” said Don Buskard, CEO of Mercury Web Solutions. “Our focus on bringing enhanced Web tools and design to better market and position businesses is a perfect complement to the Times Union’s ability to present the news that is relevant to the region as that news happens.”

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and Internet technology firm and one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web development companies. Mercury services hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including search engine optimization, Web Metrics and Web marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President, Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232.

Mercury created website wins top award for Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Calgary, Alberta - Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard Awarded NAFDMA’s Outstanding Website Award, Designed and Built by Mercury Web Solutions

The website, www.flycreekcidermill.com, designed and developed by Mercury Web Solutions, earned the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard the Outstanding Website Award at the North American Farmers’ Direct Marketing Association’s (NAFDMA*) Annual Conference. The conference was held last month in Calgary, Alberta.

Judges selected five websites from among the entrants, based on function, design, appeal and stimulus to visit the farm business. The 450 NAFDMA members were then asked to vote for the best. The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard website came out on top. “It is a special honor to be chosen top pick by our peers,” said Bill Michaels, co-owner of the Mill.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard chose Mercury to redesign and redevelop its website. They brought their concepts to Mercury and the award winning website was the result.

“The professionals at Mercury implemented all our ideas into a well-designed site that functions smoothly and permits updating information frequently and effortlessly,” said Michaels. “The internet is the driving force for agri-tourism. Most of our visitors view the site before they come to the Mill.” The Mill’s website at www.flycreekcidermill.com offers news, events, directions, coupons, history and employment opportunities in addition to basic tour and visitor information.

Since its debut, the Mill’s new website has been receiving a steady flow of subscriptions for future news and special offerings. This coming August the Mill plans to add an on-line store. “Many of our customers who visit from outside our local area wish to restock their homes with many of the specialty products we offer. Thankfully, that service will soon become available so they can experience the Mill tastes all season long.,” says Michaels.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard is a historic, water-powered mill on the banks of Fly Creek in the heart of Central New York. Fly Creek Cider Mill, which has been in business in the area for 150 years, is famous for its wonderful authentic cider press where visitors can watch their delicious cider as it’s being made. Fly Creek includes the Mill Store Marketplace offering daily tastings of many of their wonderful products.

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and technology firm and one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies. Mercury services hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and Web marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

For more information about Mercury’s Web services, visit www.mercurywebsolutions.com or call (877) 674-2100 X3232.

The North American Farmers' Direct Marketing Association is the leading farm direct marketing association in the world. It promotes and fosters the growth of farm direct marketing throughout North America.

Mercury Launches a Website Redesign for NYSSLHA and a New Website for Ruffo Tabora Mainello & McKay P.C.

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. – December - Mercury Web Solutions proudly announces the launch of two new websites

NYSSLHA www.nysslha.org

12/6/06 - Mercury Web Solutions launched their redesigned website for the New York State Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The NYSSLHA website is directed to its existing members, prospective members, and consumers. The new design is one that is more dynamic and visually engaging, representing the association’s high standards and level of professionalism. The content is organized into a more intuitive, user-friendly architecture to help improve the usability of the site. Members can access benefits such as the member directory, continuing education information, legislative information, association and vendor links and The Communicator, the association’s bi-monthly newsletter. The website provides online event registration and online membership registration.

NYSSLHA is a member-based association composed of speech-language pathologists, audiologists, speech and hearing scientists, teachers of the speech and hearing handicap and others interested in speech, language and hearing disorders. NYSSLHA is active in state legislature and governmental affairs, hearing aid dispensing/consumer protection, universal newborn hearing screening, special education reform, early intervention, continuing competency, managed care and Medicaid managed care.

Ruffo Tabora Mainello & McKay P.C. www.ruffotabora.com

12/11/06 - Mercury Web Solutions launched a new website for Ruffo Tabora Mainello & McKay P.C. that clearly demonstrates the high level of professionalism of the law firm. The website is polished and allows for current and prospective clients to enhance their knowledge of the firm and to be aware of the benefits of Ruffo Tabora Mainello & McKay P.C.’s services by integrating features such as case studies and press releases. Mercury Web Solutions has begun to build an e-mail database for future permission-based email marketing campaigns to add another marketing opportunity for the firm. The website has future phases that will include a content management tool to power the “Sidebar” news area and a “Client Login” to provide their General Council clients access to information pertaining to their cases. The website is designed to keep clients in touch with any future growth of the firm.

Ruffo Tabora Mainello & McKay P.C. was established with professionals with expertise in health care, insurance defense, and litigation support. The firm offers legal services to clients across New York State.

About Mercury
Mercury Web Solutions is an interactive marketing and technology firm. Mercury provides website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Mercury Launches New Website for Kismet Circle, an Internet Emergency and Notification System

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - Mercury Web Solutions announces the launch of www.KismetCircle.com, the first Internet Emergency and Life Event Notification System. KismetCircle.com allows a user to register as a member and specify primary emergency contacts along with multiple ways of reaching these contacts including address, email, home, work and cell numbers, temporary numbers while traveling, as well as co-worker or assistant phone numbers. Registered KismetCircle members are assigned a random generated KismetCircle code number that can be used by an emergency service to access a member’s information in case of accident, illness or separation.

In order to ensure the security of a member’s personal information, Mercury developed password-protected sections for members and emergency services respectively. Emergency personnel have a separate logon/password system, which allows them to go directly to the emergency contact information they are seeking, using the member’s KismetCircle code.

Another feature which Mercury designed in the KismetCircle website is the ability for a member to set up a Circle of Friends list with other KismetCircle members. The Circle of Friends list will enable members to contact all the people whom they would want notified of important occasions, or news of life events such as births, illnesses, moves, or death.

According to Adrienne Buskard, Mercury’s president, “KismetCircle is a wonderful concept and Mercury is very excited to be a part of it. This is the first website we know of to be developed for this specific purpose. Mercury designed the website in such a way that the information stored in KismetCircle is both easily accessible to the appropriate people or organizations and also secure and protected from access by anyone else.”

KismetCircle.com has a host of administrative tools to maintain currency, such as a robust content management tool, a news and events tool, and a database-reporting tool. The website allows users to upload an image for identification, to pay dues online and to store emergency information such as medical conditions or current medications in their profile. In future phases, Kismet will offer the ability to send broadcast emails to a member’s Circle of Friends, to make charitable donations online and to shop online for KismetCircle identification articles.

KismetCircle.com was conceived by its founder, Ralph deTurk, who believes that, “ …in a personal or general crisis, people should not and do not have to be separated from their loved ones.” He also believes that there are people in our lives that we may or may not see or hear from on a regular basis but whom we would want to be notified and who would like to be notified of major events in our lives. “KismetCircle is a means, through the use of the Internet, of keeping people connected, in good or bad times.”

About Mercury Web Solutions:

Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and technology firm and one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies. Mercury services hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Launches New Websites for Wagoner Realty and NYHPA

Sun, 26 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. – November - Mercury Web Solutions proudly announces the launch of two impressive new websites

Wagoner Realty www.wagonerrealty.com

Mercury designed a brand new website for Wagoner Realty to market and provide information about their new Queen Point home community and their future offerings. The new website is visually appealing and effectively represents the company’s mission to meet the varied needs of prospective renters or buyers of their properties. Moreover, it clearly communicates the level of comfort and elegance that Wagoner Realty builds into its homes. The new website will serve as an informational tool for Wagoner Realty’s current and future clients and will stimulate growth and increase awareness of the company.

Wagoner Realty is a residential and commercial development company located in New York’s Capital Region. Wagoner Realty has been in business since 1999 and since then has combined development and electrical expertise to provide their clients with beautiful homes, charming apartments, and elaborate business facilities.

New York Health Plan Association www.nyhpa.org

Mercury Web Solutions recently launched an exciting, new website for the New York State Health Plan Association. The website addresses a variety of groups that might be interested in the services of NYHPA, including the general public, public specialty groups, the media, legislators, policy makers, and current NYHPA members. Easy to use navigation features allow for site visitors to access all major areas of the site directly from the homepage. The information architecture of the website prioritizes the content according to the organization’s objectives, and presents HPA initiatives in a consumer-focused manner increasing the website’s effectiveness.

Mercury developed a full featured set of website tools for the NYHPA website including a content management system which, among other information, powers a host of HMO data on the website, an online event registrations and a news tool. The website also includes a site search that will allow for search of site content including associated documents.

New York Health Plan Association, Inc. (NYHPA) is a non-profit association of health services companies established to promote the development of managed health care plans within New York State. NYHPA represents 19 HMOs and eight prepaid health service plans (PHSP) providing health care coverage to more than six million New York residents.

About Mercury
Mercury Web Solutions is an interactive marketing and technology firm. Mercury provides website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Mercury Web Solutions Launches Website for Yankee Trails World Travel

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

“Yankee Trails' 50th Anniversary Celebration is Underway”

Albany, New York (January 12, 2007) -- Mercury Web Solutions is very proud to announce the launch of its new website for Yankee Trails World Travel. The website is the result of a strong collaboration between the two successful Tech Valley companies in which Mercury was able to translate Yankee Trails’ online objectives into an elegantly designed and feature rich Web presence.

“Mercury Web Solutions custom built the website for Yankee Trails to provide them with a dynamic online channel to market their large array of travel offerings and to offer their customers a 24/7 information and reservation service,” said Adrienne Buskard, President of Mercury Web Solutions. “Mercury architected the tools associated with these functions according to Yankee Trails’ specifications which were based on the requirement to make the user experience on the website as friendly and valuable as possible.”

The new site allows customers the ability to plan, purchase and pay for an online tour or trip reservation through a new comprehensive online Tours Catalog. Mercury built a custom shopping cart for Yankee Trails to accommodate the specific properties of the online reservation system and Yankee Trails’ Gift Card program with provision for discount coupon handling. Mercury provided a secure payment gateway for the website to allow for purchase completion online.

Other visitor benefits that Mercury developed for Yankee Trails include the capability to Request a Quote, and register to become a ‘YT Preferred Customer.’ Additionally, Mercury created a site search tool for the Yankee Trails website that allows visitors to quickly and easily find and go to any area or page of the website.

The administrative functions of the site that Mercury created are equally impressive. Mercury built an intuitive, customized Content Management System in order to streamline the process of making site updates and reduce reliance on outside sources. In fact, Mercury created an array of administrative tools to allow Yankee Trails to manage almost every aspect of their website. The list includes administrative tools to manage, among others, tours and tour categories, users, order history, and statistics, and the ability to create a printable flier and/or itinerary.

Mercury chose a design for the Yankee Trails website which would underscore the welcoming, friendly nature of the staff, in addition to the convenience and security of online booking. Mercury’s image rich design possesses the “WOW Factor” that Yankee Trails World Travel was looking for.

“Mercury makes it a priority for all of our websites to provide an excellent user experience. Yankee Trails epitomizes this commitment,” added Adrienne Buskard. “The high usability of the website and other factors in the content and based in Mercury’s standard practices will give the website the high search engine visibility Yankee Trails was looking for.”

In 2007 Yankee Trails World Travel is celebrating their 50th Anniversary. The launch of the new website kicks off a yearlong effort that includes an extensive local broadcast advertising campaign, special events, and a variety of discounts and promotions on many trips.

About Mercury Web Solutions:
Started in 2000, Mercury Web Solutions is an Albany based interactive marketing and technology firm and one of Tech Valley’s top rated Web Development companies. Mercury services hundreds of clients, providing website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Media Contact: Adrienne Buskard, President Mercury Web Solutions (518) 432-3200 x3232

Mercury Web Solutions Wins Two W³ Awards for Web Design

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. - MERCURY WEB SOLUTIONS NAMED AS 2006 W3 DOUBLE AWARD WINNER by the International Academy of the Visual Arts

Mercury Web Solutions has won prestigious 2006 W3 awards in two different categories. The winners were announced on October 16 by the International Academy of the Visual Arts, the sponsor of the awards. Mercury won as a Silver Winner in the Home Page category for the website, New York’s Tech Valley (www.techvalley.org). Mercury was also named a Silver Winner in the Government category, again for the Tech Valley website.

Mercury designed and developed the Tech Valley website for the Tech Valley Chamber Coalition. The website, which is an information resource portal on all aspects of the Tech Valley region, was launched in December, 2005. Since its launch in December 2005, Mercury has won four awards for the Tech Valley website and the Tech Valley Chamber Coalition has won two awards, including the award for “Best Regional Website” by the Web Marketing Association. Mercury won the NORI Award, sponsored by the Ad Club of Northeastern New York, and the ACE/B2B Award presented by the New York City Business Marketing Association.

Receiving over 2,300 entries, The W3 Awards honors outstanding websites, Web marketing, and Web advertising created by some of the best interactive agencies, designers, and creators worldwide. The W3 Awards is sanctioned and judged by The International Academy of the Visual Arts, an invitation-only body consisting of top-tier professionals from a "Who's Who" of acclaimed media, interactive, advertising, and marketing firms, including executives from such organizations as HBO, Wired, Yahoo!.

“We were amazed at the caliber and quality of work we received this year. Our winners continue to push the envelope of internet creativity and web design, and it is gratifying to see such great work from the smallest agencies to the biggest firms” said Linda Day, the director of the IAVA
The W³ Awards honors creative excellence on the Web, and recognizes the creative and marketing professionals behind award winning websites and marketing programs. The W3 is the first major web competition to be accessible to the biggest agencies, the smallest firms, and everyone in between.

About Mercury
Mercury Web Solutions is an interactive marketing and technology firm. Mercury provides website planning, design and development, including video, graphics and multimedia, as well as reliable hosting, custom Web tools, website performance assessment including SEO and Web Metrics and e-marketing strategies. Mercury specializes in producing highly effective websites focused on compelling design and usability. The company is managed by CEO Don Buskard.

Mercury Launches New Client Websites in August

Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Albany, N.Y. – September - Mercury Web Solutions proudly announces the launch in August of websites for Intermagnetics Corporation and Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard

Intermagnetics Corporation www.igc.com
Mercury recently launched a new website for Intermagnetics Corporation. This website replaces three separate websites which previously existed for Intermagnetics Corporation and its two recently acquired subsidiaries, Invivo and Superpower. The new website presents a unified presence for the three entities, using a consistent navigation and look and conveying the separateness of the companies through the use of color. The site is on a white background using bright secondary colors for identification and a lot of interesting imagery pulled from the companies’ files.

Mercury developed a full featured content management system for the new website which is easy to administer and allows the businesses to control and maintain all their content. In support of this same goal, Mercury also developed a product management tool for displaying and managing product information online and a news tool. All tools were custom built to Intermagnetics’ specifications.

Intermagnetics is a leading independent developer, manufacturer and marketer of cutting edge technology to advance magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, supplying global leaders in MRI systems integration with radio frequency coils (RF). Through its Invivo brand, Intermagnetics also serves end user medical facilities with monitors and other diagnostic subsystems. Its Energy Technology subsidiary, SuperPower Inc., is a leader in developing high-temperature superconductors (HTS) and related devices.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard www.flycreekcidermill.com
Mercury designed a wonderful, welcoming website for The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard, giving visitors all the information they need to plan a trip to this very special place. Mercury designed a dynamic, visually engaging look for the new website that represents well the diverse experiences and quality shopping opportunities the Mill has to offer. In support of Fly Creek’s marketing goals, Mercury provided tools for the website which allow Fly Creek to manage and post their news and events and to manage and offer online coupons. Mercury provided Fly Creek with an opt-in component to the website which seamlessly interfaces to their email marketing system, stimulating significant growth of their existing email database.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard is a historic, water-powered mill on the banks of Fly Creek in the heart of Central New York. Fly Creek Cider Mill, which has been in business in the area for 150 years, is famous for its wonderful authentic cider press where visitors can watch their delicious cider as it’s being made. Fly Creek includes the Mill Store Marketplace offering daily tastings of many of their wonderful products.

Mercury Web Solutions

Newsletter September 2008

Newsletter August 2008

Newsletter July 2008

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Mercury Designs New Website for Albany-Troy Cataract & Laser Associates

Mercury Develops Website Information Portal for the City of Troy

Mercury Launches Website for Parsons Child & Family Center

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for Addictions Care Center of Albany

Mercury Project Manager Sings National Anthem at Valley Cats Baseball Game

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for J&J Racing

Mercury CEO Delivers Commencement Address at ITT

Mercury Develops Website for Applied Robotics

Mercury Creates a New Website for National Direct Reprographics

Mercury Web Solutions Wins its Third W3 Award in Two Years

Mercury Launches a Redesigned Website for NYSDRA

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website for Hill & Markes, Inc.

Mercury Launches Redesigned Website and Corporate Extranet for Hartgen Archeological Associates.

Tim Kirsch joins Mercury Web Solutions as head of Mercury’s sales organization.

Mercury is awarded the Nori Award in Business to Business Web Design Category

Mercury is proud to be a Gold Sponsor for the 6th Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region Radiothon

Mercury Launches New Website for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region, Inc.

Mercury is named finalist for Nori Award in Business to Business Web Design Category

Times Union partners on Web

Mercury Web Solutions and the Albany Times Union Announce Partnership

Mercury created website wins top award for Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard

Mercury Launches a Website Redesign for NYSSLHA and a New Website for Ruffo Tabora Mainello & McKay P.C.

Mercury Launches New Website for Kismet Circle, an Internet Emergency and Notification System

Mercury Launches New Websites for Wagoner Realty and NYHPA

Mercury Web Solutions Launches Website for Yankee Trails World Travel

Mercury Web Solutions Wins Two W3 Awards for Web Design

Mercury Launches New Client Websites in August

Mercury Web Solutions Wins Two W³ Awards for Web Design