Happy New Year!

Here at Minnick Web Services, we're optimistic that 2009 will be our best year yet, and we're making big plans to create really cool and innovative ways to serve our clients even better. In this email, I'll tell you a bit more about what we've been up to and what we've got up our sleeves.

1. Our New Web Site

Last week, we launched a new and improved version of our own Web site. We updated the look and information structure to make it easier for visitors to find what they're looking for. Please take a moment to check it out at www.minnickweb.com.

Our programmers and Flash developers have been hard at work on some new features for our digital custom publishing platform. Here's a quick rundown of the new features that we're either rolling out now, or that are already available:

* Advanced Link Tracking - Called the "holy grail of marketing" by one of our clients, this new feature allows you to see how many people -- and which people -- from each of your different marketing campaigns registered for an eBook. Using this new feature couldn't be easier: simply add "?linkcode=your string" to the end of your eBook link. Our StatReport software will take care of the rest!

* Flipping pages – By popular demand, we've finally given in and integrated a "realistic" page flipping effect into our eBooks.

* Actionscript 3.0 upgrade – We've completely rewritten and upgraded the codebase of our eBooks to the latest version of Adobe's Actionscript language. Besides making the code object-oriented and totally buzzword compliant, what this means for you is that eBooks are compatible with all of Adobe's latest technologies, including Adobe Air. Many more great features will be enabled because of this upgrade.

* Automatic printable version – We've created a new tool for generating the printable versions of eBooks. Printable versions will now be created directly from the eBook. This will result in printable versions that look just like the eBook and should also eliminate any chance of human error in the conversions.

As I mentioned, we're also hard at work on more new features that you're going to absolutely love. Stay tuned.

3. Usability and Accessibility

Many of you have worked with MWS web developer and project manager Mara Shank over the three years that she's been with us. While you're probably aware of her attention to detail, you might not be aware of her interest in and knowledge of usability and accessibility issues. This month, Mara will be taking the Human Factors Usability training courses and exam to become an HFI-certified Usability Analyst. You can find out more about this certification at: http://www.humanfactors.com/training/usability-training.asp

We're looking forward to offering a new line of services starting this spring that will be centered around usability and accessibility analysis and optimization. Contact us now to start talking about your particular needs in this area.

4. Client Survey

Finally, if you're one of our clients, we'll be sending you a link to our annual client survey later this week. Please take a moment to fill out the form and let us know what's on your mind and what we can do to help you be your best online.

From everyone here at Minnick Web Services, here's to a healthy, happy, and prosperous 2009!

-Chris Minnick

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