Today, many prospective buyers research products and services online before contacting companies for more information. Online research saves them time and eliminates any pressure — perceived or real — from salespeople. In this environment, having an effective website offers a distinct competitive advantage to any vendor regardless of size. Devin Fahie, owner of FleetMark Graphics and Sebago SignWorks in rural Raymond, Maine, can attest to the value of a professionally designed website to level the field and qualify leads.

"Having a website is like giving prospective customers a window into our company, so people can see what we're all about before we talk. It weeds out people who are looking for something inexpensive and cheap. If they want efficient, high-quality work, they see it on our site and then call us."

Although high-quality sign-making is a significant part of Devin's business, both of his companies specialize in lettering on vehicles: FleetMark Graphics focuses on corporate customers with large nationwide fleets, while Sebago SignWorks serves small business customers local to Maine. Devin started his business in the mid-90s, and in 2002, he designed his own website and used a web hosting company to launch it. He wasn't happy with the results.

"Although I'm a great sign designer, I don't know anything about HTML, and the site lacked professionalism. It wasn't an accurate representation of my business, so I did some research and found Homestead Technologies." Devin worked with one of the designers in Homestead Design Services because his specifications for the Sebago SignWorks site were very complex and the design fee was very affordable. He hires a local web consultant to maintain the Sebago site. He used Homestead SiteBuilder to create the straightforward FleetMark Graphics site himself, and he also uses SiteBuilder to maintain it.

"My overall experience with Homestead has been very positive. Everyone there is very professional, and working with Pamela, the designer, was phenomenal. Homestead is receptive to exactly what customers want. I have to admit, though, that when I saw the Homestead quote, I was pretty skeptical. I thought I was going to get cubic zirconium, but I ended up getting diamonds. The site was a very pleasant surprise — I'm thrilled with the outcome."

Aside from his websites, Devin doesn't do any advertising. He has two vehicles and a trailer that are lettered and two signs on the road in front of his building. He's built his business on quality, repeat customers, and referrals. He advises anyone thinking about starting a business to think hard about the necessity of any expenditures.

"Many people start their businesses with a lot of debt. Don't do it. Most of the sign companies that have opened over the years start in more debt than we've ever been in, which is why we continue to be in business while they have failed. Think of your website as a business card, portfolio, or resume that lets prospective customers know who you are and what you can do for them. Then follow through."

For more information on Sebago SignWorks, please visit www.sebagosignworks.com, or contact Devin Fahie at .