Name of your website?Kuma Karate in the Beaches of Toronto
Your name?
Ken Benson
Your Location (city, etc)
Toronto
Please give us a short summary of your website?
IOC and Sport-Canada recognized karate program. Our instructors are certified by both the International Karate Association of Canada and the National Coaching Certification Program.
What inspired you to launch your own website?
The website provides basic information for prospective students and a photo forum for current students
When did you launch your first website, and what was it?
This website was launched in June of 2007.
How did you decide on a name for your website?
I wanted something easy to remember, so I combined the neighbourhood name with the art we teach.
What makes your website different from other, similar offerings?
I have a background in commercial photography and graphic design, so the look of the site is polished and professional.
What is your eventual goal? (To sell it, keep it for income, secure a book or other mainstream media deal?)
Our goal is successful students! Part of that goal is to always build the student base and provide quality instruction.
How does your investment of time and money balance against your success?
It took four years to build the program to a profitable level. All of the investment has been covered, now.
If you had an unlimited development budget for development, how would you change your site?
Not much, really. It's purpose is to entice new students, not become an entertainment centre.
If your site got really big, really quickly, would you be able to keep up with the demand?
Our site is a display and information-only site, so this doesn't really apply.
What unexpected costs and headaches have you had to deal with?
None. I've been self-employed for 25 years, so I expected some ups and downs. The program has been almost completely a positive experience.
What has been your biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge is to get people to try a class. The next challenge is to keep them constantly interested in training.
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
Search engines have helped bring in new students. I also have flyers with the website displayed prominently delivered house-to-house in the local area.
How has running your website differed from your expectations?
I thought I could leave it alone, but I find I'm constantly updating the artwork to give it a fresh look. Current students like seeing new photos of themselves that they can show friends.
How long have you run the site already, and how long will you continue to keep it up if you don't enjoy big gains in traffic, income or popularity?
The site is critical to bringing in new students, so I will have it as long as I have a program.
What is your impression of this website?
I find this interview an interesting addition. It's the first time I've been asked to do it. I know that information and knowledge is valuable and I'm happy to respond to the request. It also reflects on you folks positively, as you want to listen to what the people you are dealing with have to say.
What is your website address?
Kuma Karate in the Beaches of Toronto
