The New SoWal.com Site - what's coming up in 2010

**kurt** · 05-13-2010, 07:39 AM

We want your help designing a new site for you! Locals, visitors, second homeowners, business owners - what content and features would you like to see? Or what do you think would be helpful to others and make our site better?

Videos or photos of .... ?

Stories about .... ?

Maps of .... ?

A guide to .... ?

Information about .... ?

More of .... ?

Thank You for your input and support!

[Edit - 6/18/10]

You set another record in May 2010 with over 14 million page views on SoWal.com. Nearly forty percent of the time spent on the site is by folks in our major drive-in markets in southeastern states. We noticed an increase in traffic from New York City, Washington DC, Orlando and Houston - locations served by Southwest Airlines flying to the new airport.

We are excited to be in the final stages of a major redesign of SoWal.com. Our new site has been a long time coming. While we will launch with lots of new features and content, there will be much more added in coming weeks and months. If you've noticed some slack in new photos or other content being posted lately it's because we've been a little busy behind the scenes.

We thank each and every member for help and devotion in building our site, and our community. Please let us know how we can make it better. We will also be introducing new staff and moderators, whose love for our home and community is greatly appreciated and admired.

For business owners who have helped support us by advertising we want to thank you sincerely. We will be actively seeking new advertisers and have hired two new account executives who you will learn more about in a few days. If you'd like to learn more please contact us.
_____________________

Coming up on SoWal.com:

Live BeachCams at your favorite beach or town square from Rosemary Beach to Miramar Beach.

Original content from professional writers, photographers, videographers - local feature articles, reviews, and news - info on local happenings, events, parks, activities, etc.

Professional photos and HD videos of businesses, parks, beaches, accesses, events, etc.

Interactive beach access map with access videos and features.

Your ratings (five star) of parks, golf courses, events, restaurants and other content.

Sortable and search-able shopping, businesses, and restaurants - by type, by cuisine, by town, by rating, etc.

Dining Guide, Shopping Guide, Wedding Guide, Golf Guide, Parks Guide, etc.

Interactive maps for content (an individual business or all, example - click-able map of all restaurants).

Tourist Information - frequently asked questions, beach safety, coastal dune lakes, beach accesses, etc.

Local guide for locals and and relocation - groups, schools, services, government, etc.

Classified ads.

Contests, specials, giveaways!

**Murray Balkcom** · 05-13-2010, 07:43 AM

stories about locals and the history of the area
maps of hiking/biking trails

**John R** · 05-13-2010, 08:15 AM

Less of ...... ?

Google ads.

In the AP: Lack of regs = Really big leak thread, the google ads show drilling software, well drilling equipment, drill rig service, etc.

Not sure how much revenue google ads generate, but I bet every regular member would be willing to buy a membership to sowal to be rid of the ads.

**kurt** · 05-13-2010, 08:21 AM

Originally Posted by John R

Less of ...... ?

Google ads.

In the AP: Lack of regs = Really big leak thread, the google ads show drilling software, well drilling equipment, drill rig service, etc.

Not sure how much revenue google ads generate, but I bet every regular member would be willing to buy a membership to sowal to be rid of the ads.

Thank you - I doubt we would sell memberships but the google ads will likely go away as we gain site sponsors.

**kathydwells** · 05-13-2010, 08:27 AM

Beach Cams in cool places.

**John R** · 05-13-2010, 08:48 AM

Originally Posted by kurt

Thank you - I doubt we would sell memberships but the google ads will likely go away as we gain site sponsors.

I used the wrong term. Site Supporter...

And yes, cams all over the place would rock. I understand the logistical limitations.

**KISH7374** · 05-13-2010, 10:03 AM

Originally Posted by kathydwells

Beach Cams in cool places.

I second that request. Just can't get enough during time away from the beach.

**Barbat** · 05-13-2010, 02:57 PM

Bike Touring Plans that propose start andstop times and specific restaurants to try along the way---where bathrooms are----beach access etc. Thanks!

**Lisa Ruby** · 05-13-2010, 04:32 PM

Originally Posted by Barbat

Bike Touring Plans that propose start andstop times and specific restaurants to try along the way---where bathrooms are----beach access etc. Thanks!

In depth restaurant reviews with a scoring system.
my new job

**Jdarg** · 05-13-2010, 04:38 PM

More of your pictures!

**Murray Balkcom** · 05-13-2010, 05:51 PM

I'd like to see the photo bar return to the top of the forum page.

**Miss Kitty** · 05-13-2010, 05:56 PM

An exterminator!

Love the cam ideas and more pics are always a good thing. Maybe a pictorial ride down 30A!

**GoodWitch58** · 05-13-2010, 09:46 PM

more local news and discussion; maybe participation from more of the local officials like the Sheriff is doing.

**kurt** · 05-14-2010, 06:16 AM

Thanks everyone - great ideas! Please keep them coming.

**John R** · 05-14-2010, 07:10 AM

Streaming of the BCC meetings.

**GoodWitch58** · 05-14-2010, 07:20 AM

and the School Board meetings.

**emeraldcoastdav** · 05-14-2010, 10:24 AM

Less anonimity.

**scooterbug44** · 05-14-2010, 10:46 AM

1) I know some people would like to be able to turn off the "chat forums", while I would love to be able to turn off the "rentals" forum.

Is it possible for one to be able to check which forums they want included in "new posts" in their User CP or something?

2) I would love to have a set place where all the local businesses/attractions have posted their name, phone number, location, menus, and hours. I think it would help promote local businesses and stop rumors that a place is "closed" when they are just shut for the season or on vacation.

3) Some sort of max on photo size so that people can't post pictures that are wider than the screen/typical posts and goof up the formatting.

**CampCreekLou** · 05-14-2010, 11:54 AM

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

1) I know some people would like to be able to turn off the "chat forums", while I would love to be able to turn off the "rentals" forum.

Is it possible for one to be able to check which forums they want included in "new posts" in their User CP or something?

#1 - For the "new posts' functionality, I SECOND that!

**Allifunn** · 05-14-2010, 10:14 PM

Kurt, dear one, your vision is extraordinary, I look forward to what is in store for SoWal.com. Some very good ideas on this thread, more every day

**Gidget** · 05-15-2010, 06:57 AM

The forum is so great already I have a hard time thinking of anything - and the suggestions so far are spot on.

I have often thought that a "Green Living" tab would be nice.

Green Living doesn't have to be the name, but a place where we can discuss ways to conserve in SoWal. Recycling, solar, wind, carpooling, etc... That would be my suggestion. Also, stories on conservation happening elsewhere for inspiration.

Thanks for asking!!

G

**John R** · 05-15-2010, 07:08 AM

strikethrough

**ameliaj** · 05-15-2010, 07:35 AM

Originally Posted by nowgirl

In depth restaurant reviews with a scoring system.
my new job

Do you need an assistant? I'm willing

**Jdarg** · 05-15-2010, 07:49 AM

Originally Posted by CampCreekLou

#1 - For the "new posts' functionality, I SECOND that!

I agree- I would set mine to all the newsy stuff - from local govt. to events to environment and even the national politics- stuff that I need to catch up with first, then visit the others when I have time.

**kurt** · 05-16-2010, 06:28 AM

Originally Posted by kathydwells

Beach Cams in cool places.

OK - you got it coming to you.

Originally Posted by Barbat

Bike Touring Plans that propose start andstop times and specific restaurants to try along the way---where bathrooms are----beach access etc. Thanks!

OK - you got it.

Originally Posted by nowgirl

In depth restaurant reviews with a scoring system.
my new job

OK - you got it.

Originally Posted by jdarg

More of your pictures!

OK - you got it.

Originally Posted by murray

I'd like to see the photo bar return to the top of the forum page.

Unfortunately, that throws the mobile version out of whack. Perhaps we can figure out a workaround until we have a separate mobile site.

Originally Posted by Miss Kitty

Love the cam ideas and more pics are always a good thing. Maybe a pictorial ride down 30A!

OK - you got it.

Originally Posted by goodwitch58

more local news and discussion; maybe participation from more of the local officials like the Sheriff is doing.

OK - you got it. We will also be able to set up official posting areas for any group or organization which allows comments to be turned off if necessary.

Originally Posted by emeraldcoastdav

Less anonimity.

Simple - anyone who wishes to post under their real name can do so by creating an account under their real name - or sending me a PM to change their current account. But if it takes a little anonymity to "keep it real" (ironic, huh?) then I'm all for it.

Originally Posted by John R

strikethrough

OK - you got it. First tell me what that is.

**Murray Balkcom** · 05-16-2010, 09:47 AM

Sorry, but I cannot help but laugh that a guy named "emeraldcoastdav" is asking for less anonymity. 8)

**jomoty** · 05-17-2010, 02:11 AM

A list of your own recent postings (last 10) on your profile. Would be a great way to check responses.

**kurt** · 05-17-2010, 06:15 AM

Originally Posted by jomoty

A list of your own recent postings (last 10) on your profile. Would be a great way to check responses.

Click on your username and in the drop down select "more posts by 'my name'", or in your user profile click statistics tab, and then "find all posts by 'my name'".

http://www.sowal.com/bb/faq.php?faq=...b3_board_usage

**Dmarcht** · 05-17-2010, 03:50 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

We want your help designing a new site for you! Locals, visitors, second homeowners, business owners - what content and features would you like to see? Or what do you think would be helpful to others and make our site better?

Videos or photos of .... ?

Stories about .... ?

Maps of .... ?

A guide to .... ?

Information about .... ?

More of .... ?

Thank You for your input and support!

Could you add a category for Architects in the Marketplace Directory?

**kurt** · 05-17-2010, 04:09 PM

Originally Posted by Dmarcht

Could you add a category for Architects in the Marketplace Directory?

Yes - these are the categories at present to be added (which you will see in the drop down at http://sowal.com/advertise.html):

Accounting,Financial
Advertising,Public Relations
Antiques
Architecture,Design
Attorney,Title Company
Art Gallery,Artist
Band,Musician,DJ
Bank,Mortgage
Bar,Nightclub
Beach Chair Service
Bike and Boat Rentals
Builder,Contractor
Building Subcontractor
Building Supplies
Business Services
Catering,Personal Chef
Cleaning Service
Clothing,Accessories
Dentist
Doctor,Medical
Fishing Charter,Guide
Florist
Furniture,Accessories
Graphic Arts,Design
Grocery,Market
Health,Fitness
Home Improvement,Repair
Home Maintenance,Services
Inn,Motel,B&B
Insurance
Interior Design
Jewelry
Landscaping,Maintenance
Notaries
Pet Care,Veterinarian
Photography,Video
Real Estate Company
Real Estate Agent
Restaurant,Cafe
Salon,Spa,Massage
Toys,Games
Transportation
Vacation Rentals
Web Design
Wedding,Event Planner
Wedding,Event Venue
Wine,Spirits
Other

**bravesgirl** · 05-17-2010, 04:15 PM

For visitors, It would be nice to have a place to post trip reports.

**kurt** · 05-17-2010, 04:34 PM

Originally Posted by bravesgirl

For visitors, It would be nice to have a place to post trip reports.

Thanks - folks have done some of that in the "All About SoWal" forum but I maybe a separate forum would encourage more reports.

I have also thought about a "Travel & Vacations" forum for places other than SoWal. Would it make sense to combine them?

**DuneAHH** · 05-17-2010, 05:16 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

Thanks - folks have done some of that in the "All About SoWal" forum but I maybe a separate forum would encourage more reports.

I have also thought about a "Travel & Vacations" forum for places other than SoWal. Would it make sense to combine them?

Just my 2Cts:
I think it makes more long range sense to keep SoWal separate and distinct from an Other Travel & Vacations forum.

**groveral** · 05-17-2010, 06:52 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

Thanks everyone - great ideas! Please keep them coming.

i like the more in depth local's angle. to many of us, as frequent visitors/2nd home owners, we want to feel more connected....articles profiling/interviewing shop/restaurant owners, etc. would help do that.

would you consider a sowal gathering of some sort?

I rely on this site for:weather news, dining info, real estate info, local vents, info for local services---got painter/pressure washer form recos on sowal

woops---make that "events".....BTW, I always tell restaurants that I am coming based on info on sowal---they always seem very pleased to here.

**Murray Balkcom** · 05-18-2010, 05:45 PM

I want to have the ability to upload photos directly from my computer into a post, rather than uploading into an album, then pasting into post.

**scooterbug44** · 05-18-2010, 05:47 PM

Originally Posted by murray

I want to have the ability to upload photos directly from my computer into a post, rather than uploading into an album, then pasting into post.

Can't you do that right now with the "paperclip" button?

**Murray Balkcom** · 05-18-2010, 05:53 PM

Maybe. I didn't know about the paperclip. I guess I can attach a file, so that would work, too. Thanks.

**bravesgirl** · 05-19-2010, 09:47 AM

Originally Posted by kurt

Thanks - folks have done some of that in the "All About SoWal" forum but I maybe a separate forum would encourage more reports.

I have also thought about a "Travel & Vacations" forum for places other than SoWal. Would it make sense to combine them?

I think either place would work, but I really like the "travel & vacations" idea.

**NE SoWaller** · 05-19-2010, 03:08 PM

I would like to see more photos of the things that are changing in the area. A new construction project, the new stage at Seaside. Something that keeps us foreigners up to speed so we know what things look like when we get there. We can read about change, but we are not able to follow and see it.

**Walton County 4H** · 05-19-2010, 04:01 PM

Hi - a section devoted to activities for children and teens.

Thanks Suzanne Wilson - the 4-H Lady

**Hop** · 05-19-2010, 04:25 PM

local surf report / swell model

**kurt** · 05-24-2010, 08:46 AM

Thanks for the great suggestions - keep 'em coming!

Originally Posted by NE SoWal'r

I would like to see more photos of the things that are changing in the area. A new construction project, the new stage at Seaside. Something that keeps us foreigners up to speed so we know what things look like when we get there. We can read about change, but we are not able to follow and see it.

I really love to do this - I hope that a new site format and hiring staff, and getting other photographers involved, pro and amateur, will allow us to post more photos.

Originally Posted by Walton County 4-H

Hi - a section devoted to activities for children and teens.

Thanks Suzanne Wilson - the 4-H Lady

I agree. SoWal moms and kids need to get their due!

Originally Posted by Hop

local surf report / swell model

On the way Mr. Hop! Someone around here mentioned not just a surf report but actual predictions for coming days. [cough*Bobby J*cough]

**kathydwells** · 05-24-2010, 08:56 AM

Originally Posted by kurt

Thanks for the great suggestions - keep 'em coming!

I really love to do this - I hope that a new site format and hiring staff, and getting other photographers involved, pro and amateur, will allow us to post more photos.

I agree. SoWal moms and kids need to get their due!

On the way Mr. Hop! Someone around here mentioned not just a surf report but actual predictions for coming days. [cough*Bobby J*cough]

Are you hiring?

Kurt, you have done a marvelous job with this site. I am so happy to see it growing and expanding. I wish you nothing but greater success going forward and I can not wait to see what is in store for us!!!!

See you in a month.

**kurt** · 05-24-2010, 08:57 AM

How would you like?

An interactive map of every beach and bay access in SoWal - click on a map marker to go to a page for that access with location map, directions, description, features, photos and HD video. Sort accesses by location and features. Want to find an access with lifeguards, parking, and restrooms in Seagrove Beach? We got you covered.

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAsmLAwKQZo]YouTube - SoWal Beach Access - Santa Clara at Seagrove Beach, Florida[/ame]

**HD Lady** · 05-25-2010, 09:50 AM

A daily calendar that would show all events/activities that have been posted for a particular day.

**HD Lady** · 05-25-2010, 10:01 AM

A "Happening Now" button - to allow posts/info such as emergency news reports, impending weather reports, traffic reports & such other important announcements.

**kurt** · 05-25-2010, 12:38 PM

Originally Posted by H-D Lady

A daily calendar that would show all events/activities that have been posted for a particular day.

SoWal Beaches Forum - Calendar - the calendar has daily happenings. Also, the forum home shows events for the next 7 days.
http://www.sowal.com/bb/

But I think I know what you mean. We are formulating a new calendar and we'll be able to have a block of events for any period or place. Also we'll have a block of live music events.

Originally Posted by H-D Lady

A "Happening Now" button - to allow posts/info such as emergency news reports, impending weather reports, traffic reports & such other important announcements.

Not sure where that would go or how it would replace a thread or announcement. Luckily, there's not too much breaking news in SoWal.

**Dia** · 05-25-2010, 08:34 PM

Originally Posted by kathydwells

Are you hiring?

**30ashopper** · 05-29-2010, 06:36 PM

Originally Posted by John R

strikethrough

That would allow for some interesting political forum comments and commentary!

Strike Out code

**Minnie** · 05-30-2010, 01:28 AM

Travel Outside of SoWal would be nice, as someone mentioned. So many who post here are seasoned travelers and it's nice to get their opinions on other locations.

SoWal Trip Reports would be fun too, and I would vote to keep them in a seperate listing.

One of the Disney sites I visit, has a feature at the top of the forum main page that lists everything that is new to the home page. Makes it nice for us that go right to the forum page and many times miss the home page articles and info and such.