The Complete On-Line Business Guide

Although a lot of people believe that the only businesses making money online are those devoted to plain old S-E-X, I sincerely doubt it. I would bet that sites specializing in bondage, previously worn underwear, and glow-in-the-dark pink vibrators are probably turning a buck or two as well. The Complete On-Line Business Guide, while hardly approaching any sense of "complete" in only 45 minutes, does offer a good, general introduction to setting up shop on the Internet. Combining interviews with a small group of entrepreneurs and visits to good and bad sites, the video emphasizes the unique aspects of doing business in the online environment. Specifically, the interviewees argue that--in addition to good products--a successful site should offer some mix of information, interactivity, and entertainment if the product warrants same (a product meant to combat jock itch, for example, should probably just stick to information). Viewers will also get general tips on handling on-line sales, using encryption systems, registering a domain name for the company, and using newsgroups to unobtrusively promote business. A good, inexpensive introduction to setting up a virtual storefront. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (R. Pitman)