State Of Georgia Introduces Redesigned Business And Tourism Websites

ATLANTA, April 9, 2012 — The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) has recently enhanced its business and tourism websites in both functionality and design. The changes were made to encourage increased use of the sites by their customers and to reflect and complement the state's new marketing campaigns.

'Our customers, whether business users or potential tourists, are seeking relevant, up-to-date information and tools that will help them make the best possible business and travel decisions. I believe both of our sites achieve this aim by providing a gateway to Georgia's business and tourism assets, partners and industry experts—accessible anytime and anywhere,' said Greg Torre, GDEcD deputy commissioner of marketing and communications. 'It is all about the end user for us—making sure these sites speak to and answer the needs of our customers.'

GDEcD's business website, www.Georgia.org, informs business owners about moving or expansion opportunities, conveys information about the tourism industry in the state, connects interested companies and individuals with the film industry, and assists researchers seeking economic, cultural and academic resources. Site consultants, CEOs, brokers, entrepreneurs, communities and economic development partners visiting Georgia.org will notice distinct visual and organizational changes that make the website easier to understand, search and navigate. The site's bright, new look highlighting the state's business assets supports the Global Commerce Division's new 'We Speak Business' marketing campaign, and enables business users to more easily locate the information and contacts they need to understand how Georgia can help their companies grow, relocate to and succeed in the state. Content is richer and there is a greater focus on the state's communities.

Enhancements to the site include improved navigation and search functionality, ongoing updates of data and forecasts for key Georgia industries, and additional contact information for state industry experts and international offices. Users can search for available buildings and sites in Georgia, register for the forthcoming Georgia Exporters Directory and other activities conducted by the International Trade Office and Global Commerce Division entities, and access information from one of the state's most comprehensive small business resource sites.

Changes have also been made to www.ExploreGeorgia.org, the state's consumer website for tourism, to reflect the look and feel of the Tourism Division's new campaign, 'The South with a Twist.' The site is filled with colorful, inspirational, contemporary photography of both iconic and eclectic Georgia destinations, to attract domestic and global travelers. The images on the homepage illustrate iterations of the state's print and digital ads, on themes such as 'Rock with a Twist,' 'Beauty Sleep with a Twist' and 'Nightlight with a Twist.' The $2.1 million campaign focuses on extending the Georgia brand through ExploreGeorgia.org, web and print advertising, marketing materials, video, trade show booth design, and public relations. The new 'Front Porch' section integrates the Tourism Division's social media assets with the site's homepage, featuring Facebook posts and tweets.

Fun-seekers looking into Georgia vacation options can find ideas online or by ordering a 2012 Georgia Travel Guide; receive special offers on attractions, events and lodging; and sign up for free newsletters with travel tips. They can also download maps and brochures from the Online Visitor Information Center and explore every region in the state through interactive maps and city-specific information.

About GDEcD
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to Georgia, drive the expansion of existing industry and small business, locate new markets for Georgia products, inspire tourists to visit Georgia, and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects. Visit us at www.Georgia.org or www.ExploreGeorgia.org.