Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism

Reference Site:	www.owatonna.org
Problem:	In 1999, Owatonna experienced an unprecedented 900% increase in tourism. The Owatonna Convention and Visitor's Bureau was neither equipped nor staffed to handle the requests for local information from 4.5 million new visitors. To help improve product delivery the CVB was merged with the Chamber of Commerce to become the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. While the merger has reduced redundancy it has increased need for collaboration and communication.
Solution:	We began a multi-year process of updating their technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness. We installed and configured Microsoft Small Business Server to provide them with improved file sharing, shared Internet access, Following the Local Area Network improvements, we began a multi-phase web project to enhance information delivery and improve member to member communication. The site, www.owatonna.org, includes a comprehensive listing of businesses in the Owatonna Area. All local businesses are eligible for a listing. Member businesses also receive an individual profile page as well as the ability to post their logo, pictures, and to link to their own site.
Comments:	"Tourism has become very significant to our local economy. The Owatonna.org website was completely redesigned to meet the needs of both our customers and members." - Jonathan Zierdt (former CEO) "Our staff and volunteers help more visitors and handle more requests for information then the City of Fort Lauderdale (including Spring Break). This [website] allows us to provide those services without increasing the size of our staff." - Kim Purscell (Interim President & CEO)
Contact:	Lisa Purvis, lpurvis@owatonna.org