Writing for the web is important, yet difficult since most users don't read web copy the same way as print. The copy needs to be brief, descriptive and "above the fold." More importantly, it has to make the user want to read more. I've written over 100 articles for the web and the experience I've gained has made me a better writer overall. I feel that Web Production and Corporate Writing and Editing need to be combined as one job function to better improve efficiency and present consistent brand identity and messaging.

I led the effort to conceive, develop and launch the Investor Relations web site in late 2002. In October, the company announced its intentions to go public. One month later, there was not an IR team in place, so my team offered help. This was a highly visible project and the timing was critical, as the company went public in December. Six months later I worked with the IR team to revise the site to what it is today. This was a result of direct user feedback as well as the teachings of the Nielsen Norman Group.

View the Investor Relations site.

I am a big proponent of global citizenship and social responsibility. One advantage of working in Corporate Communications as a web producer is that I can benchmark good Global Citizenship sites and as a writer and editor I can help shape the content to better tell the company story. The first phase of the project involved improved community, environment, heath and safety content. The second phase will take place once the company has authored business practices and guidelines to address its business needs.

View the Global Citizenship site.

I manage a corporate Intranet site called “Inside Seagate.” It’s a worldwide site that contains corporate information, localized news, new product launch materials, and other valuable resources. My worldwide group contributes content and I help write some content. I always edit the content for a web audience. In October 2002, Inside Seagate showcased the company’s new brand identity on the day it changed. I’m currently working to re-architect the site and bring all locations-specific newsletters to the site.

View the image of Inside Seagate.

Eco Seagate is a one-week event that helps train future leaders. Participants learn better teamwork skills while training for an adventure race. My group took over the event to give it a better corporate feel. In June 2003, I started work with our IT department to deliver an online application that captured self-nomination and registration details for 200 participants. With the system, we were able to deliver complete information to supporting organizations and pull alternates up to three days before the event with minimal cost.

View the image of the Eco Seagate application.

When the company’s brand identity changed in October 2002, we had to spread the look throughout the company’s 17,000 office workers. We provided new logos, U.S. and A4 Word templates, and over 25 PowerPoint templates. One way keep the brand identity strong is by providing many options. We wanted to avoid self-creation. Exceeding my superior’s expectations, I visually displayed the many PowerPoint options. Approximately 18 months later, users still download over 1000 templates per month.

View the image of the Brand download page.

One of my first projects was to redesign The Santa Cruz Operation’s (now Tarantella’s) news room. Five years later, they are still using my design. The site features press kits that better display news, photos, and product information. This helps PR professionals point journalists to one page and receive better coverage in targeted publications. It also helps journalists find the right information and file accurate stories. I’ve used the same approach at Seagate, helping product and business PR professionals.

View the Tarantella News Room.