Name of your website? (NOT url, http://etc)www.findamachine.com
Your name?
Richard Moss
Your Location (city, etc)
Congleton, Cheshire
When did you start your website and why?
I started Findamachine 2 years ago because I was sick of searching the internet for machine tools and having to go through every dealers site, one at a time. I wanted a centralised place to store all lathe specifications, manufacturer information and european dealer networks.
Please give us a short summary of your website, business model, etc
Findamachine.com has thousands of lathe specifications all linked to the manufacturer information and their European dealer networks. Users can search for lathes on various criteria and then compare the specifications side by side.
What has been the most difficult part of creating and running your website?
The most difficult part was to design how to store lathe specifications so that any lathe can be added to the site ie 1 - 10 spindles, 1 - 10 tool changers and multiple axes.
What has been the easist past of operating your website?
Using our search and compare tools on findamachine.com are the easiest on the web and also the most advanced.
What was your biggest mistake?
At the start we tried to allow any type of machine to be added to our website. This was a mistake, therefore we have decided to concentrate on turning and milling machines as we have over 20 years experience.
Who maintains your website and why?
My team of very motivated web designers, machine tool experts and patient data entry employees.
Tell us how your business has benefitted from your website?
We recieve thousands of visiters a month.
What are your views on Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
Search engine optimisation is a vast and annoying business. Everyone seams to tell you different things and cost varies dramatically. Personally i do it myself in house with the help of another member of staff.
What are your views on Search Engines? Have they helped or hindered your website?
Search engines have only helped my website and as long as you follow their guidelines they will not hinder you. Don't try cheating them by trying the cloak or keyword spam just to get you up in search engines for a short period of time. They will mostly find out and once banned your business is doomed!
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
Search engine optimisation for natural listings.
What method has been least successful for promoting your website?
Magazines adverts.
What would you like to see change with respect to the internet?
All the spam sites disappear as they just make it harder and harder to find anything.
What is your website address?
www.findamachine.com
