The Challenge

To create an interactive website, Visit Gwinnett Place, to become a "go-to" website for finding businesses located within the Gwinnett Place Community Improvement District (within Gwinnett County, Georgia).

Client Background

The Gwinnett Place CID needed a way for retailers in the Community Improvement District (CID) to have a greater presence, especially during a time of record high gas prices, and to provide the public with news and information about the CID, separate from the official Gwinnett Place CID website.

The Solution

Design-First integrated a business directory application with existing design elements to create a dynamic business directory.

• The system allows visitors to search by keywords or to find businesses based on categories.

• Each directory listing displays a Google Map and link for door to door directions.

• The system allows businesses listed in the system to offer "coupons" and promotions, using their own login interface.

• Businesses can add their own listing to the website and update their listing at any time through a secure login page.

• Visitors can sign up for a free e-mail newsletter in order to stay informed about Gwinnett Place.

• Website visitors can report any problems with graffiti, lighting, and more to Gwinnett Place CID staff.

• The VisitGwinnettPlace.com website provides the Gwinnett Place CID staff an easy-to-use administration system for updating and approving listings in the system.

• The Gwinnett Place CID staff can add articles to the website, pointing website visitors to the Gwinnett Place CID website for additional news and information within Gwinnett Place.

The Results

The VisitGwinnettPlace.com website has been very successful:

• Thousands of Gwinnett County residents and people working in the area have used the system to find nearby business and driving directions.

• Retailers use the website to promote their business and drive more traffic to their business.

• Gwinnett Place CID staff use the system to email eNEWS subscribers news and information of interest in the area.

• Visitors are reading articles and linking over the Gwinnett Place CID website for more information about Gwinnett Place.