The Gordon County Chamber of Commerce recently launched a redesigned, cutting-edge website featuring a more user-friendly format.

This fresh new site, at www.gordonchamber.org, allows an increase in user interactivity for members and others in the community, said Joni Harbin, Chamber communications director.

According to Harbin, the redesigned website allows for current chamber members to register for events and pay sponsorships or fees online using the online credit card portal.

The site also offers an online application and fee payment option for those in the community wishing to become chamber members, she added.

The new website was the final project for Debra Guinter, outgoing chamber chairperson, said Harbin. The idea for the project was sparked during the 2009 chamber board retreat and placed on the list of goals for 2010.

“We try very hard to stay as fresh as we can,” said Harbin. “This was something we needed to do to stay current.”

Along with a new look, the website features a detailed community calendar, to which site visitors may post their own happenings around the county, said Harbin.

The chamber also utilized social media in the website face-lift by employing Facebook and Twitter in the communication options on the new site.

The site was unveiled during the annual Chamber banquet on Jan. 27 by Guinter. The website was launched right before she relinquished her chair to the new 2011 board chairman, Dewayne Bowen, said Harbin.

Guinter noted the tremendous economic potential of the site redesign during the banquet.

Visitors to the new site will find a one-stop location to learn about Gordon County and its business community, as well as the opportunity to directly link to chamber member’s websites and other sites of local interest.

According to Harbin, the improved site will increase value for Chamber members.

Incoming chairman Dewayne Bowen also commented on the importance of the new site for the future of the chamber and Gordon County in a press release issued by the chamber.

“In today’s competitive environment, a strong Internet presence is critical to serving our membership and community, and to promoting Gordon County’s economic development on a global scale,” he said. ”With this new web-site, our Chamber of Commerce takes a giant leap forward.”