Oh that’s awesome!
Yeah, I did something like that long ago. I mean, the site’s still up and it worked GREAT for many many years. But the web environment changed. Web 2.0 died and Google decided I was one of the bad guys about 2.5 yrs ago while also changing the rules of the game and with the changed rules, I couldn’t get back to top place or anywhere close.
But I wish your friend lots of luck! It’s doable and out of those that tried doing similar to things as me in Naples, I don’t think any of us maintained profitability in the Web 2.0 –> the ad-payer prioritized model of today’s Google/FB but I’ve seen new startups who are putting paper ads in local mags, sending out bumper stickers for cars… leaving little scan-this cards at men’s urinals and stuff.
I think they’ll do well. I can’t complain either: I was pulling in a marvelous profit for a great 6.5 yr solid run ’til 2.5 yrs ago.
I suppose I could try again but I’d have to change my business model into direct ad soliciting rather than the Web2 way…. or maybe a subscription model, although I find the subscription models generally fail over time unless their presence is unbelievably huge, or if they fulfill a solid niche. [which I did ’til google sucked my data up and filled their databases with it when they made their own business directory]
but my prejudice is showing here smile emoticon No hard feelings from me to Google though – they won. But I beat ’em for a very very very long time smile emoticon
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