Frequently minor code changes and use of programming tricks like "conditional compiles" can create an application that caters to a specific market. The change could be in terminology, or graphical presentation of program. The idea is to make an application that is unique or beneficial to a specific group of people. If you can't think of a niche, create one. Take a look at type of customers that you sell to, pick a handful and ask them what they use your application for. Their answers may surprise you. By talking to existing customers, you can extract a profile of a user, and determine ways to reach potential customers that had not previously been considered.

In order to effectively target vertical markets, often all that is required are changes to ad-copy and presentation. Pursue link exchanges and directory listings. Vertical.net and Global Software Solutions are both industry specific virtual communities through which you can promote your products. Consider becoming active in online communities that cater to your audience or even creating one if your research indicates a strong enough user base. Consider targeting web pages at specific industries; offer industry groups promotional specials or discounts. Provide white papers, customer profiles or endorsements that detail how applications can be used in a specific industry. Explain how product will solve a specific problem or save time, in a specific industry. By providing a real world solution to a real world problem, customers are able to see how specific products can resolve their day to day problems.

Resources: http://www.globalsoftwaresolutions.net http://www.vertical.net

white paper samples http://www.notepager.com/whitepapers.htm

About Author: Sharon Housley manages marketing for NotePage, Inc. http://www.notepage.net a company specializing in alphanumeric paging, SMS and wireless messaging software solutions. Other sites by Sharon can be found at http://www.softwaremarketingresource.com , and http://www.messaging-software.net

4.Post your product or service on a free classified ad page: Although many websites only have paid inclusion into their classified ads, many offer a free place where you are allowed to advertise your merchandise. If you spend time developing an interesting headline or ad, you can bring in a steady amount of traffic from these sites. To get started on free classifieds, you can use my own free service http://www.mizambar.com/classified.html . In addition, following link has a directory of tons of free classified services: http://www.ecki.com/links/.

5.Write an article related to your website and submit it to ezines: By writing an article about your service or a topic related to your website, you instantly become an authority on your issue. Although you might have some apprehension about writing, if you have a website, then you probably have something to talk about. Two great directories on ezines are: http://freezineweb.com/ and http://www.ezinelocater.com .

By following these steps, you should see a dramatic increase in your web traffic. The key is to always think about website promotion--if you spend a little time each day following one of these steps, you will be rewarded with more visitors and hopefully more customers. Good luck, and happy advertising!

P.S. Stay tuned for more free ways to increase traffic to your website!