Case Study - CineStory.org
The CineStory Screenwriting Awards, now in its 12th year, is unique among screenplay contests as the top 16 writers are invited to a mountain-top retreat where they are matched with professional industry mentors. Much of the operating cost is covered by money raised through contest entries. Over the years, the number of screenwriting contests has grown exponentially.
With a commitment from the newly assembled Board of Directors, Cinestory turned their focus to outreach and marketing. The newly redesigned Web site plays a role in each of these efforts.
The Challenge
- Increase the number of visitors to the site
- Increase the number of contest entrants
- Make the information on the site current and easy to maintain
- Create an active community for past attendees
The Strategy
Web Design & Development
CineStory's mission is broad in scope and the organization continues to evolve in new directions as it pursues the goal of helping new screenwriters. The first step in organizing the information on the site was to define the audience and address their needs. The site is designed to tell the story of the CineStory Retreat, who it is for, what can be gained from attending, and how one becomes eligible. The best way to get this point across is hearing it from the writers and mentors who have attended in the past. Quotes and images from past retreats are presented throughout. learn more about Web design & development
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) & Marketing
Promoting a Web site takes a coordinated effort behind the scenes to get the message out into the world. Along with efforts to optimize the site for search engines, we created an email newsletter campaign, partnerships with established players in the screenwriting market space, and an oline community of alumni and mentors. learn more about SEO & marketing
Site Maintenance
A steady flow of up-to-date information is the key to running a successful writing competition. A content management system allows for easy access to several contributors to add, edit and manage content. Registers members can also add to the discussion by submitting comments to any entry. learn more about site maintenance
The Results
- Steady increase in server requests since the launch of the new site (see chart above)
- Nearly 5,000 unique visitors since the relaunch
- A record-breaking year for contest submissions
- Creation of a strong network of interested contacts
