BUSINESSES SURF THE NET; LOCAL COMPANIES UTILIZE INTERNET TO GAIN CUSTOMERS ACROSS GLOBE

Stand back computer junkies and students, area businesses are surfing the net, too, the Internet that is.

No longer is the Internet for the electronic exchange of ideas reserved for students at educational institutions that can afford the service. Area businesses are arriving on the electronic scene and using the net in a variety of ways.

Michael Warden and Joe Gibson with the computer software company Babbages said small and medium businesses want access to census information and other potential consumer lists. One way to acquire those lists is by using the Internet, they said.

"We offer about a dozen programs that provide Internet access," Gibson said. "And the people who come here usually aren't wanting to browse. They're target shopping for Internet software. They know exactly what they want usually. We really don't have to hard-sell the merchandise."

In addition to census reports, Warden said businesses also use the Internet for their electronic mail capabilities.

"They're looking for customers," he said, "and they're looking for a way for customers to contact them."

Thomas L. Meyer Real Estate and Insurance uses the net to close commercial land deals and offer real estate to an international market.

Thomas M. Meyer said his company began reaching into the electronic darkness a couple of years ago, and in the last few months, experimenting with the net has paid off.

Meyer has contacted embassies and the economic departments of other countries around the world. The Internet has given him a way to list properties to international customers and accept inquiries from customers around the world with a computer, a modem and a telephone.

He said when he first began making international contacts, it was by phone, letter or in person. Through the use of the Internet, international contacts are easier to reach because he can electronically canvas the system.

Many people are interested in property in the United States, Meyer said. "We handle many inquiries from international customers interested in property throughout the Midwest, and a little bit of that goes a long way. "

Meyer said since familiarizing himself with the net, the company's Internet address has been added to business cards and stationery.

"I just find the whole thing interesting," he said, "and something I can develop into more of a real estate use."

Meyer said learning the Internet has been a big plus for his business.

"It does give you an advantage," he said.

As for the future, Meyer said he couldn't begin to predict what would happen with his business and the use of the Internet.

I believe the market will expand to be more accessible and less costly," he said. "And our market isn't across the street anymore, it's global."