Recently we did a survey of Computor Companion readers. Considering the normal response rate for direct mail hovers around 1%, we got an exceptional turnout. Almost 20% of the folks we mailed surveys to responded and the results were interesting. What we learned is what we always suspected: that
Computor Companion readers are a mature, educated, computer-savvy crowd. Now we have statistics
to back up the impressions we’ve gotten from the many e-mails we’ve received
from people since we began publishing the magazine in September 1999.
The surveys were not coded in any way, so they could be completely
anonymous if people wished them to be. However, a lot of people voluntarily put
in comments telling us how much they like the magazine. Here’s a smattering
of what we received that can’t be included in the statistical data, but that we
appreciate more than any numbers:
“I work out of state and my wife sends it on to me. I look forward to reading
it, from cover to cover.”
“You’re doing a great job – keep it up!”
“Good, useful magazine – I read it cover-to-cover and appreciate its very
useful content.”
“I like everything about Computor
Companion.”
Here at Logical Expressions, Inc. we’ve produced this magazine because we
are committed to helping improve the technology education level in this area.
We’ve wanted the information to be free and easily accessible because so many of
the people who need help the most are the ones who can’t afford paying money
for books and/or have trouble finding anything useful on line.
Producing a magazine isn’t easy. Printing and distribution costs are
not-surprisingly quite high and it’s difficult to get large advertisers when you have a small
distribution and are in a rural area, compared to the big national magazines
and newspapers.
As a result, we’ve faced a lot of challenges. We aren’t backed by some
major business or venture capital; we’ve funded the project ourselves with help from
a few faithful advertisers. Clearly, there is a reader demand for the information,
but we may have to change how it is distributed or switch to a different
business model to improve the viability of the magazine. So right now we’re looking at
various alternatives.
Transitions can be difficult, so I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all
the wonderful readers, writers, and advertisers (you know who you are) who have
supported this enterprise for almost two years. We sincerely appreciate all
you’ve done for us.