It was time to begin developing the product brand and marketing strategy. We were looking for a domain name that was education-related, descriptive, distinct, easy-to-remember... and not already taken. The name and concept needed to convey how our online resource center was much more than just another "edu-something-or-other" website.

After months of twisting and turning combinations of "education", "school" and other key words in multiple languages, it seemed every usable permutation had been taken. A few websites actually existed that had something to do with education. However, many domain names were registered and parked to generate income from click-through advertising or awaiting resale to a company looking for a sticky domain name upon which to build their brand.

In September 2004, we found a name that was symbolic, catchy and seemed an obvious match patiently waiting to be found. We began creating marketing and promotional materials for "Schoolnami.com"... a new wave ("nami" in Japanese) of web-based information, resources and technology solutions for everyone involved in the School Community. Even more obvious was the catchy related domain name: "Schoolnami.net".

We were looking forward to having fun with the promotional campaign. Then, three months later the devastating tsunami struck southeast Asia...

Based on mixed responses to our non-scientific poll of family, friends and business associates, we decided not to pursue the promotion using the "Schoolnami" name at that time.

Schoolnami.com
Helping People Work Better Together
Building an Activated School Community