Jewelers of America has launched an online resource center for its new J-Biz educational initiative. The Web site is designed to provide an interactive network for jewelers, where they can gain the tools necessary to be competitive. It advances the J-Biz mission to develop multiple ways in which education can be delivered to industry members: in-person, online, or at home/in store. It can be accessed online from JA’s home page at www.jewelers.org (click on the J-Biz logo). 

Initially, the J-Biz Web site will build upon the issues raised at JA’s Town Hall meetings, taking place at trade shows in Atlanta, Madison, Wisc., Las Vegas, and New York City, can view the transcripts, presentations, and key topics on the “Live Learning” section of the Web site.

The essential element of the Web site, however, will be its online discussion forum. The “Learning by Sharing” section features a live discussion blog, where jewelers can share business insights, ask questions, and offer suggestions on managing and overcoming the challenges of the modern independent retailer.

The “Learning by Sharing” section will include advice from jewelry retailers and industry experts on retail topics such as “Effective Selling,” “Shrinking Margins & Profitability,” and “Changing Markets, and Technology in the Store.” Visitors can participate in an online industry dialogue by posting their comments and questions relating to these subjects.

“The J-Biz Web site is focused on connecting industry members – to each other, to J-Biz events, and to essential business-building information,” says JA vice president David Lafleur. “We’ve designed the website, along with the J-Biz online education program, to provide independent jewelers with dynamic learning modules to transition, build, and grow a successful business in today’s changing retail environment.”

Jewelers of America said it envisions the site evolving into a one-stop shop of top business, industry, and management tools to help independent jewelers. JA invites all industry members to visit the site (www.jewelers.org) and interact with their peers in the online discussions. The Web site is designed for both savvy web users and jewelers just entering the information highway.

For more information on J-Biz or Jewelers of America, visit www.jewelers.org.

JCK