Bigstep.com Extends Offerings on ASP Platform

E-businesses service company BigStep.com last week launched its online resource center with 25 diverse partners.

San Francisco, Calif.-based BigStep.com is now linked with companies such as Stamps.com, ADP, NetLedger.com, Keen.com and ineed.com, forming an online resource center to offer its customers and increased array of services including financial, administration, lead generation and purchasing.

“The ASP market is very well suited for small businesses,” said Beebe. “By banding together under one ASP roof, small businesses can save money and access technology they wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.”

BigStep.com’s basic services are completely free for small businesses to access. BigStep.com’s free services offer clients the ability to develop and host a dynamic customizable Web site, various communication tools in the form of e-mail newsletters and surveys, catalogue functionality and reporting and marketing tools.

“Our focus is on getting small businesses up and running, under the model that they will be interested in purchasing more services as they grow,” said Beebe. Beebe told ASP News that while he doesn’t expect every business to purchase additional services, he is betting the company’s success on the success of its clients.

“It is still early for the ASP market in terms of additional tools and services,” he said. “But putting up a store and front-office on the Web is new to many so it makes sense for us to dive into that arena.”

In other news, the company secured $50 million in its third round of funding last week. Investors include Cardservice International, InterWest Partners, PCG Ventures, Compaq Computer, Office Depot, Mayfield Fund and Argus Capital.