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Totem is a press page builder that helps users share developments, updates and news with media and their audience. The user can create a single space that highlights information in a way that is interesting and engaging. Rather than display a basic list of press highlights, the user can share images, Google Maps and other content. Totem handles hosting for the user. A press widget is included so users can show recent developments on their website or blog. A second widget is available as well and displays an “as featured in” list that scrolls down the homepage. Users can choose custom URLs and backgrounds. Totem branding is removed on premium press pages. Team members and clients can be invited to collaborate and contribute to Totem press pages.

Totem was designed around the information gathered by interviews with more than 100 reporters. The creators hoped to learn what was the most frustrating about building an effective press page. The application has potential, but hasn’t seen extensive popularity as of yet. It has gone mostly unnoticed by reviewers and there are no notable mentions on the web. The application was developed by Jones-Dilworth, Inc. and continues to offer personality packaged with a practical marketing service.

Totem is essentially a basic website builder that caters to users marketing a product, service or brand. The application is simple, but works very effectively. There are many other ways to build a press page similar to what Totem has to offer. Totem may be appealing to some because the application walks the user through each step of the process. Fields are available for users to add almost any kind of popular contact option, including Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, websites, blogs, RSS feeds, YouTube and even Pinterest.

Totem has a very rich, unique style that leaves a lasting impression on the visitor. The site has a nostalgic Native American theme throughout that starts with the traditional totem that towers over the homepage. The color scheme is very warm and welcoming, with hints of black and blue to add a little variety. Humorous elements are added as well, including the hand drawn “Fail Quail” when the user comes to a page on the site that doesn’t exist.

A new user can begin by clicking the gold “Get Started” button found near the center of the Totem homepage. A pop up box will appear and ask the use to provide a first and last name, email address, company name, password and terms of service agreement. The user is taken directly to the press page creation form after submitting their information. No email verification is required to build the user’s first press page.

Totem offers one free and one paid subscription option to its users. The free account includes unlimited press pages, the ability to invite clients or team members to collaborate, free page hosting, a recent press widget, recent blog post widget and an “As Featured In” scrolling widget. The premium subscription costs $99 per month and includes custom colors, custom backgrounds and custom URLs. The premium account also removes all Totem branding from the user’s press pages.

Totem is an attractive solution for small businesses that need an effective way to get the word out about recent developments, updates and other related news. The service is rather basic, but includes a wide range of options that allow the user to customize their Tote pages. The free plan is ideal for users just starting out as well as those on a tight budget. The application doesn’t put many limitations on free accounts, which might make it a more appealing option for some users.

• Invite clients and team members to collaborate on press pages
• Build a single page to display all recent updates and developments
• Add images, Google Maps and other types of media to pages
• Widgets allow users to display press information on websites and blogs
• Custom backgrounds and URLs can be used

Totem video

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