So, now I'm curious as to what is defined as a successful website.

I have added my site to your list, so it's a start. If you'd like, I can tweet your site around and see who else will add their info.

I agree with the others who have suggested the site lacks content. You might want to consider using Guest Bloggers, experts in site design, site traffic driving, marketing, etc. who can add content to your site without it costing much, if anything at all. The more content you have, the more often you add content, the more people will come to your site.

I don't know how many people out there are going to be willing to give their numbers to you, people are fearful and will be protective of such things, I'm thinking. (But won't know until you find out.)

Questions you didn't ask in your poll?

1. How long was your website running before you sold anything from it.

2. What are the most effective ways that you drive traffic to the website?

I'm sure there are other questions that DIYers would like to have the answers to.

As for monetizing your website, it can be done, but the second that your site starts looking like ads for other sites, you'll begin to lose credibility, so it can become self-defeating. Make sure though that the ads you include are for legitimate targets of your site visitors.

I hope these thoughts help somewhat.

Yours,

Tina Brooks, VP Marketing
Brooks Pepperfire Foods, Inc.
Makers of Peppermaster Hot Sauces
http://www.peppermaster.com

Eat more peppers!