About us

At AlterSpark, we help our clients engage their target audiences by providing online analysis, strategic consulting, branding and design services. AlterSpark was started by Brian and Rena Cugelman, who together, have an extensive background in planning, implementing and managing medium to large scale website projects. Their expertise is drawn from numerous Internet-based projects across a number of sectors, such as television, business, academia, intergovernmental and non-profit. The company is presently operated by Rena Cugelman.

With large digital advertising agencies, you’ll frequently pay top dollar, and after initial consultations, you’ll be stuck with junior staff. We believe that a company's promises are only as good as the people assigned to work on your project—all the way through. With AlterSpark, you will have access high level consulting, within the context of a small and reliable family run business. Although we offer an excellent service, we work on a part time basis and can only take on a limited number of clients. Nonetheless, we invite you to view our portfolio, review our track record and if you would like to discuss your needs with us, we look forward to speaking with you.

Rena Cugelman

Brian Cugelman

I began my career as a designer in the print industry, and when the Internet boom of 1990s hit, I shifted my career towards new media. With a formal education in graphic design and website development, I have produced hundreds of contest and promotional micro-sites for television network websites. Some of the better known television networks include MuchMusic, CityTV, CityLine, Bravo, Star!, Space and ChumLimited. With CHUM, I designed promotional sites for a number of popular companies, brands and artists such as Fuji, Pepsi, Smirnoff, Miller, Kellogg Canada, Glow by J-Lo, Sarah McLachlan, 20th Century Fox and Time Warner.

In 2005, I moved to Costa Rica and started AlterSpark as a part time consulting firm. I enjoy reading, making jewellery, drawing and spending time with my husband and cat.

Resume | LinkedIn

Brian Cugelman Over the last decade, I have worked for the technology, non-profit, intergovernmental and academic sectors. I have focused my career on non-profit campaigning, technical Internet development, analytics and project management. Throughout my career, I have conducted electronic outreach for the United Nations and various non-profit organizations, while also conducting technology projects as an independent consultant.

In 2006 I joined the University of Wolverhampton as a researcher. I am currently completing a PhD with the Statistical Cybermetrics Research Group and the Wolverhampton Business School. My research is focused on social marketing over the Internet, or in other words: how to use the Internet as a vehicle to change the attitudes and behaviours of a particular target audience. Since starting my studies, my work with AlterSpark has been placed on hold.

Resume | LinkedIn

Website Design and Credibility

We’ve all heard that substance is more important than presentation; and by extension, it could be argued that website content is likely to be judged on the basis of what it expresses, not how ideas are visually dressed up. Although substance is important, it is surprising how much additional influence superficial trappings contribute to users' perceptions of web content.

AlterSpark e-Services