Blog 2

2006-09-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

Consumer Product Reviews (a form of “community” at e-commerce sites)

What shoe did you choose for this assignment?
I chose the New Balance WX700 cross training shoe.

What did you find out from the reading the reviews?
After reading all of the reviews, all of the customers felt the shoes were true to size, true to width, and had moderate arch support. A few customers stated their podiatrist recommended the brand because they have good support and flexibility.

Would reading the reviews make you more or less likely to buy the shoes? Why or why not?
Reading the reviews would make me more likely to buy the shoes because none of the customers had any complaints and overall said was a great workout shoe. Because a couple had stated their podiatrist recommended the brand, I am more likely to consider buying this shoe.

What is the advantage (if any) to consumers of reading the reviews (after all, shoes with negative reviews are likely to be harder to sell?
I think the advantage of having positive reviews from consumers is that it creates brand recognition and brand loyalty. If more are commenting on the positive attributes of a brand, then more are likely to consider when making their purchase decsision.

Would you recommend that a site like Kencole.com which sells only its brand of shoes offer recommendations? Why or why not?
If Kencole.com were to offer recommendations, they should probably stick with their own products. If they recommend other brands it will drive away customers from their site and therefore their brand.

Do you ever look at recommendations from other consumers at internet sites before making a purchase? If so, why? For what products? If you don’t check out online recommendations, why not?
It’s only when I have time do the research on a product that I will look at internet sites before making a purchase. If I am going to invest a large amount on a product or service I check the Better Business Bureau to see what customers have said.

What is your general recommendation as to whether or not a site should include product reviews?
I think it’s a great idea. I am sure companies already scan them before they are put on their site. If companies are smart and want to attract customers, they are only going to keep the positive reviews.

Blog 1

2006-09-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

A list of potential business uses of blogs for organizations, marketers and/or content sites (such as newspapers).

Surveys
Market research
Product testimonials

Should blogs look and feel like traditional marketing and advertising? Why or why not?

No, because blogs are meant to be informal. Using traditional marketing and advertising can disturb the reader and make them feel uncomfortable.

Are blogs a fad? Or will they continue to have some impact for marketing? Why or why not?

No, because they have proven to be effective according to the article written by David Kirkpatrick. They will continue to make an impact not only for marketing but for consumers as well. Bloggers can give positive or negative reviews.

Would you like to see the marketing department start a blog? If so, what would you like to see there? If not, why not?

Yes, because blogs can be used to share information. Whether it be faculty reviews, or promoting an event, it will ultimately build relationships with others.