Shoppers Use Web For Advice

Mon., Dec. 11, 2000

Compiled By Bill Sallquist

Cyber-merchants expect to ring up record sales this holiday season, but new research shows that far more shoppers use the Internet as a research tool and then buy locally.

The survey by SuperPages.com found that just 5 percent of participants chose researching and buying products online as the best description of their shopping behavior. By comparison, 21 percent said they research online and buy locally, while 65 percent said they continue to research and buy at a local retailer.

Here’s how Internet users said they plan to use the World Wide Web this holiday season:

* Compare prices (56 percent).

* Compare models or brands (56 percent).

* Obtain gift ideas (46 percent).

* Find a particular gift (44 percent).

Take a break from window-shopping and check out these new, entertaining or useful Web sites:

* Empowering consumers: Crusading consumers will find an ally at My3cents.com, whose goal is to “help build a consumer revolution.”

The site offers free online services designed to increase the influence that consumers have on the quality of services and products companies provide.

http://www.my3cents.com

* Senior housing options: Seniors or their caregivers exploring housing options may want to give this site a look.

Its database includes information on more than 37,000 facilities nationwide — “virtually every senior housing option available in America.” Included are skilled nursing homes, assisted living facilities, continuum care communities and independent retirement communities.

You can tailor the search to match specific requirements, such as a facility that offers gardening or card games.

http://www.planningplace.com

* Armchair quarterback: If you’re itching for a taste of what it’s like to lead an NFL team into battle, try out Candystand.com’s new QB Shootout game.

Developers say the site “gives you a chance to see and play through the quarterback’s eyes.” Test your ability to pick the best receiver and connect. The object is to score as many points as possible in three minutes by hitting the targets held by your two receivers.

http://www.candystand.com

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Shoppers Use Web For Advice

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

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