The Benefits Derived From Consumer Review Sites

By Deana Brady


The choice about whether to invest money into purchasing a particular product or paying for a service could previously only be supported by recommendations and advice from the respective sales assistant or through word-of-mouth opinions from other consumers. However, with the increasing emergence of consumer review sites, consumers have access to platforms upon which a range of worldwide opinion and ratings are presented for consideration.

Many will bear witness to the fact that there is nothing more disconcerting than purchasing goods or paying for services which do not function as well as they had claimed to perform, or in the case of a service, such as a repair service, it causes more damage than it has fixed. Websites which include people's commentary and opinions on products and services therefore provide a much needed second or third opinion on whether or not purchasing the goods are a viable option.

Due to the fact that these reviewing sites allow reviewers to remain anonymous, users can post their honest opinions without being afraid of discrimination or judgement. However, abusive commentary directed at companies or persons, are filtered by various systems and removed immediately to allow for the formation of free and fair platforms for commentary.

These websites are not affiliated with any of the particular product or service providers which come under review, which increases their level of credibility amongst consumers. They also do not make comments or provide support for certain opinions as the website owners themselves.

To a certain degree, through the use of these online platforms for opinion, consumers can hold companies accountable for their level of service or the quality of their goods. This will aid these companies in gaining valuable insight as to the experiences of their customer base, and allow them to make the necessary improvements to increase their overall ratings.

Many have questioned the fact that due to the anonymity of those providing commentary, companies may use their own employees to post positive reviews and thus, mislead consumers. Website managers do not refute the validity of this statement but present the argument that these platforms are mere collections of opinion and are not authoritative sources, and should be used with this in mind.

Due to the fact that the visibility and relevance of these websites extends across the world, consumers are provided with broader perspectives beyond their own geographical regions. Consumer review sites are used by many as a resource to consult and consider when making buying decisions, as they also serve to either build (or taint) the reputation of product and service providers.




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