Halx

I work at a firm that builds ecommerce websites, so I am curious about how everyone on the TFP feels about shopping online. Part of my job is making websites easier to use, safer to use and more comfortable for people to buy from. What is your experience?

Do you love it or do you avoid it?
What are your reasons for doing so?
What sites do you prefer and why?
Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)
Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
How do you research what you are going to buy?
What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

Part of this is about me getting ideas and the other part is about seeing the validity of an business idea that I had. Any input and discussion is very welcome.

I usually only shop online for computer parts and music. I enjoy having the selection that local stores can't afford. I'd rather buy specifically what I want instead of whatever is in stock. Not to mention, the only store that carries the music I listen to is 300 miles away.

I usually buy electronics by brand, and I already know the specifications of what I need before I start filling my shopping cart. It helps to be very deliberate about your online purchase.

I haven't bought anything online so far that could be left up to interpretation. I need to know exactly what I'm getting... music and electronics allow that. I could never buy clothes or furniture online.

__________________
You have found this post informative.
-The Administrator
[Don't Feed The Animals]

LoganSnake

Do you love it or do you avoid it? Sometimes I prefer online because I can get import stuff from that I cannot at stores + they usually have lower prices or more promotions than regular stores.

What are your reasons for doing so? Ease of use, great deals.

What sites do you prefer and why? Amazon is my main site for shopping. I've bought everything from textbooks to videgames on it. They make it easy. Easy to navigate, great promotions, sometimes free shipping + you can usually buy the item from users for less.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) Yeah. About two weeks ago I bought Time Crisis 4 for $50 and returned it to Wal*Mart for $87. That's what's made me.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? Similar items, featured items, flexible shopping cart.

How do you research what you are going to buy? If I know what I want, I search by name. If I was something...I go by category and look at similar items.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? I would never buy clothes online. I have to try them on first. However, I have bought computer components, audio system, games, books, paintings, statuettes, etc.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? Hasn't happened yet.

__________________
Maturity is knowing you were an idiot in the past. Wisdom is knowing that you'll be an idiot in the future. Common sense is knowing that you should try not to be an idiot now. - J. Jacques

highthief

1 - I do shop on line from time to time; it has its place but is not where I do my primary shopping

2 - Price, availability of product better than what I might find locally.

3 - Generally stick to the "name" sites - e-bay, amazon, etc, where a greater degree of consumer protection exists

4 - Not really, unless it was an outrageously great price. I usually go looking for something specific more than browse.

5 - Consumer feedback scores, good quality images, ease of purchase

6 - Consumer feedback again

7 - Usually smaller things - recent purchases include books, a watch, sporting paraphenalia, CDs

8 - Not much really - I rarely buy clothing on line as I always prefer to try things on unless I know the particular size I wear for a specific brand.

__________________
Si vis pacem parabellum.

World's King

Do you love it or do you avoid it? I love it. I'm addicted to Amazon.com

What are your reasons for doing so? Don't have to leave the house and and I can have anything I can think of.

What sites do you prefer and why? Amazon.com (I'm a Prime Member so I don't pay for shipping on anything.)

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) The ease of not having to leave my house.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? One Click Shopping. All I have to do is pick where I want it shipped. Click one button. And it's on it's way.

How do you research what you are going to buy? Google.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? I stay away from buying clothes. Most times they don't fit. I mostly buy books and music. Although I did buy all my DJ equipment online. And I did buy a few random things for my new house. And Christmas presents are easy cause you can just ship them straight to the person's house.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? Shoes. My shoe size differs between brands.

__________________
heavy is the head that wears the crown

PonyPotato

Do you love it or do you avoid it? I both love AND avoid it.

What are your reasons for doing so? I enjoy being able to find the exact DVD or CD I want, but when it comes to clothes and gifts I usually prefer to pick them out in person. I also hate paying for shipping and waiting around for the UPS/Fed-Ex person, or fighting with USPS when they can't find my package at the post office.

What sites do you prefer and why? I use Amazon.com for books, CDs, and DVDs. When I had a Windows computer I used Newegg.com a lot. I actually purchase most of my undergarments (ha) from victoriassecret.com because I know what size I am and their selection online is much better than in-store.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) Well, a good deal and free shipping usually helps if I'm on the fence about something.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? I love reading feedback. And if I'm looking at clothing, sizing. Electronics, DVDs, etc: specifications are important. I don't buy if I can't guarantee that the DVD I'm looking at is widescreen because the item description doesn't include it.

How do you research what you are going to buy? Google, feedback scores & comments on websites selling the item.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? Depends, but primarily media. Sometimes clothes, but usually only if I know my size in that brand already.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? I have never bought shoes online because fit is so important. I will check "toys" out at Hustler before buying sometimes, and often can get a better deal online for the same thing.

__________________
"Without passion man is a mere latent force and possibility, like the flint which awaits the shock of the iron before it can give forth its spark."
— Henri-Frédéric Amiel

God of Thunder

Do you love it or do you avoid it? Love it
What are your reasons for doing so? Convenience. We have a 4-year-old and it is not always the easiest thing to go out shopping. We did a lot of our holiday shopping this year online.
What sites do you prefer and why? Amazon, Overstock and Newegg (Newegg.com ROCKS)
Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) A good deal. If I can buy it in the store cheaper, I will.
Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? Reviews!!! I like to know what others have to say about a product.
How do you research what you are going to buy? Researching the product on several websites.
What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? Media, toys and PC parts
What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? We bought a lot of toys for the girl this year and I normally like to look at them first. We actually did the reverse in reviewing those. We went to the store and looked at it, but then bought it online when it would save us money.

__________________
I reject your reality, and substitute my own

-- Adam Savage

jewels

Do you love it or do you avoid it?

Love it!

What are your reasons for doing so?

Convenience, selection and cost. Ease of choosing, availability of professional and user reviews, comparing product, price, shipping methods etc. Plus, I can find products that aren't carried in local stores. I don't have to get dressed, get shoved around by other shoppers, wait for a salesperson who doesn't know the product and then wait in line to pay and then gas up my car.


What sites do you prefer and why?

I predominantly use amazon.com for actual purchasing and gift cards, but there are many other outlets, cosmetic and clothing sites I've used.

I used Overstock.com for about a year but was very unhappy with their shipping practices, customer service and response time. I find that eBay, in general, no longer serves up the value that it did at one time for me.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)

Maybe those FREE SHIPPING days might get me to buy something I would've normally waited to buy.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?

Categorizing and subcategorizing, buyer reviews, photos, easy clicking.

How do you research what you are going to buy?

Google. See above. Sometime epinions.com and similar.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?

All of the above.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

Lingerie.

__________________
We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess.
Mark Twain

kurty[B]

Do you love it or do you avoid it? Depends what I am buying, I would rather shop online than in store, but would rather do my research or try things on in a store (if a pushy salesperson comes my way I'm out of a store sooner than you can say pushy salesperson).

What are your reasons for doing so? Ease of use. I don't do well in crowds when trying to find something to buy. I also don't do well with websites that are cluttered with content (for example; tigerdirect) unless I know exactly what I'm looking for and am just shopping based on price.

What sites do you prefer and why? Amazon.com. The wishlist functionality is great. I toss books, movies, and CDs in the list, and occasionally just decide (I want to dump $50) on books, and go through my list. I would rather go to a small local used-bookseller and buy mountaineering books when I get this whim, but I'm generally not driving by a bookstore when it happens. When in the middle east Amazon WAS the only company that consecutively successfully shipped to APO addresses without packages mysteriously getting lost, or falling apart on their way. It would take 2-3 weeks every order, where with other companies it could be 2-3 months before I saw anything (if I did see anything). When back overseas I will order ALL my books through amazon.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) I used to check slickdeals everyday, and sometimes a sale would convince me to buy something I knew I was getting for cheap. Now, steepandcheap is my downfall, but I've gotten better at ignoring those. When it comes to shopping for deals, I'll probably stick to the local sales at local stores at the end of each season (better deals anyway, and I get to see the product before buying).

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? Most of the tools that "help me shop" get on my nerves. I like simplistic navigation, search functions that work, and not having to fill out my CC information multiple times over because one thing messed up, but also don't like having that information retained and saved to a profile. For example, I shop Old Navy.com simply to buy underwear and funny pajama bottoms that I can wear around town and be obnoxious. Easy to browse to what I need, and they almost always have a quarterly sale on those items so I can get them very cheap even with shipping.

How do you research what you are going to buy? Books, Music, and Movies are easy. I pretty much know what I want before I buy.

Electronics, stereo equipment and such I buy in person from small independent strictly electronics stores that focus in certain areas (solely car stereo, or home theater). These are generally big purchases for me, and I want expert advice from multiple people before I pick what I buy.

Computers, research online from various websites, and then use pricewatch.com to pick where I buy parts from (I know exactly what I plan to get before I go to pricewatch).

Clothes, I avoid buying online, but things that I know will fit and be comfortable I buy online. I never buy shoes online (no matter what sale is going), and never buy pants online (unless they are hiking pants or pajamas). I sometimes by t-shirts, but anything remotely fitted I will go to a store and buy.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? I think I answered that in the question above. I try to support local music stores and book stores, but sometimes can't find what I want there, movies I almost always buy online.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? Snowboard jacket and pants. Couldn't pass up a 50% off discount, and no stores in town stocked the jacket I wanted so no option to go see it before I bought it. If they didn't fit I would've sold them on eBay for a few more dollars than bought for.

__________________
In the Absence of Information People Make Things Up.

*Nikki*

The simple answer.

I love it.

hambone

I am lazy in terms of shopping, so I like it a lot. Though I agree, clothes are better bought in store


Do you love it or do you avoid it?
***Like it

What are your reasons for doing so?
***Ease. Don't need to navigate crowds. Item availability.

What sites do you prefer and why?
***Amazon is good. I like the reviews, etc. Depends on the item though I suppose.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)
***Nope.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
***Reviews. Pictures. Dimensions of the product.

How do you research what you are going to buy?
***Reviews (user and expert), hear from friends experience

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
***Anything except clothes really

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?
***Nothing comes to mind.

__________________
"Like liquid white from fallen glass,
Nothing to cry over"

Halx

I'm not looking for simple answers, but thank you dear

__________________
You have found this post informative.
-The Administrator
[Don't Feed The Animals]

snowy

Do you love it or do you avoid it?

I like shopping online. It's like buying presents for myself! Not only do I get something I want, I get mail that isn't a bill.

What are your reasons for doing so?

Ease of use and better prices...plus I like getting packages.

What sites do you prefer and why?

Amazon.com (and Amazon Marketplace), REI.com and the REI online outlet, newegg.com, gamefly.com. I have an Amazon.com Visa, so I get double points when I shop at Amazon.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)

That I could order it RIGHT THEN without leaving my house, coupons/deals/savings I wouldn't otherwise get at a brick-and-mortar store

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?

Good search features are always important, as is good organization and categorization. I like that Amazon shows me what other people bought after viewing the item in question, what items are related to the item I'm buying, and user reviews of the item.

How do you research what you are going to buy?

User reviews, editorial recommendations

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?

Textbooks, used games for my Wii, outdoor gear, electronics, bike accessories, clothes on occasion, cosmetics

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

My backpack (Timbuktu daypack with a laptop sleeve). I actually checked it out in a brick-and-mortar store before purchasing it online. The REI outlet had it listed for 40% (I think) off, plus a 20% off coupon. The same backpack would have cost me almost $90 in the store, whereas it only cost me $36 online--shipping was free.

__________________
If I am not better, at least I am different. --Jean-Jacques Rousseau

sapiens

Do you love it or do you avoid it?
I generally prefer it to shopping in stores.

What are your reasons for doing so?
I don't like standing up. Stores make me do that...
It's just more convenient. Shopping for most electronic media, it's cheaper. Shopping for electronics generally, it's easier - I have easy access to reviews, it takes very little effort to compare prices. Shopping for clothes, I'm tall and it's hard to find clothes in my size. It's easier online.

What sites do you prefer and why?
Like others, I prefer Amazon.com. I appreciate their reviews. I like the "Customers who looked at this also looked at that" feature. I like the free shipping. They are reliable and their site design makes it appear as though amazon is reliable and will be around for a long time. They don't appear to have sold my name and address like other sites have in the past.

I like thoughthammer.com for boardgames. They are a small company, they link all of their products to boardgamegeek.com reviews, they are cheap, and they have excellent service - personal responses to email, etc.

Generally, I like websites that have user generated reviews and comments.

I like http://www.pendemonium.com/ for pens and paper. Their website is horrendous, but they are reasonably priced, they have products others don't, they email me personally when a product I want is in, and generally they respond with personal emails.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) I've bought products from companies I wouldn't have otherwise when I found that they donated to charities I appreciate- http://www.planetbike.com/, for example.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
I mentioned several above.
How do you research what you are going to buy?
I like to find websites and forums run by hobbyists/enthusiasts in the particular product area.
www.avsforum.com for home theater related topics
boardgamegeek.com for boardgame reviews.
www.dpreview.com/ for digital camera issues.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
Electronics, media (cds, books, dvds), clothes. When I lived in Boston, I bought most of my groceries online from Hannaford's Homeruns.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? Produce.

spindles

What are your reasons for doing so?

I'm not really a big shopper, but I love the convenience of shopping without leaving my chair. I *hate* crowds and that is pretty much most shopping centres. Living somewhat in a shopping backwater, I can also get a much bigger range and usually at a better price than I can get it locally.

What sites do you prefer and why?

I do like sites that have obviously built a business around their online site, rather than being an additive to a bricks and mortar business. Sites like amazon.com have such a wide range and also having the recommendations section makes it (slightly) easier to buy books from Authors you've never heard of...

If I'm buying computer bits I'm much more likely to be driven by price so if there is an option to list items by category and sort by price that is good (e.g. www.estore.com.au).

I have a list of DVD/CDs sites and I have bought from most of these - just about purely based on price:
dvdboxoffice.com
cd-wow.biz
ezydvd.com.au
devoteddvd.com.au

Given that I *know* what I want to buy in this case, the only important thing is a good search facility.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)

Nope - I'm pretty thrifty and I'm unlikely to impulse shop at the best of times.

How do you research what you are going to buy?

Even online, I have a pretty good idea what I'm looking for, though I have been known to browse for books on amazon without any specific item in mind (usually gifts - my brothers both have similar reading tastes to me, and anything I buy for them will end up back to me eventually).

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?

DVDs, music, books, computer bits inc. software/games, sporting goods.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

I bought a shirt once. It fits and looks pretty good. Am I picky enough to care. This was from cafepress.com.

edit: I have also bought groceries online, but only when the kids were small. I found both major supermarket chains delivery sites relatively hard to navigate/find things on. The search function sucked, but it was still better than lugging tiny babies out to the shops...

__________________
who hid my keyboard's PANIC button?

Ustwo

Do you love it or do you avoid it? Like it.

What are your reasons for doing so? Lazy and usually cheaper.

What sites do you prefer and why? Well known companies.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) Not that I'm aware of.


Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? When comparisons come up or 'people who bought this bought this too' it can be nice to see.

How do you research what you are going to buy? Review sites.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? Me electronics some clothes, wife clothes and electronics.


What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? Pants

__________________
Agents of the enemies who hold office in our own government, who attempt to eliminate our "freedoms" and our "right to know" are posting among us, I fear.....on this very forum. - host

Obama - Know a Man by the friends he keeps.

StanT

Do you love it or do you avoid it?

I hate shopping, I prefer it.

What are your reasons for doing so?

I hate shopping.

What sites do you prefer and why?

elenctronics

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)

No, I know what I want

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?


How do you research what you are going to buy?

independant reviews

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?

Electronic and media. Clothes if I've I know a particular brand fits

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

Cameras and lenses

dogzilla

Do you love it or do you avoid it?
I'm generally indifferent to it. I think my preference is to a real store where I can actually look at something I'm not quite sure about.

What are your reasons for doing so?
It's something I can't find locally or I can get it cheaper than at Best Buy/Staples, etc

What sites do you prefer and why?
newegg.com for computer parts. I used to use pricewatch.com to find vendors with the best prices, but settled on newegg in the last couple years since they are just about as good price-wise as the other vendors and it's one-stop shopping

bhphotovideo.com for photo gear. They have just about anything I could want and their prices are better than the local Best Buy or Ritz Photo

Amazon.com for used books.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)
No, I generally don't shop unless I need something

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
The website needs to be plainly laid out. If I have to study the website to figure out how to place an order, I'll probably move on.
If the website looks like it was designed by an amateur, I'll probably move on.
If it has color combinations that are painful to look at, like green text on red background, I'll move on.

How do you research what you are going to buy?
I prefer to look at real user reviews, with a dose of skepticism.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
Mostly electronics, photo stuff and used books. The occasional odds and ends thing that I can't find locally.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?
The last thing of this sort I bought was a Sansa mp3 player. I wasn't sure which I liked better, the sansa or an ipod, so I finally ended up going to a Best Buy to look at both. In general, if I need something, but I'm not sure which of a set of choices I want, I'll probably go to a real store to check them out.

ngdawg

Do you love it or do you avoid it? Love it
What are your reasons for doing so? I hate crowds, hate malls
What sites do you prefer and why? Don't have a preference. I rather research what I want and go from there.
Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) I was looking for something and I spotted an adjustable tray/lift for my monitor. Seemed like a cool idea, so I got it.
Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? Descriptions and price comparison, mostly. And reviews, those are a biggy with me.
How do you research what you are going to buy? I Google for reviews, then check pricing, then seek advice from friends once I've narrowed it down.
What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? Yes. Everything. I even bought my car online, sort of. I did a "build your car", printed the order out and took it to a local dealer. Everyone else paid $2500-5000 over list, I got it for just over invoice.
What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? My new Dell. Everything in the stores had Vista preinstalled. I built what I wanted on the Dell site. And shoes.

casual user

i'll buy things online sometimes, but if i want something, i'm usually not patient enough to sit around and wait for it. plus, i like to avoid shipping costs.

i tend to only buy stuff online when it's cheaper, i can't find it in regular stores, or i'm just being a really lazy christmas shopper

Elphaba

Do you love it or do you avoid it?
I love it.

What are your reasons for doing so?
The comfort and convenience of buying from home. The nearest shopping area is a one hour drive away. Even with shipping costs, online shopping is less expensive than driving. I can't stand traffic and crowds.

What sites do you prefer and why?
I buy nearly everything online so there are many sites I frequent. Ease of moving through the site, quality of merchandise in relation to cost, and good customer service dictate whether I return to a site again. Amazon does well in these areas, in addition to having a *memory* of my interests and makes recommendations.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)
I'm not an impulse buyer, but I have added purchases at checkout with the lead Amazon uses (other buyers of this also bought this other thing).

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
A good search function is very helpful. I also want a very complete description of the item and an option of a larger view.

How do you research what you are going to buy?
If it is a standard purchase such as books or cd's, I will return to the same site that has provided the best buying experience. If it is something I have never bought online before, I begin with a Google search for providers.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
Everything that doesn't require my physical presence.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?
I can't buy slacks online because of the variance in sizes. I need to try on the item first in order to buy similar items online later at that store's site. I am very particular about artwork, and nearly all of my purchases have been online.


Hal, let me know if you looking for something more specific than the above.

__________________
"You can't ignore politics, no matter how much you'd like to." Molly Ivins - 1944-2007

Halx

So far, two key ingredients for an appealing website are customer reviews and product recommendations based on other customer purchases. This is valuable information.

I wonder if anyone would purchase designer furniture online.

Also, what would DISCOURAGE you from buying from a particular website?

__________________
You have found this post informative.
-The Administrator
[Don't Feed The Animals]

Charlatan

I haven't done a lot of online shopping but I would say that the one item I have difficulty buying online is clothing. I like to try things on to make sure they fit and look good on me.

The only other thing that gives me pause before buying online is knowing if a firm is reputable. There is always that feeling that the site is a fly-by-night operation. Being a behemoth like Amazon help. The other thing is excellent marketing. If the website looks like a million bucks I am comforted by that. I know that doesn't preclude getting ripped off but I suppose it is similar to buying goods from a store that has put some thought into its design or is in the right area of town.

__________________
"My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars."
- Old Man Luedecke

jewels

I have purchased small furniture and accessory items from Ikea in the past, as well as a retro kitchen table and chairs from a smaller company. I think I would definitely consider purchasing large furniture online (I'll be in the market this fall ) if delivery was a little bit more customized so that date/time could be pinpointed and shipper would be able to open/install item so we would sign off together to ensure appropriate condition of item, or so that item could immediately be exchanged or returned. The small company I purchased from did a drop-ship but kept me informed every step of the way. Give us good service and we'll come back and tell all our friends.

Standard common sense stuff as far as "discouraging".
Offer nonresponsive, canned emails from customer service (in response to my email), eternal telephone hold times, and reps who aren't privvy to any further information about my order or your products, and I'll never frequent your business again. I think someone mentioned above -- a site where I have to read the FAQs to figure out how to navigate or search, or find dead links or outdated info ... and I ain't plunking down my card number.

__________________
We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess.
Mark Twain

inBOIL

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? I like easy comparison spec sheets (with the specs listed in the same order). Links that I can left-click or right-click and open in a new window (I hate those javascript pop-ups). Customer reviews are good. A search fuction that allows me to search for a phrase rather than a list of keywords. I'd also like to see a "not quite" button that will lead me to similar products. For example, If I'm looking at a flashlight, I could click the "not quite" button and it will give me something like "If you want a slightly brighter flashlight, consider light x. If you want something a little more portable, try light z"

Also, what would DISCOURAGE you from buying from a particular website?
A cluttered appearance, confusing navigation, flash intros/animations that can't be disabled, and anything flashing.

I wonder if anyone would purchase designer furniture online.
Not me. I like to know that furniture is comfortable before buying it. If I can't put my ass on it first, I won't consider buying it.

__________________
And you believe Bush and the liberals and divorced parents and gays and blacks and the Christian right and fossil fuels and Xbox are all to blame, meanwhile you yourselves create an ad where your kid hits you in the head with a baseball and you don't understand the message that the problem is you.

sapiens

If I could examine it in a showroom first, sure. I would never by something like a sofa without first sitting in it.

A pocket knife purchase from one site landed me on a mailing list for a company that sells replica nazi items (among other things). I wasn't happy about receiving the catalog. I never bought anything from that site again.

Generally, websites that look like they were designed for Mosaic make me a bit nervous. However, I'll buy from a poorly designed site if they have industry references or recommendations from other sites that I respect.

Being required to register before the site estimates shipping and handling reduces the chances that I will purchase anything from them.

Typos, poor grammar, lots of animation, dead links, long load times all discourage me from buying from some websites.

That's it for now.

EDIT:

Me too! I like to be able to open items in new tabs. Detailed specs and the ability to compare across product are nice as well.

Fotzlid

neither love it nor avoid it. does come in handy sometimes.
convience. price. item availability.
i use the web sites of the major stores as a research tool more than a shopping site. much easier to compare items on a screen instead of going back and forth between a couple of models. that and no annoying salespeople.
nothing has really convinced me to buy something out of the ordinary.
being able to compare several items side by side. good search feature. easy navigation.
i typically find two or three sites that offer similar items and compare prices. then pick one site to compare features. sometimes i check local availability too. some items i need to see in person before buying.
i've bought concert/sports tickets, airfare/hotel packages, pet supplies, software, jewelry and books online. i never buy clothes, furniture or electronics online.
most personal item would be the jewelry. couldn't find what i was looking for in the stores and found it online. it turned out to be a nice piece too. got lucky.

biznatch

Well I don't really like answering in survey form, so I'll just give my general experience of online shopping.
I usually buy from the big sites, like Buy.com (I love Buy), and Amazon. Sometimes when I need something less "popular", I need to go to smaller websites, although generally they are less experienced, less good in terms of customer service, etc (I usually go to those sites for hard to find video game stuff, like the ps2 controller adapter that allows one to use it on the PC).
I love how easy these sites are, and all the good deals (free shipping, huge clearance sales, etc), however I hate returning products, it's often more complicated than just going to the store you got it from, and some of these companies return policies are annoying and/or unfair, IMO.(Restocking fees, etc)

I think a lot of these e-commerces, when they a big inventory, could benefit from a better search feature.. I often fish around for longer than I want to to find a specific product (for example, looking for a console and finding video games for it, and yes, I do know how to search, I just think it often could be done better).
Something really important for me is the possibility, and availability of user reviews (star ratings just don't do much for me). Often times some of the reviews are done for money, at least it seems that way, but you can usually tell. I also like newegg's presentation of the item: several pictures of the actual item, not the box it comes in, from several angles.
I think there should be a thread on e-commerce, I know I'm very interested in it and I bet a lot of other people are too. We could exchange ideas for businesses, marketing/advertising techniques, and all the different aspects of e-business.

__________________
Check it out: The Open Source/Freeware/Gratis Software Thread

Shauk

Do you love it or do you avoid it?
Depends on a few things. It's a mixed bag, understandably. I always check out an unfamiliar vendor on resellerratings.com for computer parts and/or shipping nightmares. FIRST AND FOREMOST every online vendor I shop at is reputable, and seemingly the reputable have the following things in common.

1. Fair return policies
2. Fast Shipping
2 1/2. Free Shipping (or cheap)
3. Account Management options (save your CC info for next time)
4. Little to no hassle when dealing with returns
5. Allow honest opinions and feedback to remain on their site. (newegg vs gamestop)

What are your reasons for doing so?
Rarity of vendors/sources for my music tastes, and the fact that retail prices on computer parts are for SUCKERS.

What sites do you prefer and why?
http://www.beatport.com - Very large selection of my favorite genre's Makes iTunes look like a pansy arsed sissy boy. Saves my info, recommends selections based on buyer trends stemming from what I'm listening to at the moment, other non issues for me though that would appeal to a select market is the fact that it's integrated straight in to Traktor DJ software
http://www.newegg.com - Immortal reputation, Account management, Order History, Fast, cheap, it's a dream vendor. What newegg does, follow that.
http://www.Zappos.com - Ever try to buy shoes in the mall when you're lucky if they carrry a 14 and you happen to walk on 15/16's (depending on the maker of the shoe I suppose) Free shipping, Free return policy, risk free online shopping. Huge Selection. I love these guys. I'll be buying from them soon, again.



Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)
Only on ebay. Just the tension/humiliation of defeat at the last 30 seconds being a risk. The rarity of some vinyl caused me some impulse buys as well. I've had several records snatched up and spoken for as they sat in my shopping cart, it caused me to be a "fast" buyer so I wouldn't lose out again.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
Suggestive reccomendations, Account Management, Order Tracking, Order History. Very welcome feature/details for me.

How do you research what you are going to buy?
For music, I listen to samples. I've yet to have ever bought anything from a record store that doesn't have samples.
For computers, I like looking at review sites for each and every part. It can take me weeks before I finalize a list of parts. I like to aim for a solid review at a good price point. (if you have a product, send it out for reviews, it will do you good for customers like me)
For clothes, it's a crap shoot anyway, if it doesn't fit I'll return it or resell it for more depending on what it cost.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
all of it.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

A car. Anything more than 5000$ probably.

Kpax

Fortunately, I've had only good experiences with it. Clothes aren't easy to buy online. If you buy something that doesn't fit, by the time you send it back and it arrives at the store, they don't have that item in your size.

Still, I've had mostly good experiences with online shopping, and the one thing I hate most about it is that it is so easy to spend a small fortune with just the click of a button. At a real store you have to physically remove the item from the shelf and take it to the register, so it's a lot easier to just tell yourself no. Not so online. I've bought just about everything online except for food/groceries.

Barstool

1 - Do you love it or do you avoid it? - I love it, unless there is something I'm unsure about. When I have a doubt about a product, or I just want to FEEL it, I prefer a "brick and mortar" kind of place.
2 - What are your reasons for doing so? - Convenience
3 - What sites do you prefer and why? - Newegg. I'm a computer nerd, and they have an established reputation.
4 - Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.) - Nothing comes to mind.
5 - Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? - I'm a HUGE believer in "KISS" (keep it simple, silly).
6 - How do you research what you are going to buy? - Consumer reviews on various websites.
7 - What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? - Computer related
8 - What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? - Lingerie

jewels

I think I missed the word "designer". If that means more expensive than the norm, I probably wouldn't buy anywhere.

__________________
We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess.
Mark Twain

MexicanOnABike

Do you love it or do you avoid it?
I'm mixed on the whole shopping online.

What are your reasons for doing so?
main reason is that it's sometimes super easy to find the product and price is usually awesome but other times, you pay as much for shipping as you would for the product and its not clear in anyway that you'll get it for sure, or that it's what you want. (ebay).

What sites do you prefer and why?
Right now, i'm hooked on amazon.ca because it has prices lower than most stores in my town, i can order most things i need as far as my entertainment. and it has a good customer service. Also, the shipping is free on anything over 40$.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)
price: buy 1 get 1 free. if you buy this with this, you get something free or if the shipping is free most of the time. or the fact that i don't have to drive to a store and wait in line helps a lot.


Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?
On amazon.ca/.com, you can create an account and start doing reviews on products you like so that when you just want a recommendation, it can do that according to your likings. i get a ton of movies and books that way.

How do you research what you are going to buy?
reviews from a ton of sites. (if it's a website or person I'm buying from, then i review that before the product, and then when i know the best price and best place, then i can check their reviews, returns, shipping, etc.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?
mostly books, dvds and a few music album. and a few things like cellphone case, cables, mouse, tablet(wacom), memory, and other computer related things.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

nothing really. I got some shoes from ebay that i knew might not fit but i still got them because they were discontinued everywhere else.

anything else i missed??

__________________

- Movie Reviews - Ratings-

MSD

There is one serious issue I have with e-commerce. Please, for the love of God, put the fucking shipping price somewhere before filling out all of the forms with personal information. If a site has what I'm looking for and is up-front with shipping prices, I'm three times as likely to buy from them.

allaboutmusic

Quoted for TRUTH!!! I am more likely to return to such a site EVEN if their prices are higher.

laconic1

Do you love it or do you avoid it? Love it.

What are your reasons for doing so? Better selection, no crowds or salespeople to deal with, sometimes the brick and mortar store that has what I want isn't the type of place I like going in. Also I like getting packages.

What sites do you prefer and why? Newegg.com for selection.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop? I like detailed specs, expert user reviews, and normal user reviews to an extent.

How do you research what you are going to buy? It depends. Sometimes I really don't, sometimes I rely on reviews. I've never made a huge purchase (over $300) online, but if I did I would see it in person before buying online.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes? I actually do buy a lot of clothes, since I particularly loathe going into stores for that. As long as the store has good sizing information I have not had a problem with clothes fitting poorly. Also electronics.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online? Probably my digital camera.

As far as what discourages me from buying from a website, things like cluttered design, questionable reputation, poor return and privacy policies scare me off.

ngdawg

I wonder if anyone would purchase designer furniture online. I'm sure I would. Long before internet shopping came along, I'd bought sofas over the phone from a place in NC. I first picked the brains of salespeople in a store, then called NC because it saved me over half the price.
Also, what would DISCOURAGE you from buying from a particular website? Feedback numbers and cost. I'm big on savings and just as particular about customer service. There's probably a few smaller things, like navigation and descriptives that would discourage me. I like things upfront and simple.

Lubeboy

Do you love it or do you avoid it?

I love it.

What are your reasons for doing so?

-I hate shopping in retail stores. I rarely find what I am looking for.
-I hate dealing with crowds and waiting in line.
-I hate dealing with asshole sales reps customer service people who think they're holier than thou.
-I can find what I want with the click of a mouse and also find better prices and deals online.

What sites do you prefer and why?

-Amazon.com - For almost everything. I love Amazon Prime. Get my stuff in 2 days or 4 dollars for overnight shipping. Great customer service and return policy.

-Zappos.com - I love their selection. Free overnight shipping and painless returns. Great customer service. 110% price matching - I usually google other sites to see if other sites offer the shoes I want cheaper then buy on Zappos. Call up customer service and get the price matched.

-Newegg.com - My one stop shop for computer hardware. They usually have great deals and I generally get my stuff from them very quickly.

Is there anything that convinced you to buy something when you normally wouldn't? (Evil question, I know.)

-Yeah usually when there is some insane deal online.

Are there any website features that you enjoy that help you shop?

-Usability and search most importantly and wishlists.

How do you research what you are going to buy?

-I research the product and cross-reference reviews on different sites.

What kind of products do you buy? Electronics? Media? Clothes?

-All the above and more.

What's the most "personal" (something that you're picky about and usually need to check out in person before you buy) item that you've purchased online?

-Clothing and camera equipment like lenses etc..

Halx

Thanks everyone for your responses. Keep them coming if you have any thoughts on the matter.

One more question: Would you consider buying from a store that you only come across with a search engine? That means you've never heard of the place, but they have what you want and have a decent site. Not a million bucks, but decent.

__________________
You have found this post informative.
-The Administrator
[Don't Feed The Animals]

allaboutmusic

I personally wouldn't unless I could find references of people who had had good experiences there. For example, if I was purchasing musical equipment, and found an online retailer with a good price, I'd do a search to see what people thought of them before buying. And I'm wary of online "reviews" of websites too, since any "retailer" can put those up... I like to see posts on forums by people who have also bought from other places.

MexicanOnABike

I did that just before xmas. The worst part about online shopping is that most english websites are from the US or europe. So you're stuck with 10-20$ shipping on the simplest things like dvds or books so for me it's not worth it. So what i did was to search for CANADIAN sites that sold what i wanted. even if the price was a few $ more, the shipping was a lot less so it came out to be better. and this was a site i never ordered from and never even saw before.

I did the same with ebay. it was the 1st time i bought from it and i had no experience with it.

__________________

- Movie Reviews - Ratings-