We become perpetual consumers from the day we start breathing. While we can self-generate some of the goods and services we consume, we need to buy most of them from other sources. Thus came the industry of shopping. Human beings have always traded goods amongst themselves throughout history. While it initially started as barter trade, evolution, revolution, and invention have all helped in shaping the shopping experience to what it is now. Technology, being the most recent addition, now takes the shopping experience to a completely new level, especially for the customers. Here are a few ways how.
Increased convenience
Thanks to technology, you do not have to move from your bed to get what you want. Now, most suppliers engage with their customers using online platforms, which one can access from anywhere in the world, as long as you have internet connection. You simply have to place your order, make your payments and wait for your delivery. This kind of convenience makes shopping easier and more available to people with various limitations that hinder them from participating in physical shopping.
Increased options
With online markets and e-shops, a customer is no longer limited to one or a few options. Before online shopping came, people had specific shops and places where they could purchase things. For example, one could only buy books from bookshops or specific supermarkets. This made it hard for most people because it meant travellingfar and scrambling for limited items. It also meant that these items were very expensive given that the suppliers had little to no competition. Technology has however opened a door for suppliers and customers, which allowed for market infiltration and therefore increased options for customers. One can now easily get whatever they need and in numerous variations without any limitations.
Increased customer interaction and satisfaction
Customers can now easily give feedback to their suppliers or service providers through various technological channels. For example, when using a decoder for your television, you will have a helpline that you can call whenever there is a problem. Not only does this save you money and time that you would have otherwise used on getting a technician, it also allows you to enjoy good customer service. In the event that it was bad, technology allows you to give your honest feedback and even follow up on the measures that your supplier takes to improve. In addition to that, technology also allows for customer reviews and interactions, which help give recommendations to other customers for better decision making.
No geographical limits
Lastly, technology has made the world accessible to customers from their screens. One can now buy goods and services from all corners of the world by a touch of a button. This scenario has allowed customers to experience and enjoy international cultures, talents, and techniques, without having to travel there physically. For example, an art lover in Russia can easily add Kenyan artefact to his collection through online purchase and subsequent delivery. This is also true for music, written works, and many other physical goods. Technology has removed geographical limitations for customers, thus increasing their market scope.
