I’m one of those people who do most of their shopping online. In the past six months I’ve purchased a multitude of things on amazon.com. When a friend asks where to purchase any particular item, my answer is typically ‘Try Amazon!’
In addition to selling almost everything under the sun, Amazon gives the customer the option to leave feedback with each online
purchase
My next big purchase is sure to be a steamer (not a fan of ironing). Before committing to the purchase, I will read the reviews and that feedback is sure to influence my purchasing decision. I want to know how the steamer has worked for others who have purchased it, as I’ve had a bad experience with a dysfunctional fabric steamer in the past.
I searched ‘fabric steamers’ (vegetable steamers, not looking at you this time) and found 595 results. The first one I clicked on — SteamFast SF-407 1500-Watt Fabric Steamer — has 282 reviews. Although I didn't read all of the reviews, I read quite a few and this one is in the running. I have decided to look at a few more and have noticed that most have a lot of reviews
— anywhere from 25 to over 300.
Amazon also pits a great review against a not-as-stellar one. This gives you the option to research more in-depth and make your own decision about the item. Amazon also gives you the option to ‘like’ a product (that Facebook like button has certainly taken off!)
I give Amazon 5 stars for encouraging ratings from buyers and putting them to good use. It’s a great way to keep people engaged in the entire online shopping process and it makes it easier for potential customers to find what they're looking for.
-Angela
About Angela