cre8Buzz Blog

I am one of a growing number of people who get most of their news and information from the Web. I value the fact that I can find the information I want when I want it. The convenience, breadth and depth of the information on the web makes traditional sources, like TV, Radio and Newspapers much less valuable to me. Yes, I still read, listen to certain radio programs, and watch certain programs and sports on TV. However, to get current information I turn to the web. I have come to trust it too.

Here’s one reason why: This morning I found myself lazily watching the news on TV. Being the day after Thanksgiving, the reporters breathlessly reported about all the people out shopping and taking advantage of the great sales. One report was about a certain large electronics outlet offering $200 computers. They opened their doors at 4:00 a.m. and were sold out immediately. People still flocked to the stores and I’m sure the chain had a great day of sales.

I found myself asking myself if I would buy a $200 computer? I know I would not drag my stuffed post-thanksgiving butt out of bed for a chance at one, but would I buy one? You know, I’d probably do it because the price was just so low that the risk is minimal. If it is a dud in six months, it would be $200, not something that I could not recover from.

However, what if it was $400? $600? 1000? Well, like most shoppers, I’d certainly want more information and more confidence as the price got higher. The TV news really can’t help me make better decisions. That’s where the Web has dramatically changed the consumer experience, in my opinion. We have great information at our fingertips. We can research, learn, and make more informed decisions every day before we make a purchase. I could decide what to pay for a new computer very easily.

I have one complaint, though. How do you know you are getting information from a trusted source? Sure, it’s possible to find some established sources, like technology sites or movie reviews. Even with that information, I know that I am more likely to check out a new movie or a new restaurant, or, heck, a new computer, IF I get a recommendation from someone I know. That trusted referral is incredibly valuable. I know that I consider the advice I give to a friend because I not only want to be helpful, but I also care about them. I’d feel bad if I steer them in the wrong direction. In all honesty, I also care very much about what they think about my advice.

Ok, so here’s the part where I steer the post to Cre8buzz. We feel like we are different because people can: 1) can get to know the people they are interacting with and give them feedback – feedback that matters to a buzzrank; and 2) evaluate the credibility of a stranger’s advice based on their buzzrank. If I don’t know you and you recommend a certain widget, I can get a sense of your standing in your community based on your buzzrank.

So, the next time I think about buying a new computer, I know that I have dozens of experts on Technology and I can ask them for advice – advice that I can evaluate partially based on the source’s buzzrank.

THAT, my friends, is as valuable as a $200 computer!