Amanda Bannigan
Comparison Shopping
ONLINE
SHOPPING!
Online shopping really is not that much different than “real-life”
shopping. Many of the techniques you use
at a store can be done online and sometimes may even be easier! The following chart explains five ways to
online shop and gives examples of sites that would be perfect to use for that
shopping technique.
|
Shopping Technique |
Description |
Example Web Sites |
|
Gift Certificate |
This is when the gift giver knows what store they would like to shop from, but does not truly know the recipients size or preferences. The shopper can choose a store and a value and the gift certificate is mailed out! |
|
|
Comparison Shopping |
These sites allow the user to compare prices on similar products and then decide on the item that is best for their home and budget. |
|
|
Browsing |
This method allows shoppers to look at what merchandise a store has to offer from the convenience of their own home. Styles, sizes, prices, brands and pictures are all provided on a site good for browsing. You can shop online or go right to the actual store. |
|
|
Wish Lists |
Online users can create wish lists of items that they want from a particular store. The shopper then just has to visit the site of that store and search for the recipients list. The list creator has already selected color, style, and size so all the giver has to do is point and click! |
|
|
Auctions |
Auction sites allow users to bid on a variety of items. Just like in a real-life auction, the winner is the highest bidder! |
|
While online shopping can be easier than “real-life” shopping,
it may not always be safer. To help keep
you safe, follow these two handy rules:
1- Use a separate password for your online shopping accounts that
is different from the password to log onto the internet or your computer. This way, if someone hacks onto your computer
and onto your internet, they will not simply be able to use the same password
over and over to purchase items for you.
2- DO NOT link any account to you checking card. Use a credit card or designate a card to be
used only for online purchases. This
way, if someone does begin using your account numbers, they will not drain all
the money out of your checking account.