Technology

Timberland is putting its best foot forward in a new global campaign showcasing the Earthkeepers collection of eco-friendly apparel. The effort, dubbed "Nature Needs Heroes," includes TV, print and retail ads, as well as social media and a microsite that uses 3-D technology to help consumers become better acquainted with Earthkeepers.

A hot topic at InterACT was augmented reality (AR), and how brands can use it to achieve success. While we've covered AR before, I have to admit, I'm a bit of a skeptic, especially when it comes to bells and whistles for the sake of bells and whistles. That said, I was impressed by some of the case studies presented at InterACT; specifically, those that were able to tie revenue increases to their AR programs.

Digital signage can be an effective means of attracting and engaging consumers. Can be, that is. For digital signage to work, above all, it must leave a memorable impression.

PROBLEM: Palo Alto Software (PAS), an online retailer of business plan and marketing plan software, sought a customer service tool to improve consumers' experiences on its website. SOLUTION: Contracted with a web communication tools provider to implement live chat on its website. RESULTS: Since launching its latest version of live chat on its website over…

For websites across a diverse array of product categories, live chat is a common thread of success. A recent survey my firm conducted of more than 1,000 U.S.-based online shoppers found that 56 percent of respondents said live chat positively influenced them to make a purchase.

Sunglass Hut's Social Sun, an interactive device that lets consumers try on sunglasses, digitally capture and compare their looks and share images with family and friends, is driving sales.

One of the downsides in consumers’ collective shift to spending more time online is the loss of a “personal touch” — that inimitable quality that comes from dealing with someone face to face. Nowhere is this more apparent than when shopping online.

Recognizing the need to stay current in the e-commerce market and better serve web-savvy shoppers, BedBathStore.com, an online retailer of bed and bath décor products (e.g., bedspreads, curtains, draperies, bed linens, pillows, bath accessories, etc.) decided to create online videos for its entire catalog of children’s products in September 2009.

OneStopPlus.com, a Redcats USA brand and the world’s first and only online plus-size fashion mall, takes its philosophy of innovation, selection and convenience to the next level with the launch of its iPad application and mobile site. Recognizing that fashion enthusiasts want fast and easy access to its website, OneStopPlus.com customers can now search for the latest styles and trends from over 100 brands and purchase directly from their mobile devices.

Netshoes, a leading Brazilian sports retailer, has selected software company Baynote's recommendation technology to deliver customers a more adaptive online shopping experience. Within one month of deploying Baynote's Collective Intelligence Platform, Netshoes’ conversion rate increased 30 percent and its average order value rose 10 percent.