So you’ve got a bunch of email addresses and an e-newsletter that’s generating lots of hits to your web site. You’ve also done some search engine optimization to ensure maximum web site traffic. You may even have a “contact us” form or a 1-800 number with an automated attendant to facilitate client contact. That being said, your site visit count has increased. But at the same time your abandon rate has increased and your client contact remains flat. What’s up? Well, you’re still not really talking to people, are you?

The Internet is a great tool. It brings us virtual reality. We get into stores, offices, warehouses, vacation resorts, and even peoples’ homes, all without us having to get up off the couch. But when we want to buy something, ask a detailed question or resolve a problem, what do we prefer? Face to face contact with a person. It’s reassuring. Well, now that is possible over the Internet as well.

I was recently introduced to PLMEDIA, a very innovative company out of Montreal. PLMEDIA has developed StaffOnline, an all-new communications software application allowing audio/visual conversations in real time over the web.

The application allows companies the advantage of offering a very human service, over the Internet, by providing real contact with clients. With just a simple click, the Internet surfer can make face to face contact with the representatives of the product or service they desire.

The simplicity and reliability of StaffOnline combine to make the dream web utility for a personalized and welcoming customer service or support based company. It is also a revolutionary device for web-based sales: a company can instantly secure a customer and create loyalty by providing immediate information and responses to inquiries.

And it only gets better. This leading edge technology allows for substantial savings on long distance and 1-800 communications. Contact between clients and companies around the world can now be done at a single fixed cost.

Installing StaffOnline doesn’t require a special computer system or a particular modem, or even a download. All you need is a computer, a webcam, loudspeakers, and a microphone. Even if the clients do not have the audio/visual equipment yet, they can ask their questions via text chat, and will still receive and see answers in real time, and all this even with a low speed 56k connection.

As far as I know, nothing comparable currently exists on the market. I encourage you to get a free trial or test the application online during business hours at www.plmedia.ca.