Juni 2022 - Expivi

Retaining eCommerce Customers with 3D and AR

3D is a proven method for retaining eCommerce customers. People often say you “eat with your eyes.” We believe this is also true in eCommerce, which is why our 3D technology and augmented reality (AR) serve your products on a silver platter. It’s the ultimate way to view what you sell and get an authentic feel.

Let’s see some of the most important ways to make lasting impressions on your consumers with Expivi’s 3D and augmented reality tech, always making digital shopping more informative and more fun!

Customer Experience vs. Sales Transaction

Have you ever felt like a sheep in a shopping experience? Maybe a retail sales attendant doesn’t listen to your actual need. You’re not alone; Expivi and its 3D AR product system will give your buyer that personalization. As a result, you turn a sales transaction into a memorable customer experience.

A sales transaction is the ultimate result. However, building a trustworthy brand is what ironclad businesses do for long-term success. Details about preferences from the initial user experience (UX) to the second and future purchases. Our modern technology will bolter your business by providing a new gateway to capture their attention.

Nurturing and Retaining eCommerce Customers

Nurturing a relationship is made easier with Expivi 3D software. You begin this with unique and entertaining product experiences. Anyone who’s had the chance to experience AR with 3D configuration will be excited about the comprehensive product knowledge they can see and demo in AR.

Following the first purchase, you can use first-party data to customize messaging. Whether through email, SMS, or social channels. Level up the experience of these new customers with offerings, loyalty programs, and engaging content. Your business will gain insights into your customer base and how to keep improving products and experiences through this data.

Brass tacks, our software allows you to care for your buyers like never before. The result is mutually beneficial for business owners and customers. In addition, the analytics you will gain from allowing consumers to customize and order is genuinely incredible.

Bridge the Gap Between Knowledge and Purchase

There is a lot of information gained from product descriptions and reviews. However, the product vetting process is far more accessible and enjoyable with 3D and AR in your eCommerce store.

Our most used sensory organ is our eyes, which is why Expivi has put the time and effort into creating software that gives the most visual information possible. You can feel with your eyes by bridging the digital sensory gap with visual textures. You will truly grab your audience in a way they have never experienced. Your users will notice this as a sign of professionalism and craftsmanship, establishing trust within your audience and retaining them as customers.

User Engagement Meets Entertainment

Online shopping should be entertaining. With our software, your customer can have fun during the buying experience. In addition, offering these digital possibilities within your eCommerce storefront leads to intrigued customers who are more likely to share their experiences via social media and other channels.

Consumers seeking items for any solution to a problem enjoy immersive shopping. This entertaining engagement helps retain eCommerce customers. As a result, you effectively lower your customer acquisition and marketing costs.

Retain eCommerce Customers on Small Devices

Mobile searches become more prevalent every year. Analytics from StatCounter.com found that as of February 2022. 50-59% of web visits are mobile, compared to 40-49% from desktops.

Expivi 3D rendering software can work on your smartphone. In addition, you will be able to place products into physical locations using AR.

By making our software incredibly accessible, your customer base will return to test, tweak, or just play with the shopping experience. So give your users an entertaining reason to come back. Nonetheless, our software works seamlessly on desktops and tablets. So no matter what device, big or small, Expivi will deliver incredible 3D configurations.

Promote Causes of Your User Base

The digital world has given everybody the ability to speak their mind. Facebook, Twitter, and the like, are platforms for anyone to be heard. 2022 is a time to get behind your customer’s ideas and create your brand persona. Provided they are positive causes, your support becoming close to your customer base will gain trust in your users‘ eyes.

Are you Marketing through Multiple Channels?

Do you want to retain eCommerce customers with 3D and AR in 2022?. Then, spread your content and marketing efforts omnichannel. There are many channels to repurpose helpful content. We now can capture as many eyes as possible.

How do you Capture Customer loyalty?

Consider 3D configuration placed into augmented reality. There is a realness that is uncanny compared to 2d product photos. As a customer, getting to experience your product in “real” is insight like nothing digitally before. Offering this shopping experience style is a cut above the current 2D technology currently being phased out.

eCommerce is no longer the second option in the shopping world, but it’s a difficult place to build solid rapport, and it’s difficult to gain a customer’s loyalty. By integrating a 3D configuration into your website, you’ll be providing your clients with the best possible way to experience your products and this has an overwhelming effect on loyalty.

AR in Social Media

Social media is adopting if not spearheading AR. We all likely remember the switch from Facebook to Meta. Further, the shopping, gaming, and influencer worlds create AR versions of established businesses.

It’s remarkable, and this is why 3D and AR are shaking the digital marketplace in a new and positive direction—providing more information, customization, and a more enjoyable eCommerce shopping experience.

Transparency for Products

Buying sight unseen shouldn’t have to be an issue in 2022. With 3D, we now can truly understand what we’re buying online. Once again, building trust by being open. Buying an eCommerce product no longer has to be stressful for buyers and store owners. Digital honesty comes with our software, and customers appreciate it.

Get Ahead with Expivi

Retaining customers has always been crucial to businesses of all shapes and sizes. eCommerce is no different. The market is also broader and more profound than ever, and technology is no different. Remembering a positive buying experience can mean a noticeable difference in customer satisfaction and future gains.

Today, with leading software like Expivi, the ability to leave a lasting impression on the initial buyer is becoming more accessible. Want to know how? Contact our team.

Did you like this article on „Retaining eCommerce Customers with 3D and AR“? Then read our entry on how good customer experiences can influence your business.

10 Effective eCommerce Product Image Strategies

eCommerce product image strategies can make or break an online store. Your digital store is where your amazing products are considered for purchase, and positive brand interest is created.

Using captivating product images makes the difference between a sale and a customer using the back button to shop elsewhere. Here are some eCommerce product image strategies to use in 2022.

1: High-Quality Imagery is a Must

Today nearly half of all online transactions happen on a smartphone. Grabbing your consumer’s attention on a small screen means that quality and detail are essential. Providing an authentic look and feel of what you’re selling will give your eCommerce store a professional feel.

2: 3D Product Images are the Future of Online Shopping

The world is racing in the direction of 3D for online shopping. Stores using this technology are pulling away from their competition because 3D is more informative. Not only do 360-degree product views grab attention, but it also sheds more light on the crucial details. The details that make your products unique and your brand perception positive.

3: Use Augmented Reality with 3D Product Imagery

Take your eCommerce store to the next level with AR. Giving your consumers the ability to see the product in their environment is truly incredible. Designing homes and office spaces has never been easier and more fun than it is today with AR.

Utilizing this technology before your competitors will set you apart from the crowd, which is increasingly important within the dynamic landscape of eCommerce. It is also more accessible than ever to have 3D renderings created that function with AR. So take advantage of this opportunity to get ahead in your industry.

4: Take Photos in a Neutral Setting

Let your main eCommerce product shot be seen against a neutral background. This allows your customer to see the product solely without any background distractions. Also, get as many different angles of the product as you can. Expivi simplifies this process by creating 3D renderings to show off all product highlights.

5: Supplement with Product Use Photos

Once you have high-quality product-only images, use lifestyle or in-real-life (IRL) product shots. Customers want to see your products in settings and action. For example, if you are an outdoor brand, showing where and how the product is used gives the shopper a deeper understanding.

Also, if you are decorating a home, placing furniture in a room using AR is a massive advantage for converting sales. Furthermore, less wasted time, gas, and rearranging of physical furniture. Using AR and lifestyle photography is much easier to increase sales and brand loyalty.

6: Zoom for eCommerce Product Image Strategy

It’s in the details. That is what separates high-quality products from the rest. Using a zoom feature alongside 3D product shots allows you to showcase all elements that improve your product.

While simple zoom features on a 2D image are an improvement, 360-degree zoom is incredible! Side-by-side comparisons of eCommerce stores that choose to go 3D are moving ahead. For consumers and business owners, your industry leaders will be seen in the 3D and AR.

7: Product Customizations in Real-Time

Allowing your customers to customize different features in real-time gives them the freedom to design. This eCommerce product image strategy is a fantastic way to keep customers engaged and get feedback from the customization choices.

This feedback can be used to save on production costs and warehousing products that don’t sell—saving the store owner time and money and giving creative options directly to the consumer. In addition, generic products are becoming increasingly difficult to sell online. With Expivi 3D customization capabilities, your store can genuinely stand out from the crowd.

8: Product Realization

Customer engagement starts with an emotional response. Your goal is to provide that positive experience by being unique. For example, 3D eCommerce product images will evoke a feeling of professionalism within your consumers. This technology speeds up the buyer’s journey and keeps website visitors from searching elsewhere. Customers are simply more likely to buy with a greater understanding of what they are buying.

9: Use SEO eCommerce Image Strategies

Now that you have terrific 3D product images make the most out of them with SEO. Even the most basic principles can increase search rankings and attract backlinks, which are all ways to boost your reputation in the eyes of search engines.

Implement these strategies:

Use Google or any quality keyword research tool to know your keywords and phrases.
Add relevant keywords in image file names and descriptions.
Reduce image sizes without sacrificing quality. This helps your website load faster, and images build interest. However, most people abandon the site if they load in over 3 seconds.
Use unique images. Stock photography is generic, and search engines notice this. Use distinctive imagery from your photo library to boost your image SEO.
Alt tags should accurately depict your images. Users may not ever see them, but search engine spiders do. Take advantage of them.

10: Outperform Your Competition with 3D

A solid eCommerce product image strategy starts with quality. First, make sure you showcase everything you can digitally. 3D and AR will get you there. Secondly, the world will see how incredible your products are using in-depth design and SEO strategies.

Why eCommerce product image strategies are important

First impressions are the key to quickly building a customer base and a brand following. Capture the eyes of your audience, and your chances of converting multiply. The downside to eCommerce is the lack of physical contact with the products. However, using modern 3D technology will get your customers as close as possible and stimulate the visual part of the human brain.

If you want to learn about making the transition to 3D, Epivi would love to hear from you. We are here to assist in your long-term eCommerce image strategy success. Become an eCommerce store owner who takes the modern approach before everyone else.

5 Reasons Why You Should be Providing Customized Products

Million-dollar question: are you offering customized products? If not, you’re probably missing the mark on what your customers are actually looking for. Product customization is part of the future of e-commerce. Shoppers require more from online businesses and mass production won’t do it anymore.

In fact, it’s not just that they will be more likely to buy the product, they actually are more willing to spend a few extra bucks too. A Deloitte study found that 20% of customers will pay more for a personalized or customized product.

So why do consumers want customized products? We’ll cover five such reasons in this article and also tell you a bit about how you should approach your product customization.

5 reasons why customers love customized products

Reason #1: Your clients are not all the same

You can create an Ideal Customer Profile (ICP). You can create buyer personas. At the end of the day, your customer is a unique person and not some preconception of what you think they are. Each client who fits the “18-30 yeard old” demographic has their own identity, taste, and needs.

You can’t appeal to everyone with a single product, but by offering options, you can give your audience more choices, empowering them in their buying journey.

Reason #2: It’s made just for them

Customization also helps consumers realize: “This product was made just for me”. Shoppers love personalized experiences, 80% of consumers are more likely to purchase a brand that provides personalized experiences.

The same goes for personalized products. Your customers will find value in the exclusiveness of the product, which can also lead to an increase in customer satisfaction and brand trust. This will inevitably be a positive contribution to your brand’s reputation.

Reason #3: Custom products give your customers more control

A study by the University of Texas showed that customers love personalization because of the perception of choice. This in turn delivers a “perceived decrease in information overload due to the connotation that the information displayed in a customized online environment is tailored to one’s needs.”

They may still have to work within the parameters of the customization options you offer, but it will give them more control over how they interact with your company, website, and products.

Reason #4: It shows you care

A good customer experience comes from having a deep understanding of your product and how it impacts your audience’s life. Your audience is made of individuals with particular tastes and needs. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to create something that pleases every single person the same way.

By offering personalization options, you’re showing your audience that you care about them as an individual. Whether you offer different sizes, colors, or other options, you meet their needs and personal tastes.

Reason #5: It creates a stronger relationship with your brand

E-commerce is no longer the second option. It’s the number one choice of most of the younger generations. Rapport-building in online businesses is difficult, it’s difficult to gain a customer’s loyalty.

Face-to-face interaction has to be replaced by a sense of care. A positive presence in the buyer’s life. If you customize your product you’ll be giving your clients a sense of understanding of their needs, which helps build a solid relationship.

What are other potential benefits of having customized products?

Very good question. So we’ve established that product customization can help you build rapport with your clients, but what other benefits can you collect from it?

In addition to being able to charge a higher price for customized products and selling more, there are several benefits to note that can elevate your brand.

For example:

More engagement in your website (for the Marketing aficionados)
Fewer returns, since the client is creating a variation of your product that checks all the boxes
More insights into what your audience wants or are looking for (you may even be able to create new products or experiences based on this data)

3D Product Configurator – The best and easiest way to achieve quality customized products

Offering customized products is a complex thing. You have to dedicate resources to figuring out how you can provide your customers with the best experience they can have.

A 3D product customizer is a great solution since you’ll be able to give your clients a full view of what they are purchasing. Offering augmented reality solutions is also a good strategy, as it will help customers see your product from all directions and even allow them to “try it on”.

For example, if you’re selling a couch, AR can help your clients visualize it in their own home to make sure it fits into the space or the already existing decor, all before they make the purchase. Not only can this lead to an increase in sales, but it can also lead to a decrease in returns.

As of 2020, only 1% of retailers used AR to enhance shopping, so the potential to stand out while providing a solid customer experience is immense.

We know it sounds tricky but a 3D Configurator that is allied to AR technology will make things easier for you since it doesn’t require coding. It can be easily integrated into your website and adapted to different languages, markets, and even products. The scalability potential is enormous.

If you’re curious about how this kind of technology can be used on your website, gives us a shout. Expivi’s 3D configuration platform is easy to use and will help you create the coolest customized products.

20 Essential Customer Experience Statistics You Need to Know to Succeed

Customer experience or CX is pivotal in building a solid brand reputation. In the eCommerce industry, the experience you provide your clients can be what makes them go to you or just click on the next website. Not convinced yet? Then we bring you the proof. Go through these customer experience statistics and let us know what you think.

#1.

Global Spending on Customer Experiences Will Reach $641 Billion in 2022

Back in 2019, it was predicted in the Worldwide Semiannual Customer Experience Spending Guide by the International Data Corporation (IDC) that spending on customer experiences would only increase. 2019 saw CX technology costs totaling about $508 billion. 2022 should see $641 billion.

#2.

Consumers Will Pay More for Great Customer Experiences

PWC found that consumers will pay up to 16% more if they’re treated to a great customer experience. And those who had amazing experiences with a company are likely to spend 140% more than those who may have had bad experiences.

#3.

Consumers Are Unlikely to Be Back after a Single Bad Experience

Even just one bad experience can send your customers to your competitors. 32% of people will leave a brand they previously loved and 88% of online buyers won’t go back to the company’s website after a single bad interaction.

#4.

A Positive Experience Will Do More than Advertising

Individuals are more aware of all the advertising around them than ever before. A positive customer experience therefore will do more than advertising – 65% of consumers in the United States find that to be true.

#5.

Better Customer Experiences = Lower Costs

If you want to spend less on customer care, pay attention to customer experiences – it can lead to a decrease in related costs by up to 33%.

#6.

The Customer Experience Matters Just as Much as Your Products

80% of consumers believe that the CX is just as important as your products, meaning you can’t skate by on great offerings alone.

#7.

Personalization Can Lead to More Sales

Personalized experiences can deliver more sales and higher profits to your business – 80% are more likely to buy. Personalization reduces returns and increases customer loyalty, so if you want to know how to provide that experience using a 3D configuration platform, reach out to us!

#8.

People Are Talking About their Experiences with Brands

Good or bad, your customers are talking about their experiences with your brand and the CX. A good interaction leads to an average of 9 people being told about the experience. A bad interaction though can lead to an average of 16 people being informed.

#9.

The Expectations from CX Has Only Gotten Higher

67% of customers expect more from companies when it comes to the CX than they have in previous years.

#10.

And Many Are Not Living Up to Expectations

Over half of customers are finding that companies are not meeting their CX expectations, and over 80% are disappointed by the brands they interact with.

#11.

CX May be Your Differentiator

If you offer the same products or services as another company, you may only be competing on the customer experience and service levels. 81% of companies found this to be the case. And 74% of customers said they will base their decisions on which company to go with based on these experiences.

#12.

Money is Lost with Poor Customer Service

Companies lose a staggering $1.6 trillion each year in the United States due to poor customer service or experiences.

#13.

Digital Transformation is a Must

Companies are having to undergo digital transformations to meet the needs and expectations of customers. 67% businesses agree that their business will not be competitive if they don’t go through a digital transformation. How have you been standing out? Meet with us, we can help you with that.

#14.

The Experience Matters on Mobile

Mobile optimization is an option for companies if they want to stay competitive. The online experience on mobile devices also matters. Nearly 55% of website traffic happens on mobile, whether phones or tablets.

#15.

As Does Mobile Customer Service

Companies need to have strategies to help their customers use mobile devices. 90% of customers said businesses didn’t meet their expectations when it comes to customer service on a mobile device.

#16.

Companies Are Missing the Mark on Communication

Only 14% of consumers are satisfied with communications they’ve had with businesses! There’s a lot of potential for online businesses to stand out.

#17.

Not All Customers Want to Communicate the Same Way

Customers have different preferences when it comes to communicating with brands, and many prefer text – about 89%. Yet under 50% of businesses offer texting as an option to their audience. And 66% of shoppers tend to use three communication channels with brands. A multi-channel approach seems to help the customer experience.

#18.

Many Still Want the Human Element

Nearly 60% of consumers found that the human element is missing from the customer experience. It’s also been found that talking to a person can lead to more confidence when purchasing (87% of people agreed).

#19.

Chatbots Can Help Though

In some cases, though, chatbots can be extremely helpful and some customers prefer them. Around 25% of businesses do take advantage of virtual assistants and chatbots. And 57% found that they do increase ROI.

#20.

Employees are Lacking the Necessary Skills for Standout CX

Even if you have chatbots and a great product, if your employees don’t have the necessary skills for a standout customer experience, you’re going to lose customers. It was found that 70% of employees don’t have the skills they need.

The customer experience is constantly evolving, and it’s essential that companies keep up with their clients’ expectations. How will these statistics affect your CX plan for 2023? It’s the perfect time to start thinking about that…

If you believe that a 3D configurator will improve the way customers experience your website, then get in touch. We’d love to take you to new heights!

How Do Good Customer Experiences Affect My eCommerce

In a previous article, we talked about how bad or poor customer experiences can directly affect your eCommerce. But it’s important to talk about the other side, too – a solid approach to CX (aka Customer Experience) can also consolidate brand reputation. So what exactly are the benefits of good customer experiences and how can you improve your strategy?

What are the Benefits of Good Customer Experiences for Your eCommerce Brand?

Bad customer experiences can negatively impact your business. It can decrease your reputation, hurt your sales and bottom line, and even drag down your employee retention strategy.

Good customer experiences do the exact opposite. They will increase your sales, result in better word of mouth, improve your reputation, and help you attract and retain the best employees in your industry. It can also help you to:

Reduce marketing costs
Become a thought leader in your industry
Increase customer loyalty (they’ll be more likely to buy other products from you)
Lower customer retention costs
Reduce complaints (which frees up your employees to handle other tasks within your business)
Improve company culture

Some important customer experience stats to keep in mind:

Companies that focus more on customer experience management actually increased customers’ initiative to buy more by 14%.
72% of shoppers will share their positive experiences with six or more other people.
55% of clients are more willing to invest in a business if they know they will have a good customer experience.

How Can You Improve Your Customer Experiences?

There are plenty of ways you can focus more on your customer experiences and reaping the benefits, starting today. These steps will help you get on the path to improving your customers’ journey.

Start with the Employee Experience

To improve the CX, you first need to start with the employee experience. If your team members are frustrated, don’t have the resources needed, or don’t understand your product, you can’t possibly expect them to be able to help your customers.

Engagement is key. Standout customer service relies on it and companies that have a top approach to CX have employees that are 60% more engaged.

Therefore, you should be focusing on a few things, such as:

Checking in with your employees
Developing an employee engagement strategy
Offering training
Providing the resources they need to help customers and perform their duties
Creating a great company culture

Review Your Current Strategies

When was the last time you sat down and reviewed all your eCommerce company’s strategies? And we really do mean everything. Even if you think the customer doesn’t interact with the strategy, like the employee engagement strategy, they do indirectly.

Here is a checklist to work from that can make it easy to go over some of your current strategies.

Your overall website design
- - Is it user-friendly and easy to navigate?
  - Does it fit with your brand?
  - Is it nice to look at?
Your checkout process
- - Is it easy to use?
  - Can you quickly add or delete things?
  - Do you have easy-to-fill-out forms?
  - Are there enough payment options available?
  - Do you have a strategy for cart abandonment?
Your marketing strategy
- - Does your marketing strategy fill the needs, questions, and concerns your customers may have?
  - Are you educating your customers, current and potential?
  - Is your marketing team communicating with your sales team?
  - Is personalization a big part of your strategy?
  - Are you making the most of the data?
Your customer service strategy
- - Are your employees educated on your products and company?
  - Is it easy to reach your team if your customers have a question, concern, or need?
  - Do you have a return policy?
  - Do you have a strategy in place for negative experiences or bad reviews?

It may seem like a lot, but it’s a great diving-off point and you’ll probably find some other places in your strategies that can positively contribute to good customer experiences.

Improve Product Pages

As part of your website review, you’ll also want to carefully go over your product pages. They need to be compelling and offer value propositions from the get-go. This means being transparent about the product and pricing, but also showcasing your products well in photos, videos, and other mediums. A well-written description should also cover all the bases and information your customers need to make an informed purchase.

One great way to improve your product pages is to begin offering AR or 3D solutions for your image content. They help your customers see your items from all directions and even allow them to “try on” the product.

As of 2020, only 1% of retailers used AR to enhance shopping, so the potential to stand out while providing a good customer experience is immense.

Check-In With Your Customers

Even if you’re currently offering amazing customer experiences, don’t skip this step. Checking in with your customers and getting up-to-date feedback is essential to continued success. Reviews are a great place to start, but surveys and having your team contact previous buyers can help ensure you have an accurate view of how they view your brand.

Don’t underestimate the benefits of good customer experiences. They can elevate your company to newfound heights and help you become a leader within the industry. And don’t let your strategy fall by the wayside, either. By keeping the CX in your sights, you can continue to lower costs and improve profits.

Did you find „How Do Good Customer Experiences Affect My eCommerce“ helpful? Then check out our article on how bad CX can impact your business.

How Do Bad Customer Experiences Impact My eCommerce?

Is eCommerce just about selling products? No. Of course, it plays one of the most important roles and it’s crucial to success, but you can’t ignore the fact that you need to impress your customers. Failing to focus on customer experiences, or, even worse, having outright bad customer experiences, can lead to serious problems with sales, leads, profits, and your company’s reputation.

Here’s what you need to know about poor customer experiences and how they can play a major role in your eCommerce company’s goals.

What is a Bad Customer Experience?

First, it’s important to review an important aspect, also known as CX aka Customer Experience.

CX is all the touchpoints between your company and your customers throughout the buyer journey. It’s directly related to how your customer perceives your brand. A bad customer experience can lead to buyers simply not returning to your website/brand and even sharing their thoughts on social media or just with friends and family.

Some examples of poor customer experiences include:

Lacking or poor customer service (this can range from no customer service to using negative language to lacking empathy)
No or little personalization
No segmentation (or the segmentation isn’t based on actual data)
Few product recommendations
Little support after purchase
Poorly designed website or interface
Poor product experience
Slow response time
Failing to meet customer expectations

How Bad Customer Experiences Affect Your eCommerce?

There’s no doubt that poor customer experiences can directly impact your eCommerce and profits.

What can be the main impacts of a bad experience on your online business?

Your Brand’s Reputation

Your brand’s reputation takes years to build, and only one bad experience can tear it. Even if they loved doing business with you previously, that one negative interaction makes 32% of customers go elsewhere.

Bad CX can lead to 1-star reviews, but that’s really only the tip of the iceberg. Many of the potential clients will just go to competitors without letting you know. And even if these customers who had poor experiences with your company don’t leave a review, they are likely to tell others – 62% of customers do just that! And 13% will actually tell 15 or more others!

To turn around your brand’s reputation, you should be focusing on:

Always getting feedback from current and past customers (and privately address these problems with your team)
Responding to poor reviews in a professional manner
Reach out to customers who had bad customer experiences (keep it private if possible)

Your Sales

Of course, poor customer experiences will lead to customers jumping ships, especially if it becomes the norm. This will lead to worse buyer retention, as well as negative word-of-mouth marketing. Word of mouth marketing can be valuable to your business and lead generation, but extremely harmful if you’re not paying attention to every touchpoint in the buyer’s journey and working to right wrongs.

Your business will experience fewer conversions and repeat sales, which in turn can lead to you sinking more money into trying to turn it around. Around 44% of customers will switch to a competitor if you’re not focusing enough on stellar customer service.

To turn around poor sales affected by bad customer experience, your brand should be:

Using a CRM
Training your employees in customer service
Understanding where your brand and team are missing the mark with communications
Removing silos between sales and marketing
Develop a customer retention strategy
Reaching out to customers throughout the journey
Taking advantage of inbound marketing

Your Employee Retention

Customer experiences don’t only affect your customers – a poor CX strategy can actually impact your employee retention strategy, too! If they’re constantly dealing with angry customers or feel that they don’t have the resources to perform the job to the best of their ability, they’re more likely to feel unhappy in their position and leave for another.

Your best employees may also be required to pick up the slack of other team members, which can lead to burnout and another layer of dissatisfaction. They may also not want to be associated with your company if the reputation of the brand continues to drop or want to get out before things get extremely bad. This can lead to a loss of sales as customers follow your former employees as well as a loss of valuable tribal knowledge.

You can improve your employee retention by:

Offering a top-quality culture
Providing the resources they need to perform their job to the best of their ability
Training new hires and current employees

Your approach to customer experiences and customer service can have a direct impact on your sales, reputation, and brand success. If you find that you’re getting negative feedback or 1-star reviews, it may be time to review your current customer experience strategy and find the avenues that can help you turn it around.

Are you looking to improve your CX and create more amazing experiences for your clients? If so, we’re here to help! Discover how 3D and AR can help you create products and experiences that will enhance customer loyalty while boosting brand reputation.

Did you like this article on bad customer experience? Then check out our entry on how Augmented Reality is changing eCommerce!

What is Augmented Reality and Other Important Questions

You’ve probably heard the term “Augmented Reality” or “AR” thrown around quite a bit in recent years, including here in our blog, but what does it mean? What is Augmented Reality? What uses does it have in the real world? And how does it impact the eCommerce industry? We’ll run you through the basics and also highlight a few places you can use it in your line of work.

Hold on to your seats ladies and gentlemen, it’s going to be quite a ride…

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented reality refers to an experience that combines the real world with computer-generated aspects. It’s interactive and will present a 3D effect on a 2D screen. Although it can sometimes be named in conjunction with virtual reality (VR) in conversation, it is actually vastly different.

On one hand, virtual reality is its own computer environment, where everything exists within the VR headset. If you have the correct tools, such as a gaming headset, you can then interact with the “virtual world.”

On the other hand, AR layers the computer graphics onto the real environment. For example, by having an app, you could use your phone to make a computer-generated unicorn stand in the middle of your living room. The system understands depth, perspective, and other aspects to give a very convincing view to the user.

This allows for some cool, unique photos, of course, but the technology has real implications and uses for eCommerce businesses.

How Does Augmented Reality Work?

So we’ve answered the question What is Augmented Reality, it’s time to understand how it practically works.

For AR to function, an individual first needs a device with a camera, such as a smartphone or a tablet. Using an AR application, the user can point the camera in the intended direction and see the graphics on their screen presented in the “real world.” This creates a 3D experience (no need for special goggles).

The AR software has to be capable of seeing and recognizing objects and backgrounds. Using real-time data, it can confidently and convincingly place the digital item into the desired environment. If the user moves the camera, the software will be capable of keeping up and moving the digital graphic with the background. Cool, right?

What Can Augmented Reality Be Used For?

One of the most common uses for augmented reality is video games! Pokemon Go is a widely known example. The app has a function to turn AR on or off, but if it’s on, players have the ability to “see” Pokemon in their front yard, living room, or at the park.

However, AR has plenty of other applications. It is a difference-maker in retail, for example, but it can also assist with:

Mapping
Navigation
Education and new learning methods
Maintenance
Social media

Okay, two questions answered: what is augmented reality and how does it work! Good job! Now we take this info and synergistically combine it with eCommerce, but how?

How Can Augmented Reality Be Used in Retail and eCommerce?

Hmmm… Yes! A thousand times yes!

AR can be a game-changer factor in retail and eCommerce. One of the biggest perks is the ability to allow users to “try on” their purchase before they acquire it.

Take clothing, for example. In a normal retail store, there are areas designed for clients to try on items before making a purchase. But if they’re buying online, this can be rather difficult. How do they know if it fits? Or if it’s their style? Do they look good in that color? AR allows them to try on those pieces in various sizes and colors before they even put them in their cart.

For furniture, you can let customers see how a piece works in their living room, bedroom, or office. AR even allows them to move the digital item on their phone or tablet so they can see if it fits into all sorts of different places or if it goes with the décor.

Makeup can also benefit from AR. Potential buyers can see what the makeup looks like on their faces before they buy it. They can try on different looks, colors, brands, and more to see what fits their wishes. You can see a sample of that in Instagram and TikTok filters for example. No more unwittingly looking like a clown!

And it’s not limited to these three industries – most retail companies can take advantage of AR to educate their audience about their products. Not to mention

What are the Benefits of AR in eCommerce?

Not sold quite yet? No problem, here’s a list of potential ways your company can benefit from using augmented reality technology:

Reduce returns – Since your customers are “trying on” makeup, clothing, etc before purchasing them, they’ll know if it’s what they are looking for, meaning they’re less likely to return it.
Increased engagement – You’re involving a customer directly with their purchase. Keep in mind that 80% of consumers are more likely to purchase a product from a brand that provides personalized experiences.
More social media content – AR allows eCommerce companies to present different visuals, graphics, and other content on their social media platforms. It can also be used as an asset when pitching products on social media.
Increase in sales – Since your customer can be sure they like the product before they purchase it, they will be more likely to buy it in the first place. There’s inherently a larger trust in the selling company.
More information on what customers want – Customizable options (color, style, size, etc) give you the data you need to offer new and exciting products to your audience. You’ll have a better idea of what they are looking for and stop producing what simply isn’t selling.
Contactless experience – Customers are still hesitant to shop in stores, and AR allows them to safely do their shopping without leaving the comfort of their homes. It adds value to your business proposition.

Did we answer all of your questions?

Hopefully, we did, if not, just ping us! We’re always excited when you reach out!

Augmented reality isn’t just for video games – it’s changing how people work, and it’s changing how they shop. It’s an absolute game-changer for eCommerce businesses and can help customers make more informed decisions, increasing their trust in online retailers.

Did you like “What is Augmented Reality and Other Questions”? Read more about AR here!

Visual Product Prototyping: Better Than Physical Samples?

There was once a time when the only option you had when it came to actually testing a prototype, was to have physical samples. Thanks to digital tools though, businesses can now opt for 3D visual product prototyping instead. But is this route better than physical samples? We’ll run through the basics, pros, and cons of visual prototyping to give you the info you need to decide the best path for your business.

What is Visual Product Prototyping?

When you’re pitching a product or testing the functionality of an item, a prototype is needed. Physical samples were the go-to in the past. Software programming has delivered another option though for prototyping: 3D visual products.

A visual product prototype is a rendering of a model or sample, usually used in product development. Once a model is developed, it can be tested for errors and functionality. When a design is settled, the company can then choose to use a visual representation of the product rather than a physical sample to pitch to investors or sell to their clients.

Examples of Visual Prototypes

Visual prototypes aren’t exactly a new thing. However, tech developments over the years have definitely delivered new routes for product development teams to experiment and evolve.

– Drawings and Similar Renderings

Drawings were a common option in the past (and still are) if you wanted to show how an item looked and describe its functions, but they can’t actually be used to test an item.

It’s known that it would only show the item in a 2D model, which would require the company to explain more of the design in their presentation. However, they are a valuable resource during the early stages of planning; not so much for a pitch.

– Physical Prototypes

This may seem a bit of a conundrum – we’re talking about types of visual prototypes, not physical. Yet there are physical prototypes that fall under this category now thanks to 3D printing.

3D printing and similar methods have helped companies build a prototype for a fraction of the cost. Though this route may not help with functionality as much as you’d like and it won’t show off the final materials in the cost, it can help display the final design of a product. Beware though, it’s not a good option for testing, as it probably isn’t using the same materials your product will use.

– 3D Models

Software has made crafting a 3D model of a prototype easier than ever. It gives users a look at a product from all angles, but there are some tools out there that can also let you test the product in a variety of situations, even though you don’t have a physical sample in front of you. This allows you to test for errors and ensure proper functionality before you even send it to a manufacturer.

Pros and Cons of 3D Prototypes

There are a number of factors that play a role in choosing the best prototyping for you, your product, and your business. Hopefully, these pros and cons will help out in your decision-making process when it comes to samples and visual product prototyping.

Pro: It’s Less Expensive

There’s no doubt: visual prototyping is less expensive than physical samples. You’re not using the materials to build a product, so you’re saving money there. Visual samples allow you to change design time and time again – if you did this with a physical product, you’d have to pay for an entirely new prototype each time.

3D models also let you test more without broken or wasted physical products. You can catch and correct errors before it’s ever made into a physical item. The right software should let you test your prototype in simulated real-life conditions, ensuring you can test for just about any situation your finished product would be in.

Pro: They Perform Just as Well as Physical Samples

Although you may not think so, visual prototypes work just as well as physical samples, especially when it comes to company predictions. If you have two routes for your design, for example, visual prototypes can help you find the best one.

Research by Seenu Srinivasan, a Stanford Business School Professor of Marketing and Management Science, found that “the virtual prototype worked as well as the physical prototypes when predicting which design would be more successful.”

This is also true for presentations. Visual prototypes can allow your investors or clients to thoroughly inspect an item. Product development teams no longer have to order several prototypes to ship off to potential clients. One visual representation can be created and shared with everyone, so even remote meetings can be successful and have everyone on the same page, which is particularly relevant considering the current situation.

Con: It’s Not The Right Route for Every Product

Visual product prototyping has its benefits, but it’s also not the best route for every product under the sun. It’s quite possible that, although the software can test a prototype in simulated real-life conditions, it doesn’t test in every situation needed, for example. Product development teams need to weigh the options themselves to ensure they’re choosing the best route for their prototype.

All things considered…

No matter your industry, if you sell products and develop new pieces, you need prototypes. Visual product prototyping options, like 3D models, help your business to save time, money, effort, and headaches by streamlining the entire process.

Are you interested in visual product prototyping of your product and design? It’s easy to get started with Expivi. Uncover what we do and how we can assist you with product design and development.

How Are eCommerce Companies Using 3D Visualization to Engage Audiences

Still photos and similar solutions are no longer an option when it comes to eCommerce. The tech, like augmented reality (AR) and 3D visualization, is now essential to your shoppers, especially if you want them to engage with your product.

It’s important to understand how businesses are making the most of this technology, why it’s engaging and more. Stay tuned…

How are Businesses Using 3D Visualizations?

For those tech apprentices out there, did you know that augmented reality can be used for more than just video games? AR, and 3D renderings, are actually quite successful when it comes to marketing and online sales.

eCommerce companies can use 3D visualizations in a number of different ways, we bring a few cases that apply to you and your business.

Social Media

You’ve probably seen (and let’s face it, most likely used) those filters on social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Did you know the ones that use dog ears and add makeup use AR technology?

AR filters have recently become much more popular on social media and can actually be used for your business, too. When done correctly, your organization can use them to increase brand awareness, stand out among the competition, and, of course, engage your audience.

Is there something unique you could be doing that is fun for your audience but also reminds them of your brand?

Of course there is! It could be something simple, for example, if you work in fashion, you could develop an AR filter which allows your clients to try on fun hats or glasses. Bonus tip: have a few hashtags that go along specifically with these promotions to see how well they perform!

Product Previews

One of the most common uses at the moment for 3D renderings is furniture pieces. 3D photos allow your audience to see a product from all angles without a number of different photographs. Cool right?

Sure, but AR can take it a step further and allow them to visualize, with the help of their phone or other smart device, the item in its context, for example in their living room or backyard.

Shoppers no longer have to just hope that the playground set will fit in the backyard, relying on measurements, or that the couch they’re buying goes with the rest of the room’s décor when they can simply pull out their phone and check.

These solutions also help you lower the number of returns you receive. Do you experience returns because the product doesn’t fit? Or doesn’t go with the mood of the room? Or just isn’t what they expected? Maybe the photos on the website are not that great.

With 3D visualization and AR, your customers can see if the furniture piece fits in that corner and if it goes along with the theme of a room prior to purchasing, saving you quite a bit on unwanted returned products.

Aside from furniture, AR and 3D renderings allow customers to experiment with colors, textures, patterns, and even makeup before they purchase. Toys are even coming with apps that allow kids to play with them using AR for that extra level of fun.

This feature on its own is highly engaging and keeps your audience involved with your products.

Virtual Dressing Rooms

Similar to furniture products, 3D rendering and AR tools are now letting customers virtually “try on” their clothes before they hit the purchase button! This is extremely helpful as a whopping amount of returns (34% on Amazon) are due to the fact they’re the wrong color, fit, or size.

Your customers will be able to try on several different items, share photos of them on social media, and potentially buy more than they initially intended, all without leaving the comfort of their homes.

Ignore the Engagement Benefits that Come with 3D visualizations

We dare you…

Your customers are asking for solutions like 3D renderings, AR, and other quality visualization tools. They expect it from eCommerce businesses at this point, and companies are starting to embrace the technology.

The benefits of 3D visualizations can’t be understated. Engagement is essential to seeing more leads and conversions, for any business in any industry. By offering these types of solutions, you’re keeping your audience on your page longer, which will most likely result in a sale.

Not to mention that 3D visualizations also help you:

Develop rapport with your customers due to the amount of time they’re interacting with your website
Increase brand loyalty
Boost sales (AR can result in a 12% sales boost)
Provide more information than “normal” pictures do
Help your audience make purchasing decisions
Offer a more personalized shopping experience based on your customers’ needs, expectations, and other requirements

80% of consumers are more likely to purchase a product from a brand that provides personalized experiences. 3D visualization and AR can help you achieve just that.

Besides, did you know that 3D rendering solutions may also lead to an increase in profits per product? Your customers are willing to pay more when they’re confident a product will fit their purpose, and even more when it can be customized to their tastes.

3D Visualization doesn’t require goggles

3D visualization and renderings can come across as being an expensive way of presenting your inventory. That could be the case if you were to hire someone permanently or outsource it from an agency.

Expivi recognizes that struggle and has created a solution that enables eCommerce businesses, big or small, to make the most out of 3D visualization and AR technology.

We’d love to show you how we do it. Book a meeting with our team of professionals aka 3D-POs!