OP-ED Article:  The Rise and Fall of Customer Service Part II of III.

     Last month I discussed some customer service issues (in my opinion), that I personally observed with Three major companies.  In these examples I explained several situations when the easy thing was to do the right thing, but in the end was not for various reasons.  For a quick review (click here). 

     This month I would like to list a few consumer advocacy groups who will assist in finding reputable companies to do business with, assist in finding better made products and generally useful information.  In looking at these groups, please note that I am not only recommending these organizations (but am giving them as a starting point).  Consumers in the Internet age have a ton of information at their fingertips and reviews (both good and bad) can be found by simple search engine queries for products, services and companies by name etc.  Some of these are Free, and some are Paid usage sites.

     Some useful website information:

1.  Consumer Reports

2.  Angie's List

3.  Epinions

4.  CNET reviews

5.  BBB (Better Business Bureau)

6.  Consumer Affairs

7.  Viewpoints

     A great thing about each of these listings, is that they can all be accessed from the Internet.  Just like the websites I listed (by doing a simple search engine lookup), many other review sites are available.  When a smart buyer reviews products prior to a purchase, prior to contractors coming out or before work begins, they lessen the likelihood they will have a bad experience.  Next month I will explore a few possible action to take in the event that you still have a poor (or less than great experience).  I will take a look at some actions I have taken to assist in correcting issues that should have been taken care of by the original company, but when in doubt contact the people who can make a difference.