Instead, they get immediate responses from people who share common goals or interests. It establishes an affinity group, provides expert information, encourages loyalty, and helps cut costs. Perry uses one of the company's clients, Ace Hardware, as an example. While nearly everyone has visited their neighborhood Ace Hardware store, many aren't aware of the company's large commercial and industrial division. Now it's out there, and it's archived and available.
Sales forces can offer up leads and ideas.
Technical support teams can zero in on common issues. Some resistance Despite the value, many companies still resist online communities. For B2B contacts, online communities create a critical, dynamic information source. And for B2C contacts, your communities create the important opportunity to know what people have to say about your product or services. When they do it on your site you have some control, input and awareness about what's being said.