Back in the dark ages, referred to by some as BC (Before Computers), consumer opinions regarding personal experiences with businesses were passed around in a practice known as “Word of Mouth” marketing.

Jane tells Mary about how great her new microwave is, or that the service could have been better at the new restaurant in town. Soon enough, word gets around and sales are up for that microwave, and the service is carefully watched at the new restaurant.

The Internet has transformed word of mouth referrals into “user reviews” and “ratings,” where consumers can comment on and rate products or services that they have purchased or experienced. (more…)

While the marriage of the computer and your television is probably inevitable, has it finally come to fruition now that Google wants in? Yesterday, it was announced Matsushita (Panasonic) has signed a deal with Google to launch a series of flat panel televisions with built-in web features that will allow the user to surf Google sites like YouTube without the hassle of connecting external devices to your TV first. Although the concept of bringing your PC to your TV is nothing new, the fact that Google wants in makes this move significant. More to come, don’t touch that dial…