Seeking to broaden its reach beyond broadband voice, Skype (News - Alert) has announced online software that enables users to share knowledge with one another.
The programs, designed to run under Skype 3.1 for Windows, include SkypeFind and Skype Prime. According to Skype, the programs will enable its users to go beyond simple voice and video calls into markets where access to expertise and knowledge are essential.
Skype, which has over 171 million registered users worldwide, is seeking to further leverage the Internet with its new services that go beyond talking or chatting.
Designed to be a community-generated guide, SkypeFind lets users rate, review and log their favorite businesses no matter where they live. Since launching in Beta three weeks ago, SkypeFind has attracted more than 4500 listings in over 124 countries and expects these listings to increase to over a million by the end of the year.
According to a recent report from Forrester Research (News - Alert), more than one quarter of online consumers have submitted a rating or review of a product or service or contributed to a discussion board.
Sten Tamkivi, general manager of eCommerce for Skype said in a statement, "SkypeFind brings the global community to your doorstep. Skype users love sharing knowledge with one another because it is so liberating and empowering. SkypeFind is also so easy to use - even if you're abroad. If you're traveling in France and you want to find a great restaurant, just log onto Skype, click on SkypeFind and you have recommendations you can trust, direct from the Skype community."
Skype also launched the Beta release of Skype Prime - a marketplace which brings together those people who have expertise or knowledge to sell with others who are seeking advice and happy to pay for it.
Giving millions of people and small businesses the opportunity to charge for their expertise, Skype Prime enables users the chance to buy and sell over the Internet, making money and reaching potential customers all over the world. According to the company, the service is easy to set up and lets users determine their own per minute or one-off fees. Skype Prime fees are paid using PayPal and subject to a 30% charge by Skype for using the Skype Prime service.
-------
Don't forget to check out TMCnet’s White Paper Library, which provides a selection of in-depth information on relevant topics affecting the IP Communications industry. The library offers white papers, case studies and other documents which are free to registered users.
Spencer Chin is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To see more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.
|
|
|
