Normal product imagery used to be a good enough contributor to the customer experience (CX) chain, but the world has changed and hyper-personalization is where it’s heading.
The way clients engage with your products online is pivotal to their buying journey. Are you fully transparent about how your products look? Do you allow customization? Do you provide different showcasing formats?
Having normal product imagery will not set you apart from your competitors. Stepping up your game with 3D configuration and augmented reality (AR) will. It will put you at the forefront of eCommerce.
This is why regular product imagery doesn’t cut in anymore.
1#With 3D configuration, what you see is what you get
Normal product imagery can be misleading.
The shape of the actual product might be slightly different because of the angles, the color might not be exactly right. 3D configuration allows shoppers to have a true understanding of how the product looks from all angles. That’s right 360° views.
2#Customers are demanding more from online shops
3D visualization and AR can help you achieve a better CX. By implementing 3D configuration and AR, eCommerce stores are seeing increases in conversions up to 40% in some cases.
With the fast-paced content that is being created on platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok, digital consumers need something which instantly grabs their attention. 3D configuration and AR tech do just that, unlike traditional product imagery.
3D configuration enables the buyer to personalize the product, changing color, size, material, etc. Augmented reality puts the product in any environment, all you need is a device with a functional camera. This will undoubtedly lead to greater product engagement.
Talk about leveling up the customer experience!
3#Personalization and customization are difficult with regular product imagery
80% of clients are more likely to purchase a product from a brand that provides personalized experiences. 36% of clients say that retailers need to offer more customizable options.
The customer has spoken, are you listening? With 3D configuration and AR technology, the options for a unique buying process are limitless. It allows your customers to create something that is unique to their wishes and needs.
This has obvious consequences in sales. A trailer company based in Belgium experienced a 150% increase in their sales in just three years after implementing Expivi’s 3D configurator. Why? Because, according to a study, 90% of shoppers are willing to pay more for customized products.
4#Returns are a major online shopping problem
Online shopping is the new normal, don’t you agree?
Returns are a tricky thing in the e-commerce equation. Shoppers expect to be able to return items easily and free of charge. This is not only bad for online businesses’ pockets but also frustrating for both parties.
Augmented reality and 3D visualization are associated with less buying remorse, by enabling clients to have a good understanding of how the product can look alone and in a specific context.
Fewer returns mean happier customers. A good CX strengthens the business reputation and increases recurring customers. Not to mention the extra dollar saved in shipping costs.
5#Customer loyalty is hard to get
3D configuration creates the perfect opportunity for buyers and retailers to build more solid and trusted rapport. Product imagery only allows a certain level of engagement and personalization, which is why it’s not your best option.
Clients can have a product that is exactly what they need and they know where to get it. A good customer experience will positively impact brand reputation and, therefore, client loyalty.
6#eCommerce should welcome the metaverse
Current market reports are expecting AR value to be $50 billion by 2024. Does this surprise you? User experience, customization, and design are definitely improved with AR. People can really experience the products without having to leave the comfort of their homes.
AR is a market trend in 2022 for e-commerce and it will continue on being so in the following years. AR not only makes online shopping more enjoyable but also more accurate. That’s why companies are trying to integrate AR-related tech into their strategy.
Augmented and virtual reality go hand-in-hand, and they are fast becoming essential for e-businesses, particularly those that struggle more to sell online such as home furnishings, cosmetics, and footwear, which see a high return rate.
AR introduces a gamification quality to the buying experience where consumers are able to make more informed decisions about their purchases, feeling more confident about trusting a certain brand.
The future of online shopping lies in 3D configuration and AR, not in plane jane product imagery. It’s up to you to decide where you want your online business to be. Lead the path or expect to follow.
If you’d like to know more about how 3D configuration can elevate your eCommerce website, get in touch with Expivi’s team.