1. Smart Shopping at at Glance: Research

The Web has become the best resource for consumer information.

• Manufacturers' websites offer valuable information about their products, including data sheets you can print for reference.


• Use search engines like Google and Bing to locate product reviews.


• Read blog and forum postings to see what other consumers say about products. Many shopping sites now include customer reviews, providing a good indication whether a buyer is happy with her purchase.