New app lets public rate services

CAXTON REPORTER

The power to connect to businesses and government departments and give feedback about products and services is now in the palm of people's hands.

South Africans can now rate or review brands and connect with businesses and government institutions using a newly-launched smartphone application by market intelligence firm Plus 94 Research.

The application, called Plus94it, provides the public with a platform to report on the products and services they receive, thus influencing the quality of these.

Responding to what he described as a “disconnect” between consumer expectations and the service experience, Plus 94 Research CEO Sifiso Falala said the app served to empower consumers to provide feedback to businesses quickly and easily, while enabling businesses to respond rapidly.

“The app will make manufacturers, retailers, service providers, government departments and State-owned companies more accessible to the public,” said Falala.

“We’ve seen astonishing growth in consumer power over the past few years, thanks to social media and online channels, and this app will take it one step further. Our app will share big data directly with businesses, resulting in better customer service for everyone.”

The app comes preloaded with many of South Africa’s biggest brands.

There are currently 500 companies listed in the app, including retailers, banks, parastatals and government departments. However, users are able to suggest companies to be included in the application.

The Plus94it app is available as a free download from the Play Store for android phones and the iTunes store for Apple users.