ConsumerSmart

We believe an informed consumer is both a better customer and a better-protected consumer.

The Consumer Education Centre proposes to be a one-stop shop for unbiased consumer how-to-buy information.

Tell us what you think. Contact us here with your thoughts.

Watch this page for an online survey, coming soon.

The Problem
In today's increasingly hectic world consumers find it more difficult to shop with confidence that they are getting good value for their dollar. Never before has the marketplace offered such a bewildering array of product choices from so many companies ... all bombarding the consumer with super-sales, interest-free specials, and everyday low pricing. And now there's shopping on the Internet. Who does a consumer turn to for advice?

At the same time, business finds understanding and anticipating consumer needs and issues to be increasingly difficult. Consumers are more cynical, more vocal, and harder to understand and please than ever before. This makes it increasingly difficult for business to plan.

The Solution
Using the power of the Internet, and with the endorsement of at least one consumer advocacy organization, the Canadian Consumer Information Centre will bring consumers together in one on-line community where they can find information on the important products and services they want to buy, and share information and tips with their fellow consumers. It's a place for them to discuss the important consumer issues of the day, like bank mergers, and learn about the latest in consumer fraud. It's a place they can ask questions and share answers. It's a place consumers can make their feelings known through discussion rooms, e-mail and on-line surveys. In future, the site will include providing how-to-buy and fraud information to ensure consumers have access to the most important information.

What's inside the site?
How-To-Buy Information
Tips on buying products and services. Consumers can learn what the experts know, and be protected.

Have Your Say
Join a discussion -- or start one. Give advice to fellow consumers. Comment on a news story.

On-line Survey
What do consumers think about important marketplace issues, like bank legislation changes?

Consumer Help
We can show consumers where to go and what to say to help resolve an issue.

Important Consumer Links
Both educational and fun.

Consumer Alert!
Consumer scams, proposed legislation and notification of other important marketplace issues.

Push Technology
Consumers subscribe to receive notification of consumer scams, interesting discussions and major site changes.

We'd like your input on this idea. Please take a moment now to tell us what you think of the idea here.

Thank you!