Anyone who has a website knows that it is all about getting people to stay on your website once they reach it and companies like SitePal are coming up with new and innovative ways in which to do just that. In the case of SitePal, a speaking avatar is being used. These avatars can be used on the home page of your website, on the frequently asked questions page, or wherever else you desire.
SitePal is developed by a company called OddCast. OddCast has been in the avatar creating business since 1999 and when it comes to avatars, they are one of the industry leaders. Their clients include the likes of McDonalds, JP Morgan and more and each month it is estimated that over one million OddCast avatars are created.
SitePal allows you to upload your own picture, or use the picture of someone else and in just a few short steps you have a talking life-like avatar to entertain and guide all who end up at your website. Here’s basically how it works:
1. Load up your picture.
2. Record your message using you voice or have one of SitePal’s voiceover talents record it for you.
3. Add images or video for the background.
4. Decide how and where to use your new avatar.
You decide how the avatar comes out. You can choose from an ultra-life looking avatar known as the PhotoFace Style, or choose more of a cartoonish looking avatar called the Illustrated Style. The style that works best ultimately depends on what kind of website you have and what message you want the avatar to put across.
SitePal has been specifically designed for anyone, regardless of computer skill, to be able to use their services. According to the company, even a novice can create a speaking avatar with great ease. However, SitePal also allows caters to the advanced users with API technology. SO, no matter how well you know computers, you should be able to sue their services effectively.
Depending on the amount of services you choose to go with, the price of SitePal will vary, but prices for speaking avatars begin at a mere $9.95 per month. You can also increase you package as you see fit once you get going. SitePal also allows you to try their services for free for a full 15 days before you have to give them any money.
If there is one drawback with SitePal it is that they do not have a toll free number to call should you run into any trouble. However, they do offer a complete support forum with contact via e-mail and a frequently asked questions service featuring one of their avatars.
SitePal’s website is full of many different success stories of actual customers who have used their service. If you are thinking about using their services, you may want to take a look and see how others have benefited from using avatars. Of course, you should also conduct some independent research on your own as well to help you better formulate your decision on whether to use SitePal or not.
