would any hosts be intersted?

[mrhostman17]

Hi,

I'm considering creating a site that would offer free remotely hosted chat support for websites (primarily webhosts). Basically you signup at the site and are provided a free account where all you have to do is paste some code on your site to offer live chat support. You can login to your account at this site and through the admin end configure multiple support agents and provide support to the customers/potential customers whom click on your button on your site. I already have the script for this. Do you think there would be hosts or other sites interested in this?

All input is greatly appreciated...

Thanks

[tranz]

Whats the motivation for a host to do so? There are tons of scripts out there that will do this.

You have to offer up something that others cant. Whats the need to come to you?
You have a solution but there isnt really a need. Find a need and then find a solution to fill it.

Also, how would you intend to profit from it? Whats your motivation?

Not being rude but asking questions that others will...

[mrhostman17]

great questions...

the motivation for a host --- you can just signup rather than install the script, it will have more/better options/features than most scripts, it will save the host $$$

i intend to profit via ads on the main site itself --- also by eventually offering outsources sales/support services to the users


does this make sense?

[Tamranda]

Just ask yourself the question, What would someone want to use your Scripts ?

As you said above, your script would have better options/features, but are they really that tempting that someone would like to use them instead of the already so famous & feature rich scripts available?

Also, Many hosts would rather like to host the Script on there own Servers.

btw, If you host the script on your own, make sure you maintain a very good uptime.

Also, If possible instead of the ads, try using some other strategies. For an example, People can register for your Live Chat Service ( 1 operator Acess ) for Free but if they would like to add more Operators, they will have to pay some Fee. Likewise, You can also provide outsourced support like Tripod & other companies are providing.

[RaDay]

If your looking into something similar to outsourcing, I'm afraid unless you can drasticlly undercut the costs for a webhost to maintain there own support system its not going to work out well

Speaking more as a client, then a host...Do I really want to think that my host can't install a script on his/her own server?

As tranz said, just being honest.


I think maybe if you provide some kind of network in support, in essence 3rd party support, then you may get some contracts with some of the larger webhosts.

Good luck!

[DanEthical]

Realistically, Fantastico has good support systems available for hosts to use for free such as Crafty Syntax etc. So, to be honest, your script would really need to beat it big time with something dynamic.

[Chicken]

Do I really want to think that my host can't install a script on his/her own server?
The client may not know that the live chat is hosted elsewhere, however the thought that a host couldn't install a support script on their own servers is a bit scary.
I'm considering creating a site that would offer free remotely hosted chat support for websites (primarily webhosts). Basically you signup at the site and are provided a free account where all you have to do is paste some code on your site to offer live chat support. You can login to your account at this site and through the admin end configure multiple support agents and provide support to the customers/potential customers whom click on your button on your site.
See below...
If you host the script on your own, make sure you maintain a very good uptime.
This is an understatement IMHO. Iy was the first thing that came to mind when I read your (mrhostman17) post. The way I see it...

Hosting providers are not your best target market for such a live support system. To some degree, it's selling ice to Eskimos. I do see a market for it, just not with hosting providers. Other small (and even larger ones) might be interested in such a service for their customers.

Uptime and security are two issues (concerns) you'd have to overcome. Having a live support chat service with uptime problems is just useless. Additionally, if companies are having their clients log in for support, privacy and security would be a big concern.

I don't think it is a bad idea, but to answer your question, I do not think hosts would be interested. I do think that other types of companies might be interested.

[ALLiNET]

We where useing Click Chat Sold and then swiched to PHP Live Support, The reason is becouse they server went few times down, What about if your server will go down, what users will do?

[TATHOSTING]

:wave: no offence but there are many free support/ chat scripts out there etc. I dont thing they will mind few mins installing.

I just have for my host company and walla.

[hosterschill]

there are way to many live support options out there, some of the free ones are better then the paid ones, i suggest finding a different business, thats just my input.

[dotDavid]

I would have to agree with Chicken on this one.
While it would work (for other industries) you're better off targetting a different market.

For example e-commerce sites. The types that 'may not' know how to install a script on their own and would much rather having a 3rd party hosting it.

Nonetheless good luck with the venture! :)