James Delahunty
5 Nov 2013 13:17
Google has launched Helpouts to 'help people help each other' using the convenience of the web and video conferencing.
The goal is to make it possible to find help for almost any problem you might have like how to fix your garage door, or how to remove a computer virus; or it might be guidance completing a project, like building a deck, or to learn to have a basic conversation in a different language.
With Helpouts, you can choose who you get help from based on their qualifications, their availability, their price, their ratings and reviews. Brands already touted by Google as getting involved include Sephora, One Medical, Weight Watchers, Redbeacon (a Home Depot company), and Rosetta Stone.
Once you're in a Helpout, you can do more than just talk--you can share your computer screen, collaboratively edit a presentation, or record your Helpout.
Putting its money where its mouth is, Google offers a full money back guarantee if your experience lags your expectations.
For Now, Google Helpouts is starting small with only a few categories, but swing by helpouts.google.com and see what's available anyway.