Online retailers of all shapes and sizes are improving their usability and customer service, a Shop.org study revealed yesterday. Research indicates that today’s savvier online shopper requires a more consistently positive experience than ever before, and the eCommerce industry seems to be stepping up to the challenge. WebProNews.com reports that 88 percent of online retailers are planning to improve their product page content, adding alternative and lifestyle images along with customer ratings and reviews. Homepages are also receiving upgrades, as more retailers add “what’s new” and “top seller” sections while improving site usability with dropdown menus and rollover lists.

Best of all, many online retailers are enhancing customer service, with 33 percent of businesses investing in a live chat system and 53 percent reevaluating and improving their checkout process.

“Today’s online shopper is extremely web-savvy and expects more than ever, forcing retailers to raise the stakes,” said Scott Silverman, executive director of Shop.org, “Companies are investing in new features that will keep customers coming back, and homepages everywhere are getting a major facelift.”

Do you think online retailers are focusing on the best areas for web-wide improvement? Has your business recently upgraded their content and usability? Let us know in the comments.