With online networks and a plethora of desktop applications connecting people across the world, there's no reason why an online store can't be better integrated into all of these platforms. That's what ShopIt thinks, at least. Given the freedom for communication that the Web has allowed, the ability to build on such freedom has allowed for the growth of Web-based banking, dating, and shopping. It's expected for these forms of communication and commerce to want to go where the people are. It's the nature of the beast, and a catalyst for the ideal meeting of supply and demand.
ShopIt's new AOL instant messenger application has widened the distribution channels for its users, enabling them to sell products directly through AIM chat. The majority of ShopIt's service is available as an AIM application, giving users the option to search and shop directly from within their AIM desktop tool, without having to open their browser at all.
The biggest benefit of an AIM app is the ability to share that integration with one's buddy list. It's a word-of-mouth marketing tool that AOL is providing to developers, finding better ways to get inside of people's conversations. This mountain is also being climbed by other IM platforms, like Meebo.