Friday (12/20/07) I saw a typical TechCrunch spiel about a company named “Shangby.” I did a little investigating, and came to the conclusion that their idea and execution is totally UBER and deserving of further study and/or emulation by Purdue University entrepreneurship students. Their web site here: states:

“ABOUT US

After traveling to Shanghai, and seeing Americans fill suitcases full of purchases, we decided to start a company that makes it easy for all people to shop there, without the travel costs. Through our revolutionary video shopping concept, we broadcast a live video feed from different retail stores in Shanghai. Those shopping with us watch the video feed at their computer, while interacting directly with the retailer and our shopping agent, Nina in a conference call. We have also made it possible for people to “buy anytime” through our secure e-commerce website. ”

<– left is your shopping host Nina. At the bottom is a really interesting YouTube video about the startup (about 10 minutes). Spring 08 students WILL be introduced to this concept! Hank