Last year I decided to buy my boyfriend a digital camera for his birthday. Rather than tromping through a bunch of different stores, I figured I’d leisurely make my (informed) decision from the comfort of my couch. But, as I started clicking through the tech-related Web sites, I could feel my enthusiasm turning to panic. Between the ISO’s, Megapixels and image processors, all the cameras started looking the same, separated only by price. In the end, I did what any reasonable tech novice would do - I tromped through a bunch of different stores.TigerDirect.com aims to ease this type of online buying experience with a series of Internet videos that recreate the experience you’d have at your local store. General information videos walk buyers through what to look for when buying a product, break down the tech specs into understandable language and show the purpose of all those dials and buttons that most of us have never used. More specific Web videos feature TigerDirect.com’s best sellers and have a “salesperson” that takes you through the individual product’s features and benefits.

By using online video, TigerDirect.com is able to literally bring the salespeople to the customer. They anticipate shopper’s questions and answer them in an easy-to-understand manner, which means that shoppers don’t have to leave their Web site (or chairs) to find answers or ultimately, make their purchase.

Similarly, Buy.com demystifies the tech buying experience with their BuyTV segments. Designed as an online news magazine, their hosts do everything from rate movies and CDs to teach you the best way to network your home for wireless Internet. They feature “Top Ten” segments, which highlight the best products in specific categories, such as electronics, cameras, and even kid’s toys. They also give a rundown of specific products, offering insight into why a product may or may not be the right choice.

With friendly hosts and access to large tech events, Buy.com is able to use Web video to create rapport and trust. They give buyers the inside scoop on technology trends and new products and firmly establish themselves as technology experts. And because Internet video is easy to produce, they can meet customer’s needs by looking at products in different ways, for example: where it ranks on their Top Ten list, individual features and manufacturer demonstrations.

In both cases, TigerDirect.com and Buy.com have tapped into a way to make money from online videos by adding value to their customer’s experience and making it easier for shoppers to make informed decisions quickly. Shoppers are more inclined to become buyers thanks to short, informative Web videos. And I’ve got to say, that is a lot easier and more attractive than running around to every store in town.

Are you using Web video to help your customers make decisions? Tell us all about it in our comments section.