Millions of Chinese consumers are buying and renovating a home for the first time. They need help managing their home renovation process, which is usually expensive and very complex. They need an independent, trusted source of information and advice so that they can more easily navigate the process, and determine what to buy and where to buy it. Unfortunately, information and advice from manufacturers, service providers and retailers is inherently biased. Existing “home design” websites also cater to these commercial interests, and are therefore not reliable.

CHINADECO represents a fresh approach. Founded in 2005, CHINADECO gives Chinese consumers honest, independent information and advice about home renovation. All information is free to consumers; CHINADECO does not sell renovation products or services. Instead, CHINADECO is supported by advertising from companies outside of the renovation industry, such as financial services, consumer electronics, and real estate investment opportunities. This unusual approach preserves the site's independence and credibility.

CHINADECO gives Chinese consumers:

• Up-to-date product prices from competing sources, sales promotion information, and market share analysis based on anonymous calls, visits to retail outlets, and alliances with government information agencies. CHINADECO currently provides this information for thousands of building materials (paint and flooring) and major appliances (air conditioners, washing machines, water heaters, and refrigerators). These databases are the largest in China and are growing constantly.
• Independent testing of building materials, both related to their practical performance and to their environmental impact. Testing is conducted in CHINADECO's own labs as well as by independent, professional testing organizations in China and overseas.
• Independent, ombudsman facilitation of complaints against renovation contractors, for free. This service is initially focused in Beijing and will expand nationally.
• A centralized, searchable database of up-coming “group buying” activities.
• The collation and synthesis of detailed consumer feedback about building materials, service providers, and major appliances.
• Constantly-updated blogs from independent experts, including lawyers, construction quality experts, and indoor air quality experts.
• The latest information about renovation trends, decoration ideas, and fashionable furniture.
• The most-complete database of retailers and renovation companies in Beijing , complete with interactive maps. Other major cities will be added soon.

CHINADECO is a clear example of Web 2.0 innovation in China . Much of the content is provided via video and interactive Flash reports, which make the site highly engaging and easy to use. In addition to this “YouTube-like” approach, CHINADECO also blends professional analysis with extensive consumer-generated content. Finally, CHINADECO is built upon the XOOPS content management system, which enjoys wide-spread support within China 's open-source development community.

CHINADECO is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Blue Bamboo Ventures in Beijing . Web site visitors are welcome to visit our offices by making a prior appointment. For contact information please visit www.bluebambooventures.com.