I just have to say, that in this day and age of cold, calculated, cost cutting and crappy customer service, DreamHost chat support is outstanding.

First and foremost, it’s effective.  I just migrated my blog from joonsookim.com/blog to blog.joonsookim.com.  I’m not particularly technically savvy — plus, I’m told I can be . . . well, high-maintenance — so I needed a lot of hand-holding.  I just checked my records, and I logged seven (7!) chats with DreamHost technical support over the past few days.  With a few minor exceptions, my questions were answered, and my blog now has been migrated safely and successfully.

Second, it’s cordial.  A lot of companies can’t master this basic requirement.  Surely, it’s hard to discern tone in an instant message chat, but as best I could tell the seven different representatives with whom I chatted were very patient and polite.

Third, it’s easy.  One click launches a Web-based chat window, and moments later you’re describing your problem to the representative.  Sometimes, the response times are delayed — I suspect they must manage quite a few support contacts concurrently — but not a problem if you’re multi-tasking yourself while awaiting each response.

Last and best of all, DreamHost clearly prides itself on customer support — it’s actually part of their value proposition to customers.  The home page advertises 24/7 technical support, and, once logged in, the chat button is prominent.  DreamHost, unlike it seems most Web companies these days, isn’t trying to avoid your contact!

DreamHost chat support front and center!

I started with DreamHost at the recommendation of a friend three years ago and remain a satisfied customer.  I’ve registered my domains with GoDaddy, host them on DreamHost with its easy, one-click WordPress installations and upgrades, and couldn’t be much happier.