golocal – another ratings portal startup
26 Feb. 2008 | Author: At the beginning of March 2008 it should go live – this is the planned date of the launch of the new local ratings platform “golocal”, a product from the makers of online directory GoYellow.
Originally planned for Autumn 2007, the initial launch target was referred to in a presentation of the financials for GoYellow Media AG for 2.Q. 2007. The portal was first conceived as a form of city site, with general/current information, search and some interactivity. In a later presentation in 3.Q. 2007, the product strategy had evolved and its start was shifted to 1.Q. 2008. The planned launch release version of golocal was then clearly aimed at the mobile market, providing its users with local information, including ratings of commercial undertakings and also offering other interactive options.
All in all, the latter strategy of GoYellow was that guiding its release version. However the emphasis at present is clearly on ratings and community, allowing golocal users both at home and mobile-based to benefit from its features. Functionally, the user is able to summon all-important local information as well as ratings from the immediate vicinity. Addresses, news, events, day-trip tips and much more is now presented on a very easily read map. If required, one can even ask direct neighbors for assistance. And users are easily able to post their own ratings on the portal. The portal is clearly positioned to be included in the Web 2.0 branch – their slogan is roughly translated as “golocal becomes THE active local community, with many personal recommendations, advice and interactive possibilities.”
We await with interest, the rite of passage of golocal, and whether it is able to hold its own, against competitors such as Qype, et al.
golocal – another ratings portal startup
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