datemapps

Hey all,

I wanted to get some input on your thoughts on data scraping. Our mobile app, DateMapps is dependent on the content input of the users. Specifically, the app allows users to view date itineraries and filter by their dating preferences to select one that will be of most help to them on their next date. However, unlike web-based sites that are dependent on user-generated content, it is difficult to get enough content to populate the app without it being available on the app store. We've encouraged users to create date itineraries through using test flight, but the process unlike the app store where one can simply download and begin to use the app, is often cumbersome and sometimes a deterrent. With that in mind, I'm deciding between releasing the app to the app store with minimal content (slightly over 1,000 date itineraries) and allow for organic growth from there, or scrape data from sites like Yelp. My issue with releasing to the app store is having users not be satisfied with the minimal content out there and thereby view that at being unhelpful (understandably so). Going back to the scraping option, though I could just use Yelp's API, it's important that the content is relevant to date spots and activities. Additionally, the profiles related to content are also necessary. Aside from that, I don't want to sacrifice the quality of the content by going with the scraping route. I'd love to hear your thoughts, especially if you've been in a similar situation.

To add, receiving high ratings from enough members enables him to be featured as Member of the week for example, enticing these creators to compete

The users creating these itineraries, who are essential the content creators, receive star ratings and comments based on how well that particular itinerary was for a user who decided to try the itinerary. (I.e John creates a 1st date itinerary. Mike, who is looking to plan a 1st date selects John's 1st itinerary. After going on that date, Mike really enjoyed it and then goes back to give John a 4 star rating and comment on how great his itinerary was). For future iterations badges an points may be an option.

Powatom,

We're pulling APIs from Foursquare but for the most part we really want to crowdsource original content from people who can provide value in the industry we're in. We just need enough info to get the ball rolling.

Hey everybody, I'm working on pre-populating content for my mobile app, DateMapps. The app is user dependent and is worthless without user-generated content. I don't want to and won't release the app until the app has enough valuable content that other users will be able to benefit from. What are some ways to obtain such content. My ideas so far was to (1) reach out to my landing page email list and ask them to help out with this task (2) Ask beta testers to help with creating original content when testing the mobile app (3) Create a meetup group and get the members to assist with creating the content.

What are your thoughts on these strategies? If you have any other suggestions, comments, or recommendations, gladly bring them my way. Thanks guys.

Fouad, Founder DateMapps http://datemapps.com

To add, receiving high ratings from enough members enables him to be featured as Member of the week for example, enticing these creators to compete

The users creating these itineraries, who are essential the content creators, receive star ratings and comments based on how well that particular itinerary was for a user who decided to try the itinerary. (I.e John creates a 1st date itinerary. Mike, who is looking to plan a 1st date selects John's 1st itinerary. After going on that date, Mike really enjoyed it and then goes back to give John a 4 star rating and comment on how great his itinerary was). For future iterations badges an points may be an option.