Location-based Social Media Services: iCabbiContinuing in the theme of innovative uses of location-based social media, one application that illustrates yet another creative use of this technology is the iCabbi application. The app functions by allowing users to virtually call the closest taxi in their area, tracking its progress in real time and sends useful information along the way. Utilising an interactive real time map, users simply have to click on the nearest taxi icon to virtually hail a ride, and a system of integrated processes take care of the rest. Upon selection, a wealth of information is sent to the user, including driver and car details, a recording of the journey and a nifty security option that informs to separate email accounts of the journey.Like many others, the success of this application is rooted in its ability to add an increased level of quality and convenience to the user's lifestyle. But several key features put iCabbi a cut above the rest - primarily, its focus on enhancing user convenience through a very quick and efficient service. By eliminating the need to check multiple taxi offices for availability, pricing and timing, users can be sure that at the click of a button they are getting a taxi in the shortest time possible. The fact that it caters specially well to women, who may feel uncomfortable travelling alone late at night, through its safety feature, is yet another reason why this app is experiencing so much popularity. While this application is still in its initial growth phase, the potential is there for it to spread like wide fire throughout the UK, with the end result being a nation wide taxi application. The makers of iCabbi have a 2011 objective of extending their virtual taxi service to provide nationwide coverage by the end of the year. With a Blackberry and Nokia app currently in the works, it won't be long before everyone with a smart phone will be able to take advantage of this exciting, new method of sorting out your transport. But the benefits of applied location-based social media services don't stop at user convenience and lifestyle quality. The iCabbi application allows consumers with hearing or speech difficulties to be able to book a taxi without the trouble that would accompany a more traditional approach. The fact that the app will create ten new jobs in Ireland in 2011 alone just adds to its glowing reputation. Throw in an ability to decrease carbon emissions by 20% thanks to the optimised system of contacting the nearest taxi, and its has environmental benefits too! |
The Royal Golf Club
GIFT
Ryan Biz Solutions
Gulf Leisure
Design Hub
