Todd Lyden

I was at a local eatery today and noticed for the first time in a while: a comment card! Seriously. I can't remember the last time I saw one, but it struck me. As I was looking at it, I had already broken out my phone and was checking in via Yelp and Foursquare. The comment card was standard pap. Rate the service, food, cleanliness. Then it committed a cardinal sin, it asked for an ADDRESS? It was a postcard, which I supposed makes sense for most restaurants, but why NOT use the internet to your advantage? I suppose I could have taken the card and actually mailed (what are the odds?). Three problems with them. 1. Nothing for me 2. Could take forever, if at all. 3. Cost

You got Yelp, Urbanspoon, and many other review sites that are offering a way to lodge a complaint or place a nice compliment about a service provider. I've got to say I was impressed with Gripe as a new entry in the "review" niche of apps/sites. Their blog highlights the effectiveness of the idea: One complaint got turned around fast. This is ENCOURAGING companies to take control of the word of mouth found on Facebook and Twitter! It is also a great way to measure your "influence." Look at Whole Foods on Gripe: The other thing I like about this system is that while it is mostly complaints it also allows for compliments. I posted one and look at how many people, conceivably (apparently) would see it: That's right- half a million people! Unlikely, but OK- it at least gives you the idea. They are trying to distinguish themselves from the review sites by resolving complaints as a better business bureau would and considering the problems they are having latel...