TaskRabbit, that nifty service that lets you pass off your chores to someone else (at a price, naturally) finally unveiled its iPhone (News - Alert) app, giving people the power to delegate on the go.
Originally a Web-based service, TaskRabbit put users in contact with friendly, reliable people who can handle a bunch of your tasks, be it grocery shopping or taking Fido out for a walk. Users just post what they need and “TaskRabbits” will make offers (because no one does this for free) and help you get your stuff done.
No worries about tapping any crazy people – TaskRabbit performs the background checks for you. All TaskRabbits first apply online and, if selected, are added to the community based on location and skills. Second, TaskRabbits go through a video interview as well as a federal, criminal background check via Axiom.
The new iPhone app puts all of that tasking right at your fingertips. Users can manage their tasks on the run. Just like the Web version, the app lets you create a new task, monitor the progress of said task and even price a task. The added bonus of using the app is being able to add a voice recording or a photo of your requirements so your TaskRabbit knows exactly what to do.
The app also includes a GPS feature. One can browse location-based Tasks, which really marries the iPhone GPS feature and the TaskRabbit list of Tasks in any given local area.
Maps let you quickly identify locations for pickup/delivery without keying in any information. A handy pricing histogram will help you determine appropriate Task pricing.
Some examples of task ideas include donation pickup and drop off, IKEA pickup and assembly, shopping, dry cleaning pickup and drop off, last-second “I need it now!” shopping and even help for brides-to-be.
TaskRabbit is now active in New York City. The service is already live in San Francisco, Orange (News - Alert) County, Los Angeles and Boston.
Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO West 2011, taking place Sept. 13-15, 2011, in Austin, Texas. ITEXPO (News - Alert) offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. It's also where service providers learn how to profitably roll out the services their subscribers are clamoring for – and where resellers can learn about new growth opportunities. To register, click here.
Michelle Amodio is a TMCnet contributor. She has helped promote companies and groups in all industries, from technology to banking to professional roller derby. She holds a bachelor's degree in Writing from Endicott College and currently works in marketing, journalism, and public relations as a freelancer.
Edited by Jennifer Russell
