As we all know the hottest social networking tool on the block right now is FourSquare… seemingly purposeless; users run around the city checking in wherever they go. The goal? To earn badges, connect with strangers, pick-up tips, etc… I think we all know this by now.
While the concept of FourSquare is great (geo-location, social networking, sales driver) the question remains; “why do people care?” – other than for glaring narcissistic reasons. Another player has recently emerged (not gowalla) with a purpose great than “being a game”. It’s called CauseWorld.
This app has much more of a direct purpose and it’s part advertising - part philanthropic (which I love). Every time you check in, you earn Karma Points. Those points can then be used to donate to real world charities. Furthermore, you can scan UPCs of products from Kraft, P&G & other CPGs to earn points, these then lead to coupons… you get the point.
Either way, here’s an article explaining more: http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/causeworld_checking_in_for_charity.php#more
I like it. Would love to partner with CauseWorld.
