MySpace and Citysearch have teamed up to create MySpace Local, a location-based business database that will allow MySpace users to submit reviews of shops, restaurants and lounges. The service seems to aim squarely at sites like Yelp.com that allow users to search for restaurants by neighborhood and cuisine.
MySpace Local will leverage Citysearch's considerable existing database of businesses. And since Citysearch has also worked Facebook Connect on its site, it looks like Citysearch will make out like a bandit from its foray into social networking.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Location-based Business Databases
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop a more comprehensive and user-friendly location-based business database to compete with MySpace Local and Yelp.com.
- User-generated Reviews
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a platform that incentivizes users to submit high-quality reviews, providing a more reliable alternative to MySpace Local and Yelp.com.
- Social Network Integration
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate social networking features with existing business directories to enhance user engagement and attract a wider user base away from the likes of MySpace Local and Yelp.com.
Where This Applies
- Online Business Directories
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop an online business directory that offers unique features and functionalities to compete with MySpace Local and Yelp.com.
- Social Networking Platforms
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Build a social networking platform specifically tailored to connect users with local businesses, providing a more targeted and personalized experience compared to MySpace Local and Yelp.com.
- Review Management Solutions
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a comprehensive review management solution that helps businesses gather and analyze customer feedback, offering a valuable alternative to MySpace Local and Yelp.com.
