by Jocelyn M. Goode, Founder FAIM Magazine
June 1, 2009
Who would guess that a catching a cab is the next new trend in saving money? The founder of Cabcorner.com, Jonathan McKinney did. He took his concept of coordinated cab-sharing and turned it into an urban commodity.
Cabcorner.com is a website where people needing a cab can set-up rides at select "hot spots", which are usually in front of stores, restaurants and coffee shops in the greater NYC area.The website also allows patrons to join in on rides scheduled by other users traveling in similar directions, from similar areas at similar times.
Another benefit to Cabcorner.com is that it reduces what John calls "carbon footprints", the toxins released in the air when 12,500 NYC yellow cabs transport single riders in 70% of their rides. The service provides benefits to the air, the drivers and the riders, easily making it the next best thing.
Cabcorner.com's evolvement from idea to reality is just as inspiring as the concept. John McKinney conceived of the internet service while waiting for a cab yet wishing that he didn't have to use all the money in his pocket to afford the ride. He thought of a way where people going in the same direction at the same time, could link up to split a cab.
Once he had the idea down, he shared it with friends for feedback and sought the affirmation from people he respected. Friends supported the idea of Cabcorner.com and shared their contacts with John creating what he calls "collective intelligence". The premise of the concept is the more people that participate, the cheaper the service will cost and the better the quality will be.
Following a recommendation from a friend, John linked with a college graduate who had specialized skills relevant to building a website like Cabcorner.com. Together they realized the idea into fruition.
Cabcorner.com has been present on facebook.com and other social networking sites since May 16, 2009. It has yet to be released to the general public, however it will launch a marketing campaign in the months to come to increase awareness of the cab-sharing benefits.
Those interested in learning more may visit the website and schedule rides to test drive the service. For more information about Cabcorner.com visit www.cabcorner.com or email Jonathan McKinney at cabcorner@gmail.com
Very hot idea! The concept seems very similar to hopstop.com but for cabs.
ReplyDeleteKeep pushing forward Jonathan.
- Hasan
Thanks for the support, Hasan.
ReplyDeletePretty impressive post. I just came across your site and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your opinions. Any way I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon. Share a Cab
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