| I love the idea, however there is a fundamental problem with the way we ask for things that must be overcome: Only those that think they deserve what they're asking for will ask. The problem boils down to self worth. If I truly believe that I am worth (a million dollars|to be funded|a beer|a lesson in rails), then I will get it [1]. In this sense, this tool does a great job of connecting a need to those who can possibly fulfill that need within your social network. Those without the confidence to ask will be left in the dust. They will see this as another divisive tool between the haves and have nots. If you can solve the problem of self worth, that is a billion dollar problem [2]. Its not a problem many of us in the start-up world consider. I think you must have a relatively high enough self worth to with stand failure and keep self promoting a start-ups. We all deserve the very best in life. Some of the unhappy people I know are afraid to ask for the very best, or just don't think they deserve it. I think your tool is a step in the right direction. [1] Within reason. If I ask for a trillion and believe I'm worth a trillion, I will get what I asked for. That is, my peer group will let me know that is silly. [2] Also cooler than a million dollar problem |
Limit the number of "requests" and/or dollar amount a person can submit. If a user invites a friend who then signs up and/or makes a request, the original user could earn more requests. This would provide an incentive for the "high self worth" people to encourage their lower-self worth friends to ask for things.
Just a thought...