[sixQuarks]

Why don't you just go to Union Square and ask people if they'll test your app in exchange for a free coffee. There are TONS of tourists around there, and a lot of them are just sitting around after a long day on their feet.

[grishick]

Thanks for the advice. I think, we'll do that too. Personally, I don't like when people come up to me in the street and demand attention, but maybe that's just me.

[sixQuarks]

ahh, you gotta get over that. Don't project your personal views on others, there's plenty of people that would enjoy this - I know I would.

If you're going to be successful as a startup, you gotta hustle. I did door-to-door sales one summer and do you know which people turned out to be the nicest? The ones with "No solicitation" signs on their door. I kid you not. Just go and do it.

[proexploit]

I think there's plenty of people who would not like this as well and the current method they're experimenting with is unique in that only people who want to test the app will agree to get a ride. If someone does approach me in public and ask for my time, I'm not going to think too favorably of the experience.

[sixQuarks]

yeah, but giving rides from SFO is time consuming and costly. Gas could easily cost you $10, not to mention an hour of time. There's easier ways to do it, and as a startup, you need to be as resourceful as possible.

[sergep]

We'll give union square a try as well, but this free ride & test idea seems to work well so far. A good test of the app takes 45-60 minutes, which works well for an average ride of 30-45 mins. The time wasted on finding candidates is minimal - few postings and replying to email.