[datemapps]

Hey all,

I wanted to get some input on your thoughts on data scraping. Our mobile app, DateMapps is dependent on the content input of the users. Specifically, the app allows users to view date itineraries and filter by their dating preferences to select one that will be of most help to them on their next date. However, unlike web-based sites that are dependent on user-generated content, it is difficult to get enough content to populate the app without it being available on the app store. We've encouraged users to create date itineraries through using test flight, but the process unlike the app store where one can simply download and begin to use the app, is often cumbersome and sometimes a deterrent. With that in mind, I'm deciding between releasing the app to the app store with minimal content (slightly over 1,000 date itineraries) and allow for organic growth from there, or scrape data from sites like Yelp. My issue with releasing to the app store is having users not be satisfied with the minimal content out there and thereby view that at being unhelpful (understandably so). Going back to the scraping option, though I could just use Yelp's API, it's important that the content is relevant to date spots and activities. Additionally, the profiles related to content are also necessary. Aside from that, I don't want to sacrifice the quality of the content by going with the scraping route. I'd love to hear your thoughts, especially if you've been in a similar situation.