There is all of this hype about location based check-in’s (post to follow), but I am more curious why there is no focus on checking out. As there is more adoption in this space and people start taking advantage of the growing amount of rebates for mayorships, instant coupons and serving up ‘nearby specials’ in your competitors spaces, it is all about the mighty Check In. The future is full of integration of checkin via LBS, checking in for your flight, a hotel, or even a dinner reservation. I see my friends checking in everywhere, stores, bars, sporting events, you name it… but what about checking out? What if I am nearby and want to “go to there”? Most people check-in to places they are at for short periods of time, so what’s the likelihood of me catching them there?
Convenience: What if I could check out from my hotel room via Foursquare and my receipt was automatically emailed to me? (Apple does this really well when purchasing items at their store).
Making you feel special: What about checking out of a restaurant via Gowalla which triggered your check to your table (we all hate waiting for the check), your coat ready at the door, your valet to bring the car to the front or a taxi called, and an emailed survey allowing you to share your experience.
These are simple examples, but there seems to be just as much value with checking Out as with checking In. Would love to hear some of your ideas… share below.
