What can you use the app for?
Payoff is a goal management tool that helps users pay off debt and save up for anything they want. The user creates an account and links their financial accounts to begin monitoring their spending. The application awards the user with badges to encourage progress in the right direction. Cash prizes are sometimes awarded as well. The user sets their financial goals, which can be anything from paying off a long term debt to saving a set amount of money or starting a business. Progress is tracked through Payoff. The site also lets users see how much they spend at specific businesses to help encourage better spending habits. For example, the user can see how much they have spent at Starbucks buying coffee and use that information to make changes if needed.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Payoff was founded in 2009 by Scott Saunders and Eden Warner. The application has received a number of positive comments and reviews for its user friendly design and practical function. The application is intended to offer an easy way to manage debt and financial goals so users are more inclined to keep going and meeting those goals. The application provides some motivation through badges and surprise rewards and gives users a place to organize their accounts and spending data.

What are the differences to other apps?
The internet provides many ways to track personal finances and goals. Payoff is unique because it provides a user friendly interface that allows anyone to easily manage and sort their financial data. This includes the one click spending view that lets the user see how much they have spent at one location or business. Even though the main purpose of Payoff isn’t unique, the way the application approaches the task is.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Payoff keeps things clean and upbeat with a multi-tone blue color scheme. Whimsical clouds glide by on the homepage, enhancing the friendly nature of the application. The design is user friendly and includes a number of fun, playful visual elements that keeps the process of managing finances as interesting and easy as possible. Payoff is a breath of fresh air compared to the more utilitarian or professional-focused financial application designs.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can create a Payoff account by clicking the orange “Sign Up Free!” button in the upper, right portion of the homepage. A dark blue “Connect” button is also available for users who want to sign up through Facebook. Those who go with the orange button are asked to provide a username, email address and password. The user automatically earns the V.I.P. award for signing up and is given instant access to their dashboard.

What does it cost to use the application?
Payoff invites all internet users to try its services for nothing. There are no subscription fees and anyone can create an account for free. The site doesn’t handle any transactions so there are no transaction fees. The user is not required to make any purchases or commit to anything to maintain account access. Free is definitely a great price to encourage users to try Payoff whens saving up or paying off a debt.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Payoff is a helpful resource for individuals and families that need an easy way to plan and meet financial goals. The application is intended for the average person rather than businesses and professionals. Users can set any financial goals they want and monitor them through Payoff. The service customizes to the user’s personal financial needs. The interface is easy to understand and provides a number of helpful features to make the process as painless as possible.

What can you use the app for?
Maxxo is a cloud-based file sharing service that lets the user keep all their files in one easily accessible location. Along with storing files, Maxxo also provides users with a simple way to share files online. The user can drag and drop files and select recipients without attempting to create a new email and file attachment. Files synchronize automatically using Maxxo. The user can select specific folders and choose which devices they wish to synchronize with and the application handles the rest. The application works as a convenient way to share files as well as a safe backup solution to protect the user’s photos, documents, audio files and any other type of file. The user is given access to a secure website that allows them to modify files or set up synchronization.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Maxxo was founded in July of 2011 and is based in Croatia. The application is designed to offer a simple way to save and retrieve files. Users may find the convenient collaboration potential makes Maxxo an attractive solution for professional situations. The application currently serves a wide range of users, from casual individuals looking for an inexpensive and secure way to protect files to professionals that need to share images for projects.

What are the differences to other apps?
Maxxo was founded in July of 2011 and is based in Croatia. The application is designed to offer a simple way to save and retrieve files. Users may find the convenient collaboration potential makes Maxxo an attractive solution for professional situations. The application currently serves a wide range of users, from casual individuals looking for an inexpensive and secure way to protect files to professionals that need to share images for projects.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Maxxo entices new users with a sleek, smooth design. The website presents a taste of the modern interface, which favors a dark background and seamless animations. Stylish graphics create a highly detailed environment without making the page look cluttered or overwhelming. Users can enjoy an overall positive experience because of the clean layout, open space and carefully created icons in green hues. Maxxo sets high expectations with its tech savvy design.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can create a Maxxo account by clicking the “Plans and Pricing” button in the upper, right hand corner of the homepage. After selecting the “Register” button that corresponds with the user’s desired plan, the user is presented with the registration form. New users will be advised that Maxxo is not officially available for public use. The user can enter their email address to sign up for notification when the service goes public.

What does it cost to use the application?
Maxxo offers users four subscription plans to choose from. The first is a free plan that includes 5 GBs of storage space, 1 GB receiving limit, unlimited file sending, security features, online backups, remote file access and the ability to send and receive files. The next plan costs $9.99 and includes 50 GBs of storage space, 50 GB receiving limit and dedicated bandwidth. The next tier up costs $19.99 and includes 100 GBs of storage space and a 150 GB receiving limit. The high end plan costs $29.99 and includes 200 GBs of storage space and a 300 GB receiving limit.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Maxxo offers users four subscription plans to choose from. The first is a free plan that includes 5 GBs of storage space, 1 GB receiving limit, unlimited file sending, security features, online backups, remote file access and the ability to send and receive files. The next plan costs $9.99 and includes 50 GBs of storage space, 50 GB receiving limit and dedicated bandwidth. The next tier up costs $19.99 and includes 100 GBs of storage space and a 150 GB receiving limit. The high end plan costs $29.99 and includes 200 GBs of storage space and a 300 GB receiving limit.

What can you use the app for?
Localist is an online calendar manager intended for schools, companies and other groups. The application helps users grow traffic and provides convenient integration with third party networks including Twitter, Facebook and FourSquare. White label features are available so the user’s site is branded in a way their users will identify. Automated curation ensures that the users event listings remain accurate and relevant. Single sign on is supported along with mobile access. Users can add widgets to embed content to other websites and blogs. Users can create and send newsletters to keep their audience updated. Users can add reviews, photographs and comments and synchronize their Localist calendars with Google Calendars, Outlook, iCal and RSS. Additional features include group events calendars, movie listings and trending intelligence.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Localist was founded by Mykel Nahorniak and Nate Mook in July of 2010. The application boasts an impressive list of clients, including Liberty University, DePaul University, Cornell University, Notre Dame of Maryland University, the University of Rhode Island and Hampton University. The application has become a popular option, although some students may not realize they are using it thanks to the professional white label features. The current version includes many features and notes a 5% growth in student retention among schools using it.

What are the differences to other apps?
Localist is a unique application because it provides a convenient way to manage and promote events and activities for organizations and schools. The application is focused more on educational institutions however its services could be utilized elsewhere. Users can build a branded online resource that lets students stay aware of upcoming events and activities. The application also helps modernize some schools by making it easy for students to share information on social networks like Facebook.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Localist offers a professional interface and customization that gives users an experience optimized for their purposes. Schools and organizations can launch functional information hubs complete with their color scheme and logo, allowing Localist to blend seamlessly with the user’s branding. The design looks very modern, with simple buttons and a clutter free design. Localist helps schools and organizations create online calendars and information resources that they are proud to share with their audiences.

How does the registration process work?
To get started, users can try a demo version of Localist. New users can click the blue “Try a Demo” button found in the upper, right hand corner of the Localist homepage. A form will appear at the top of the page and ask the user to provide a full name, phone number, email address and organization name. After submitting the form, the user is advised that Localist will be in touch soon. The site does not specify if they will call or email. Giving the user an option would be a nice touch.

What does it cost to use the application?
New users must contact Localist to learn more about pricing for their organization or school. The website does not provide any pricing information and there is little to go on available to visitors. Users can sign up for a demo for free, but will have to wait for a contact from a Localist representative to learn more about how much they can expect to pay for the service. Prices may vary based on the needs of the user’s organization.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Localist is intended primarily for schools and similar organizations. Users can build web pages that provide a single resource for students and others to stay aware of upcoming events and activities. The application offers a number of customization options, including white label features. Users can create a social information hub that allows their audience to share information on social networks. The application offers a demo version, although pricing is not shown and may make or break the application for some organizations.

What can you use the app for?
LedgerDocs is an online document management tool designed for accountants, bookkeepers and business owners. Users can manage all their documents in one place, regardless of document type. This allows users to sort invoices, deposit slips, check stubs, bank statements and other documents using LedgerDocs. Users can organize their documents into customized folders and subfolders. The application is mobile-friendly and lets users send receipts from their iPhone, BlackBerry, Android phone or by email. Notes can be added and shared with accountants and bookkeepers. Documents can be searched and accessed later. Users can add and remove privacy permissions to others and work with the confidence of daily backups. When viewing documents, the user can rotate and zoom in to make reading easier. Additional features include a tagging system and 256 bit SSL security.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
LedgerDocs was founded in October of 2011. The application was designed for business owners and the people they rely on to manage their professional finances. LedgerDocs has received recognition for its convenient features and the way it streamlines the way business owners communicate with their accountants and bookkeepers. KillerStartups mentions the application along with a handful of other website, praising LedgerDocs for its useful functions and practical features.

What are the differences to other apps?
LedgerDocs stands out because it gives business owners and the financial professionals they work with an easy way to interact and stay up to date. Users can access the documents they need, such as invoices and bank statements, online and in one place. The application also makes viewing documents that have been scanned easier with zoom and rotate features so users can inspect text without straining their eyes on a poor quality scan image.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
LedgerDocs maintains a professional design with lots of personality. The site utilizes a light color scheme with hints of red and blue that give the design much needed variety. The interface is clean and user friendly so anyone can easily find what they need quickly. The application is designed for both financial professionals and those who hire them, making it versatile in terms of difficulty level. LedgerDocs has created a professional setting that is also user friendly and personable.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can get started with LedgerDocs by clicking the red “Try it for Free” button found along the lower, right side of the homepage. The registration form on the following page asks for a first and last name, email address, country location and username. After submitting the form, the user is asked to check their email inbox for an instruction email that must be accessed before the user can sign in to their new LedgerDocs account.

What does it cost to use the application?
New users can try LedgerDocs for free for 60 days. The websites FAQ page advises users that the cost will be based on a monthly subscription. All users can try the application for free but must wait to find out more about the ongoing pricing requirements. LedgerDocs is still in beta and pricing has not yet been finalized by its creators. The FAQ page states that once pricing is finalized it will be displayed on the site.

Who would you recommend the application to?
LedgerDocs is intended specifically for business owners and the financial professionals they hire. The application is user friendly to accommodate each type of user. The site has not provided pricing details, which can make a huge difference to a smaller business or startup. The features appear to be geared more towards small to medium size businesses, but the pricing will confirm who will find LedgerDocs appealing and who may not.

What can you use the app for?
Labguru is a tool intended for scientists and researchers. The application is essentially a project planning tool intended for the lab. Users can set up experiments and research projects and break them down into milestones. Users can manage tasks and add them to a calendar to keep the project on schedule and within any required deadlines. All tasks, experiments and events can be stored in one place. Users can also alter the direction of their projects based on experiment results as they work. Labguru lets users store copies of their research documents and protocols online. Each document can be linked to a specific experiment or project so the user can find them easily later. The application boasts bank-level security to keep the user’s work private.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Labguru was created by Jonathan Gross and is currently a product of BioData. The application was developed based on the experiences of Gross. After encountering the challenges of managing a research group, Gross established BioData in 2007. Labguru hasn’t been widely discussed, but that could be due to its somewhat specialized audience. The application works for anyone who deals with projects and research in a laboratory setting on a regular basis.

What are the differences to other apps?
Labguru is a very specialized application because it caters entirely to users who work in a laboratory. Experts, teams and students can handle projects and experiments through the application. Data can be stored and kept safe from unauthorized eyes. The application has incorporated many project planning tools found in general project management applications (such as calendars, tasks and milestones) but tailored them to the needs and demands of a laboratory.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Labguru utilizes a clean, organized layout that gives the user a space that is easy to work with. Calendars are built in so users can schedule events and milestones and easily see what’s due or fast approaching at a glance. The application keeps the color scheme low key, with hints of light grey and green throughout. This design works well because the application is intended as a research tool and really needs to be user friendly and present no distractions.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can sign up for a Labguru account right on the homepage. A short form is presented along the right side and asks for a first and last name, lab name and email address. The second part of the form asks for the first and last name of the principal investigator, university name, the user’s role, phone number, primary field and secondary field. Next, the user is asked for a title and research description or question for their first project. The user can add milestones before the site directs them to their account dashboard.

What does it cost to use the application?
Anyone can create a Labguru account for free. The site does not charge anything for its services when it is accessed for personal use. Users can set up projects, manage milestones and experiments, save documents and utilize all other features. All users receive the same level of access. Educators, students, researchers and anyone else can sign up and begin using Labguru at no cost. The application stores data and documents that are accessible anytime from anywhere with an internet connection.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Labguru is designed specifically for anyone who handles research projects or experiments in a laboratory setting. The application supplies handy project management tools, calendars and other features that can streamline the experiment and research process. The application is easy to understand and lets users store their documents in one place. Documents can be linked to projects and experiments so everything stays as organized as possible. The free access makes Labguru appealing to students and anyone researching on a tight budget.

What can you use the app for?
KitchenPC is a website dedicated entirely to the user’s culinary efforts. The site offers a list of tools that can enhance the way users buy, prepare and plan meals. Users can store their favorite recipes and add them to a personal cookbook on the site. A search is also available that lets user browse recipes submitted by others. Each includes prep time, the recipe’s author and a star rating to help the user decide which to try. The user can drag and drop recipes to a built in shopping list, which automatically generates a shopping list. The user can also list ingredients they have in the online pantry. A meal planner lets users set a number of recipes, specify ingredients and choose either recipes that use their ingredients efficiently or those that the user is more likely to rate highly.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
KitchenPC was founded in October of 2010. The application is currently in beta and promises to deliver a list of handy tools for the average internet user cooking at home. The application has not received significant recognition online, but is still growing. The current version already offers a number of valuable tools that can make it easier to plan meals and grocery shop efficiently. The user community is also active, which is evident by the numerous recipe results produced when searching the site.

What are the differences to other apps?
A handful of similar applications offer tools that are somewhat like KitchenPC while other sites provide a database of recipes. KitchenPC is one of the few that combines these two concepts and improves on them. Users can search for recipes submitted by other users and rate them. The site includes practical tools that almost anyone who cooks at home can really appreciate. Uses can save recipes to a cookbook, create shopping lists and plan weekly meals.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
KitchenPC has a warm, culinary feel that uses brown tones and a light texture. The unique logo features a playful chef and blue seal containing the site’s name. Each tool is well organized and contains no clutter or annoying advertisements to get in the user’s way. The application was clearly designed for efficiency and convenience, regardless of the user’s computer experience. The rich color scheme, modern buttons and unique design elements create an eye-catching setting to manage and plan meals.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can join the KitchenPC community by clicking the blue “Login with Facebook” button or the white “Register” link beside it. Those who choose the “Register” link are greeted by a pop up box that asks for an email address and password. As soon as the user submits the completed form, they are automatically logged in to KitchenPC and can access all current features. The site does not require email confirmation to access new accounts.

What does it cost to use the application?
Anyone can create a new KitchenPC account for free. There are no subscription fee requirements and users are not asked to make any purchases. Users can access all current features without paying anything for the opportunity. The site does not mention any plans to change its free access for all policy. Free is an excellent way to entice users to try the application’s unique and helpful features in their own kitchen.

Who would you recommend the application to?
KitchenPC is an excellent resource for anyone who needs a better way to manage their meals each week. The application handles all aspects of food preparation, from the time the user buys it at the grocery store to the moment it is served as a meal. Uses can generate printable shopping lists, store their favorite recipes and keep track of their available ingredients to find recipes that require them. KitchenPC can help families of all sizes manage their groceries and meals better.

What can you use the app for?
Frequency is a video aggregating service that gathers clips from popular sites like YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. The user can explore a variety of videos or start their own channel. Users can search for videos by keyword or title or try the Frequency guide. The guide gives users a list of channels (which are essentially categories). Channel options range from topics like arts, animations, fashion and food to how tos, business, gaming, health, movies and many others. The user can toggle views between cannels, topics and people to refine the list of videos presented by the guide. A handful of icons give the user access to videos on specific websites, such as the BBC or CBS News sites as well as Facebook, Twitter and Frequency’s top 25 list.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Frequency was founded in September of 2009. The application offers a handy service to users who enjoy videos across multiple websites. Overall, Frequency has gone mostly unnoticed. This could be due to the fact that much of its service is redundant compared to what video websites tend to offer individually. Sites like YouTube already house a wide range of videos and let users favorite them, essentially creating their own channel. Some users may not feel the need to create a second account to do this (unless, of course, they also often watch videos on other sites supported by Frequency).

What are the differences to other apps?
Frequency isn’t another YouTube because the site doesn’t give users a place to upload and share videos Instead it offers a place to bring together the user’s favorite videos from various online sources. Users can add video clips from YouTube, BBC, CBS News, Facebook and other locations. Users can also discover videos from third party websites through Frequency by browsing the homepage, top 25 list and source-specific lists.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Frequency shines in the area of design and layout. The application gives users a nice, clutter-free space to explore videos. There are a number of videos to browse, but Frequency avoids shoving them in the user’s face like some sites tend to do. Rather than post a plain thumbnail, Frequency stylizes the image with a faded rectangular frame that includes the location, when it was posted and a short description on top of the image. Frequency favors a user friendly design that never crowds or overwhelms.

How does the registration process work?
New users can join the Frequency community by clicking the blue “Sign Up” button at the top, center of the homepage. A second button is available to the right for users who prefer to sign up with a Facebook account. The form on the following page asks for an email address, display name, username, password and Captcha code entry. After checking the terms and conditions box at the bottom of the form and submitting it, the user is automatically logged in.

What does it cost to use the application?
Frequency invites anyone to try its service for free. There are no subscription fees and the user doesn’t have to pay anything to build channels and explore videos. This is as it should be, considering the free sources Frequency uses to obtain its video clips. The application offers a convenient way to save and sort video clips, but does not provide any features that would justify a subscription or other fee.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Frequency is best suited to users who watch online videos across multiple websites regularly. Users can create channels and explore video clips on popular third party sites. Users who only visit one website or rarely watch internet videos will most likely find nothing of value or interest on Frequency. Its video search might give the user a way to find a video quickly, but that same feature is available on just about every other video website and basic search engine.

What can you use the app for?
HealthRally is a website that provides users with a new way to find motivation to meet their health and fitness goals. The website provides users with a place to post their goal. The user can go into as much detail as they like, explaining what they plan to do and why. The goal can be shared with friends and family who can pledge money to a special reward if the user meets their stated goal. The user’s page includes their name, location, goal, reward and amount of money needed to obtain it. The page also includes the user’s team size (the number of family and friends supporting them). Goals can be anything from a nice pair of running shoes to a new camera or a vacation. Users can create rallies for themselves or for a friend.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
HealthRally was founded by Zack Lynch and Peter Kaminski in March of 2010. The site was based around behavioral research that indicated the right motivation can help users achieve their health goals. The website has been discussed on many websites and through reviews because of the new way it helps users find the motivation they need to meet and manage their personal goals. The startup managed to earn $400,000 in seed funding to launch its crowdfunding-based health goal website.

What are the differences to other apps?
HealthRally is unique because it doesn’t just give users a place to manage health goals; it provides a unique way to encourage the user to meet them. Friends and family can get involved by pledging funds that will go towards the user’s desired reward. The user can customize their goal and tailor the reward to their personal interests and needs. The application provides an effective way to find encouragement and receive support from the people who care about the user’s health.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
HealthRally has an upbeat style, which is pretty much what the user would expect considering the website’s purpose. Users are greeted by a light blue and white background accented by the silhouettes of a cheering crowd. The site offers plenty of wide open space so the user can ease into the goal creation or pledging process. HealthRally has created a positive, almost cheerful, setting to further encourage users to set and achieve their goals.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can join the HealthRally community by clicking the light grey “Sign Up” link in the upper, right hand corner of the homepage. A light blue pop up box appears and invites the user to complete a form or click a blue button to sign in with Facebook. Users who fill out the form are asked for an email address, password, first and last name and gender. The user is advised that they must check their email inbox for a confirmation message to complete registration and sign in.

What does it cost to use the application?
Anyone can join the HealthRally community for free. The site only charges based on the pledges the user receives and forms of payment they choose. A 7% fee is taken from each pledge to support the site. The user may also encounter a fee of up to 3% on credit card transactions. This amount may be lower if the user selects one of the other payment methods offered, such as a gift card.

Who would you recommend the application to?
HealthRally is a great resource for anyone who has a fitness goal and needs solid motivation. The site is best for users who have a decent number of friends and family who are cheering them on. Users who wouldn’t mind receiving a gift card reward might prefer the site because they can reduce the fees associated with pledges. The fees are kept relatively inexpensive, although may discourage some users.

What can you use the app for?
Google Sites is a simple website builder that requires no coding knowledge or prior design experience. Users can choose from numerous pre-made templates or start from scratch. The application offers templates that work for many purposes, from sharing family updates to managing a project or classroom or creating a company website. The application boasts a single-click site creation, which lets users create a new site quickly. The user can choose a template (or a blank template) and add a site name, Google URL and theme. The user can click a link to edit the sidebar or start with the homepage content. Google provides a few very basic customization options so the user can ease into site creation. Users can build multiple sites using one Google account.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Google Sites was launched in February of 2008. The application was originally named JotSpot (the name of the company that originally developed it). As JotSpot, the application earned a number of awards and recognition, including one of the NextNet 25 businesses and one of InfoWorld’s 15 Start Ups to Watch in May of 2006. Google acquired the application in October of 2006. The original version required the user to have a domain name. In May of 2008 an update was made that eliminated the domain requirement and let users access Google Sites separately from Google Apps.

What are the differences to other apps?
Website builders are becoming easier and easier to use. Google Sites is another example of how simple it has become to create a site. Users can access templates or create a new site from a blank template. Regardless of which the user selects, they will find that Google Sites stands out because it is extremely use to understand and customize. The application provides a handful of site building tools without going overboard and overwhelming the user with features.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Google Sites sticks with Google’s familiar Spartan design. Users will note the light background color and narrow black header that is often found in Google’s products. The interface is extremely simple, although it borders on bland compared to some website building tools. For some users this is a plus because it gives them just what they need with no fluff to distract. Google Sites offers a simple, user friendly interface and basic tools that give the user a number of ways to create a unique web page.

How does the registration process work?
Just like other Google applications, users must have a Google account to use Google Sites. The bonus is that creating an account gives the user access to many applications. To create an account, the user can click the blue “Sign Up for a New Google Account” link in the upper, right hand corner of the page. The next step invites the user to sign up with an existing AOL mail, Hotmail, Yahoo mail, Gmail or other email account. Clicking the “other email” button takes the user to the registration form. The form asks for an email address, password, location, date of birth and word verification. The user is automatically logged in, but advised that a verification message has been sent to the email address they provided.

What does it cost to use the application?
All users can create a Google account and access Google Sites for free. There are no subscription fees and all users are given the same level of access. Users receive up to 10 GBs of storage for Google Sites. Users who subscribe to Google Apps Premier Edition receive an additional 500 MBs for each Premiere user account. Google Apps costs $5 per user per month or $50 per user per year.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Google Sites is ideal for anyone who wants a fast, easy way to build a web page. The application is intended for users of all experience levels, especially those with little to no knowledge of programming or design. The interface is simple to understand and all users can begin creating pages for free. The user doesn’t need a domain name and can access all basic tools as soon as they sign in and begin creating pages.o

What can you use the app for?
Geni is a network of genealogists that are trying to create the ultimate family tree. The website gives users the tools they need to construct their own family trees online. Users can upload and share photos of family members as well as historical records, videos and anything else that relates to their family history. The site offers convenient collaboration tools so users can work together to figure out their tree or obtain advice from seasoned genealogists within the Geni community. When users find relatives who have already started a second family tree they can merge the two to create one complete tree. Public discussions can be browed to help users connect and share information, tips and suggestions. A website search is available as well as a separate search tool for discussions only.

What is the history and popularity of the app?
Geni was founded in June of 2006. The site was constructed around the idea that genealogy tools should be available to everyone. The site has received significant praise for its networking features and private family tree building tools. Some users complained that the site lacks somewhat in the content that its search feature returns, especially when compared to better known genealogy sites like Ancestry.com. For the most part, Geni has impressed users with its user friendly tools and accessibility.

What are the differences to other apps?
To call Geni unique or original would be pushing it. In the realm of family tree building, it is difficult to come up with something that is truly different compared to what competitors already have available. Geni may not offer anything exciting or cutting edge, but it serves its purpose relatively well. Users can create family trees and store their personal family history online. Photos, documents and stories can be collected, shared and researched in one place.

How does the web app look and feel to use?
Geni utilizes a laid back design that lets the user get to work without feeling overwhelmed by the task. The dashboard features a few boxes, colored light blue and pink based on the gender of the person added there. As the user expands their tree, the boxes increase with solid black lines attaching each. Geni doesn’t offer any stunning graphics or an eye-catching design, but what it lacks in appearance is makes up for in practicality. The application feels and looks modern.

How does the registration process work?
A new user can join Geni by completing the short form presented on the homepage. The form asks for the user’s gender, first and last name and email address. After completing the form, the user can click the green button below to be directed to their new Geni account. The user is presented with an empty family tree page populated by the user’s tree entry and two additional boxes for mother and father.

What does it cost to use the application?
Geni offers users three membership plans to choose from. The first is a Basic plan which is free and allows up to 100 people on the user’s family tree, 1 GB of media storage and basic level support. The Plus plan costs $5 per month and upgrades to 1,000 people on the family tree, 2 GBs of media storage, premium level support and enhanced search capabilities. The Pro plan costs $7.95 per month and includes unlimited people on family trees, unlimited media storage and the ability to merge family trees.

Who would you recommend the application to?
Geni is a helpful resource for anyone interested in trying their hand at genealogy. The application requires a lower monetary investment compared to some of its competitors, making it an appealing choice for casual or amateur genealogists. Serious family historians may still find value on the site, however they may want to upgrade to get access to the enhanced search features. Geni offers a clean, simple interface to build and share family trees.