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Refni [SMART 100, 2017]

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This SMART 100 profile and the information it contains is a duplication of content submitted by the applicant during the entry process. As a function of entry, applicants were required to declare that all details are factually correct, do not infringe on another’s intellectual property and are not unlawful, threatening, defamatory, invasive of privacy, obscene, or otherwise objectionable. Some profiles have been edited for reasons of space and clarity.

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1. THE BEGINNING

This innovation initially came to life when…

I moved to a new country and learned a new reality, way of life. Then the internet came: I was then able to explore beyond my new physical environment and follow my curiosity to the edges of the web. For me, the online world was about diversity and exploration: a place where I could come across people and ideas I never knew existed. But the ways in which information is packaged and delivered to us today is very different to back then. Information we get now is increasingly and largely based on who companies think we are, and we do.

2. WHAT & HOW

The purpose of this innovation is to…

Diversify users’ worldview by helping users break out of their own information bubble caused by personalisation services such as Google and Facebook.

It does this by…

enabling users to see the world as [someone else].

Imagine: people far from you, you admire, or in careers you want to get into. See what they see. Experience what they experience. Discover what they discover.

3. PURPOSE & BENEFITS

This innovation improves on what came before because…

it allows you to see outside of your own online world. Rather than the time-consuming and often ineffective ways in which you may currently use to broaden your views online e.g. deleting cookies, users can step outside of their usual preferences with 1-2 clicks.

Its various benefits to the customer/end-user include…
by providing more transparency into what information different people use to understand the world, we hope to engender greater empathy among people: sparking new ideas and conversations that are needed to drive unified and lasting change in the world.

4. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

In the past, this problem was solved by…

manual processes such as deleting cookies, switching country settings in Google, setting up RSS feeds/plug-ins or using un-personalised services such as DuckDuckGo. Users also use platforms such as Meetup.com to meet new people physically or stay offline. Unfortunately, these methods are often time consuming and potentially more limiting. E.g. ability to attend an event depends on time and physical reach.

Its predecessors/competitors include…

social networking platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram), Search engines (such as Google and DuckDuckGo), and content aggregators. Other off-the-grid solutions include Meetup, conferences and networking events, newspapers and magazines.

5. TARGET MARKET

It is made for…

End consumers who are tech savvy, young singles, couples, and families ranging from students to professionals and management. They are early adopters who are quick to check out the latest movie; travellers who prefer a ‘local’ feel. They are open minded, independent and inquisitive. They seek constant self-improvement. Loves diversity.

It is available for sale through…

Android and Apple App stores, August 2017. Those interested in more information or be part of our pilot program before launch, can head to Refni.com today to register interest.

Our marketing strategy is to…

…drive problem and solution awareness. We want to engage and support users who believe in the power of information, are curious about the world, and is unafraid to approach history with their eyes wide open. Our messaging will focus our mission: drive growth, independence and universal connection.

FINE PRINT: This SMART 100 profile and the information it contains is a duplication of content submitted by the applicant during the entry process. As a function of entry, applicants were required to declare that all details are factually correct, do not infringe on another’s intellectual property and are not unlawful, threatening, defamatory, invasive of privacy, obscene, or otherwise objectionable. Some profiles have been edited for reasons of space and clarity.

Maven Judge Vote: Refni – Smart 100 2017
(Please note – The form below is for judging purposes only and is restricted to the public)