Netvibes.Com - (Re)mix The Web
May 9, 2008 – 12:48 pm
Netvibes was founded in 2005, and claims to have “pioneered the personalized homepage”, making it a quicker, more simplified, and more attractive alternative to other web portals. The standard layout of the Netvibes homepage is compact and easy to organize with all your favorite web content, news, live feeds, and all the stuff the average Internet user could want updates on. After sampling some of it myself, some of the plus sides are that it’s definitely very easy to set up, doesn’t require you to download any software that could be bursting full of adware, –like many personal portal websites. It’s also beneficial in that it allows you to customize how you view news, and e-mails from all your accounts; not just the corresponding Yahoo or Gmail account.
There are a couple negative points on Netvibes, however, it is just a couple. Unfortunately, your password is sent over to you in a text email, which isn’t the most secure or convenient method. It also doesn’t have any very much in the way of technical support forums. Other negative points are that it’s not compatible with OPML feeds, –they won’t upload, and some modules can’t be inserted either. Otherwise, it has a much better rating than many other homepages out there from the major corporations.
What’s the concept?
Getting all your e-mails and updates quickly and easily in a space that’s both attractive and organized.
Why should you care?
Because it’s an all around easy to maintain space that you control, and is beneficial in terms of convenience.
How do they make money?
Netvibes receives funding from European VCs of Accel Partners and Index Ventures so they must make money somehow!
Will this company last 5 years?
It’s already lasted three years, and the community is fairly large; the possibility of it progressing for another five years is likely.
Suggestions for improvements?
Keep updating things, evolve with the times to keep users interested and coming back.
