Member Article

Don't ask Dad…Ask the pigeon! The launch of a new hyperlocal search engine

Gateshead digital agency Commvia have unveiled their brand new hyperlocal search engine ‘AskThePigeon’ this week.

AskThePigeon.com is a revolutionary tool that enables the user to quickly obtain area-specific information about any postcode in the UK. Using data sourced from a diverse range of open sources, AskThePigeon can provide a truly unique snapshot of what a resident, visitor or potential mover may need to know about the area. The information includes up to date times and information on transport links, details of local amenities, local population numbers, property prices even crime rate statistics - all of which are provided from a very simple search.

Founder of Commvia and lead developer on the project, Andy Redfern, was inspired to create the search tool after his children repeatedly called upon his local knowledge when venturing out to visit friends and he feels the tool can make travelling somewhere new a much simpler experience. “Using a bus timetable can be confusing so I created AskThePigeon to give a 2-click solution to when the next bus is.” And the creation of the tool is already paying dividends for Andy. “Now when they ask me for a lift I can say ‘Ask The Pigeon and get the bus!’”

The web app design on AskThe Pigeon is fully responsive meaning the system works well on desktop, tablet and mobile devices and the incorporation of a geolocation tool allows you to search based on your current location as well as any postcode in the UK. Commvia are now entering a formal beta programme to gain feedback from users and gauge the quality and accuracy of the data provided. Redfern hopes that users will provide feedback on the information that they find, enabling them to further improve the app and its functions.

Commvia have also launched an API interface to the data so that other developers can use their data in their own applications and websites. Redfern added “There are some very talented people out there and I’m sure they can do some great things using this data - the API gives them a chance to try it out and get creative.”

Give the search engine tool a try here www.AskThePigeon.com

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Michela Johnson .