Reviews about Reference Web Sites

ashleysmom4 says "Quick, Helpful, Cheap - better than I expected!" about JustAnswer.com

ashleysmom4 — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 17:56:16 GMT

I spent over an hour googling to find a simple answer for my son! All we wanted to know was "How do I change the serpentine belt on a 95 Mercury Sable?" and "Where can I find the diagram for the belt pattern?" (The diagram for this was supposed to be underneath the hood and wasn't.)

We searched and searched the internet to find nothing, nada, zip! I am an expert googler and have always found anything and everthign my little heart desires on the fabulous WWW.

I came across justanswer.com and was instantly turned off by the fact that I had to deposit money in order to ask a question. Once I learned that the "expert" only gets my deposited money if I "accept" their answer, I went for the cheapest of 3 options ($13) and posted my question. I opted to receive a text message notification when someone had posted an answer to my question. (I figured it IS Thanksgibing Weekend, so it might be a day or more before anyone stumbles across my question and I did not want to sit in front...

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sffoodies says "Unreliable and terrible customer service" about GrubHub

sffoodies — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:38:38 GMT

We used to place exact same order through grubhub about once a week, and the last time we did, after simply clicking on the "reorder" link to resubmit our usual order, somehow the website changed it! Literally half our order was changed and the wrong information was sent to the restaurant. Unfortunately we didn't discover this until the food arrived and we saw the receipt. We contacted grubhub and they initially apologized but then claimed that what arrived WAS our usual order according to their records! We emailed them a screen shot of our order history as it appeared on THEIR website, and they still refused to acknowledge any responsibility or give us a refund. Save yourself some grief and just order directly from the restaurant.

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AngiBowman says "Watch Your Time and Boredom Disappear in the Sea of Questions" about Yahoo! Answers

AngiBowman — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:02:53 GMT

Yahoo! Answers is like a bad reality TV show. You know it's just a waste of your time, but you can't help yourself. From answering questions to asking your own questions, you can find everything from humor, stupidity and a little bit of seriousness.

What is It?

It's the Ask Jeeves of today. Everything is based on points - answer a question and get 2 points. Ask a question and lose 5 points. Have a best answer and get 10 more points! The possibilities are endless. There are categories for everyone - including pregnant, parenting, health, diet & fitness, ethics, law, etc.

How it Works

To ask a qusetion, you write down a topic (i.e. What vitamins can be deadly if overdosed?) and type more information if necessary (i.e. I'm currently taking D-3, C and B12 vitamins with Echinacea and Fish Oil. What would happen to me if I overdosed on any of these supplements?). Next you review you question for clarity or spelling (optional to some members) and select a category. Although they have automatic...

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GarfieldCollector says "its about time that american youth learn right from wrong" about The Responsibility Project

GarfieldCollector — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:37:53 GMT

I too believe that it is now or never to teach these kids "Right from Wrong", I will go on the record to say that the majority of people I meet daily do not know what is right vs. what is wrong. Apparently their parents were not instrumental in teaching them while growing up, so now they just do whatever they feel like and to heck with what is proper. I have had several run-ins with lazy and deceptive people, that should have never had to deal with if they just did what is right. Instead, because of other americans very poor judgment, I have had to fight for what is right when they should have already made things right from the start.

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LDRWeber says "The Responsibility Project teaches kids to do the right thing" about The Responsibility Project

LDRWeber — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:15:39 GMT

I came across The Responsibility Project from Liberty Mutual last night. They had a banner on a web site I was in. They were asking if you had the right to spy on or invade your childs privacy when it comes to web usage. I replied and clicked on the site. They are all about doing the right thing and responsibility. They have teamed up with NBC, which has some of its stars telling us what "doing the right thing" means to them, Slate (they won a National magazine award for general excellence on-line), and with Beliefnet, who helped identify values that bring strength, hope and happiness. They offer a family values toolkit to help parents teach their kids what it means to do the right thing. Which I know most parents should have already taught this to their kids, but this also includes a different toolkit each month where you will find a value overview, goals and activities (by age group) designed to help families discuss the difference between right and wrong. They have identified...

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tinytravels says "Great opportunity to ask a legal question for only $30." about JustAnswer.com

tinytravels — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 05:02:36 GMT

I used JustAnswer to get legal information knowing that I wouldn't be guaranteed of the answer I wanted. For $30 I wanted to start somewhere. I posted a clear question with supporting details that elicited a resonse that was considered and accurate in terms of what a pre se divorce with children might entail. I saved a friend thousands of dollars in legal fees and she was able to file for divorce from an abusive ex in absentia. Later I have had occasion to use their programming services and have been impressed with the results. The key is to understand what you are getting for your $30 bucks, and to post a clear answer with supporting details.

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pitcherday says "A good tool when used correctly" about Wikipedia.com

pitcherday — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:04:41 GMT

I do like Wikipedia. I created a user account, and I did read the pages and pages of rules and regulations on what the content is/should be and how it is edited. I have not tried to add an entire new page of content. I have edited here and there, mostly for spelling and very minor things like that.

Wikipedia is good to find a load of information about one thing in one place and then you can take that framework and go research the facts on it. It can give you ideas about a subject that you might not have come up with in the first place. That is its use.

Wikipedia is pretty much self-governed, the contributions come from anonymous users. So, the level of trust you have in the information on there should come from that knowledge. it's called the encyclopedia anyone can edit on its own page (emphasis added). Researcher beware.

I would say if you are looking for advice on the law go to a lawyer, or research LexisNexis. I wouldn't use it as a source for any kind of research paper or essay. That's...

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eresearcher says "Different From Other Free Samples Sites. Check it Out. " about Samples and Free Stuff

eresearcher — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 23:04:22 GMT

SamplesandFreeStuff.com is different from other free samples sites because this is not just a list of free samples links (even though they have those). They also tell you how they saved money. And not stupid ways like using milk bottles to make Christmas ornaments, but practical ways like how to get hotel rooms for free, or how to get prescription glasses for free. This is always a HUGE resource for anyone that does not have health insurance. Lots of great info on free prescriptions and health care.

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alexiadenisewatts says "They'll provide you with ALL they know on the subject...." about Wikipedia.com

alexiadenisewatts — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 22:05:55 GMT

Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia: I was only familiar with this site through vague, overheard academic references to it. Then came the assignments to provide as much quality information on particular subjects as possible within a short period of time. Long live the public libraries - they'll always be invaluable and I personally endorse any renewable source of paper - I like looking into books, holding the actual printed document in my hands, traveling to libraries and hunting through the shelves - you never know what you'll find while you're looking for something else... Wikipedia can't take the library's place....yet I was able to download a sizable quantity of up-to-date information right on target to the subjects I was researching, along with high quality photographs that downloaded to my color printer without difficulty. The additional sites whose portals I was introduced to through Wikipedia also provided plenty of information - when I was allowed to access them(some were...

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DSSoCal says "Great to really poor experience...." about JustAnswer.com

DSSoCal — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:12:52 GMT

When I found JustAnswer, I was excited and tried out a computer question. The answer came reasonably quickly and was honestly excellent. I followed up that question with a couple others over time. Each response was honestly excellent, within a reasonable time and included follow up to see if I was satisfied.

I also tried other categories like Vetinary, for our dog and that was OUTSTANDING and quick, plumbing, which was just excellent and quick.

Lately though, I tried JustAnswer for another computer problem and got absolutely TERRIBLE help from someone who struggled with English and was clearly not able to understand my question, which I rewrote twice. I tried to find Customer Support and inquire about this "specialist" but was very frustrated that it was so hard to make an inquiry or complaint. I also found that JustAnswer had "charged" my credit card to put an amount in "reserve" for me and for future questions. I HATE THIS POLICY and had to again find Customer Service forms to request...

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Reviewer11 says "Wikipedia not as reliable as one thinks" about Wikipedia Encyclopedia

Reviewer11 — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 05:40:34 GMT

When we need research, what do we do? We mostly look for info on Wikipedia online, but what turned out to be an innocent and helpful act for others turned out to be an attack on me.

What happened?

Last year, I registered under a name I made up called "Legacy 1" and under "City of Heroes" I posted under the "discussion" tab info I was told about "Time cards" from the game stores. To make absolute sure, I personally contacted the game's support "PlayNC" and was told there was. So I added that info to the "Wikipedia discussion" page with the intention of adding the info on this subject for others, but according to "QuasiAbstract" and "Oni Ookami Alfador" they wouldn't accept my findings without "a link to a permanent website." I had proof by email but I wasn't going to give them my personal info to log into my account (in the game) to view it. This led me to believe that "moderators" of Wikipedia particularily these two have abused their authority and took it out on me. Talk about injustice!...

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BikeBelly says "This service sucks!" about JustAnswer.com

BikeBelly — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 03:35:43 GMT

I have been having an issue with my Grand Am. JustAnswer.com popped up during a search that I was performing. Looked good! Even for the fee, it looked like a great option in terms of getting some sort of answer to a problem I couldn't figure out, or a few other friends that had looked at it.

And so much for the "experts!" 2+ hours later, I was still waiting for a response . . . keep in mind I was marked "HIGH PRIORITY" . . . I emailed customer service and they kept "asking" the experts to re-review my question . . . I finally told them to cancel my question and advise to how to get my "deposit" back. It was cancelled immediately, however it will take almost a week to get my deposit back??? Explain THIS to me, considering they took the money out REALLY fast!

At no time would I EVER consider going back to this site, nor would I EVER consider referring anyone to it. They have lovely little scripted reviews that roll up and down their site while you sit there waiting . . . and...

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OldHippie says "Microsoft Strikes Back" about Bing

OldHippie — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 21:13:51 GMT

From the initial look, Google now has some serious competition. If you type in the search engine "viewpoints" - indeed Viewpoints comes up first on the list.

According to Bing- "So far in 2009, there are four and a half websites created EVERY SECOND as the web continues to expand. While more searchable information is cool, nearly half of all searches don't result in the answer that people are seeking."

Today, June 6, 2009, being the anniversary of D-Day, Bing's background is a photo of Normandy Beach. Moving my mouse around brought up automatic links to more history and photos of D-Day.

Unlike Google, when using Bing maps, it gives but one choice...driving directions...no walking directions. To bypass this, just click on "Shortest distance" vs. "Shortest time."

I haven't had the time to explore Bing completely. One thing it will do, as long as you don't "X" it out, will keep a history in the left side column of every search you've made. That's good for going back, in case...

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Bryan-Carey says "Gasbuddy.com: A Semi- Reliable Friend" about Gasbuddy.com

Bryan-Carey — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:29:22 GMT

Gasoline prices have been on everyone's mind for the past year or two and for good reason. Gasoline reached record high levels last year before retreating quickly and dropping down to levels not seen in nearly a decade. It is best to keep a step ahead in the game, and one site that helps consumers track gasoline prices is Gasbuddy.com, a web service that keeps you informed on the highs and lows of retail petroleum.

Web Service Commentary:

Gasbuddy.com is a web site with consumer interests in mind. This web service can be used to search an area of the country (or Canada) by state and then city, or by zip code, to find the cheapest and most expensive gasoline prices. Gasbuddy.com will quickly provide a summary of prices in your area, including the current prices, previous day's prices, the price one week ago, the price one month ago, and the price one year ago. It will then indicate the present trend in gasoline prices (just in case you cannot tell, from the quoted prices), followed by...

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thm says "Just Answer law--legal but not ethical." about JustAnswer.com

thm — Wed, 20 May 2009 15:49:53 GMT

I keyed up JustAnswer Law but decided I didn't want to use their service. But they didn't want to give me up, and I couldn't get off their site. Maybe it's only just the lawyers who set this all up--but I suspect it's every subject on which expert opinions are available FOR A FEE. They don't want to let you go without getting some money. I got into shuttled a feedback loop, because the site would not let me backspace out or cancel the contact , and it co-opted my internet access to keep me from shutting the window. I used 'end task' and it crashed Internet Explorer. This may be legal [lawyers are good at legal] but it's not ethical [lawyers aren't so good at ethical] and I won't be using the JustAnswer sites at all. There must be other ways to get information where you don't get jacked around and mistreated.

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tlchidester says "Babycenter is the site for all your passions. " about Baby Center

tlchidester — Wed, 06 May 2009 00:54:00 GMT

When I became pregnant three years ago with my son, I was lost and didn't know where to turn for answers to my questions and fears. I did some searches and more times than not the searches brought my to Babycenter.com. I checked it out and I have been hooked since then. I joined a Birth Club for my sons birth month. I could talk with woman who had the same concerns that I did. We were able to help each other through all the trials that come with pregnancy. After the birth of my son, I stopped working and my husband was in law school, so we were we desperate to save money. What do you know, there was a Bargain Board on Babycenter as well. I was thrilled. I met so many wonder ladies on that site. And now two years later I am still reading that site. I have made so many friends and I have saved my family tons. Because of the skills of couponing I learned on Babycenter, I had 10 1/2 months worth of diapers stocked up for my daughter when she was born. I also belong to a Board for my religion....

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mtpelion says "Ideological censorship runs amok" about Yahoo! Answers

mtpelion — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:03:27 GMT

As a former Level 7 Y!A user, I know how valuable it can be as a resource. My caution is that if you are looking for any answer that could have a political or ideological difference you will not find answers on both sides of the issue as Yahoo! takes great lengths to censor anyone who disagrees with their views and thus it is not a free forum.

As long as your searches are fairly mundane (i.e. things that you could easily look up on Wikipedia instead of waiting for someone to answer it an Y!A) you shouldn't have a problem.

Also, if you are a moderate to conservative person who wants to keep their account, do not post anything in any political or religious section or your account will be suspended. If your beliefs trend towards socialism, you can get away with posting anything since the censors at Yahoo! agree with you.

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KirbyFTW says "Kids in Mind is HILARIOUS" about Kids-in-Mind.com

KirbyFTW — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 19:58:08 GMT

I'm in middle school, and a friend of mine told me about kids in mind. The next time he came over to my house, we looked it up, and it was HILARIOUS. It tells parents about such dangerous insults as "Potter Stinks" (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and the horror of being called "not penguin enough" (Happy Feet). Also parents must beware of WALL-E, as it contains disturbing images of a man and woman holding hands. And finally my favorite, the extrmeme violence and goreness of "cow flatulence" (Charlotte's Web). I guarantee this is one of those Christian watchdog sites (Yes, I am Christian, so don't go calling me racist).

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BrysonMeunier says "Exhaustive genealogy database helps uncover family history" about Ancestry.com

BrysonMeunier — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:47:48 GMT

Great resource for finding out more about your own family history. I started researching my family's genealogy a year ago and have since traced my Father's ancestry back to the 15th century. Lots of information in a fairly easy to navigate site. Introduced me to family members my grandparents weren't even aware of.

Monthly subscription adds up, so I would recommend starting with the 6 month subscription and extending if you like the service.

Overall, if you're a researcher like me and like to uncover secrets and solve mysteries about the past, Ancestry.com can help you do it. Recommended.

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amandasherina says "Questia-for all your educational needs" about Questia

amandasherina — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 23:24:23 GMT

I had to write a research paper for my college English class about a book I was reading. I put the title of the book into the search engine and Questia.com came up. I found numerous articles, journals, and books written about my novel. By subscribing to the Questia website, I was able to research my novel using various sources without having to go to the library or go to numerous web sites. Everything I needed was on this web site. There is even a link so you can cite the source you are quoting. Questia is free for the first 72 hours and after that, there is a fee but the fee is very reasonable. I was able to do my research within the allotted 72 hours and cancel my subscription without being charged. This is a wonderful reference tool and I highly recommend it to anyone having to write a paper or do any research.

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