This was not just a team play. I saw Talkbin signs in Coupa Cafe in Palo Alto - immediately understood the concept and potential. I sent a text to the owner and received a response within 10 minutes. Talkbin if I understood it correctly is enabling us all to "talk with" the store managers or workers via text and mobile app. It's actually a very powerful communication vehicle and right up Google's ally.

Mobile's going to be an increasingly interesting strategy with local businesses. When these owners and workers are running their business, they're not running into the back room to check computers or laptops or websites - but they do have their phones and can often step aside to respond to a quick SMS. I imagine Talkbin has caught on to this - lots of other startups don't seem to - and this really feels like a product where everyone benefits in the end.

Small nitpick..I think you meant alley instead of ally.

It's a great idea. A complaining customer can probably get hold of a manager quicker this way than by causing ruckus and looking like an idiot.

Lots of interesting possibilities like integrating testimonials to a tv screen or social media sites.