Launch of JumpUp, a Platform for Emerging Businesses
In the world of business, a quick start is crucial for success. Recognising this need, Intuit, the company behind QuickBooks, has launched a new Beta site called Jumpup.com (formerly known as JackRabbit). Designed specifically for startups and those planning to start a business, Jumpup.com aims to provide a comprehensive solution for small business owners.
The site's name, JackRabbit, symbolises a rapid start for startups, embodying the spirit of quick and agile business growth. The platform was created by Intuit co-founders Scott Cook and Tom Proulx, and features an "About Us" page that puts a human face on Intuit, showcasing the JackRabbit team.
Jumpup.com offers a variety of free online tools in conjunction with third parties, such as Palo Alto Software (makers of BusinessPlan Pro). It provides resources specifically tailored to startups, offering guidance and advice on various aspects of business planning and management.
The site is user-friendly and represents the new generation of small business resources online. It includes features such as Bookmarks and Contact, which help small business owners organise and keep track of information. The social networking aspect allows users to save a list of contacts with each person's name, photo, and contact details for future reference.
Jumpup.com also provides a way for small business owners to connect with others, as networking is increasingly done online. Users can network with other small business owners who are members of JackRabbit and save them in their "My Contacts" area.
While the content on JackRabbit is still a little sketchy in places, more content is expected to be added over time. The new site is impressively designed and could set a new standard for small business help sites. It remains to be seen how well JackRabbit will scale and still remain user-friendly even as the volume of content grows.
Intuit is looking for business owners to try out JackRabbit and offer feedback while it is still in Beta test. Users can find a link on the top right corner of the JackRabbit page to send in feedback. Jumpup.com is currently in Beta phase, offering a free copy of QuickBooks Simple Start, a scaled-down version of the famous QuickBooks software, to its users.
In conclusion, Jumpup.com is more than just a resource; it is a combination of three things: a resource, an organizational tool, and a platform for networking. For startups and small business owners, it offers a one-stop solution for business planning, organisation, and networking, making it an invaluable tool in the fast-paced world of business.
