What is SpotScout?

  SpotScout is an online marketplace for real-time parking information and reservations.
It’s like eBay on steroids tailored for mobile devices, geolocation content, and time sensitivity.

  What is SpotScouting?

  "SpotScouting" ” is the act of “scouting” for reliable information on the availability of spaces in high-demand areas.

  What is SpotCasting?

  "SpotCasting" is the act of broadcasting information about your space(s) to allow others to find and/or use it.

  Can I be a SpotScout AND a SpotCaster at the same time?

  Definitely - we encourage you to take advantage of both sides of the equation. You’ll be able to find a space more easily AND reap the rewards of posting your spot.

  Do I have to signup to use SpotScout?

  No and Yes. You can search on SpotScout without signing up, but it is necessary to create an account to reserve a space or SpotCast your own spot.
Also, creating an account has many benefits:

  Is using SpotScout free?

  Yes, SpotScout is FREE! It’s free to SpotScouts (those looking), private SpotCasters and parking facilities. We don't charge to list a space, AND we don't charge a transaction fee to reserve a garage or private space, or to buy a SpotCaster's on-street departure information.

  Where can I use SpotScout?

  SpotScout can be useful anywhere you’re driving, but it is mostly useful in high-demand areas (in cities, near beaches, stadiums, events, etc). We are adding more parking information all the time!
You can SpotCast your driveway or apartment space no matter where you are in the United States!

  Will SpotScout be available nationwide?

  Yes. SpotScout will launch nationwide but initially we have been concentrating on establishing partnerships with garages and private SpotCasters in our primary test markets: Boston, New York, and San Francisco.
If you want SpotScout to work well in your area, help spread the word and get people to add spots to the network. The more people that join and share information, the more likely it is that you will find that perfect spot!

   Can SpotScout be used by my company employees or sales staff?

  Absolutely. Being late because you can't find parking isn’t good for everyone.
Additionally, SpotScout can help facilitate the use of spots in the area. For example, parking spaces may be needed during the day by businesses and at night by local residents.

  Is SpotScout for use from a computer or a mobile device?

  SpotScout is currently accessible from any computer, web enabled cellular phone or MID (Mobile Internet device).
Note: *Our user interface may vary from device to device.*
Finding a spot on the go is important, and we’re going to be adding support for more and more mobile devices as are available in the near future.

  Can any phone use your service, or do I need a high-end phone?

  Any web-enabled phone or MID (Mobile Internet Device) will work with SpotScout. Good ones, bad ones, ugly ones, cool ones... and yes, soon iPhones….actually, it already looks cool on the iPhone. Wait until our system is actually perfected for it!

  Will I need to download SpotScout to my phone, like I do with a ring tone or game?

  NOPE. There is NOTHING to download. You just need to get to www.spotscout.com on your cell phone or mobile device (or computer).

  Why were there no results when I searched for parking?

  We may not yet be available in your city or there may not be any parking available in the location you requested or at the time you requested. Try widening your search...

  Is SpotScout free?

  Yes, SpotScout is FREE!
It’s free to SpotScouts (drivers), private SpotCasters and parking facilities. We don't charge to list a space, AND we don't charge any transaction fees to reserve a garage or private space, or buy a SpotCaster's on-street departure information.

  Will SpotScout be available nationwide?

  Yes. SpotScout will launch nationwide but initially we have been concentrating on establishing partnerships with garages and private SpotCasters in our primary test markets: Boston, New York, and San Francisco. If you want SpotScout to work well in your area it’s up to you to spread the word and get people to add spots to the network! We encourage you to begin SpotCasting and SpotScouting.

If at first you can’t find the space you want, remember, the more people that join and share information, the more likely that you will find that perfect spot!

  Can SpotScout be used by my company employees or sales staff?

  Absolutely. Being late because you can't find parking is bad for business.

  Can any phone use your service, or do I need a high-end phone?

  Any web-enabled phone or MID (Mobile Internet Device) will work with SpotScout. Good ones, bad ones, ugly ones, cool ones...

   Will I need to download SpotScout to my phone, like I do with a ring tone or game?

  NOPE. There is NOTHING to download. You just need to get to www.spotscout.com on your cell phone or mobile device (or computer).

  Can I use SpotScout through my in-car personal navigation system or OnStar?

  Both the SpotScout and SpotCaster must rate each other on punctuality, location quality, reliability of information, and ease of their overall transaction. Like eBay, the vast majority of users look at other user’s ratings and feedback before deciding to trade. If a user SpotCasts false or incorrect information they are likely to receive a bad rating which in turn will decrease the likelihood that someone will trade with them in the future.
Any abuse of the system will be taken very seriously, not just by the community, but by SpotScout, Inc. as a company trying to help others.

  How do you make sure that people don't SpotCast false information?

  Both the SpotScout and SpotCaster must rate each other on punctuality, location quality, reliability of information, and ease of their overall transaction. Like eBay, the vast majority of users look at other user’s ratings and feedback before deciding to trade. If a user SpotCasts false or incorrect information they are likely to receive a bad rating which in turn will decrease the likelihood that someone will trade with them in the future.
Any abuse of the system will be taken very seriously, not just by the community, but by SpotScout, Inc. as a company trying to help others.

  Can SpotScouts and SpotCasters negotiate price? Is there bidding like Ebay?

  No, presently there is no negotiating or bidding capabilities in SpotScout. It’s first come, first reserve.
SpotCasters set their own price, but the market will ultimately determine the validity of their price.

  I don't have a car, so why would I sign up?

  We have three good reasons for you to consider it. 1) If you have a driveway or a space with your house or apartment, you could be earning money by SpotCasting it!
2)If you are an occasional car renter, SpotScout will very likely come in handy during your travels.
3) You can also use SpotScout to help you find spaces for visiting friends or relatives who may be arriving from out of town.
Remember, signing up and using SpotScout is free!

  How can I tell others about SpotScout?

  We’d really appreciate it if you did! - we spent a lot of time and money building SpotScout. And we encourage you to pass SpotScout along – the more people in the marketplace, the better it will be for everyone!

People interested in SpotScouting and/or SpotCasting can sign up at our website, www.spotscout.com

  What does “SpotScout” mean?

  SpotScout (verb) - To seek information on parking availability via a web-based marketplace of parking information.
The term "SpotScout" refers to the act of “scouting” for reliable information on the availability of parking in high-demand areas. . SpotScouting reduces your reliance on visual cues to find a parking space by accumulating insight into the intentions of others who aim to make a space available to you (via reservation), or to depart from a space at a particular time (increasing the chances of your getting that space over others lacking this information).
SpotScout (noun) – Any smart, attractive, and charismatic individual seeking information on available parking via a web-based information market of network.

  How will I pay someone for using their space?

  Consumers pay other consumers directly, electronically. You may pay others using standard major credit cards, debit cards and or PayPal accounts.
SpotScout, Inc. processes each transaction, and electronically transfers all monies to the party whose space or departure information has been purchased by a SpotScout.
In the future, students at participating universities will be able to use campus cash cards.

  How far in advance can SpotScout help me find and reserve a parking spot?

  There is no set reservation period. SpotScout is a real-time information marketplace, so depending on the parties who are offering their spaces (or information about the future availability of the space their vehicle occupies), a person may have 2 minutes, an hour, a month, or perhaps even longer to reserve a spot.
Additionally, SpotCasters may have recurring periods of availability, which would allow you to reserve the same space more than once. For example, if every Friday you have a meeting downtown, you could potentially reserve the same space.

  How far in advance may I cancel a reservation that I already made?

  SpotCasters specify their cancellation policy ahead of posting their space for others to use. A SpotScout may only get their money back if they cancel prior to the minimum notice requirement. If the SpotScout cancels after the minimum notice, the money is not returned.

  When can I get a refund?

  Each situation may be different. We encourage SpotScouts and SpotCasters to work with each other to resolve outstanding issues; however, we will do everything we can to help settle any disagreements resulting in our users being disappointed. It will ultimately be up to SpotScout to determine the situation warranting a user asking for a refund. We ask for your patience in such a situation.

  How do I get a refund?

  Refunds may only be given if a SpotScout has not received the private space or garage space they have prepaid for. SpotCasters who allow this to happen not only threaten their own reputation on the market, but also risk being pulled off the market altogether, permanently. (At SpotScout’s discretion).
SpotScout will investigate to the best of its resources when this has taken place and who is responsible for an unsuccessful transaction. Should you NOT receive the space you have prepaid for, please contact cs@spotscout.com as soon as possible.

  What happens if I am late departing from my pre-paid space?

   Garages will charge you their normal drive in rates for the time you stayed past your prepaid period. The rates will start from the hour/moment your time has expired and your vehicle is still in their facility. SpotScout will send you a reminder text or email message before your time expires, but it is up to you to move your vehicle on time.

When using someone else’s private spot, you risk being towed because you are no longer permitted to be in that space. Also, you will be subject to a poor rating.When using someone else’s private spot, you risk being towed because you are no longer permitted to be in that space. Also, you will be subject to a poor rating.

  Do I rate garages, or just private SpotCasters?

  You’ll rate both. And the private SpotCaster will rate you. Note: *Garages do not rate users however.* Garages taking greater pride in the appearance, maintenance and safety of their property will naturally receive higher ratings.

  Can SpotScout direct me to the spot nearest my destination?

  Yes. SpotScout’s interface allows you to reorder the parking options by walking distance to your final destination.

There are many filters to choose from when you look for a parking spot on SpotScout. The two most often used filters are “closest” and “cheapest”, but you can also search by rating, garage only, private only, on-street only, handicapped, or resident only.

We will also inform you how much they will charge you for the specific hours of the day you want to park your vehicle, where the walking entrances and exits are, what payment options the party accepts which businesses locally validate for that specific facility, and lots more information you might want to know.

  I have several cars and each is different in size and color, amongst other things. How does the system know which car I am driving when I want to make a reservation at a garage or a private space?

  During the sign up process we ask you to describe each vehicle you’ll be using with your SpotScout account. Every time you make a reservation at a garage or with a private SpotCaster, SpotScout’s software will prompt you to confirm which vehicle you are driving just before the reservation is accepted. This information and your user ID is then sent to the party giving you the space so that they may recognize you.

Note* Vehicle information is not furnished to on-street SpotCasters like it is with garages and private SpotCasters. This prevents them from holding the space for an individual who has purchased the information. Reserving a public space for a specific individual in many cities is considered against the law.

  Why were there no results when I searched for parking?

  We may not yet be available in your city (sadly) or there just may not be any parking available in the location you requested or at the time you requested. Try widening your search…. email us with any suggestions you have so we can better help you if this happens to you!

This is a new concept and it will take time for the marketplace’s reach to exist everywhere. We ask for your patience while our marketplace increases in size.

  Using a cellular phone can be distracting while driving. Won't it take my eyes off the road?

  We agree. As with making a call, accessing and searching SpotScout’s marketplace for a spot is safer when pulled over to the side of the road. It takes 30 seconds or less to use SpotScout to view results and choose a space, and though it’s short, we still recommend pulling over to the side of the road in a safe place if you are alone, or giving your phone to a passenger for the actual parking search. Thirty seconds is generally nothing compared to the time most people spend searching for parking in high demand areas.

  What does “SpotCast” mean?

  SpotCast (verb) - To broadcast information about present and future parking availability to a web-based marketplace of parking information.
The term "SpotCast" is a combination of the words “spot” and “broadcast.”SpotCasting a space informs others what particular time it will be available and exactly where it is.

Sharing information about when and where space will be available in crowded places is a valuable community service that we seek to encourage through our mobile information network and marketplace.
SpotCaster (noun) – A person who broadcasts information to others about parking availability to a marketplace via a web-based information network.
SpotCasters can be either individuals or institutions: Individual SpotCasters may either own (or lease) a private space, or plan to depart from a public space at a specific time. Institutional SpotCasters (garage/parking lots) own and professionally manage a number of parking spaces.

  How much does it cost to SpotCast my spot?

  Nothing. It’s free! There are no listing fees and no transaction fees.

  After posting my private space, how will I be paid?

  You will be paid through PayPal. Funds debited from the SpotScout’s credit card, debit card or PayPal account will go directly to your PayPal account.

  Why should I list my spot with SpotScout?

  1) Its an easy way to make money.
2) It’s free.
3) You can legitimately say you’re (a) contributing to a cleaner environment (by assisting others reduce unnecessary gas spent trying to find a spot), (b) helping others, and (c) improving your community (by helping reduce traffic, congestion, etc.).
4) We’ve got the best spot selling interface out there.

Side Benefit: You can think of SpotCasting as a return on your investment or a way to offset your costs (for gas, rent, etc).

  How do you price a private space when SpotCasting?

  SpotScout does not fix prices; we only provide the marketplace and communications between parties so they may trade in a trusted community environment. We do not and will not tell you how much your parking space(s) is worth.

Our recommendation is to assess what your local parking environment might be like ahead of time, and price your space accordingly to it. You might even visit a local garage and look at their rates.

The simple rule is that if you post your space and you don't get any bidders, you may be overpricing it. SpotScout’s software, allows you to easily re-post it with a lower rate anytime you want.

  What if the SpotScout who took my private space is still occupying it after their prepaid time in my space has elapsed?

  Ultimately, we don’t want to tell you what to do here, but we encourage patience.
Most SpotScouts will want their market rating to remain intact and will respect the terms and conditions of using your space. Sometimes however, we all run a little late. We’d like to encourage SpotCasters to give late returning SpotScouts some amount of ‘reasonable’ time before taking any action. But this will vary by situation.
We do recommend that you establish and communicate your rules upfront (in your SpotCast) and also rate the person accordingly. Here are a few things to follow:
First, we strongly recommend that SpotCasters detail the rules of conduct for use of their space BEFORE they post it to the market. Ie: “If you’re late more than ‘X’ minutes, I’ll have to tow. Thanks.” This can be done in the SpotCasting comment box.
Secondly, you may take a bite out of the person’s rating, which may hurt them later on when they need to find a space.
Thirdly, SpotScout sends them a reminder text and/or email message that their time is expiring soon.

  How far in advance may a SpotScout cancel their reservation for my space?

  SpotCasters specify their cancellation policy ahead of posting their space for others to use. A SpotScout may only cancel prior to the minimum notice requirement. If the SpotScout cancels after the minimum notice, the money is not returned.

  Who can rent out a parking space?

  Any person or business with a parking space that may be empty at times can SpotCast their spot to other SpotScouts. You may not however SpotCast someone else’s space without written permission.

  I have a driveway. It’s near a train station stop. Can I make money from it by broadcasting its availability to the network?

  It’s a strong possibility! Spots near mass transportation points, popular businesses, and popular destinations are always in high demand. Anytime your space or driveway is empty, it could be earning you money.

  My spot will not accommodate an SUV. Can you restrict what size of vehicle may park in my spot?

  Yes! During the registration process, we ask SpotCasters what the largest vehicle type their parking spot can accommodate. We also ask our future SpotScouts to enter information about their vehicle, including their vehicle type. We then simply filter the results accordingly, to avoid sending someone to your spot in a vehicle that won’t fit.

  I rent my parking space (or share it as part of my condominium community), can I still SpotCast it?

  In this situation we recommend getting approval/permission to SpotCast your space. If you need to give a SpotScout a temporary permit to be in your space, you must announce it in your SpotCast as part of the selling process. Doing so ensures a good community.
In the future, a group of individuals may be allowed to SpotCast their spaces with one person acting as the manager.

  Will I know in advance who is taking my private space?

  Yes, to a degree. To protect all our users’ privacy, we do not provide SpotCasters with the actual names, addresses, or license plate numbers of incoming SpotScouts. As a SpotCaster you will however receive the make, model, year and color of the incoming vehicle and the person's user ID and their rating on SpotScout’s marketplace.
Coming soon, you’ll even be able to choose to proactively filter and then accept reservations only from those with a certain rating.

  What will the SpotScout who reserves my space receive?

  The SpotScout who has reserved your private space will receive a confirmation code, a map with a satellite view of the address with icons denoting where to leave the car, any customized comments you may want them to know, and driving directions to your private spot. You’ll also be able to put in your own comments, like: "Park next to the steps, and away from the flowers." This helps describe the behavior you expect of your SpotScout.

Coming soon, you’ll also be able to choose preset messages like: "Please be courteous, I have neighbors." Or "Please do not leave any trash behind."

  I already post my spot with Craigslist. What’s the difference between SpotScout and Craigslist?

  Craigslist is great. We like them. But their bulletin board is good if you want to find a spot to park your car for longer periods, like monthly or yearly.
Unlike Craigslist, SpotScout is a site dedicated to helping you find parking which means that you will be more likely to find what you are looking for.
SpotScout is designed to deal with items like short-term parking, which come and go very quickly. It is made to help you find a spot for a day, a ball game, a restaurant reservation, and or even for an hour or two. It also allows parking to be associated with (and searchable by) points of interest (POIs), like Fenway Park or Grill 23.
And SpotScout is a ratings-based community; it facilitates electronic payment, calculates garage rates, and sources how far the spaces are from your destination.
That being said, we still give them a respectful nod for helping people find long-term spaces.

  I know by posting my space, I can make some money, but is it really true I am helping the environment?

  Yes, it is certainly true. When someone drives from point A to point B without circling the block to find a parking space, they save a lot of gas. That extra gas otherwise spent becomes harmful, unnecessary emissions. Multiplied by thousands of people in thousands of cities – what seems to be a small reduction becomes dramatically more significant for all of us.
With more people finding spots quicker it decreases congestion and idling time, as well as stopping and starting emissions, all of which helps reduce our collective carbon footprints.

  I manage/own a garage. How will SpotScout benefit my business?

  SpotScout is a direct compliment to your existing business. And it’s free, so there is nothing to lose! Only the opportunity to improve business…
With SpotScout, parking facilities can increase driver awareness of their facilities, extend their marketing, and flaunt their services beyond physical visual range.
Professionally run garages may also use our simple but powerful tools to help optimize parking spaces and increase revenues and profits.
Garages may opt to take advanced, prepaid reservations from consumers who might have never known of your facilities’ location, rates, or reputation.
Additionally, because we allow individuals to search for parking around their specific “points-of-interest” destinations, and not just addresses, we can help garages understand which local businesses may be directly anchoring your revenues.

  How much does SpotScout cost?

  Nothing. There are no charges and no investment required. It costs nothing to set up an account, nothing to manage your own information and extend your marketing, and nothing to take reservations with SpotScout.

  Do I have to sign a contract to maintain my own information?

  No. There is no contract to sign.
We ask that you sign a Memorandum of Understanding which goes the basic terms and conditions of maintaining your own information. However, it is NOT a contract that ties you into any sort of time commitment or otherwise.

  What do you mean manage my own (garages) information?

  Managing your own information allows you to promote your business accurately, advertise any services, amenities, etc. that you have, keep up a good rating in the community, and increase the likelihood of new drivers choosing YOUR garage to park their vehicle in.
We believe that keeping your information up-to-date helps your business, and we recommend that you manage your own info – after all, you know your business the best!

  What information can we make available?

  Whatever you’re comfortable with! SpotScout displays your facilities address, hours, rates, where users can pay, basic amenities, pictures of your facility, validating businesses and promotional message, specials and special programs. There are over 70 pieces of information we allow you to choose from when describing your facility.

  How will you help me to promote my facility?

  SpotScout gives you the ability to determine what those future parkers may see. You have control over what users see about your garage, its services & amenities, and the environment and businesses it serves.

  How long does it take to update my information?

  Registering a facility may take 5-10 minutes depending on how thorough you want to be. However, after the initial set up, updating content (for instance updating your rates) may take 30 seconds or less. It is very easy and quick to make changes to your SpotScout account and the details it provides consumers with about your facilities.

  Who updates my facility’s information?

  You may decide who in your organization may be responsible for updating your information. Upon registration, you indicate to us who is authorized, and we will provide them with the log in information. Should the person leave your firm, he/she can easily be removed and new person added to manage the account.

  How often can I update my information?

  As often as you like! Our web based garage content management interface is open 24x7. We recommend that you keep your information up-to-date so drivers view accurate information and have a positive experience when using your facility.

  How do we update information?

  SpotScout offers a facility management section on SpotScout.com. Upon login you may change rates, hours, pictures, messaging, specials, etc. These changes are possible at any time of day or night and with any frequency you see fit.

  How may I communicate with you I have a question or problem?

  We are available through email and we will also provide a direct number to call.