I've always been curious to why things take off...

One thing I think about a lot is the one thing that made them different at the point in time at which they hit true growth.

I think one main similarity between them all (besides timing) is adding a level of transparency on previously opaque information before anyone else.

• Facebook added transparency to your relationship status before anyone else.
• Twitter added transparency to your current status before anyone else, making the world and perceived celebrities feel like everyone else.
• Foursquare added transparency to your current location before anyone else. (although don’t consider this a major success or long term behavior)
• eBay added transparency to collectibles you always wanted before anyone else.
• Craigslist added transparency to your neighbor’s garage before anyone else.

If you are going after massive market in the consumer space it may be worth asking;

What are you making transparent that didn't exist before?

Here at Zaarly, it's money. Job creation. Changing the economy.