RORY HANSEN

Scenario 1: I’m walking down the street and an idea for a new website pops into my head. I even think of a great domain name, but have no idea if it’s already taken. But I’m forgetful and chances are, will have forgotten the whole business idea and associated domain name before I get to a computer.

Scenario 2: I buy domains and sell them for a profit. While in line at Starbucks, I think of a great one, but don’t know if it’s available. In my industry, domains are disappearing quicker and quicker and my window of opportunity may not exist when I get back to the office.

Solution: Create a service which allows people to check the availability of domain names via text messages from their cell phone. If available, also lets them purchase the domain name.

How would it work:
1) User sends a text message to service containing the domain name their interested in.
2) Service responds with “Available” or “Not Available”. If available, service also sends back numeric reference number and message that says “Please reply if you’d like to purchase this domain name now.”
3) If user replies with intention of purchasing the domain name, an automated phone system calls the user back, takes reference number (to avoid re-typing of domain name) and credit card info and processes the purchase.

Target customers:
1) Those that make purchases based on emotion, gut feeling, or instinct.
2) Domain squatters.
3) Brainstorming entrepreneurs hoping for the next YouTube.

What do you think?

Adsense: $236.07
Firefox Referrals: $793.10

Yahoo! Marketing: $167.39
Google Adwords: $271.80
MSN AdCenter: $5.62
Ask! Sponsored Listings: $68.38

Profit: $515.98