In our world of vast technology communications, is it important to get together with people the old fashioned way.....face-to-face? As a technology CEO, I prefer to do many things via email and conference calls, but when it comes to really getting to know someone or enjoying their accompany, nothing replaces face-to-face interactions....especially in a social setting.

Recently, I was invited to a social with some friends. All 5 of us were planning to hang out on Friday night. I got the online invitation, and I was curious on what motivated the host to send a formal electronic invitation versus sending us an email or just calling us.

When I got the invite, I realized the power of the online invitation....seeing my other friends on the invite (although it was only 5 people) made me feeI connected to them and also created a sense of anticipation for the get-together. It also showed that all of us have very busy schedules, so we don't take for granted getting together on a Friday night. The invite showed that all of us were excited and committed to hanging out. It created a sense of community.

The most used invitation site is called Evite. I'm sure each one of you have either used it or have been invited through the system. For those of you who love getting together with friends, I'd like to hear feedback on what you think could or should be improved on an invitation system like Evite.

I can't promise that we can implement all of your suggestions, but we'll carefully listen and see how we can improve the consumer experience of online invitations.

Happy New Years to all. 2008 is the year of the rat. I know it doesn't sound very exciting, but the "rat" is known as one of the hardest-working signs in the Chinese zodiac. It represents a sign in which people or organizations can really shine, either personally or professionally.

I am very much looking forward to 2008. You can expect Zoodango to launch our full site. I can't wait to use the new Zoodango for my personal benefit as well. Next time I throw a party or get-together, I'm using Zoodango....can't wait! My friends will see that we've built an application with the consumer experience in mind. We want to make it fun before, during, and after your parties.

Not only did we create a cool app, but we built a smart app. We have a new feature called "Ask Zoodango" and the more you "Ask Zoodango", the smarter it gets. "Ask Zoodango" will make it easy and fun to meetup with your friends.

Thanks to everyone for your patience. Just another month away or so away.....launch in March 2008!