It's always good to see other side of the coin. Thanks for the clarifications. I have always felt checkins can be used for various interesting services. viz a

It's always good to see other side of the coin. Thanks for the clarifications. I have always felt checkins can be used for various interesting services. viz a user checks-in a pub and he is suggested nearby pubs and offers, a tourist following a series of check-ins suggested by foursquare for exploring a place etc etc. Badges are cool and all but people sticking just to earn badges is going to be temporary. Badges in Cityville, Farmville etc work well because they ride on top of gameplay and facebook - not much incentives in foursquare.