This is insightful post, but I think this kind of difference between service quality is to be expected. Compare Groupon -- a well-funded company and relatively

This is insightful post, but I think this kind of difference between service quality is to be expected. Compare Groupon -- a well-funded company and relatively well-known brand, which seem to consider themselves to have strong position on the market, with LivingSocial, who seem consider themselves fighting an uphill battle against an incumbent. No wonder LivingSocial works hard on differentiating themselves form the competition. No wonder Groupon tries to cut the costs by providing what they consider bare minimum service. I think you'll find similar example everywhere you go, where imbalanced markets and competition are at work.