CF Labs update

[Joe Cicero]

We're pleased to announce that we've completed phase one of the
Product Recalls site. Retitled 'Recalled Products' (we decided it's a
more straightforward name, plus the domain name was available), it now
incorporates what we consider to be a complete basic feature set with
email alerts, rss capabilities, an embeddable widget and the most
asked-for feature from our reviewers: ability to filter keyword
searches by category.

So on to phase two. We've already identified ideas for expansion such
as incorporating recalls from other sources. If you have any ideas for
how the service could be improved, or are interested in helping out
with development, we're all ears!

For our next project, we will be focusing on developing an idea
submitted to us through our Call for Ideas. StayPrivate.org will aim
to make it easier to opt out of receiving unwanted marketing
communications from companies registered with the Direct Marketing
Association. It'll also incorporate an effective mechanism for
complaining about annoying companies as well as hosting league tables
for the worst offenders with the aim of achieving change through a
strong bank of first-hand experiences.

Team-wise, we're somewhat sad to announce that Richard Pope has
relinquished his role as Head of CF Labs. Irrepressible as he is
though, he's graciously offered to stick around as a mentor and
general sounding board for the foreseeable future. We'd like to take
this opportunity to thank him for his support and guidance thus far,
without which we wouldn't be anywhere near where we are now in terms
of progress.

Finally, our call for ideas is still open, so please continue to send
them through to us using our website – http://www.consumerfocuslabs.org.
We're also reachable by email (te...@consumerfocuslabs.org), and
Twitter (http://twitter.com/cflabs).