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{{Short description|Freelance marketplace}}
{{Orphan|date=August 2016}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
| name = AskforTask
| name = AskforTask
| logo =
| logo = AskforTask.png
| logo_size =
| logo_size =
| logo_alt =
| logo_alt =
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| industry = Home services
| industry = Home services
| founded = 2012 in [[Toronto]], [[Ontario]], [[Canada]]
| founded = 2012 in [[Toronto]], [[Ontario]], [[Canada]]
| founders = [[Muneeb M. Mushtaq]]<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/1308093/askfortask-acts-as-odd-jobs-matchmaker-for-canadian-job-seekers/|title=AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers|last=Tucker|first=Erika|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":33">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/startups/new-startup-adds-twist-to-craigslist-concept/article12918160/|title=Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept|website=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":53">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blogto.com/tech/2014/05/get_to_know_a_toronto_startup_askfortask/|title=Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask|website=blogTO|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|url=http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1158176|title=Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy|website=CNN iReport|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><br>Nabeel Mushtaq<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/1308093/askfortask-acts-as-odd-jobs-matchmaker-for-canadian-job-seekers/|title=AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers|last=Tucker|first=Erika|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":33">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/startups/new-startup-adds-twist-to-craigslist-concept/article12918160/|title=Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept|website=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":53">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blogto.com/tech/2014/05/get_to_know_a_toronto_startup_askfortask/|title=Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask|website=blogTO|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|url=http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1158176|title=Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy|website=CNN iReport|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>
| founders = Muneeb M. Mushtaq<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/1308093/askfortask-acts-as-odd-jobs-matchmaker-for-canadian-job-seekers/|title=AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers|last=Tucker|first=Erika|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":33">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/startups/new-startup-adds-twist-to-craigslist-concept/article12918160/|title=Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept|website=The Globe and Mail|date=8 July 2013 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":53">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blogto.com/tech/2014/05/get_to_know_a_toronto_startup_askfortask/|title=Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask|website=blogTO|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|url=http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1158176|title=Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy|website=CNN iReport|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><br>Nabeel Mushtaq<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/1308093/askfortask-acts-as-odd-jobs-matchmaker-for-canadian-job-seekers/|title=AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers|last=Tucker|first=Erika|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":33">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/startups/new-startup-adds-twist-to-craigslist-concept/article12918160/|title=Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept|website=The Globe and Mail|date=8 July 2013 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":53">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blogto.com/tech/2014/05/get_to_know_a_toronto_startup_askfortask/|title=Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask|website=blogTO|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|url=http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1158176|title=Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy|website=CNN iReport|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>
| hq_location_city =
| hq_location_city =
| hq_location_country =
| hq_location_country =
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| brands = AskForTask App (Native clients on: iOS, Android)
| brands = AskForTask App (Native clients on: iOS, Android)
| num_employees = 50+
| num_employees = 50+
| services =
| services =
| owner = <!-- or: | owners = -->
| owner = <!-- or: | owners = -->
| ratio = <!-- for BANKS ONLY -->
| ratio = <!-- for BANKS ONLY -->
| rating = <!-- for BANKS ONLY -->
| rating = <!-- for BANKS ONLY -->
| website = {{URL|www.askfortask.com}}
| website = {{URL|www.askfortask.com}}
}}
}}


'''AskforTask''' is a [[Toronto]]-based [[online marketplace|marketplace]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/ditching-the-you-snooze-you-lose-mentality-schools-workplaces-waking-up-to-benefits-of-napping|title=Ditching the you-snooze-you-lose mentality: Schools, workplaces waking up to benefits of napping|website=National Post|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> where people can outsource their daily tasks like cleaning, handyman, and moving. It is similar to [[Uber]] but for home services. The service is available on [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]], and as a web-based platform.<ref name=kjkj>{{Cite web|url=http://tech.co/1000-taskers-ready-line-boxing-day-2014-12|title=AskForTask Provides Over 1,000 Taskers Ready to Line Up on Boxing Day|date=2014-12-25|website=tech.co|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603163617/http://tech.co/1000-taskers-ready-line-boxing-day-2014-12|archive-date=2016-06-03|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.techvibes.com/blog/askfortask-2013-10-26|title=Student Entrepreneurs Say Their Startup Gives 'Every Single Canadian Opportunity for Employment' - Techvibes.com|website=www.techvibes.com|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.metronews.ca/news/canada/2013/08/20/toronto-startup-helps-your-tasks-get-done.html|title=Canadian startup helps your tasks get done {{!}} Metro News|website=metronews.ca|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://canadaam.ctvnews.ca/finance/millennials-and-the-rise-of-we-based-culture-1.2764306|title=Millennials and the rise of 'we-based' culture|website=Canada AM|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160429190535/http://canadaam.ctvnews.ca/finance/millennials-and-the-rise-of-we-based-culture-1.2764306|archive-date=2016-04-29|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bnn.ca/News/2016/2/1/Pattie-Lovett-Reid-Are-Millennials-different-from-the-rest-of-us.aspx|title=Pattie Lovett-Reid: Are millennials different than the rest of us? - BNN News|website=www.bnn.ca|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/sharing-economy-poses-regulation-challenges/article26082827/|title=Sharing economy poses regulation challenges|website=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://tech.co/sharing-economy-muneeb-mushtaq-tedx-2015-01|title=Sharing Economy: Built on Trust, Provides Consumer Empowerment|date=2015-01-03|website=tech.co|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>
'''AskforTask''' is a [[Toronto]]-based [[online marketplace|marketplace]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/ditching-the-you-snooze-you-lose-mentality-schools-workplaces-waking-up-to-benefits-of-napping|title=Ditching the you-snooze-you-lose mentality: Schools, workplaces waking up to benefits of napping|website=National Post|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> where people can outsource tasks like [[cleaning]], [[handyman]], and moving. Similar to [[Uber]] but for home services, the service is accessible on [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]], and online.<ref name=kjkj>{{Cite web|url=http://tech.co/1000-taskers-ready-line-boxing-day-2014-12|title=AskForTask Provides Over 1,000 Taskers Ready to Line Up on Boxing Day|date=2014-12-25|website=tech.co|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603163617/http://tech.co/1000-taskers-ready-line-boxing-day-2014-12|archive-date=2016-06-03|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.techvibes.com/blog/askfortask-2013-10-26|title=Student Entrepreneurs Say Their Startup Gives 'Every Single Canadian Opportunity for Employment' - Techvibes.com|website=www.techvibes.com|date=26 October 2013 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.metronews.ca/news/canada/2013/08/20/toronto-startup-helps-your-tasks-get-done.html|title=Canadian startup helps your tasks get done {{!}} Metro News|website=metronews.ca|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160602184419/http://www.metronews.ca/news/canada/2013/08/20/toronto-startup-helps-your-tasks-get-done.html|archive-date=2016-06-02|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://canadaam.ctvnews.ca/finance/millennials-and-the-rise-of-we-based-culture-1.2764306|title=Millennials and the rise of 'we-based' culture|website=Canada AM|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160429190535/http://canadaam.ctvnews.ca/finance/millennials-and-the-rise-of-we-based-culture-1.2764306|archive-date=2016-04-29|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bnn.ca/News/2016/2/1/Pattie-Lovett-Reid-Are-Millennials-different-from-the-rest-of-us.aspx|title=Pattie Lovett-Reid: Are millennials different than the rest of us? - BNN News|website=www.bnn.ca|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/sharing-economy-poses-regulation-challenges/article26082827/|title=Sharing economy poses regulation challenges|website=The Globe and Mail|date=24 August 2015 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://tech.co/sharing-economy-muneeb-mushtaq-tedx-2015-01|title=Sharing Economy: Built on Trust, Provides Consumer Empowerment|date=2015-01-03|website=tech.co|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
AskforTask was founded in 2013 by two Toronto based brothers; [[Muneeb M. Mushtaq]] and Nabeel Mushtaq.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/1308093/askfortask-acts-as-odd-jobs-matchmaker-for-canadian-job-seekers/|title=AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers|last=Tucker|first=Erika|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":33">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/startups/new-startup-adds-twist-to-craigslist-concept/article12918160/|title=Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept|website=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":53">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blogto.com/tech/2014/05/get_to_know_a_toronto_startup_askfortask/|title=Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask|website=blogTO|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|url=http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1158176|title=Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy|website=CNN iReport|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> The brothers formed the idea after they struggled to find a reliable plumber.<ref name=":53" /><ref name=":23">{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/business/2015/12/29/ubers-ambitions-are-much-more-than-taxi-service.html|title=Uber's success spurs other businesses using similar technology from dry cleaning to parking apps|last=Lu|first=Vanessa|date=2015-12-29|newspaper=The Toronto Star|issn=0319-0781|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> The company was launched when they saw a business opportunity to solve this problem.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03">{{Cite web|url=http://torontolife.com/city/business/working-for-uber-ask-for-task-date-night-favour-kleanr/|title=What it's like to work for Uber and other on-demand apps {{!}} Toronto Life|date=2016-02-03|website=Toronto Life|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>
AskforTask was founded in 2013 by two Toronto based brothers; Muneeb M. Mushtaq and Nabeel Mushtaq.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/1308093/askfortask-acts-as-odd-jobs-matchmaker-for-canadian-job-seekers/|title=AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers|last=Tucker|first=Erika|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":33">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/startups/new-startup-adds-twist-to-craigslist-concept/article12918160/|title=Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept|website=The Globe and Mail|date=8 July 2013 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":53">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blogto.com/tech/2014/05/get_to_know_a_toronto_startup_askfortask/|title=Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask|website=blogTO|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|url=http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1158176|title=Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy|website=CNN iReport|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> The brothers formed the idea after they struggled to find a reliable plumber.<ref name=":53" /><ref name=":23">{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/business/2015/12/29/ubers-ambitions-are-much-more-than-taxi-service.html|title=Uber's success spurs other businesses using similar technology from dry cleaning to parking apps|last=Lu|first=Vanessa|date=2015-12-29|newspaper=The Toronto Star|issn=0319-0781|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-09-24 |title=Nabeel and Muneeb Mushtaq to tap into local tech talent market |url=https://dailytimes.com.pk/670486/nabeel-and-muneeb-mushtaq-to-tap-into-local-tech-talent-market/ |access-date=2022-07-30 |website=Daily Times |language=en-US}}</ref> The company was launched when they saw a business opportunity to solve this problem.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03">{{Cite web|url=http://torontolife.com/city/business/working-for-uber-ask-for-task-date-night-favour-kleanr/|title=What it's like to work for Uber and other on-demand apps {{!}} Toronto Life|date=2016-02-03|website=Toronto Life|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Canada is North America's up-and-coming startup center |url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/04/20/canada-is-north-americas-up-and-coming-startup-center/ |access-date=2022-07-30 |website=TechCrunch |date=20 April 2017 |language=en-US}}</ref>


First functioning as a website where users would post a task and provide their own pricing, it later evolved into a more comprehensive system of set pricing per hour. Through utilizing smart technology and a unique algorithm, they are able to match users with experienced and reliable Taskers.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":33" /><ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03" />
Initially functioning as a website where users would post a task and provide their own pricing, it later evolved into a more comprehensive system of set pricing per hour. Through utilizing smart technology and a unique algorithm, they are able to match users with experienced and reliable Taskers.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":33" /><ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03" />


=== Scope ===
=== Scope ===
AskforTask is used in more than 100 cities across Canada, and has about 20,000 Taskers completing jobs.<ref name=":63">{{Cite web|url=https://www.askfortask.com/blog/about/|title=About – Blog – Askfortask|website=www.askfortask.com|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2015/07/22/ask-for-task/|title=AskForTask's on-demand help marketplace now serves 150 Canadian cities, launches new iOS app {{!}} MobileSyrup.com|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> The company has enabled their clients to save around $100 million on day to day tasks including electrical work, plumbing, cleaning etc.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03" /><ref name=":63" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.itbusiness.ca/news/askfortask-wants-to-make-sure-you-never-have-to-mow-your-own-lawn-again/56838|title=AskforTask wants to make sure you never have to mow your own lawn again|website=IT Business|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/career-advice/life-at-work/need-cash-and-a-career-be-a-micro-entrepreneur/article15315288/|title=Need cash and a career? Be a 'micro entrepreneur'|website=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>
AskforTask is used in more than 100 cities across Canada, and has about 20,000 Taskers completing jobs.<ref name=":63">{{Cite web|url=https://www.askfortask.com/blog/about/|title=About – Blog – Askfortask|website=www.askfortask.com|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2015/07/22/ask-for-task/|title=AskForTask's on-demand help marketplace now serves 150 Canadian cities, launches new iOS app {{!}} MobileSyrup.com|date=22 July 2015 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> The company has enabled their clients to save around $100 million on day to day tasks including electrical work, plumbing, cleaning etc.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03" /><ref name=":63" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.itbusiness.ca/news/askfortask-wants-to-make-sure-you-never-have-to-mow-your-own-lawn-again/56838|title=AskforTask wants to make sure you never have to mow your own lawn again|website=IT Business|date=20 July 2015 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/career-advice/life-at-work/need-cash-and-a-career-be-a-micro-entrepreneur/article15315288/|title=Need cash and a career? Be a 'micro entrepreneur'|website=The Globe and Mail|date=7 November 2013 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>


In 2014, AskforTask received $500,000 in seed funding and announced a dedicated app for its marketplace.<ref name=":73">{{Cite web|url=http://betakit.com/torontos-askfortask-gets-500000-in-seed-funding-will-launch-app/|title=Toronto's AskForTask Gets $500,000 in Seed Funding, Will Launch App {{!}} BetaKit|website=betakit.com|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> By this time the site had received above 50,000 users and processed more than $2.5 million in tasks.<ref name=":73" /> The company has also been noted to be the country's largest task based marketplace.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/going-global/four-things-startups-can-learn-from-target-canadas-mistakes/article24027185/|title=Four things startups can learn from Target Canada's mistakes|website=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Digital payments |url=https://a2zcasinos.org/global-payment-trends/digital-payments/ |accessdate=7 March 2020}}</ref>
In 2014, AskforTask received $500,000 in seed funding and announced a dedicated app for its marketplace.<ref name=":73">{{Cite web|url=http://betakit.com/torontos-askfortask-gets-500000-in-seed-funding-will-launch-app/|title=Toronto's AskForTask Gets $500,000 in Seed Funding, Will Launch App {{!}} BetaKit|website=betakit.com|date=4 March 2014 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> By this time the site had received above 50,000 users and processed more than $2.5 million in tasks.<ref name=":73" /> The company has also been noted to be the country's largest task based marketplace.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/going-global/four-things-startups-can-learn-from-target-canadas-mistakes/article24027185/|title=Four things startups can learn from Target Canada's mistakes|website=The Globe and Mail|date=22 April 2015 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Digital payments |url=https://a2zcasinos.org/global-payment-trends/digital-payments/ |access-date=7 March 2020}}</ref>


The company has been noted for its success in multiple media sources including being featured in ''Metabridge Top 15''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.techvibes.com/blog/metabridge-names-15-of-canadas-hottest-tech-startups-2015-05-08|title=Metabridge Names 15 of Canada's Hottest Tech Startups - Techvibes.com|website=www.techvibes.com|access-date=2016-05-03}}</ref> and ''Canada's hottest startups.''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.markevans.ca/2015/12/29/canadas-hottest-startups-2015/|title=Canada's Hottest Startups of 2015|access-date=2016-05-03}}</ref>
The company has been noted for its success in multiple media sources including being featured in ''Metabridge Top 15''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.techvibes.com/blog/metabridge-names-15-of-canadas-hottest-tech-startups-2015-05-08|title=Metabridge Names 15 of Canada's Hottest Tech Startups - Techvibes.com|website=www.techvibes.com|date=11 May 2015 |access-date=2016-05-03}}</ref> and ''Canada's hottest startups.''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.markevans.ca/2015/12/29/canadas-hottest-startups-2015/|title=Canada's Hottest Startups of 2015|access-date=2016-05-03}}</ref>


===Business model and impact===
===Business model and impact===
AskforTask's source of income comes from a 15% fee that they take from the Tasker's total earnings on each task. The company runs on a marketplace platform where it connects Askers and Taskers and enables transactions without owning any service providers itself. Unlike traditional service companies (plumbers, movers, cleaners etc.), AskforTask scales by increasing the number of Askers who need help with tasks, and the Taskers who have the skills to provide the needed services. In addition to individuals using the service, businesses have also taken advantage of the platform. They utilize it as an easy access to a large workforce to request a team of Taskers to complete tasks like office clean-outs.<ref>{{cite news |last=So |first=Candice |date=2014-03-17 |title=AskForTask helping businesses harness the shared economy |url=https://www.itbusiness.ca/news/askfortask-helping-businesses-harness-the-shared-economy/47491 |url-status= |work=IT Business |location= |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=2020-05-28}}</ref>{{better source|date=March 2020}}
AskforTask's source of income comes from a 15% fee that they take from the Tasker's total earnings on each task. The company runs on a marketplace platform where it connects Askers and Taskers and enables transactions without owning any service providers itself. Unlike traditional service companies (plumbers, movers, cleaners etc.), AskforTask scales by increasing the number of Askers who need help with tasks, and the Taskers who have the skills to provide the needed services. In addition to individuals using the service, businesses have also taken advantage of the platform. They utilize it as an easy access to a large workforce to request a team of Taskers to complete tasks like office clean-outs.<ref>{{cite news |last=So |first=Candice |date=2014-03-17 |title=AskForTask helping businesses harness the shared economy |url=https://www.itbusiness.ca/news/askfortask-helping-businesses-harness-the-shared-economy/47491 |work=IT Business |access-date=2020-05-28}}</ref>{{better source|date=March 2020}}


== Operations ==
== Operations ==
The AskforTask app acts as the company's online marketplace that matches its users (Askers) with service providers (Taskers)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nowtoronto.com/news/apps-follow-uber-model-to-help-you-get-shit-done/|title=Toronto apps follow Uber model to help you get shit done|website=NOW Toronto Magazine - Think Free|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> such as handymen, cleaners, movers<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://smallbiztrends.com/2015/10/sharing-economy-best-practices-small-businesses.html|title=How to Use the Sharing Economy to Benefit Your Business|date=2015-10-18|website=Small Business Trends|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> in the area to carry out jobs. The system allows workers to pick up jobs that fit with their schedule while providing their clients with quick and reliable access to low-cost services.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":33" /><ref name=":53" /><ref name=":43" /><ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2210769/want-to-make-a-quick-buck-people-will-pay-you-to-wait-in-line-for-the-new-iphone/|title=Want to make a quick buck? People will pay you to wait in line for the new iPhone|last=Bogart|first=Nicole|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>
The AskforTask app acts as the company's online marketplace that matches its users (Askers) with service providers (Taskers)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nowtoronto.com/news/apps-follow-uber-model-to-help-you-get-shit-done/|title=Toronto apps follow Uber model to help you get shit done|website=NOW Toronto Magazine - Think Free|date=17 February 2016 |access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> such as handymen, cleaners, and movers<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://smallbiztrends.com/2015/10/sharing-economy-best-practices-small-businesses.html|title=How to Use the Sharing Economy to Benefit Your Business|date=2015-10-18|website=Small Business Trends|language=en-US|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref> in the area to carry out jobs. The system allows workers to pick up jobs that fit their schedule while providing their clients with quick and reliable access to low-cost services.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":33" /><ref name=":53" /><ref name=":43" /><ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2210769/want-to-make-a-quick-buck-people-will-pay-you-to-wait-in-line-for-the-new-iphone/|title=Want to make a quick buck? People will pay you to wait in line for the new iPhone|last=Bogart|first=Nicole|website=Global News|access-date=2016-04-26}}</ref>


The review system of the Taskers app is similar to a freelance marketplace in that enables clients to rate Taskers depending on the quality of their service and enables the Taskers to gain and build up a reputation.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03"/>
The review system of the Taskers app is similar to a freelance marketplace in that it enables clients to rate Taskers depending on the quality of their service and enables the Taskers to gain and build up a reputation.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":03"/>


=== AskForTask Taskers ===
=== AskForTask Taskers ===
The app has increased the availability of employment opportunities for Taskers looking for jobs.<ref name=":13" /> Some of the Taskers are students who are looking for part-time jobs for an extra cash as they would by babysitting for neighbors.<ref name=":0" />
The app has increased the availability of employment opportunities for Taskers looking for jobs.<ref name=":13" /> Some of the Taskers are students who are looking for part-time jobs to earn extra cash as they would by babysitting for neighbors.<ref name=":0" />


As the platform gained popularity, the Taskers earned themselves real world reputations. The Taskers on the platform have been featured in media for events such as Canadian Boxing Day.<ref name=kjkj />
As the platform gained popularity, the Taskers earned themselves real-world reputations. The Taskers on the platform have been featured in media for events such as Canadian Boxing Day.<ref name=kjkj />


=== Requirements for becoming a Tasker ===
=== Requirements for becoming a Tasker ===
The requirements of becoming a Tasker include two years of previous experience in the task category, verification and a training process. The company verifies Taskers email addresses, social media accounts, phone numbers and their PayPal accounts to when they sign up so that the clients (Askers) are able to trust them while hiring.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":53" /> The company is revamping its website and app to allow for the option to be a "certified" Tasker by implementing online training, government background checks and a video interview.<ref name=":13" />
The requirements for becoming a Tasker include two years of previous experience in the task category, verification and a training process. The company verifies Taskers email addresses, social media accounts, phone numbers and their [[PayPal]] accounts when they sign up so that the clients (Askers) are able to trust them while hiring.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":53" /> The company is revamping its website and app to allow for the option to be a "certified" Tasker by implementing online training, government background checks and a video interview.<ref name=":13" />


==References==
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{Official website}}


[[Category:Freelance marketplace websites]]
[[Category:Freelance marketplace websites]]

Latest revision as of 15:32, 28 November 2024

AskforTask
Company typePrivate
IndustryHome services
Founded2012 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
FoundersMuneeb M. Mushtaq[1][2][3][4]
Nabeel Mushtaq[1][2][3][4]
Headquarters
Toronto Edit this on Wikidata
Area served
100+ cities in Canada
BrandsAskForTask App (Native clients on: iOS, Android)
Number of employees
50+
Websitewww.askfortask.com

AskforTask is a Toronto-based marketplace[5] where people can outsource tasks like cleaning, handyman, and moving. Similar to Uber but for home services, the service is accessible on Android, iOS, and online.[6][7][8][9][10][11][12]

History

[edit]

AskforTask was founded in 2013 by two Toronto based brothers; Muneeb M. Mushtaq and Nabeel Mushtaq.[1][2][3][4] The brothers formed the idea after they struggled to find a reliable plumber.[3][13][14] The company was launched when they saw a business opportunity to solve this problem.[13][15][16]

Initially functioning as a website where users would post a task and provide their own pricing, it later evolved into a more comprehensive system of set pricing per hour. Through utilizing smart technology and a unique algorithm, they are able to match users with experienced and reliable Taskers.[1][2][13][15]

Scope

[edit]

AskforTask is used in more than 100 cities across Canada, and has about 20,000 Taskers completing jobs.[17][18] The company has enabled their clients to save around $100 million on day to day tasks including electrical work, plumbing, cleaning etc.[1][13][15][17][19][20]

In 2014, AskforTask received $500,000 in seed funding and announced a dedicated app for its marketplace.[21] By this time the site had received above 50,000 users and processed more than $2.5 million in tasks.[21] The company has also been noted to be the country's largest task based marketplace.[22][23]

The company has been noted for its success in multiple media sources including being featured in Metabridge Top 15[24] and Canada's hottest startups.[25]

Business model and impact

[edit]

AskforTask's source of income comes from a 15% fee that they take from the Tasker's total earnings on each task. The company runs on a marketplace platform where it connects Askers and Taskers and enables transactions without owning any service providers itself. Unlike traditional service companies (plumbers, movers, cleaners etc.), AskforTask scales by increasing the number of Askers who need help with tasks, and the Taskers who have the skills to provide the needed services. In addition to individuals using the service, businesses have also taken advantage of the platform. They utilize it as an easy access to a large workforce to request a team of Taskers to complete tasks like office clean-outs.[26][better source needed]

Operations

[edit]

The AskforTask app acts as the company's online marketplace that matches its users (Askers) with service providers (Taskers)[27] such as handymen, cleaners, and movers[28] in the area to carry out jobs. The system allows workers to pick up jobs that fit their schedule while providing their clients with quick and reliable access to low-cost services.[1][2][3][4][13][15][29]

The review system of the Taskers app is similar to a freelance marketplace in that it enables clients to rate Taskers depending on the quality of their service and enables the Taskers to gain and build up a reputation.[13][15]

AskForTask Taskers

[edit]

The app has increased the availability of employment opportunities for Taskers looking for jobs.[1] Some of the Taskers are students who are looking for part-time jobs to earn extra cash as they would by babysitting for neighbors.[11]

As the platform gained popularity, the Taskers earned themselves real-world reputations. The Taskers on the platform have been featured in media for events such as Canadian Boxing Day.[6]

Requirements for becoming a Tasker

[edit]

The requirements for becoming a Tasker include two years of previous experience in the task category, verification and a training process. The company verifies Taskers email addresses, social media accounts, phone numbers and their PayPal accounts when they sign up so that the clients (Askers) are able to trust them while hiring.[1][3] The company is revamping its website and app to allow for the option to be a "certified" Tasker by implementing online training, government background checks and a video interview.[1]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i Tucker, Erika. "AskForTask acts as odd-jobs matchmaker for Canadian job-seekers". Global News. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  2. ^ a b c d e "Startup adds twist to classic Craigslist concept". The Globe and Mail. 8 July 2013. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  3. ^ a b c d e f "Get to know a Toronto startup: AskForTask". blogTO. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  4. ^ a b c d "Welcome to a new $600-billion marketplace: Why the service industry is the new cash cow and how it's helping grow the economy". CNN iReport. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  5. ^ "Ditching the you-snooze-you-lose mentality: Schools, workplaces waking up to benefits of napping". National Post. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  6. ^ a b "AskForTask Provides Over 1,000 Taskers Ready to Line Up on Boxing Day". tech.co. 2014-12-25. Archived from the original on 2016-06-03. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  7. ^ "Student Entrepreneurs Say Their Startup Gives 'Every Single Canadian Opportunity for Employment' - Techvibes.com". www.techvibes.com. 26 October 2013. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  8. ^ "Canadian startup helps your tasks get done | Metro News". metronews.ca. Archived from the original on 2016-06-02. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  9. ^ "Millennials and the rise of 'we-based' culture". Canada AM. Archived from the original on 2016-04-29. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  10. ^ "Pattie Lovett-Reid: Are millennials different than the rest of us? - BNN News". www.bnn.ca. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  11. ^ a b "Sharing economy poses regulation challenges". The Globe and Mail. 24 August 2015. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  12. ^ "Sharing Economy: Built on Trust, Provides Consumer Empowerment". tech.co. 2015-01-03. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  13. ^ a b c d e f Lu, Vanessa (2015-12-29). "Uber's success spurs other businesses using similar technology from dry cleaning to parking apps". The Toronto Star. ISSN 0319-0781. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  14. ^ "Nabeel and Muneeb Mushtaq to tap into local tech talent market". Daily Times. 2020-09-24. Retrieved 2022-07-30.
  15. ^ a b c d e "What it's like to work for Uber and other on-demand apps | Toronto Life". Toronto Life. 2016-02-03. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  16. ^ "Canada is North America's up-and-coming startup center". TechCrunch. 20 April 2017. Retrieved 2022-07-30.
  17. ^ a b "About – Blog – Askfortask". www.askfortask.com. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  18. ^ "AskForTask's on-demand help marketplace now serves 150 Canadian cities, launches new iOS app | MobileSyrup.com". 22 July 2015. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  19. ^ "AskforTask wants to make sure you never have to mow your own lawn again". IT Business. 20 July 2015. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  20. ^ "Need cash and a career? Be a 'micro entrepreneur'". The Globe and Mail. 7 November 2013. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  21. ^ a b "Toronto's AskForTask Gets $500,000 in Seed Funding, Will Launch App | BetaKit". betakit.com. 4 March 2014. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  22. ^ "Four things startups can learn from Target Canada's mistakes". The Globe and Mail. 22 April 2015. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  23. ^ "Digital payments". Retrieved 7 March 2020.
  24. ^ "Metabridge Names 15 of Canada's Hottest Tech Startups - Techvibes.com". www.techvibes.com. 11 May 2015. Retrieved 2016-05-03.
  25. ^ "Canada's Hottest Startups of 2015". Retrieved 2016-05-03.
  26. ^ So, Candice (2014-03-17). "AskForTask helping businesses harness the shared economy". IT Business. Retrieved 2020-05-28.
  27. ^ "Toronto apps follow Uber model to help you get shit done". NOW Toronto Magazine - Think Free. 17 February 2016. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  28. ^ "How to Use the Sharing Economy to Benefit Your Business". Small Business Trends. 2015-10-18. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
  29. ^ Bogart, Nicole. "Want to make a quick buck? People will pay you to wait in line for the new iPhone". Global News. Retrieved 2016-04-26.
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