Instead review

Instead is an innovative program that gives you the opportunity to make a small change in your daily routine and then donate the money you save to a good cause. The amounts involved in giving are either $3 or $5 at a time, which helps to put in perspective the kind of difference a small contribution can make to someone in need.

Pros

Vehicle for giving: This app helps you to see exactly where in your budget you can save some cash, and then lets you contribute it to a cause you think is important. You can choose from any of the campaigns listed in the program, and these include things like providing fresh water to people who need it to helping teens get HIV treatment.

Cons

Confusing presentation: Each cause lists an action you can take that will allow you to contribute $3 or $5, at a time, but then it lists the activity three times. It's unclear if agreeing to this activity commits you to an individual donation or three of them.

Log-in failures: In order to select a cause and donate, you need to log in either with Facebook or with an email address and password. We were unable to create an account either way on multiple attempts and so could not complete the donation process.

Bottom Line

Instead is a great idea, and although its interface is a little confusing, it could be a great way to raise money and awareness for certain causes. But because its log-in feature didn't work, it renders the app essentially useless.

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