here is my dream...

[Kaz]

* a way to cusomize the coupon database. Example: I could look at all the RP coupons for my region, deselect the ones I don't get, add ones that are local and save them to my database. Would be nice if we could add in other coupons also into our personnal database like IC's, mailed q's, cut from boxes etc. with quantities of each and be able to track how many we have or don't. I am seeing that I will print a list only to find I used up all of a certain one two weeks prior.

* a way to type in my local stores deals and link them to the database listed above or even the current database. I think it would be quicker to type than to scroll up and down the list. then I could get a more usable printout showing me the exact deal. Or even a way to link up a store that uses the online shopping lists to the database would be helpful.

* a way to link the selected deals from all of the above to a personal pricebook just by clicking a box. Also give us a way to manually add in items to the pricebook and even allow us to make them visible to other members.

I know this would be probably a lot of coding to make this happen and require a lot of space. I would even be willing to pay for this kind of convience, because it would save a huge chunk of time and money for me. maybe keep what is in place free and offer an upgraded membership that would allow for the personalized features.

[yamnan]

Yes, I agree about customizing. I requested a method for downloading the coupon database into Excel but was told by the moderator they don't want people doing this because it would make it too easy for other sites to "steal" it.

[Kaz]

If there was a way that they could retain the files, then that would prevent theft of the info, I would think. I do realize that it would require a lot of space, but like I said I would be willing to pay a resonable monthly fee for the ability to do so. The basic info would still be the same and that could be made available free like it is now. Some people would not want to pay or would not need the extra features, so leave that as it is. But the more I get into this, the better organized I would like to be to maximize my savings.

Could even maybe allow members to add in their own local stores and share them free with all for a discount to them on the use of the customizable database. Would be a switch from "Could you please add my store" to "Do you have anyone doing my mom and pop market? I would love to do it for you!" That would end up helping all. The free users would have access to so many more stores, savings and deals and the people who are willing to put in the work to make this happen could save a few bucks on the customizable database.

The only downside I could see to this is the amount of space all of this information might take up and the traffic to the sites on sundays and mondays would be huge. But like I said I would be willing to pay a few bucks for the ability to make this more workable for my needs as I am sure a lot of people would.

Kaz

[yamnan]

Kaz, great ideas (all except the part about paying but I'd probably do it). CM saves me so much time and effort - and I can only see it getting better. Probably have to continue to improve to keep up with the other web sites. But I'm very loyal to CM.

[michelek]

what coupon database were you looking at to download?