Doing it Right: Bundle is a Sharable Look at How We Spend Money

• Feb 9th, 2010
• Posted by Ron
• Posted in Cash, Money, Social Media, Spending, Vice (not Miami)

I’m a sucker for these money-related sites that track your spending. I’ve been with Mint.com for years and use their iPhone app so much that Bank of America’s site is probably jealous. If Bank of America would offer mobile banking for Washington and Idaho customers, then I’d probably be using their app, but they don’t.

Naturally, when I heard about Bundle, the joint venture between MSN Money, Citi, and Morningstar (not the makers of vegetarian frozen foods), I was interested in seeing not only how I fit into their little classification system, but also in comparing myself to the average Seattleite.

Digging deeper on the left hand side navigation gives you a look at spending in the major buckets. You can hover over each and “Go Deep” to find out more.

Here’s a look at what the tool brings up for single Seattle males with no kids between the ages of 26-35:

Share and Share Alike

While the practical application of this tool is still not yet seen (beyond providing a way for the three backers to gather and share data) the way they promote social sharing and discussion is extremely well done.  Below the “fold” there’s a “become a fan of Bundle on Facebook” box, not just a small little icon. The “capture a share” button in the upper right hand corner uses Facebook Connect or Twitter Connect to publish out the latest data that you’ve pulled. Nearly every action that you take on the site creates an opportunity for sharing.

Last, but certainly not least, Bundle goes mobile with their VICEtracker application for the iPhone. This isn’t as full-fledged as the Mint.com application which actually ties to your bank account, but it does let you pinpoint your vices and share your progress toward cutting back with trusted friends through Facebook Connect.

In a time where sharable content and data that you can pivot to create your own narrative is taking the lead, Bundle is more than just a time waster; it’s a social tool that just might turn some heads.