Technology
5 Crowdfunded Products That Delivered on the Hype
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Introduction
Crowdfunding lets creators pitch ideas directly to fans. Backers fund projects months or years before products exist. But many campaigns overpromise and underdeliver. Still, a handful of crowdfunded products genuinely delivered on the hype. These success stories show what’s possible when vision, planning, and community support come together. In this article, we look at five standout products that launched on Kickstarter or Indiegogo—and then reached backers’ hands on time, on budget, and with great quality. If you’ve ever wondered which campaigns turned dreams into reality, read on to discover these inspiring wins.
Top 5 Crowdfunded Products That Delivered on the Hype
1. Pebble Smartwatch
The Pebble smartwatch was among the first to prove crowdfunding could sparking a tech revolution. In 2012, its creators sought $100,000 on Kickstarter. They ended up raising over $10 million—the largest amount at the time .
Key Features and Success Factors
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E-Paper Display: Easy to read in sunlight and low power draw.
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Seven-Day Battery Life: Far longer than rival smartwatches.
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Cross-Platform Support: Worked on both iOS and Android from day one.
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App Ecosystem: Early focus on third-party apps gave users more choice.
Pebble shipped the first batch on time in early 2013. Backers received regular updates. Software updates kept the watch fresh for years. Though the company later sold to Fitbit, Pebble’s model set a gold standard for successful crowdfunding.
2. Oculus Rift Development Kit
Oculus Rift reignited interest in virtual reality. In 2012, Palmer Luckey and team asked for $250,000 on Kickstarter. They closed at $2.4 million .
What Made It Work
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Prototype Demos: Early videos showed real VR immersion.
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Developer Focus: The first kits targeted game developers, not mass consumers.
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Clear Roadmap: Oculus outlined hardware and software milestones.
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Transparent Communication: Backers saw monthly progress reports.
The Development Kit 1 (DK1) shipped in March 2013, followed by DK2 in mid‑2014. Both kits reached backers in line with promises. Oculus later sold to Facebook for $2 billion, proving VR could be more than a niche hobby.
3. Exploding Kittens Card Game
Sometimes the simplest ideas deliver the biggest smiles. Exploding Kittens launched on Kickstarter in 2015 with a quirky premise: don’t draw the exploding kitten card. It aimed for $10,000 but raised over $8.7 million from 219,382 backers .
Recipe for Success
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Famous Creators: Involvement of The Oatmeal cartoonist Matthew Inman grabbed attention.
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Easy-to-Learn Rules: Quick setup and short play time made it ideal for all ages.
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Strong Social Media Push: Memes and sketches fueled word‑of‑mouth.
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Clear Production Plan: Backers knew exactly when to expect delivery.
By mid‑2015, backers across the world received decks and expansions. Today, Exploding Kittens has sold millions and spawned mobile apps and spin‑off games.
4. Coolest Cooler
The Coolest Cooler aimed to reinvent the beach cooler. Launched in 2014, it offered a blender, Bluetooth speaker, USB charger, and more—all built into one rolling cooler. The campaign set a record with over $13 million in pledges .
Innovations and Challenges
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Multiple Features: Blender, bottle opener, LED light, and removable speakers.
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Detailed Specs: Backers saw 3D renders, prototypes, and feature lists.
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Step‑by‑Step Updates: Frequent videos showed assembly and testing.
Despite some production delays, the Coolest Cooler delivered its first units by late 2015. While some later backers faced longer waits, the core product shipped and worked as promised. It remains a case study in both ambition and the need for robust manufacturing plans.
5. Tile Bluetooth Tracker
Tile reinvented how we find lost items. Launched on Indiegogo in 2013, it raised over $2 million for tiny Bluetooth tags that ring your phone or make the tag ring .
Why Tile Succeeded
- Simple Problem, Simple Solution: Everyone loses keys or wallets.
- Low Price Point: Early bird pricing under $20 made it an easy add to cart.
- Networking Power: When other users’ phones pass your lost Tile, they send anonymous location pings to your app.
- Scalable Manufacturing: Tile secured a reliable supply chain before launch.
Tile shipped first tags in early 2014, and the app launched alongside. Today, Tile has sold over 20 million units, and the concept inspired many imitators—but none have matched its user base.
Lessons from Successful Crowdfunding
These five products that delivered on the hype share common traits:
- Clear Vision: Backers understood exactly what they would get.
- Strong Prototypes: Early demos showed real functionality.
- Open Communication: Frequent updates built trust even when delays hit.
- Realistic Goals: While some campaigns raised huge sums, each team scoped features to what was achievable.
- Post‑Launch Support: Companies continued to update software or accessories after shipping.
These elements help separate true success stories from projects that fail to deliver.
Why Some Campaigns Fail
By contrast, many crowdfunded products falter due to:
- Overambitious Features: Promising too much too soon.
- Poor Manufacturing Planning: Underestimating production costs or timelines.
- Lack of Updates: Silence erodes backer confidence.
- Insufficient Funding Stretch Goals: Draining resources to meet every backer demand.
Learning from both successes and failures is key to future crowdfunding wins.
Tips for Backers and Creators
For Backers
- Research the Team: Look for prior experience in hardware or product launch.
- Check Prototypes: Projects with clear videos or working models are safer bets.
- Read Comments: Backers often share signals of red flags or positive updates.
For Creators
- Build a Real Prototype: Show it working before raising funds.
- Plan Manufacturing: Partner with experienced factories early.
- Communicate Clearly: Set realistic timelines and stick to them.
- Test Logistics: Ensure shipping costs and processes are solid.
Conclusion
Crowdfunding has launched thousands of ideas—but only some live up to the promise. Pebble, Oculus Rift, Exploding Kittens, Coolest Cooler, and Tile stand out as crowdfunded products that actually delivered on the hype. They combined clear vision, strong prototypes, and solid planning to turn backer trust into real, high‑quality products. Whether you’re a backer seeking new innovations or a creator with a big idea, these success stories offer valuable lessons. Done right, crowdfunding can transform dreams into reality—one well‑executed campaign at a time.
Digital Development
AI and Automation: Transforming Business Workflows for Efficiency
In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency and speed are no longer luxuries; they are necessities. Companies of every size are under pressure to reduce manual tasks, streamline operations, and deliver better results with fewer resources. This is where technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and automation come in, offering powerful solutions for modern digital workflows.
AI and automation tools are no longer futuristic concepts; they are practical business enablers. From handling customer interactions to connecting systems behind the scenes, these technologies are reshaping how teams work and improving productivity across departments.
In this article, we’ll explore how AI and automation are making a measurable impact on business workflows, what types of tools are available, and why adopting them is no longer optional for forward-thinking organizations.

What Is AI-Driven Automation and Why It Matters
Artificial intelligence and automation together create systems that can perform repetitive tasks with minimal human intervention. Traditional automation focuses on rule-based processes, but AI-driven automation goes a step further. It uses intelligent algorithms to adapt, learn, and improve results over time.
For example, instead of manually moving data from one system to another, intelligent automation can observe patterns and automate entire processes from start to finish. This reduces errors, improves speed, and frees up human workers to focus on strategic priorities.
Businesses that adopt AI automation tools can:
- Reduce time spent on manual tasks
- Improve accuracy and consistency
- Enhance cross-department collaboration
- Unlock deeper insights from data
AI doesn’t replace human workers; it augments them.
Key Areas Where AI and Automation Are Making the Biggest Impact
Customer Engagement and Support Systems
Customer expectations have never been higher, and companies must respond quickly and accurately. AI-powered chat systems and automation tools help businesses manage customer queries, support tickets, and websites seamlessly.
For example, integrating chatbot platforms with customer relationship management systems allows teams to automate responses, route tickets, and maintain personalized conversations without constant human oversight. Services like chatbot-to-CRM integration empower organizations to synchronize customer data and provide faster, more consistent service.
Interconnecting Business Systems
Most modern businesses rely on a variety of tools, from marketing platforms to sales dashboards and project trackers. Manually shifting data between these tools can be slow and error-prone.
By implementing AI development services and automation solutions, organizations can connect these systems intelligently. Automated workflows push data where it needs to go, trigger notifications, and keep information synchronized without constant manual input. This improves operational visibility and reduces the risk of mistakes.
AI Tools That Support Internal Efficiency
Smart Task Automation
Instead of assigning repetitive tasks to employees, intelligent systems can execute them automatically. This includes activities like:
- sending scheduled reports
- updating databases
- triggering follow-ups
- monitoring system health
The result? Teams can redirect their time and energy toward high-value work.
Knowledge Management and Digital Assistants
Another major area where AI is helping teams is in managing internal knowledge. AI-powered knowledge bots allow organizations to index, retrieve, and share internal documentation quickly. Projects that once stalled because information was buried in email or shared drives now move faster because employees can ask a bot and get answers instantly. This is particularly useful for teams facing rapid growth or complex environments.
Why Modern Businesses Need AI and Automation Now
Adopting AI and automation isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore; it’s a strategic priority. The world is changing, competition is increasing, and customers expect faster responses than ever before. Below are some reasons why these technologies are vital:
- Faster decision-making: With automated reports and real-time insights
- Error reduction: Systems outperform humans in consistency
- Cost efficiency: Less time wasted on repetitive tasks
- Employee satisfaction: Workers focus on meaningful work
Investing in these tools can make the difference between thriving and just surviving.
Choosing the Right Tools for Your Business
With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which tools are right for your organization. Here are a few tips when evaluating potential solutions:
- Understand your pain points — Identify processes that are slow, repetitive, or error-prone.
- Start small — Pilot automation in one area before scaling.
- Measure results — Track time saved, error reduction, and productivity improvements.
- Build for growth — Choose tools that can evolve as your business grows.
Remember, automation should help employees work smarter, not just faster.
Conclusion
AI and automation tools are fundamentally transforming the way businesses operate. They reduce manual effort, accelerate workflows, and unlock new efficiencies across departments. Whether it’s enhancing customer engagement, improving internal operations, or connecting disconnected systems, these technologies are becoming essential for organizations that want to stay competitive in a digital-first world.
Forward-thinking teams are increasingly adopting structured automation strategies and intelligent integrations to simplify daily processes and improve accuracy. Platforms like MindRind focus on helping businesses implement practical AI systems, workflow automation, and connected solutions that make operations smoother and more scalable over time.
Ultimately, the goal isn’t just to automate tasks; it’s to build smarter systems that allow people to focus on meaningful work. Businesses that embrace AI-driven tools today will be better prepared for sustainable growth tomorrow.
FAQ’s
- What is the difference between automation and AI automation?
Traditional automation follows fixed rules to perform repetitive tasks, while AI automation uses machine learning and intelligent decision-making to adapt and improve over time. This allows systems to handle more complex processes and respond dynamically to changing conditions.
- How can AI tools improve customer support operations?
AI tools like chatbots and automated workflows can respond to common queries instantly, route tickets efficiently, and sync customer data across systems. This reduces response times, improves accuracy, and allows support teams to focus on higher-value interactions.
- Are AI and automation solutions suitable for small businesses?
Yes, AI and automation are not just for large enterprises. Small and mid-sized businesses can benefit greatly by automating repetitive tasks, reducing operational costs, and improving productivity. Even simple workflow improvements can save hours every week.
- What processes are best to automate first?
Businesses should start with repetitive, time-consuming tasks such as data entry, customer follow-ups, reporting, or system integrations. These areas deliver quick wins and make it easier to scale more advanced solutions like intelligent bots or connected CRM workflows.
- How do chatbot and CRM integrations help sales teams?
Connecting chatbots with CRM platforms ensures that customer conversations, leads, and data are captured automatically in one place. Solutions such as chatbot-to-CRM integration services help teams track interactions, reduce manual updates, and create faster, more personalized follow-ups.
Business
Troubleshooting Lacerte Software Crashes: Causes and Solutions
Lacerte Software is one of the most trusted tax preparation tools used by CPAs, accounting firms, and tax professionals. It’s powerful, feature-rich, and designed to handle complex tax returns with ease. But let’s be honest—nothing kills productivity faster than Lacerte software crashing again and again, especially during peak tax season.
If you’ve ever faced sudden freezes, unexpected shutdowns, error messages, or slow performance while using Lacerte, you’re not alone. Many users experience these issues at some point. The good news? Most Lacerte errors can be fixed easily without needing deep technical knowledge.
In this blog, we’ll break down why Lacerte keeps crashing, the most common Lacerte errors, and simple fixes you can try right away. We’ll keep everything in plain, easy language—no tech jargon overload.
Why Does Lacerte Software Keep Crashing?
Before jumping into fixes, it helps to understand what causes Lacerte crashes in the first place. Usually, it’s not just one issue—it’s a mix of system, network, or software problems.
Here are some common reasons:
- Outdated Lacerte software
- Corrupted program or data files
- Poor internet or network connection
- Insufficient system resources (RAM, storage)
- Conflicts with antivirus or firewall
- Network setup issues in multi-user environments
Now let’s look at the most common Lacerte errors and how you can fix them.

Common Lacerte Errors That Cause Crashing
1. Lacerte Stops Working or Freezes Suddenly
This is one of the most frustrating problems. You’re working on a return, and suddenly Lacerte freezes or closes without warning.
Possible causes:
- Low system memory
- Too many programs running in the background
- Corrupted client files
Simple fixes:
- Close unnecessary programs before opening Lacerte
- Restart your system and reopen the software
- Run Lacerte as an administrator
- Repair the Lacerte installation from the control panel
2. Lacerte Crashes While Opening a Client File
If Lacerte crashes when you try to open a specific return, the issue is usually with that client data file.
Possible causes:
- Corrupted client file
- Interrupted save process
- Network disconnection
Simple fixes:
- Try opening a different client file to confirm the issue
- Restore the client file from a backup
- Use Lacerte’s built-in data repair tools
- Make sure your network connection is stable
3. Lacerte Update Errors Causing Crashes
Updates are important, but sometimes a failed or incomplete update can lead to repeated crashes.
Possible causes:
- Interrupted download
- Firewall or antivirus blocking the update
- Insufficient disk space
Simple fixes:
- Run updates as an administrator
- Temporarily disable antivirus during the update
- Ensure enough free disk space
- Download and install updates manually if needed
4. Lacerte Network Errors in Multi-User Setup
If you’re using Lacerte in an office with multiple users, crashes often happen due to network issues.
Possible causes:
- Unstable local network
- Incorrect network paths
- Server connectivity issues
Simple fixes:
- Check that all users are connected to the same server
- Verify network drive mappings
- Avoid using Wi-Fi for the server—wired connections work better
- Ensure the server system stays on and doesn’t go into sleep mode
5. Lacerte Crashes During E-Filing
Crashes during e-filing can be stressful, especially close to deadlines.
Possible causes:
- Internet interruptions
- Corrupted e-file data
- Outdated program version
Simple fixes:
- Save your work before e-filing
- Check your internet connection
- Update Lacerte to the latest version
- Recreate the e-file if needed
6. Lacerte Software Slow Performance Before Crashing
Sometimes Lacerte doesn’t crash immediately—it becomes slow, unresponsive, and then shuts down.
Possible causes:
- Low RAM or CPU overload
- Large client database
- Background applications
Simple fixes:
- Upgrade system RAM if possible
- Close unused applications
- Archive old client files
- Restart the system daily during tax season
How Antivirus and Firewall Can Cause Lacerte Errors
Many users don’t realize that antivirus software and firewalls can interfere with Lacerte.
What happens:
- Antivirus blocks Lacerte files
- Firewall restricts network communication
- Program files get quarantined
What you can do:
- Add Lacerte folders to antivirus exclusions
- Allow Lacerte through the firewall
- Avoid running heavy scans during work hours
This small step alone fixes a large number of Lacerte crashing issues.
System Requirements Matter More Than You Think
Lacerte is a powerful application and needs proper system resources. If your system is outdated, expect crashes.
Basic tips:
- Keep Windows updated
- Maintain enough free disk space
- Avoid using old hardware for heavy tax work
- Restart systems regularly
If your firm handles a high volume of returns, local desktops may struggle to keep up.
How Lacerte Hosting Helps Prevent Crashes
One of the smartest ways to avoid Lacerte errors is by moving to Lacerte hosting. With Lacerte hosting, the software runs on a secure cloud server instead of your local computer.
Benefits of Lacerte hosting:
- Fewer crashes due to high-performance servers
- No dependency on local system limitations
- Automatic updates and backups
- Secure access from anywhere
- Smooth multi-user collaboration
Because the server handles most of the workload, users experience better speed, stability, and reliability, especially during peak tax season.
Best Practices to Prevent Lacerte Software Crashes
Prevention is always better than fixing issues during a busy day.
Here are some easy best practices:
- Always keep Lacerte updated
- Take regular backups of client data
- Avoid force-closing the software
- Use stable internet connections
- Train staff on proper software usage
- Consider cloud or hosting solutions
These simple habits can save hours of frustration.
Final Thoughts
Lacerte software crashes can be frustrating, stressful, and costly—especially during tax season. But most Lacerte errors are caused by common issues like outdated software, system limitations, network problems, or file corruption.
By understanding these problems and applying simple fixes, you can keep your workflow smooth and stress-free. For firms looking for long-term stability, Lacerte hosting and Drake hosting offer a reliable solution that minimizes crashes, improves speed, and supports remote work.
Consumer Services
Benefits of Hiring a React Native Developer in Las Cruces, NM
In today’s mobile-first world, having a powerful, user-friendly mobile application is no longer optional—it’s essential. Businesses of all sizes are investing in mobile apps to reach customers faster, improve engagement, and stay competitive. One of the most efficient ways to build high-quality mobile applications is by working with a React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM, especially if you want both performance and cost-effectiveness without sacrificing quality.
What Is React Native and Why Does It Matter?
For businesses in Las Cruces and beyond, this means faster time to market, easier maintenance, and a consistent user experience across platforms. A skilled React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM understands how to leverage this framework to deliver scalable, secure, and visually appealing mobile applications tailored to your business goals.

The Value of Hiring a Local React Native Developer
While outsourcing development overseas may seem attractive, working with a local developer offers unique benefits. A React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM understands the local market, business environment, and customer expectations. This local insight can make a real difference in how your app is designed, marketed, and ultimately received by users.
Additionally, communication is smoother when you’re working in the same time zone. Meetings, updates, and collaboration become more efficient, reducing delays and misunderstandings. For startups and small businesses, having direct access to a local expert can save both time and money.
Customized Mobile Solutions for Local Businesses
Every business is different, and a one-size-fits-all mobile app rarely works. A professional React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM focuses on creating customized solutions that align with your brand identity and operational needs. Whether you’re a restaurant, healthcare provider, retail store, or service-based business, your app should solve specific problems and enhance customer experience.
From intuitive user interfaces to seamless backend integrations, React Native developers can tailor features such as push notifications, real-time updates, secure payment gateways, and GPS-based services. These features not only improve functionality but also help build trust and loyalty among users.
Cost-Effective Development Without Compromising Quality
For startups and small businesses in Las Cruces, this cost efficiency can be a game changer. You get a high-quality mobile app without the expense of maintaining two separate development teams. This allows you to allocate resources to marketing, customer support, or additional features.
Performance, Security, and Scalability
Performance and security are critical factors in mobile app development. React Native offers excellent performance, especially when optimized by an experienced developer. A trusted React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM knows how to optimize app speed, minimize load times, and ensure smooth user interactions.
Security is equally important, particularly if your app handles sensitive user data. Professional developers follow best practices for data encryption, secure authentication, and API protection. As your user base grows, scalability becomes essential, and React Native’s architecture supports seamless scaling without major rewrites.
Supporting Long-Term Growth and Maintenance
Launching an app is only the beginning. Regular updates, bug fixes, and performance improvements are necessary to keep users engaged and satisfied. Working with a React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM ensures ongoing support and maintenance from someone who understands your app’s architecture from the ground up.
Local developers are also more accessible for long-term partnerships. As your business evolves, they can help add new features, integrate third-party services, or adapt your app to changing market demands.
Why Las Cruces Is a Growing Tech Hub
Las Cruces, NM, is steadily growing as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. With a supportive business environment and a growing demand for digital solutions, the need for skilled developers continues to rise. Choosing a React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM means investing in local talent while contributing to the region’s economic growth.
Local developers often bring a strong sense of community and commitment to their work. They’re invested in helping nearby businesses succeed, which translates into higher quality service and long-term reliability.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a React Native Developer In Las Cruces, NM is more than just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one. You gain access to modern mobile technology, local expertise, cost-effective development, and ongoing support tailored to your business needs. Whether you’re launching a new startup or upgrading an existing digital presence, React Native offers the flexibility and performance required to succeed in today’s competitive market.
By partnering with the right developer, you can transform your ideas into a powerful mobile application that connects with users, drives growth, and positions your business for long-term success.
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