Online errand and task services have become more and more popular in China. They have attracted not only people who seek such services, but also people in need of extra cash. In fact, these online task and errand marketplaces are turning the demand into money-making opportunities. CCTV's Luo Yu has more.
Could it be that more and more people are becoming lazy? This is particularly true on China's university campuses. For those who are too lazy to run their own errands, there are others who will do it on their behalf for a small price. Xiaoneida, an online platform, matches freelance workers with local demand.
''Sometimes I don't have the time to pick up my parcels. I will use the app," said a student.
''It's cold outside. I use it to get someone buy me some food," said another student.
''College students can earn some money. They support themselves through hard work," a student said.
Xiaoneida is used on more than ten university campuses across Beijing.
''University students tend to embrace new things. Besides, the university campus is a concentrated market, where new business models can spread faster and even explode in the future," said Zhang Guoqiang, co-founder of Xiaoneida.
You can register on this app as someone looking for someone to do a particular job...or someone to be prepared to do it. The money is not that enticing - most jobs only bring in around 5 yuan on average, that's around 70 cents. But it's quick and flexible. And to put it to the test, now I'm going to ask someone to help me buy some fruit.
I sent my request, and five minutes later, one girl delivered two apples and a banana. Hiring someone to get your food during the unbearably cold winter seems like not a bad idea.
''I think people are getting lazier by nature, that's why we have a more extensive division of labor. If a product or a company realizes this, it's easier for them to achieve success," said Liu Chengmin, Angel investor.
According to Xiaoneida Co-founder Zhang Guoqiang, more than 80% percent of jobs on offer are for people to pick up parcels or deliver food. But some tasks can be a little more creative.
''Sigh, I want a girlfriend so bad!"
''I want someone to write an experiment report from the life sciences course. Those who are interested, message me.''
''Click farming wanted. Do an online course. 30 yuan will be paid.''
"I need a shower card to the men's bathroom. I'll ll be quick. Less than 3 yuan.'' Students said.
Sociologist Dr. Zhu Di, says apps like this could have unintended negative affects.
''With this kind of economy, people just get away from their responsibility by paying certain amount of money. And also this makes less significant family background differences among students more straightforward and more concrete. The platform should enforce real-name registration with their university ID numbers. And services like taking exams or writing papers should be forbidden," Zhu said.
New technologies are making students' lives easier. But for every one to benefit from a task service on campus, experts warn that users need to be self-disciplined, and regulations from the school and the industry need to be put in place.
