Open (Public) Beta Testing is when a company lets everyone try out a new product—usually a website, app, or software—before it’s officially released. It’s like giving people early access so they can use it, explore it, and help find any problems or bugs that the creators might have missed.

Think of it like this: Imagine a restaurant is almost ready to open, but before they do, they invite the public to come in and try the food for free or at a discount. They want to see how everything works with real customers—what people like, what doesn’t work, and if anything needs to be fixed before the grand opening.

In beta testing:

• The product is mostly finished, but still being fine-tuned.

• Anyone can sign up or use it (no special invitation needed).

• Users give feedback so the final version can be better and more reliable.

So in short, Open Beta Testing means the product is being shared with the public early, to test it in the real world and catch any issues before its full launch.

1. Sign the Public Beta Agreement
   To participate, you must first read and sign the Public Beta Agreement. This helps protect both you and us while we improve the app.
   
   https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAL5BnwNDP6KC9wsxRLzFqu9am3ZXcA_zMCC9SiAREeS0wog/viewform?usp=header

2. Follow the Download Instructions Provided
   After signing, you’ll receive step-by-step instructions on how to download and install the beta version of our app, either from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

Because this is a Public Beta Test, the app is still being polished. You may run into small bugs or experience things that aren’t quite finished — and that’s totally normal! That’s why we’re asking for your help.

We kindly ask:

• Please send us direct feedback if something isn’t working right, seems confusing, or could be better.

• Please wait to leave public reviews on the App Store or Google Play. Give us a chance to correct any issues — your feedback helps us build a better app for everyone!

• We sincerely appreciate your patience and community grace during this testing phase.

💡 Not Interested in the Beta? No Problem!

If you decide that the beta app isn’t for you or you’d rather not continue testing, that’s absolutely okay!

You’re always welcome to book with us using our traditional methods:
📞 Call us
📲 Send a text request

We’re here for you in whatever way works best.

🤝 Thank You for Your Support

Your participation, feedback, and support mean everything to us. We’re building this app with the community, and we truly appreciate you being part of it — whether you're testing or sticking with the tried-and-true ways of booking.

Let’s create something amazing together. 💬

We're Testing Live in Bloomington-Normal!

We’re excited to officially launch the Neighborly Rideshare Public Beta app for our Bloomington-Normal community! It’s been a long time coming, and we’re proud to offer you a new, local ride alternative that’s built with care.

As a small, self-funded service, we’re taking thoughtful steps to ensure you receive fast, friendly, and fair transportation. While driver availability is currently limited, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we carefully vet and onboard new drivers and staff.

To increase your chances of securing a ride, we recommend scheduling your trip in advance whenever possible. This gives us time to match you with available drivers as our network grows.

Our app is evolving every week, with new features and updates aimed at improving your experience. If you come across a bug, glitch, or any issue, please don’t hesitate to report it. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and as a thank you, we offer special perks to those who help us improve the platform for the whole community.

Thank you for supporting a local rideshare service. We're grateful to have you on this journey with us!

— The Neighborly Rideshare Team