CiteBlue

I have been enjoying participating in the MSU College of Law Social Media Contest. I have learned (and am still learning) a lot. Because of my activity, I have been able to connect with organizations and people that I would never have come across without social media. For this introvert, it has been like opening a whole new world. (I know, most people would never guess that I am an introvert; they probably just think that I am a snob. In social settings, I am a complete misfit, but put me in front of a classroom or conference room and I shine. It is strange, I know, but that is me. Perhaps we will dissect that in a different post).

It has been interesting to see what posts attract followers. It has also been eye opening to figure out that followers also appear with an agenda--for example, some follow hoping to be followed in return to build their own group. This week, a company called CiteBlue "followed" me on Twitter. I wasn't familiar with the company, so I clicked over to their Twitter feed. From there, I was intrigued enough to go on to their website. Turns out, CiteBlue is a new legal citation company. So new in fact, that right now, their website is in beta.

With my 1L Advocacy brief looming, I am always trying to find better ways to seek the cases that will set my argument out from the pack. So, having another option was intriguing. I jumped in and created a free (during beta) account. I must admit that having the option to use my Google account to sign in was convenient (we won't discuss the Big Brother aspects of that decision). The website is attractive with clean lines and bright colors, and it is easy to navigate because it doesn't have any bells and whistles competing for attention. It seems to me that the website is optimized for a mobile platform with the clean lines and simple design. Unfortunately, there was no corresponding app that I could find although a note says it is coming soon.

Jumping in to functionality, a case search brought up several cases. As you can see, I have selected a most appropriate case:

Screenshot of a case on CiteBlue.

The search results screen and case screens are very easy to navigate. Along the "case timeline", there are bubbles linking to "Authorities cited" and "Cited by." The case itself include hyperlinks to the citation cases. A button allows you to create a "Project" which seems to be similar to a "Folder" on other sites. Another link titled "Bibliographies" at the top of the page takes you to a page to "Create a Project"--it will be interesting to see their expected usage. I wasn't able to find a help section or any tutorials, but I am guessing that they will show up soon. I always find it helpful to find out how developers think their product should be used. I don't always follow their suggestions, but I at least start there. All in all, the site was easy to navigate. I expect the main attraction will be for users on mobile platforms though.
As of this morning, there is no information on the website about the company or how much they plan to charge in the future. The twitter account says it was opened in 2015, and the twitter handle @citeblueapp seems to confirm that they are aiming for a mobile audience. It will be interesting to see where this goes!