I signed up for Groupon yesterday! And I have no idea why. The phrase “bargain hunting” and the word “coupon” both send shivers down my spine, and combining “coupon” with “group” to create the new word “Groupon” is the sort of concept that’s definitely going to make me wake up in horror in the middle of the night.

So why did I do it? Maybe it’s because in my role at E Source investigating best practices for communications, customer service, and online self-service, I’m always checking out the latest Internet trends. Or maybe like many other people I’m just curious to see what screaming deals are offered to me. So far I’ve been offered Colorado Avalanche tickets for less than half price—but I’m not a hockey fanatic, so this is one coupon where I won’t be joining the group. But when a new restaurant opens in Colorado and offers a great deal then I may start to pay attention.

If this is the first time you’ve heard of Groupon, let me apologize because I’m afraid it won’t be the last. This small Internet start-up is the latest darling of ...