Dec 10, 2023

# What are double-blind reviews in marketplaces?

This article will describe the meaning of double-blind reviews in the context of online marketplaces and two-sided platforms. It will give a definition and some examples where possible.

## Definition of double-blind reviews

In a double-blind peer review process, the provider and customer review each other at the end of a transaction but can only see the review they received once they’ve sent a review themselves. Many marketplaces utilize a double-blind review process to prevent feedback extortion. Famous examples are Airbnb, where both hosts and guests are prompted to review each other after a stay, and Uber, where drivers and passengers leave each other star-based reviews at the end of the ride.   
  
Reviews are a great way to increase marketplace trust. Reputation plays a vital role in accessing revenue or services, encouraging users to strive to get good feedback. A marketplace can also use reviews and ratings to weed out bad and reward good behavior.

## Examples of marketplaces using double-blind reviews

Here are a few examples where a form of double-blind review system might be used:  
  
1\. **Freelance Service Platforms (like Upwork or Freelancer)**: In these platforms, when clients and freelancers rate each other after a project is completed, identities could be hidden during the review process. This approach can encourage more honest feedback and reduce bias.  
  
2\. **Ride-Sharing Services (like Uber or Lyft)**: These platforms sometimes use a form of double-blind review where drivers and passengers rate each other, but the ratings are not revealed until both parties have submitted their feedback. This helps prevent retaliatory or influenced ratings.  
  
3\. **Home Rental Services (like Airbnb)**: Similar to ride-sharing services, Airbnb can employ a double-blind review system where hosts and guests review each other, but the reviews are only made public after both sides have submitted their feedback, ensuring unbiased opinions.  
  
4\. **Peer-to-Peer Selling Platforms (like eBay)**: In platforms where buyers and sellers rate each other, a double-blind system can be used to ensure that feedback is honest and not influenced by the other party’s review.  
  
5\. **Professional Networking Sites (like LinkedIn)**: Although not a traditional marketplace, LinkedIn could implement a double-blind system for endorsing skills or giving recommendations, to add an extra layer of credibility and impartiality.  
  
6\. **Online Dating Platforms**: Some dating apps or websites might use a double-blind review mechanism for user feedback to maintain privacy and unbiased interactions.  
  
In these examples, the double-blind review system helps maintain the integrity of the feedback process, encouraging more genuine and unbiased reviews, which are crucial for trust and reliability in marketplaces and service platforms.

[← Back to the marketplace glossary](/marketplace-glossary/)

## Learn about other marketplace concepts

[What is delayed payout in marketplaces?](/marketplace-glossary/delayed-payout/)

[What is marketplace fragmentation?](/marketplace-glossary/fragmentation/)

[What are network effects?](/marketplace-glossary/network-effects/)

[What is escrow in online marketplaces?](/marketplace-glossary/escrow/)

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