I think the authors suggestions are valid. I particularly like:
Why not? If you're going to use these businesses as the crux of your own, the least you could do is give them a voice. As for forcing them to advertise with you in order to address their concerns or share information with them, he's right that IS extortion. Unfortunately, his suggestion that businesses be able to opt out (even thought they never opted in) will not solve the problem. Most consumers would just see the "opting out" as admission of guilt. -they must be a really crappy restaurant if they're afraid to show their Yelp score. -Not saying that's right, but that is how it would be popularly received. By the way, when I got back to my hotel and told the woman at the desk where I had sushi, she smiled and said "you should have asked me". -She, of course, was right.3. Give businesses a chance to post comments or respond at the top of their Yelp page where the public can read it before going to the reviews.