FIXYA

“How do I change this?" "Something's wrong with that?" Why can't I download  this software?" These cries for help -- all sorts of cries for help -- are being helped on Fixya.com.

It's a free question-and-answer site. Fixya has more than 150 categories, ranging from welding tools to bridal attire.

Right now, there are, in fact, quite a few startups that are offering this kind of live service. The promise of a live person is great in a world of toll-free support, that after a long wait in line, connects you with inexperienced helpers and online tutorials. According to IBISWorld, the U.S. computer and electronic repair industry alone is worth $20 billion annually.

Otobots, a Chicago-based company delivers certified mechanics to people’s driveways. Techy, based in Washington, D.C., has provided same-day laptop repair-service, with couriers picking up and returning the machine.

Fixya is going further -- it is also offering a paid app service -- 6ya.

The smiling man in the picture  promises guidance from experts in six minutes or less. $6 per month is the cost for unlimited audio or video calls to gurus who give advice and are able to fix things remotely. All the available experts -- in computers, smart phones, autos and home appliances -- have at least two years of professional repair experience.

The smiling guy, a former Apple staffer, fields the phone calls. He hires other experts who work on a freelance basis, and get paid $3 by fixya for each support call.

Here's the fixya ad that touts various areas it supports.

Wow, whoopee, whew -- this is what I need, my husband, John Cullum, often needs, our son JD occasionally needs, is desperately needed by friends and acquaintances who phone me from time to time, when they are stuck, frustrated, tearing out their hair with an unfixable something-or-other.

THIS  THE LINK TO  fixya.

THIS IS THE  TO 6ya