Are Social Networks Sinking?
So, I ran across this interesting question presented in this article on technology Review today and it struck a nerve that can be best explained with this question: Linked In or Plaxo?
Ever since I have taken this plunge into the matrix of digital activity out here, I am almost daily faced with a new network to join. Most of the time, it's a network that offers the same services as an existing tool..plus one extra feature! While I understand the game, I have found myself repeatedly scratching my head wondering..."How did this get funded?"
Thin Out The Numbers....
This has led me to the conclusion that there are just too many networks out there with not enough competitive differentiation to justify sinking more time into them. In fact, I have been hoping that more of them would fall off just to reduce the options! I mean honestly, ever since I started Twittering I haven't even taken the time to keep up my Facebook account, and those are two completely different networks! Do we really need another?
With that being said, I am not surprised about Pownce, Values of N, or any of the other recent casualties of the recession. The world could use less social networks. Then we can focus on making the staple ones better.
Nah...Survival of the Fittest
You know, I don't think they are sinking though. That's harsh. Social Media has revealed itself as a new and effective communication vehicle for communicating in realtime exponentially. No recession or bubble is going to change this reality.
God help us when they figure out how to actually make money off of these things though!
I don't know...What do you think?
social media