Social Networking Software

Usage:

• Targeted towards professionals
• Establishes relationships with individuals who share similar interests or backgrounds 
• Broadens professional network
• No cost to join
• Platforms for discussion

Examples of Social Networking sites:

• Myspace (www.myspace.com)
• LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com)
• Ning (www.ning.com)
• Facebook (www.facebook.com)
• CollectiveX (www.collectivex.com)
• Plaxo (www.plaxo.com) -- Article on the new version: http://www.techcrunch.com/2007/06/24/new-version-of-plaxo-launched-more-sync-more-often/
• A review of 7 social networking services can be found at http://www.techcrunch.com/2007/07/24/9-ways-to-build-your-own-social-network/#more-7588

Research and Media Network (http://researchandmedia.ning.com/)

• Ning is the platform for the network 
• Network developed by former journalist who now works for an NGO
• Works to link researchers interested in similar issues, as well as journalists covering those same issues

Features:

• Groups, created by any member of the network
• Blogs, used to share announcements
• Forum, discussion forum related to the theme of the network

Facebook (www.facebook.com)

• Started with students enrolled in universities, has expanded its scope to include everyone

Features:

• Networks, based on workplace, region, college, or highschool
• "Hot links" (whatever is listed in your profile links you to others with the same listing)
• Groups, can create or join groups based on interest
• Workplace network provides "community feeling" about where you work as well as a way to interact with colleagues
• Events, you can create an event and invite members, and also RSVP to events as well

CollectiveX - OneWorld Network (http://oneworldus.collectivex.com/main/summary)

• Discussion
• Calendar
• Personal Profile pages
• Establishing Key Connections
• Sharing objectives