What really defines Social Media (Web 2.0)? Is it just the technology or the human side? We usually tend to always talk about the technology that is involved with Web 2.0 such as Blogs, Wikis, RSS, AJAX, Api’s, XML, etc. Although it is the technology that makes Web 2.0 work, this transformation is really sparked by basic human needs.
Social media/networking is about collaboration, connecting, sharing, interacting and expression. With Web 2.0, the online world is being woven in the social fabric of today’s technology driven lifestyle. Web 1.0 was really more about technology trends and Web 2.0 is about the integration of this technology in the basic needs of our daily business and social lives.
Collaboration
Rather than working all alone, tools like Wiki’s and CMS (Content Management Systems) allows for people to work seamlessly together. Other social media tools allows companies to communicate and develop procedures and policies to collaborate with customers and partners.
Sharing
You don’t have to read a blog, news feed or online magazine alone. The Web 2.0 web allows for interaction and the sharing of information with others. Sites today allows easy sharing of opinions (blogs), videos, images and even your favourite web links (social bookmarking.
Connecting
The technology tools of social media allows people to interact and connect in their common interests. Social networking sites allows users to connect and collaborate in real-time. It’s all about connecting people and developing a network approach to business.
Expressing
Blogging has always been a way for human expression. People can express their opinions on just about anything. The web 2.0 spaces such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to name but a few allows for easy expression, representation and participation.
Interacting
People always want human interaction. Social media has brought in conversational marketing. Companies now holds a two-way dialogue with their customers through real-time chat, instant messaging and blogs.