Social media, a phenomenon in the 21st century, has changed the way people communicate with each other. Basically, social media is any type of shared social interaction between people, groups and companies via the internet. There are specific sites that have been created online for people to meet and interface without actually ever meeting in “real life” as well as outlets of information that attract millions of people every day.
There are 2 distinct and separate types of social media defined: social interface and concept media. The concept type of social media has to do with forms of art and other type of information. Social interface media is usually direct person-to-person or involved in a community. This can also be broadcasted or syndicated on various websites which specializes in disseminating online social information.
There are many types of expression with social media as well. One basic type appeals to most people by presenting videos of performances, demonstrations and instruction. Much of this is used for entertainment and learning purposes, although some sites are used to make revenue as well.
Social media networking sites have become so popular that major corporations are beginning to advertise on them as soon as they understand social media defined. Facebook, Myspace and Twitter are all very trendy sites where people can play you their music, interact with you within a 140 character limit and/or find people that you haven’t connected with in years. These sites are also used to advertise products, make social and political commentary by those that are members and keep their friends updated on what they’re doing during their day.
Social media sites such as Youtube have proven to be one of the most popular ideas of this century. The common man can upload a video of belly dancing, singing, scuba diving or anything that might tickle the fancy of other Youtube viewers. Because millions of people view many videos every day, this networking site has attracted some of the biggest advertisers in the world.
The fact that a lot of money can be made on Youtube and other video download sites has caused “webisodes”, the internet’s answer to TV, to explode. Producers, professional and amateur, are placing their original series, in 5-6 minute increments online with hopes of attracting thousands of viewers and in turn, advertisers. For all parties concerned, this social media situation is win-win.
Social media websites are on the rise. The reason is that, for most people, it is very accessible and either free or obtainable for a small fee. Because of so many different internet companies competing for your business, service is very cheap and with the right connection, very fast. Although it seems like the marketplace for all of this is saturated, we are only at the beginning of the wave. With social media defined, it is only going to expand with more and more companies fighting to get you to join their site.
This article was added on Sunday 13 June, 2010.
