DISQUS

Joshua March · 1 year ago

Hi Nick,

This is a valid point. A year ago, it could have been countered with the fact that niche social networks may have been able to include applications targeted towards their niche audience. However, with the open application platforms, it's now possible to create bespoke communities with any features you want by using applications, and these can even be cross platform (e.g. allowing Facebook app users to interact with MySpace app users).

This is something very relevant, as it is now much easier and cheaper for brands to create custom communities using applications that trying to get users to sign up to whole new social networks.

Josh

Joshua March · 1 year ago

I'll add to that, I expect to see far more branded 'community' focused applications coming out as we see the decline in spam/gimmick applications caused by general fatigue and the tightening of the notification/spam rules on Facebook and other platforms.

Chip Griffin · 1 year ago

Social networks are in reality specialized niches. We each create our own niche, or join one that already exists. What you are really speaking to is the proliferation of platforms on which this interaction can occur.

If you look at Facebook or MySpace as a monolith, then you are making a strategic mistake. People don't join any of these large social networking sites to interact with a huge number of people, but rather a narrow social network of friends, colleagues, or others with whom they share some tie.

Ultimately, people must choose to participate in the social network(s) that have the most appeal and value to them, regardless of whether they exist on one of the broad platforms or on a more narrowly tailored one.

Also, keep in mind that social networking need not consume a lot of time in the aggregate. Some social networks may encourage constant participation with lots of updates, but others may be used on a much more infrequent basis while still providing value. Think of it as the difference between Twitter (which is frequent and ongoing) versus LinkedIn (which is sporadic and targeted).

Jonathan Kleiman · 1 year ago

I think there are some pretty cool niched networks.

See my article on Legal Intellects:
http://tinyurl.com/3dab6w

Qnahealth · 8 months ago

Niche social networks are a welcome addition to the web. Because they are more narrowly focused, they are better able to serve the needs of their community.

The large generic social networks like Facebook and Myspace are great for keeping in touch with friends, but small social networks offer much more - people just like you who share your same passions.

Qnahealth is a new social network for health related information and support. It's designed to be friendly and easy to use and is focused around users asking and answering questions and sharing their experiences and knowledge.

We invite everyone to take a look as they explore their online health information options.

We welcome bloggers!

Human Osteopathy · 6 months ago

As we age and obtain new priorities, the time available for socializing via the web decreases dramatically.

Prescription Medicines · 6 months ago

My online identity has become so distributed that it is occasionally overwhelming.

First Aid Supplies · 6 months ago

This weekend I was pondering the existence of many of the niche social networks that exist out on the web.

Earthquake kits · 6 months ago

Ultimately even a blog can be a social network in theory since it assists in connecting people

Personal Emergency Kits · 6 months ago

I am referring specifically to social networking websites that enable users to present public profiles of themselves. My online identity has become so distributed that it is occasionally overwhelming.