Every week I come across an article written by someone conveying their hatred for Facebook or MySpace or other social network. I don’t necessarily share the hatred for the social networks but I do see some problems.
I experience these three key points most often. Applications that incorporate communities and social networks beyond their primary purpose may find that it backfires.
Social networks are the craze and are sometimes referred to as Internet 3.0 (whatever that means). Like Ajax, adding social networking has become just another feature to add to a new shiny app. In many cases, it creates bloat; thereby, becoming less useful and more difficult to use.
Nonetheless, the allure of capitalizing on social networks is too tempting. A social network can complement a core competency, but it can just as easily get in the way. Developers need to consider the pros and cons of adding social networking features to their app just like any other idea, without succumbing to the idea’s popularity. Will it complement the app’s primary purpose?
And if you do implement it, for God’s sake make it usable.
Social networks are a jackpot when it comes to harvesting user data. As such, they are also capable of abusing user trust and privacy. Late last year, Facebook launched a new application called Beacon.
Beacon is a core element of the Facebook Ads system for connecting businesses with users and targeting advertising to the audiences they want.
Two things are clear from this statement: Facebook’s intentions with Beacon and its primarily a benefit to business. The benefits for the consumer , however, were overshadowed by one thing that was not mentioned. Beacon automatically shared user data with others without consulting the user first. Facebook lost trust from many of its users.
Social networks that harvest user data need to put privacy and trust at its forefront. They should take into account the same considerations that are made when handling a user’s billing or financial information. Not doing so demonstrates negligence.
Additionally, developers need to decide if collecting data is worth the potential PR blunders and the cost to maintain privacy and trust.
People, more than ever before, have less time to do everything they want. This can largely be attributed to the Internet and its ability to spread information. It’s easy to become overloaded with information because it is so accessible. The Internet is the ultimate paradox because it allows us to make our life more convenient while complicating it.
Haven’t you ever wanted to take a break from the Internet? I have and I found it rewarding. Have you ever tried taking a break from your favorite social network? I have, but I’m laden with guilt of not giving my friends my virtual attention. I’m scared that my friends will think I’m ignoring them.
Social networks need to allow people to connect with one another without interfering. The social network should not be high maintenance.
I think there’s still a lot we need to learn about how and when to implement social networks. Moving forward, I would like to see more consideration given to these issues.