Social Networks are the new E-Mail
A recent article published by the BBC has found that online community platforms such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter are quickly becoming the preferred method of online communication via and at the expense of more traditional platforms such as stand alone e-mail programs. Programs such as Facebook offer a more community based, integrated approach to digital communication.
Recently, Alison Cavanagh has published an article detailing the rise and factioning of online communities, illuminating many of the positive and negative aspects of web based community as well as some related research issues.
BBC: Facebook Supplanting E-mail
Allison Cavanagh and Internet Community
Facebook is in the middle of a redesign
http://www.alternet.org/mediaculture/131866/10_reasons_why_facebook_now_sucks_/?page=2
Your post gives rise to many questions… How do these factions create or inhibit community? Also, how is email related to community building?
Keri
One of the neglected aspects of the BBC article is the role Facebook plays in creating and fostering online “community.” For better or for worse, individuals may select and choose who are their “friends” and who they would like to have has their “friends.” Such selection may differ substantially from more formal and informal community formed around housing, education or recreational activities.