Social Networking and Web 2.0: Are They the Same Thing or Different?

Web 2.0 is the buzz on the Internet, not some new software for your computer. But some are still mystified as to what Web 2.0 really is – as was I for quite some time. Now, I find it a fascinating exploration and journey to meeting and connecting with new people every day. If you are anything like me and still feeling puzzled by it all and how it relates to you, then read on!

Tim O’Reilly coined the phrase Web 2.0 at a conference. From there it took off and evolved or morphed into a new idea for increasing the effectiveness of Web 2.0 sites on the Internet. Web 2.0 sounds like it is social networking while it is actually a type of platform that supports and brings more to these social networking sites.

Let’s talk about Social Networking. Social networking starts with individuals. They meet and connect forming new relationships. You could think of it like balls and sticks, with the ball representing the individual and the stick representing the connection. Without the social networking platform (the sticks) they would have made the connection.

Web 2.0 provides the space where connections and interactions can happen. The particular platform also determines the manner in which these interactions can occur. In some individuals create profiles and through their profile they are able to meet and connect with new people. On other platforms there are different means of connecting – through existing relationships and connections, or through groups or by invitation. Other features of the platform like news feeds, multimedia content, blogs, instant messages, social groups, audio and video, and message boards are also a huge part of Web 2.0. Through the unique combinations of these individuals are able to grow their connections and develop a large or gigantic online network.

Many sites use Web 2.0 as their basis. Some that you have probably heard of are:
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Twitter
• LinkedIn
• Wikipedia
• MySpace
• WordPress
• Blogger
• Flickr

There are many more, but this gives you a sampling and perhaps you are using one or two and didn’t even realized you were part of Web 2.0. If you are a member of any of these social networking sites, then you have sampled a Web 2.0 platform.

Web 2.0 sites use member generated content that is then ranked by the search engines. Good content is found on the site and the member that created it gains new connections and a “following” that is valuable. Your following can be used to increase your popularity on the web OR can create increased exposure and visibility for your business.

If you are a business owner, then you might wonder how Web 2.0 can be helpful to you. Web 2.0 platforms are already being used by businesses, universities, and families. The applications are easy to use so it becomes a great way to stay in touch. And, it is user friendly, so you don’t need to have web design knowledge or html knowledge. You are able to update your presence on the web every day or multiple times throughout the day without the expense of a web designer or web host. It is a way to keep in touch with easy to use and manageable applications. Your connections are able to subscribe to your updates using RSS Feed (Really Simple Syndication) This application automatically sends out an update to your subscribers desktop when changes occur to your page. RSS is frequently used on blogs and news sites as a convenience to readers, saving them valuable time. This enables them to be up to date without having to check your website for changes and updates. It keeps them posted. It also avoids the pitfalls of email.

Companies can also use Web 2.0 technology through Google Groups, Yahoo Groups and Twitter. It allows the company to update employees via one medium. They can receive important information about company projects, changes or new agendas.

Web 2.0 is also a useful medium for the business owner. It provides tools for driving new traffic to blogs, and websites. Several sites also provide places to post events and distribute event information to your network. The most useful part of these Web 2.0 sites is the ability to build new networks of people. Even if the site starts you out connecting to people you know, you are quickly able to move from those connections to their connections or other new connections. Each site is a new place for people to get to know you and your products. It is therefore vital that you use these sites with care, develop goals for your purpose and keep your values in check when using them. You want to protect your reputation and build a good online presence.