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Social Networking
E Social Networking E
Who, What, When, Where, Why, How?
The inside scoop on social networks!
Who?
51% of visitors that engage in social networking sites fall between the age bracket of 18- 24 years old. "Studies show that American internet users in urban area are on average 91% more likely to visit online social networking sites" ( www.hitwise.com). Social networks have seemed to become a more of a trend within the past year when looking at the number of members from in 2004 versus 2005. Job seekers and business people have also visited social networking sites more over the past year.
What?
A social network is a social structure over the Internet made of individuals or organizations that usually have social familiarities. These social networks can also be referred to as Internet applications that help friends, business partners, and others connect by using Internet tools such as games, blogs, music, multimedia, and event bulletins.
When?
The term social network did not come into play until the 1990’s. Some people may say the term was based from social inventions used all the way back from the 1940’s starting with a personal computer called a ‘memex’ and the way it was used in coming up with hypertext. The term "social network" was developed by K. Eric Drexler, who founded the Foresight Institute. It took until late 2002 for the term social software or network to become commonly used among the public. Some popular types of social software that exsisted before the term social networking includes IRS( internet Relay Chat), Instant Messaging(The Friends List), Forums(against the friends list), blogs(organic linking between friends), and so many others.
Where?
Social networking occurs over the Internet. Some are friend based and others are business based. Some social networks that many people are familiar with are myspace, facebook, and friendster.
Why?
Social networks seem to be developed among the belief that one person is connected to everyone in the world through six relationships. The social networks show how the world is connected by showing the connections through an internet based site. People find others they are related to, an relate to, or want to become in relation with on these networks.
How?
Most of these networks are free and anyone can sign up. For those who want to design their own social network, there is software available. For example AlstraSoft E-Friends which costs $280.00 for a single license. This software allows for users to create their own networks for dating, job listings, messaging, blogging, or finding a friend.
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