WTF is a Micro Msg Community?
Over the past year we’ve really seen the impact that social networks like Twitter and Facebook have had on allowing individuals access to a mass audience online. Capitalizing on this access are Micro Message Communities, collections of user generated content, usually tweets or text messages, that participants share, rate and connect around.
Here’s 3 Examples
1) Etards.com
Sent via email by Michael.
eTards.com- ridiculous stories from the ER.
My Sister is a Nurse, so I made sure to fact check this website before posting it. Apparently Emergency Rooms are actually like this.
2) #FML
Fmylife – a collection of everyday anecdotes and stories likely to happen to anyone and everyone, sent to us exclusively by FML users. Posts start with ‘Today’ and end with ‘FML’. The site is meant to be fun to read and can be enjoyed on a daily basis.
3) Texts from Last Night
Texts from Last night – Remember that Text you shouldn’t have sent last night? We do.
The Rise of Micro Messaging Communities
These are just the some of the most popular message based communities, there are many more popping with more specific discussions going on on twitter of facebook multiple times a day. The only major barrier is having something worth talking about.
An Opportunity for You
You could lead a tribe – Folks like @drew (started #blamedrewscancer) and @michabaldwin (started #followfriday) have shown that messages and personal engagement can engage a meaningful community. Just check out what Drew’s done.
Community Benefit
Leading an initiative to grow attention around a topic, industry or affinity group is a big opportunity that’s getting bigger. Non-profits, schools, governments or passionate individuals are needed to take up leadership roles in facilitating discussions. Check out #4change and #tcktcktck
For established organizations, with connections, donations and trust, the opportunity is even bigger. see Social Brite
The first step is easy, start following discussions in your industry. Google alerts and twitter search services like Collecta and OneRiot allow you to search for and follow discussion based on key word searches. You can even find bright people to follow on twitter.
The Real Time web is fun!
If you know of any other great examples of Micro Message based communities, please leave them in the comments!
Photo Cred: ~Ilse