What are the Top Choices for Features in Online Community Software?
Linkto: http://www.planetwebfoot.com/blog/?p=465
, http://www.planetwebfoot.com
As many companies look to online community software to upgrade their traditional websites into full online communities for both the current and future clients there is one question that is asked more than any other. What are the most popular or must have features that should be implemented. While there isn't a combination of features that will work for every communitity there are three features that stand out among the numerous options available in online community software.
Instant messaging. We live in the now generation. Everyone wants things to happen as fast as they possible can. While email is still very popular online, with the text savvy generation being the main consumers of social networks they want the ability to be able to talk to their community connections in real time.
Message Boards. This is often the first area of a new community that most people explore. Users enjoy being able to put interact not only with the people they have "friended" in the community but also to the network at large. A discussion board is also a great place to meet new friends and expand current connections.
Blogs. People are opinionated, and most people like to share that opion with others. Using a blog is the easiest way to make that happen. Users are able to post their thoughts, opinions and questions in their own personal piece of the network and then choose to share it with either just their friends or the network as a whole.
As mentioned earlier, these are the three most often incorporated features in custom online communites however they are only the tip of the iceburg. Talk with your online community software provider about other features and options that you may want to consider adding into your social networking website.
What are the Top Choices for Features in Online Community Software?