Social Networking Tips - Using Online Services to Build a Sense of Community - Part I

As the age of technology has progressed, millions of users have migrated to the use of social networking sites such as Myspace, Facebook, and Twitter. Social network sites are defined as web-based services that allow individuals to construct a profile that is available to the public or that can be viewed by a selective few. Members of the site are also able to communicate with other members who they share or wish to share a connection with. It also allows members to view and share their friends and connections with others as well give them the same capability. Social networking is unique because not only does it allow people to meet and interact with strangers but it allows members to socialize and show off their own social network and status.
Although many social networking sites have different features, the majority of the sites have a personal profile feature that lists friends that are also members of the site. Members are able to list information that introduces themselves to other members. The member is asked questions to describe themselves such as age, location, interests, and a section usually entitled "About Me". Members are also encouraged to customize their profiles by uploading photos, graphics, and media to suit the preferences.

Members are usually able to choose who can view their profiles on Social network. Not all social networking sites have privacy features. Some make profiles visible to anyone who has a paid account. MySpace users have the option of making their profiles open to the public or limiting access to those they choose as friends. Facebook is different, as members become part of the same network and then have access to profiles in that particular network unless they are denied permission. Twitter on the other hand, is accessed by followers who send "tweets" to the members asking "What are you doing?" to find up what others are up to.