Check Out Social Networking Sites

Along with the boom of Information Technology and Web 2.0 in the early 2000's came the upsurge of social networking websites. These websites, from Whimit (not sure how many of you remember this one) to Facebook, serve similiar, yet numerous purposes. From reconnecting with old high school friends, to fraternizing for that sought after job promotion, social networking sites are sure to serve a purpose for any user.
Myspace, which was arguably the first site of its kind to gain tremendous global popularity was, in my opinion, always geared toward the younger generation. The premise of ranking your friends accordingly in a "top 8" format along with the yearn for picture comments and wall posts to settle personal insecurities seemed a bit juvenile to me. However, despite my preconceptions, Myspace did serve its purpose for me and millions of other users during its prime. Myspace was the first website my generation visited the morning after a big party to check out all of the new picture uploads and wall posts. Despite Myspace's massive social popularity, a new competitor entered the market in the mid 2000's that would sweep social networking users off their feet. Serving many similar purposes, and tending to many of the same needs as its global predecessor Myspace, Facebook, in my opinion, was able to gain control of the market through sheer website structure. From the site homepage, to individual user profiles, Facebook visitors are amused with a simple, yet encompassing layout. I believe the intelligence of the news feed system, intuitively broadcasting posts from people whom you speak with the most, along with the easy access to friends' updated photo albums is the reason for Facebook's astonishing success. Contrary to Myspace and Facebook, Linkedin is a social networking site geared more toward the professional user. Along with being able to easily connect with past co workers, the site lets you effortlessly navigate through various contacts to desired professions. In addition to networking within your field, Linkedin.com allows you to find answers from experts to many industry related questions, allowing you to excel in your profession One of Facebook’s biggest competitors right now is Asian favorite Friendster. Similar to the other sites in that it connects you to people through user profiles and networks, Friendster gains it popularity through its intuitive interface and fun features. The site allows you to easily find other users with similar interests by means of hyperlinked profile information.
Although all Social Networking sites share the same common goal of connecting the public to each other and mass culture, they have their differences as well. Some are geared to younger, more self absorbed users, while others are geared toward professionals looking to expand their industrial social network. Overall, I believe they have served their purpose in connecting users worldwide and will only continue to reap their benefits in the near future.