Perspectives & Strategy

With the new social web it’s becoming vital that you indicate whether you like, or on the other hand dislike something. Comments and likes for both the writers and website owners have an importance in that they can gauge the popularity of certain topics. Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and LinkedIn promotions give a clear indication of popularity of any page, especially as more sites become socially aware.

What is of particular focus is the content and appeal it generates, this is all being measured by modern corporations. the goal is always to have a page gain viral attention, but most corporations know this is unrealistic for their web pages or on-line product catalogue. It is therefore crucial that visitors indicate within the site the their likes and dislikes. This will permit site owners to tune the material displayed and ensure it focuses on the right audience.

From the point of view of readers they are at the site to find out more information, either from the prospective of a future purchase or possibly to improve their knowledge. Owners and authors need feedback in order to know how effective they are. As a visitor please tell them when they have exceeded your expectations. The author should appreciate the feedback, through this they can further tune site content, or at the very least know what changes to make in the next version of the page.

Comments assist and help towards the ‘great debate’ that appears to be starting on the web today, certainly in the land of Social Media. Much continues to be said concerning the demise of journalism, yet it’s alive in another form, the contribution of people influenced by occasions they witness. You look at Twitter during the course of 2011 and it was full of commentary about the changes to regimes in the Middle-East and this trend will continue. The Social Web shows noticeable differences between the amateur journalist who is writing about events and the impact on themselves personally and the professional writing for a news agency. The professional is taking and using the raw thoughts of the amateur and processing them to make a more polished, more heartfelt piece, yet they recognise their dependence on those at the heart of any movement for change.

The key trend today is that everybody is able to be engaged, and can give the real story about unfolding events. They are giving the truth as they see it, but of course there are many versions of the truth based on the perspective of the witness, which is making the picture more complex for the outsider looking in.

Can’t stand what’s being stated by particular commentators? Then change who you listen to; tap into a different personal point of view. In the end what is being said by any participant is really as valid as anybody else’s viewpoint. With WordPress, Blogger, Typepad, and other blogging solutions means it is easy to produce your personal blog, and it doesn’t cost you a penny to have an account.

Leaving comments on another person’s contribution will also enable you to stand out in the community. This can be a way of building links back to your own article on the subject and can be an effective way to create a contribution. Disagree with another writer then tell them so, but at the same time be constructive in your criticism and enhance the whole debate. We all have a duty to do this.