Applications
Twitter – As of August 2010, it is the best known microsharing software. It allows people to quickly and concisely ask questions, post feedback, highlight news stories, and link to items on the Internet. Messages are limited to 140 characters. See Twitter 101 for more information on opening and receiving the most benefit from a Twitter account.
Facebook – The world’s largest social network allows people to create profiles and to connect with friends, families, and colleagues by “friending” them. They can post activity updates, photos, and links in their profiles and interact with “friends” by “liking” or commenting on posts. See the Facebook Help Center for more information about creating your profile.
LinkedIn – Geared toward professional networking, this social media tool allows people to maintain lists of contacts, called “connections.” Their networks are comprised of their connections and the connections of their connections. These connections pave the way for introductions and can be used to find jobs and other business opportunities. Employers can list job openings on the site and also look for qualified candidates. Visit the LinkedIn New User Starter Guide for more information on connecting with your professional network.
GoogleDocs – This service by Google allows people to share documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with others. Multiple people can access and edit materials at the same time. Find out more here.
Dimdim – This service allows people from all across the world to participate in real-time meetings. Attendees can collaborate by sharing their desktops, slides, and other materials with each other. Meeting participants can also chat and speak to each other, as well as broadcast themselves via webcams. (editor’s note - DimDim was recently acquired by Salesforce.com and is not presently available)
Blogs – Easily updated, a blog is a Web site that allows its owner to post personal commentary on any number of topics. Many blogs allow readers to leave comments on posts, creating opportunities for interaction. Several blog hosting platforms are available free of charge, including WordPress and Google’s Blogger.
YouTube – This video sharing site allows members to post user-generated video. Videos available on the site range from movie trailers to tutorials. Sign up for an account here and learn more about creating videos here.
Wikis – These platforms allow a group to edit a shared Web page. Wikipedia, an online encyclopedia that allows anybody to edit any article is perhaps the best known example of a wiki.
Collaborative Software – Many of the software programs listed here combine social networking tools into integrated packages. In many, people can create profiles, access and edit shared files, and communicate to each other through wall posts, updates, and direct messages.
How might one get Bloomfire listed here? With over 50 new Bloomfires started every day, it is becoming a smart choice for social learning.
Just an FYI. Dimdim has been purchased by Salesforce and according to the information on the website for Dimdim, Salesforce is phasing the service out and they are only supporting existing customers at this point.
I suggest that you update your information.