“I do see opportunity for traditional online communities to take a new look at member profiles and how they can be used build identity. Participation in discussions should not be the only way to have an identity in an online community. ” (Commoncraft, 2004)

To summarise in my words: social networks = linking via people’s profile & their interests, so don’t need to post to be ‘active’. Online communities = linking around discussions.

• Is there a hybrid case here in late 2008 and what would it lool like?

Related posts:

1. Growing the power of small networks
2. Response to Economist article on social networks
3. Valuing online networks – is big really better?
4. Microsoft makes friends with social networks
5. Building online communities