Orkut vs. other social networks
Stuart Henshall comments on Orkut’s rapid growth compared to other social networks:
Orkut bridges the gap between Ryze (too open) and Linkedin (too closed) without the “everything is for sale” on Tribe. I suspect that those with “Friendster” experience also see it as providing extra functionality.
While I think the comparisons are accurate, the “toos” need to be considered in context. Ryze is not too open for those trying to dramatically increase their visibility to a large audience. LinkedIn isn’t too closed if you’re a busy executive/professional only wanting to make focused contacts. And what’s wrong with the “everything is for sale” aspect of Tribe? At least it seems to help keep the discussion forums themselves free from advertising, because there’s an appropriate place for it.
Always consider context when making value judgments. When deciding on a social networking tool, the question is not, “Which one is best?”, but rather, “Which ones are best for me?”
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My problem with Orkut right now is that it is trying to be everything to everyone, but doesn’t try to mask that which you don’t want give, or what you don’t want to see. As I point out in my blog entry http://www.lifewithalacrity.com/2004/01/insecurity_at_o.html Orkut asks and displays a lot of personal information for someone who has specified that he isn’t using Orkut for dating.
Comment by Christopher Allen — 1/31/2004 @ 20:12
I agree with you, Christopher — I have a real problem even being asked if I think Joi Ito or Marc Canter is “sexy”. Business & social can mix, and social and romantic can mix, but I just don’t think that business and romantic mix well in a social networking environment.
I could be wrong, though — maybe there’s a new niche waiting to happen.
Comment by Scott Allen — 1/31/2004 @ 20:25
I think it can mix, but you have to design it very carefully. You have to have some defaults for each case that set a bunch of different privacy settings globally in different ways, then allow the user to fine tune it after the basic settings are set.
I’m somewhat wishful that only one of these social network services will survive a shake out, as I want to concentrate on the value of the ‘weak links’ in my network, rather then to have to manage multiple networks, multiple resumes, multiple personal info. However, I’m increasingly doubtful that the shake out will happen soon, there are too many VCs pooring money into this category.
Comment by Christopher Allen — 1/31/2004 @ 21:42
Great addition. Wish I had thought to use the words context rather than contrast! Maybe it is just a game!
Comment by Stuart Henshall — 2/3/2004 @ 10:59