The Power of Online Community Forums- Engage Members, Promote Business, Solutions, and Empowerment
Forums and Bulletin Boards- as we know them on the internet were first recognized in 1996.
What are forums?
A Forum, or message board, is an online discussion where registered and non-registered (depending on your settings) can Post messages and Comment on messages from others.
The messages are arranged in a tree-like directory structure that are Logically organized into a set of generic topics (your settings can determine if you generate the topics and others only reply or allow others to also create new discussion topics).
Most forums prefer an Open and Free discussion settings (particularly forums from outside the USA) and do not require membership or authorization to join. However, most USA forums tend to require some sort of registration process and many US-based companies have introduced employee and/or vendor only forums.
Despite your registration and topic discussion settings, another nice feature about forums is the ability to create Word Censoring and ability to block inappropriate/undesirable language. This helps promote open communications without the need to moderate comments. Although you can also create setting in which members can become a moderator or an admin but these special users really serve to help facilitate communications (place comments by others in the appropriate section, help reply to questions, etc).
You can also allow users to submit File Attachments, Links, Photos and Videos to help support the discussion process as well as create (and allow others) to Poll each other or about information provided in the topics which helps solicit more feedback and participation.
Most Common use:
• Problem-solving, how-to-guides, promoting successful strategies, and discussing solutions to barriers, and enhancing internal/external customer support
Unlike a Blog structure, forums tend to display the original comment on top followed by any responses which may help in identifying the progression of the solution and how more comments were added to the original (but many forms allow you to customize this stetting also).
If you do offer registration and start to collect regular members, you may also allow for members to Private Message one another to promote discussions that are not part of the "community forum". You can also provide Emoticons or smilies (symbol or picture) to be used when writing or replying to comments or messaging to help convey the emotional content of the message(s).
Lastly, another great feature is Subscribing to Topics. This allows for registered members to receive a "notification" which is typically sent via an email to inform a user that a comment has been added to a "watched discussion" or if the author of a post has received some feedback. This prevents the need to log back in to the forum to keep checking on any new comments posted.
Forums are becoming increasing popular among US businesses and are most often deployed (externally) as a marketing and help-desk tool and (internally) as a communications and team-building tool but new concepts and approaches to their use are growing. Thanks in part because of the ease of implementation, settings and cost. Many forums can be created and hosted for FREE and this does not mean littered with ads.
To check out a sample of a Free forum- you can visit our PQI Network Project Forum. No registration required to view and of our topics and discussions.
This topic is part of our Project Form or PQI Labs as noted by the icon to the right.
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What Apple and Google know that Microsoft does not?
The power and unlimited access to resources and talent found in the Open Source community.
The popularity of Apple and Google continue to increase while Microsoft struggles to compete.
Microsoft users must still wait years for the newest software version of their favorite program to become available (and hope it works correctly) while Apple and Google continue to supply new software programs and applications that are that is increasing their name recognition, customer loyalty and a competitive advantage over the Microsoft in the marketplace.
How do they accomplish this- do they have more staff and resources than Microsoft, more money for their Research & Development?
No- one of the smartest things that Google and Apple have done is opened up the development, creation and enhancement of applications that they promote to the open source community. Rather than relying on the paid staff and developers to tweak their programs- Apple and Google have at their disposal millions and millions of computer techies- from seasoned software professionals (some even work or worked for Microsoft) to novice computer programmers at their disposal.
The Open Source community has been around since 1960s and is characterized by a collaborative process of open source work that led to the birth of the Internet in 1969... But there are earlier cases of Open Source and free software such as IBM's source releases of its operating systems in the 50s and 60s, and the SHARE user group (utilized by up and coming tech starts- Bill Gates and Bill Joy) that formed to facilitate the exchange of software
The expansion of Open Source has only benefited from the existence and greater access to the Internet, after all much of the Internet runs on open source software, tools, applications and utilities such as Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP, known as the LAMP stack for web servers.
The use and access to the global internet community promotes an environment of accessibility, easy and inexpensive redistribution and sharing so instead of users being limited to their own facilities and resources, they are granted access to a vast network of facilities and resources, some for free. Older analog tools such as the telephone and television provide limitations on the kind of interactions between users. The television offers little, if any interaction between users/viewer and the telephone users rarely interact with more than one other person (usually a peer-to-peer) relationship.
However, Internet users have the potential to access and meet millions of peers at once which can enhance culture, collaborate and communication with others from anywhere in the world.
With the proliferation of newer technologies such as networks, blogs, wikis more people have access, can contribute, resolve and produce products and distribute to others for free, as opposed to traditional distribution, redistributing of products and services. Therefore the Open Source medium appeals to many professional and novice developers as this approach is low or no cost, having access to source code can assist with tailoring a program as well as to serve as gaining ideas for improvements while installing a shared community that offers a solid code base, with quick fixes for any new issues that may arise.
The Open Source partnership with Apple is one of similar functionality of features also.
Both are usually virus free, both allow the converting and opening of Microsoft created documents and presentations- where Microsoft users have always had problems opening documents created by their own software program from different version (opening a n Office 07 document pr presentation from Office 03). This is another example of the old corporate mentality of requiring their users to purchase the upgraded version to continue to complete their work and share information with others using the same products.
Open source and Google share the fact that their applications are also free for users. These free programs also get around any compatibility issues by being able to access and read MS documents and even save the document as an Microsoft version.
As technology continues to be more accessible to people anywhere in the world- the old corporate style mentality that Microsoft still tries to cling on to cannot keep up with the massive demand of users. Even as Apple has tapped into this market for creating new applications from the computers and phones- the future will require Apple to adopt a more Google free approach or it will start to resemble Microsoft more in operating from a world that no longer exists.
Case in point- compare the stock values and 52-week range amounts for Google, Apple and Microsoft:
Google stock- $465
52 week range- $247-$489 Updated value
Apple stock- $169
52 week range- $78 - $173 Updated value
Microsoft stock - $24.41
52 week range- $14 - $27 Updated value
To learn more about utilizing FREE Internet Resources & Applications to enhance Performance & Quality Improvement Initiatives - subscribe to this blog, follow us on Twitter, visit our website PQI Network
When using Twitter be-careful that your Tweetering Tweets don't make you a Twit.
Twitter has changed the world and how we communicate, yes but how can you really use this application to promote your brand, products and services without seeming like a Twit?
By definition (Merriam-Webster) a Twit is: a silly annoying person : fool
It is not hard to find a business using Twitter these days but many are discovering that not only do they not have the expected "following" but that they are in fact, turning people "off" or away...
Some brief Twitter stats for businesses to consider:
More than 50% of all Twitter accounts are inactive
The top 5% of accounts (by volume of updates) are responsible for 75% of all updates published
65% of Twitter accounts are registered to users under the age of 25
Leading demographic using Twitter regularly are 45-54 year-olds followed closely by the 25-34 year-olds
33% of Twitter accounts only action was registering
Consider a recent study of examining Tweets:
More than 40% were considered "Pointless Babble"
Nearly 38% were "Conversational"
Less than 9% were "Pass-Along/Value"
August 2009 Top Twitter Ranking:
1- Ashton Kutcher
2- Ellen DeGeneres
3- Britney Spears
4- CNN Breaking News
5- Twitter
6- Ryan Seacrest
7- Oprah Winfrey
8- Barack Obama
9-John Mayer
10-Demi Moore
What does this mean?
If you are a famous, well-known person that naturally attracts others to find out where and what you are eating, who you are meeting and what you are thinking, well then you may start to notice a large following on Twitter.
However, if you are the President/CEO or other position of a local (even though respected) company don't expect people to care about your day's agenda, your whereabouts or your encounters . Some of your Tweets may actually be perceived as self-promoting and grandiose.
What type of business could get more use from Twitter?
Although not a one-size-fits all and yes, Twitter continues to evolve and so does our world but considering the current users and how they are utilizing Twitter the following are good uses: Retail- Introducing new products and services on a regular basis
(your Twitter users receive notifications first-(invites to pre-sales) Promotion Companies (Lager marketing firms, large foundations supporting many organizations, News and Radio stations) - promoting frequent events, happenings and news information accessible to large audience on regular basis.
The key is in the regularity and accessibility to all of your followers. Twitter does not allow for you to create distribution lists and once followers start to receive frequent postings that do not apply to them (or if they don't receive any new posts at all) they will quickly ignore or remove you from their list.
Simple Common Rules for all of your Tweets:
1- Don't be annoying- have something meaningful to post (not just because it has been so many days since your last post)
2- Always include a reference link (it is not enough to post that you have a new product, you must also provide a link to review the new product)
We also recognize that putting together any real meaningful statistics on Twitter is a near impossible task (as with most new internet platforms due to so many variables, not enough available data but) but keep in mind the general rule that just because you could post or could create a Twitter doe not mean you should. Every business should know why you are using, who you are targeting and what value your Tweets may have, otherwise you may just become another Twit.
To learn more about utilizing FREE Internet Resources & Applications to enhance Performance & Quality Improvement Initiatives - subscribe to this blog, follow us on Twitter, visit our website PQI Network
Publishing your Company Presentations and Articles On the Web
Technology makes it possible and affordable (try free) to become your own publisher. Many vendors offer quick and easy uploads to covert your documents, presentations, charts and more to be included in search engines (Google, Yahoo, etc) and in a web-based interface. Why is this beneficial to your organization?
Aside form the normal expense that you would traditionally undergo with publishing and the amount of time waiting to approve or alter the latest version before going to print- the new internet publishing services transform your PowerPoint, Word Doc, etc to a web-document enriching the fonts, layout and artwork of the original. A similar task is accomplished by altering your original to a PDF but this is really a picture of your original as compared to a transformation. (Read our related blog about importance and use of PDFs)
Similar to reasons for converting originals to a PDF, using such a web-based publishing program for your print information is that they can be accessible by anyone with internet access and viewing your work is not dependent on your software applications or computer operating system. This allows for published work to be view by all, from anywhere.
Another particle use for business is to utilize such an application as another tool for gaining access to your documents as compared to saving to a CD, DVD, flash drive, etc. and all you need is an internet connection. This application is also a great benefit for traveling staff providing presentations, accessing company brochures and other marketing materials.
To review a list of such applications and to learn how others are utilizing and to share your own experiences, please make sure to visit our website and our Project Forum.
See our example below on how we converted a PowerPoint presentation to a web presentation using free software. No operating system or software compatibility issues- all that is required is an internet connection.
Business Use of Chat Rooms
Chat software and programs started primarily as community chat-rooms and web messenger services but businesses are beginning to explore the potentials of such an application. Offer a chat service as permanent feature on your website, utilize only during specific promotions and events, create a private setting for employees, invite registered customers for training on a new product or service, host a chat session for others, and conduct webinars to share information and resources, the opportunities are endless and the cost is free.
What is a Chat Session/Application?
Basically- an application that allows users to interact with one another in real time by exchanging textual messages delivered through chat windows. Learn more…
Chat vs. Email
Rather than sending out an email intended to generate ideas, share thoughts, solicit feedback from your contact list, try setting up a chat session for the same group. Why? Your list of contacts get email requests all the time but an invite for a chat sets you apart. Maybe your email gets stuck in a spam, does not get read or replied to in time, or never gets read, etc. Using a chat room/discussion to accomplish the same tasks allows for your messages and all the others participating to reach one another simultaneously for immediate interaction and feedback. Some chat programs will also allow you to record the chats so you can email out to all participants, share with others that could not attend, include as part of your minutes, etc.
Employee Communications
Today online chat is a widely accepted mode of communication for business discussions especially for businesses operating from several locations. As this is a free tool, many businesses prefer to use online chat as a way to reduce phone costs. They may still rely on emails for many of their communication exchanges but switch to a chat session when wanting to address issues in real-time as another way to increase productivity as the issues are discussed and addressed immediately.
Chat as a Training Tool
Creating an online chat room can provide assistance to many training/tutoring services. Implement a regularly scheduled chat session time (monthly, weekly, etc) along with a topic or specific agenda for such things as updates, meetings, share-and-learn, questions, etc. Invite a key-note/special guest to address a specific topic, answer questions, etc. The chat session offers the instructor/trainer the ability to address questions from various users while also having access to other online resources. Chat participants can also provide assistance to one another.
Provide a Live Help Desk on your Website
Place an icon or create a separate page your website stating Chat Now to help potential customers select among the best product or service you have to offer. Some chat programs also provide an option to leave a message on the chat program if you are unavailable right way. Next time staff login they see the question and can comment so that any new or returning visitor can read comments posted from others and your responses.
Community/Company Recognition
Host a chat session for community partners, social clubs, clients, etc as a way to promote your company, programs, and services.
WARNING
Never charge attendees or if you offer to host a chat. Although you may have the name recognition or clientele list, please do not try getting away with charging participants or if you plan to host for others. Instead, use the opportunity as a way to gain publicity and in promoting your company.
To learn more about utilizing FREE Internet Resources & Applications to enhance Performance & Quality Improvement Initiatives - subscribe to this blog, follow us on Twitter, visit our website PQI Network
Advancing Technologies Help Level the Business Playing Field
One may think that in order to keep up and utilize the vast amounts and types of internet applications and technology gadgets that one would need an extensive IT infrastructure and staffing. Although the online communication gap continues to grow, the reasons for that gap are different. It is no longer the cost and technical skills that keep the “have nots” from boosting their online presence. The reason for more businesses not embracing online communication tools is the lack of understanding of its importance for their business, the perception of its complexity and the lack of understanding of the benefits.
Although many business IT budgets may remain tight as the recession continues, many small businesses, entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations still have many resources to select from that promote innovation and provide a competitive edge thanks to technology advances. We this discussion explores, having a large IT team or technology budget becomes less of a requirement.
Open Source Software
Real investment in Open Source (OS) software may still not be on many small business and non-profits radars but they really should be particularly for cost-conscious companies (and who isn't these days?) can look to open source as an easy way to reduce IT expenses as OS does not require any licensing costs- initial purchase, monthly or annual renewals, or upgrade costs.
OS software is also customizable (in look and function) to help integrate with the rest of your business while also only utilizing the aspects of the software you really need. More companies have begun utilizing CRM software programs and can save money by switching their platform to an OS version such as SugarCRM (a Linux-based CRM application) that even if selecting to use the supported version (paying support costs) would be far less than paying for licensing fees, forced upgrades and utilizing a system created by another vendor and trying to incorporate and maneuver around any locked software features.
While OS may not be the perfect solution for all of your needs, more companies would benefit by exploring the options, features and costs saving sooner rather than later, especially for use with non-critical applications.
Online Social Networking
Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc has the potential to level the playing field for many small businesses to help promote their brand, messages, and products while attracting new customers and for Free... (read our related blog Is Facebook Appropriate for my Business)
However, one needs to note that there also also difficulties and competing factors in transferring exposure on social media platforms to business success. Establishing an online audience takes time, dedication and continued up-keep. Remember while exploring the utilization of such platforms and asking if you could (of course you could... it's free) but just as important is to ask if you should (might be harder to answer than you think). You must understand and examine what you want and expect from a social media for your company. Start with developing a road map detailing your goals and be sure to include specific dates and responsibilities. Your business may connect better with certain social media audiences and platforms than others, Facebook is not always the best choice.
Any networking platform plan should also include the examination of using such as a means to network and communicate with other businesses, partners and vendors also and not just as a tool to attract and communicate with customers.
Virtualization Virtualization can significantly reduce your technology budget while streamlining the management of IT functions. In general, virtualization can transform your on-site hardware to off-site software. How? Virtualization makes it possible for one computer do the same tasks that might otherwise require multiple computers to complete by sharing the resources of a single computer across multiple environments. Virtual servers and virtual desktops let you host multiple operating systems and applications locally and/or in remote locations, which frees you and the IT staff from physical and geographical restrictions.
Go Green- Utilizing virtualization can also save money on energy costs, may provide greater availability access to users (accessing desktops, files, folders, workstations, software, etc) and reduce down-time or connectivity (building closures, loss of power, storm/disaster, etc) issues.
Hosted Software Applications
Hosted applications can present many advantages to businesses as compared to the traditional software purchased and install from a CD. The traditional approach involved the organization purchasing software which was then installed on a server, rolled out to individual computers (staff) which may have required staff to be without use of the computer during this time, result in other dependent applications crashing (compatibility issues) and may have also resulted in remote staff not having access if the software was only placed on the local machines during the installation.
Hosted applications, or software as a service (SaaS), significantly removes many of these complications. All you need is a web browser to access the hosted application and install any upgrades. The downside? If you lose or cannot access the Internet, you may also lose access to the desired application. You also need to know that what you are downloading is safe, system requirements, compatibility and what support type of support is available.
Online Data Backups Proliferate
All businesses value the importance of their data and should recognize the need to properly secure and save. More vendors are offering online data backup solutions as compared to backing up data to a hard disk, CD/DVD, flash drive or other local media. These on-line vendors provide you with the means to send your data over the Internet, store on remote servers and retrieve from any computer with internet access. The number of such vendors continues to increase with many providing adequate storage and backup space for Free.
Online Video
Today, even cell phones have built-in video cameras and many just might surprise you on their video quality. Although a traditional video camera may still offer the best quality, their size, expense and complexity may also hender small businesses from utilizing. As more vendors produce low cost and quality tools for video production and sharing (YouTube, Flickr, Jing, Vimeo, etc) businesses will increasingly be able to leverage video as a powerful marketing tool.
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing solutions generally involves software, a web camera, microphone, or telephone to communicate over the Internet. Connecting with customers, vendors, business partners or employees via video is many times better than utilizing email, telephone, chat or instant messaging systems. Not to mention the cost for airfare, gas, lodging, and the time for such traveling, video conferencing provides a face-to-face approach without the hassles and expenses of traditional business/conference meetings. There are many solutions available providing different features at different costs and some are Free.
Online Presence Gap Widens
Whether small businesses need a web site or not is no longer an issue of discussion. In fact, the conversation has moved from web sites and email marketing to blogs and social media for business.
There is no question that online search is the way that just about everyone searches for a solution, when was the last time you opened the Yellow Pages? Businesses must be online and visible if you want to thrive and beat your competition.
If you are a small business or local non-profit, maybe a website is not as necessary and you could utilize a free networking platform as your online presence.
If you want a website then make sure to go with a site that provides content management that offers you the flexibility to manage and add to the content without requiring the involvement of a third party. The days of a webmaster and knowledge of HTML coding to create and maintain a website are in the past. Even if you wish to have a professional designer, just make sure to have control and access after the design has been created.
Want to create a site on your own? No problem, many solutions are available offering many features such as blogs, RSS feeds, photo galleries, etc and many are Free.
For a list of most of the applications provided in this blog- make sure to visit our website and view our Project Forum where viewers and members look to explore the potentials of Free and Open Source programs.
To learn more about utilizing FREE Internet Resources & Applications to enhance Performance & Quality Improvement Initiatives - subscribe to this blog, follow us on Twitter, visit our website PQI Network
