how to start a social network

Steps Outside the Walled Garden: Linkedin Expands Features

November 5, 2008

I opened my email the other morning to learn that the social network Linkedin has enabled more external applications for members. Linkedin is no longer a walled garden.  I’ve discussed the divergent paths for social networks in an earlier post, Whither Social Networks?  Walled Garden or Public Utility Revenue Model? Linkedin No Longer a Walled [...]

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How to Start a Social Networking Website Part 19: New and Returning Members

October 20, 2008

I posted a poll on this blog asking “What’s the biggest challenge in starting a social networking website?” In response, 48% said: “getting and keeping members.”  An article in Wired on the social network UrbanBaby highlights this business problem. UrbanBaby had build up quite a following, according to Clive Thompson’s “The Wrath of Moms.”  (Buy [...]

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How to Start A Social Networking Website Part 18: A Two-Pronged Marketing Plan

September 1, 2008

I am convinced that the really hard part, the critical part, of a success niche social network is a two-pronged marketing. Entrepreneurs come to me having spent thousands of dollars with developers and numerous hours designing their network.  When I ask about marketing, they wave their hands and say “viral marketing,” or “I’ll worry about that [...]

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