Recently I was asked if I was OK with using SharePoint instead of social media software.  The short answer is a resounding NO. My main reason – which may not seem like much on the outset – is that SP is document focused and social media is people focused.  After that explanation I can hear the question, “So what?  If they do the same thing is there any difference?&#   First of all, they don’t do the same thing.  They may look like it, but they don’t. photo credit: withoutgas2. Some boys have road bikes.  Making adjustments will help.  They are slower.  link]. MORE >>

Recently I was asked if I was OK with using SharePoint instead of social media software.  The short answer is a resounding NO. My main reason - which may not seem like much on the outset - is that SP is document focused and social media is people focused.  After that explanation I can hear the question, “So what?  If they do the same thing is there any difference?&#   First of all, they don’t do the same thing.  They may look like it, but they don’t. photo credit: withoutgas2. Some boys have road bikes.  These bikes were made for mountain biking, not for road biking.  link]. MORE >>

What follows is a short series of at least 5 posts.  Each will focus on one aspect of what it takes to adopt social learning / media within an organization as well as with customers and prospects. The information is taken from the book Diffusion of Innovations by Everett M. Rogers and then applied to social learning.  This is one of THE books, in my estimation, which will help the most when trying to help others adopt anything - technology, a new culture, processes, even hybrid corn in Iowa.  A fabulous read.  If you don’t have it, get it. 2) Compatibility. 3) Complexity. 4) Trialability. MORE >>

Week 1: Blogs: Day 1. Blog is short for ‘Web Log.&#   So many people have told me that they think blogs are only good for “verbal vomit.&#   Yes, that can be true, but that is not how WE are going to use them.  In fact, anyone who uses it correctly uses it for sharing and learning and conversation. This is written on my blog.  Blogs are made by creating a series of ‘posts.’  ’  For the next few weeks I will write a post every day on this blog.  In these posts I will explain how to use and why we would use these different social media and networking technologies. MORE >>

On November 5th I am giving a presentation to NASA MSFC – a primer and introduction to using social media and networking.  As we start a major push toward using social media here, we want to make sure everyone is speaking the same language and is somewhat familiar with what it is and why we might use it. At the end I will give a challenge for those who want to learn more and get some hands-on experience without diving into a deep, unknown world alone.  The invitation is open to everyone. This challenge consists of 7 weeks of learning starting on Monday, November 9th.  Week 2: RSS. MORE >>