An increasing number of associations are creating communities on familiar online social networking sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Second Life. Before the AIA jumps on the bandwagon, we'd like to hear from our members about what they would like to see from the AIA in this area.
Would you visit these sites regularly to learn more about AIA updates, etc.?Would you attend an info session or continuing ed session in a virtual world? What other information would you seek there?
Would you join an AIA Community online and connect with other members? Do you already highlight AIA service activities (e.g., AIA committees, activities) on your networking profiles?
Comments (4)
I think the AIA getting involved in "social networking" is a terrible idea. Facebook and similar social networking sites are an immature passing fad for most individuals. Corporate leaders read about the popularity of social networking and feel they are missing out on an opportunity. Perhaps the AIA should improve the resources and community sites it already has. Making the AIA website easier to use, more accessible, and focusing on using open standards will do much more for AIA community involvement than expanding into the uncontrolled social networking environment. Discussion boards, blogs, and forums were in existence well before the popularity of social networking sites like Facebook. The AIA should be focused on better utilizing these existing forums for community outreach. The AIA blogs are a great example of how the AIA should branch out.
Posted by Kemper | July 27, 2007 10:09 AM
Posted on July 27, 2007 10:09
Absolutely, I use these networking tools. Sites like Friendster, MySpace, Facebook, and LinkedIn are all sites that my friends and colleagues use. I already list my AIA and other professional affiliations on all of them. And when someone is looking for architectural advice or services, I am the first one they contact. Sites like these, when used properly are invaluable networking tools. I would love to see an AIA group on one of these sites.
Posted by Desiree Sheehan | August 2, 2007 4:46 PM
Posted on August 2, 2007 16:46
I believe sites like these, when used properly are invaluable networking tools and the AIA should properly utilize these technological sites and tools.
Posted by Leslie Thomas, AIA | August 8, 2007 1:24 PM
Posted on August 8, 2007 13:24
I would discourage the use of Friendster, MySpace and Facebook for AIA purposes as they are more "social" in nature. LinkedIn is geared toward encouraging professional contacts ONLY and therefore, I would encourage its use. The Groups function is currently undergoing restructuring, but when they put it back online, the AIA should definitely start a group.
Posted by Constance Lai | September 7, 2007 4:41 PM
Posted on September 7, 2007 16:41