Social Networks as a Marketing Channel?

Too bad businesses are only looking upon social networks systems for advertising channels. Social networks have already demostrated that they are great at connecting people (any age group) to informatin and ideas. Just think of the opportunties, real customer interaction, employee enagagement, and open innovation that a business might create setting up their own social network system.

Social Networks as a Marketing Channel? - from eMarketer

"A new wave of online social network innovation is upon us. In addition to online dating and Web sites where college students can hang out, this new wave is about collaborative publishing. Online advertisers and marketers see the potential and they are looking for a way in.

Within this growing world where users take charge by going online to chat, make connections, post photos and blog entries, there is certainly a viable role for advertisers, but it is a role that has not yet become clear. Tom Freston, CEO of Viacom, said recently to Reuters that his firm plans to enter the online social networking market later this year. But he noted the challenges that will be faced in this segment. "It's a difficult
business to maintain your vitality in," Freston said. "(But) that's not to say it can't be done. Everyone wants to know how you're going to monetize it. You're asking people to advertise between conversations between two people.""