Web 2.0 and social media refer to online tools and platforms that enable users to create and share content. Social media allows for conversations between people that are not controlled or organized in a traditional way. The use of social media and Web 2.0 technologies is growing significantly, with over half of online users participating on social networks or uploading photos. These technologies have become more widely used as access to the internet on computers and mobile devices has expanded. Their rise is important for civic engagement and how organizations communicate with constituents.

1. Web 2.0 and Social Media 101

2. What is Web 2.0 and Social Media?Web 2.0 is a way of thinking about how knowledge is created, shared, managed, and leveraged using technology.Web 2.0 is NOT a particular look, feel, or design – nor is it limited to just the Internet.Social media are web and mobile tools used for sharing and discussing information.

3. Web 1.0 vs. Web 2.0Web 1.0 was about readingWeb 2.0 is about writingWeb 1.0 was about owningWeb 2.0 is about sharingWeb 1.0 was about companiesWeb 2.0 is about communitiesWeb 1.0 was about home pagesWeb 2.0 is about blogsWeb 1.0 was about portalsWeb 2.0 is about RSS and syndicationWeb 1.0 was about taxonomyWeb 2.0 is about “tags” and folksonomyWeb 1.0 was about NetscapeWeb 2.0 is about GoogleWeb 1.0 was about wiresWeb 2.0 is about wirelessWeb 1.0 was about dialupWeb 2.0 is about broadbandAdapted from www.joedrumgoole.com

4. Social media is a conversation between people… Supporters Participants Audiences Donors Thought Leaders And guess what?The conversation is NOT controlled…Not organized…Not on message…

5. 184 million bloggers73% of active online users have read a blog45% have started their own blog57% have joined a social network55% have uploaded photos83% have watched video clips39% subscribe to an RSS feedSource: UniversalSOCIAL MEDIA USE IS GROWING

8. Why Now?Better access to technology for the average user – higher speed Internet connections, faster computers, better cell phones, etcMillennials are known as “digital natives,” having lived with the internet all of their lives.Young people are beginning to expect and demand their employers and others to use online media to recruit, communicate, engage, and manage knowledge.Those who use technology will outlast those who don’t.

9. Why does it matter?Web 2.0 and social media technologies are about connecting people information and each other so they can better create and collaborate. This user-driven form of community development is becoming an essential driver of civic engagement.We need to be in touch with how our constituents interact and communicate both with us and each other.Web 2.0 and social media technologies will help strengthen and enhance traditional communication and recruitment strategies.

10. What am I missing out on?Viral nature of Web 2.0 and social media technologiesImproved customer serviceIncreased storytelling

11. ResourcesCorporation’s Resource Center www.nationalserviceresources.orgTechSoup www.techsoup.orgBeth's Blog: How Nonprofits Can Use Social Media http://beth.typepad.com/beths_blogNTEN: Nonprofit Technology Network http://www.nten.org