Conversation Channels

There are a huge number of potential Conversation Channels where you can monitor the conversation and contribute information to it. In general, these “places” can be divided into Public Channels and Organizational Channels. The main difference between the two is who controls the direction of the information in those channels.

• Public Channels are owned externally. In Public Channels you have limited direct control over the channel, though you can guide or influence the conversation.
• Organizational Channels are owned by your organization. In this type of venue you have complete control over how the conversation is initiated, which comments are allowed, and who can contribute.

Like Content types, the list of Conversation Channels is constantly evolving. Facebook and Twitter may be important, but there are plenty of other industry specific channels that your should consider. (See  http://www.theconversationprism.com/ for an excellent list as of 2008)

Examples

Public Channels

• Linked In
• Facebook
• Twitter
• You Tube
• Vimeo
• Slideshare
• Squidoo
•  CNN iReport

Organizational Channels

• Company Website
• Company Blog
• User Community (public or private)
• Social Media Center
• Product or Initiative Microsites
• Application Exchanges