I thought it was quite interesting how the topic of Wikipedia was brought up in the discussion of costless and quick information. Most people assume that Wikipedia is inaccurate and lacks credibility. However, as noted by Qualman in Socialnomics, Wikipedia actually tends to be quite viable. Not only is the information Wikipedia provides usually fairly accurate, it is also just as current (if not more up-to-date than prominent news sites.) Collaborative websites like Wikipedia are also extremely accessible and convenient; there are no subscription fees or registration processes. Social media outlets that encourage collaboration are, therefore, beginning to pose a threat to traditionally established news sites and even informational sources like Encyclopedia Britannica.
2. What is Happening to the Next Generation's Verbal Skills?
There are many obvious benefits that arise as a result of the development of new technologies and the subsequent increase in time spent in "virtual" worlds. Qualman discusses the abilities to collaborate, think creatively, and multitask, (just to name a few.) However, he really downplayed some of the negative impacts of our progressively digital world. The fact that upcoming generations are unable to effectively communicate face-to-face is incredibly worrisome. It is absolutely necessary for individuals to know how to carry on a proper "old-fashioned" conversation. Not to mention the troublesome results of the College Board's study that reveal that 38% of teens use abbreviations like "LOL" and "U" in their assignments. It makes one wonder what kids are learning these days in school...
3. Freebies
Everyone loves free stuff: free food, free stickers, free t-shirts. Recently, companies have begun to utilize social media to promote free giveaways/samples. In Socialnomics, Qualman gives several examples of well-recognized companies that gave away free items to voters during the 2008 election: Starbucks rewarded its consumers with a free cup of coffee and Ben & Jerry's gave away free scoops of patriotic ice cream. Social media allows companies a low-cost, (ahem free,) method of quickly and efficiently notifying their customers of upcoming freebies.
Although not mentioned in the book thus far, My Starbucks Rewards is a program that successfully utilizes freebies. The concept is simple: register any Starbucks gift card online, (or through the Starbucks Mobile Card application,) and earn a star for each purchase made with that card. The more stars collected, the more benefits that accrue: a free drink on your birthday, free refills, etc. Collect 30 stars to reach the gold level and receive a personalized gold card and a free drink for every 15 purchases made thereafter. The perceived exclusivity that comes with My Starbucks Rewards leads to brand loyalty and the freebies act as incentives to motivate consumers to continue purchasing from Starbucks.
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