Moon Shaped Hole Outhouse

few days ago I had the opportunity to discuss with those responsible for what I consider the most important tourist community of Spain, about the opportunities and challenges that this model of business proposition face over the next two years. In reviewing the notes he had taken during the meeting, I could see clearly emerged a dynamic map structured around the different stages of development in virtually any online community.
This is what I intend to share with you at this time.

Every community has a first phase in which must respond to a number of issues common to all communities regardless of affinity factor. Is what might be defined as hygiene factors PHASE. Here the focus should be directed to a clear definition of the value proposition and the general universe to which it is addressed. Here, and in full accordance with the above, it should develop the platform, application or basic functionality, user interface and a marketing and communication plan that takes into account the peculiar growth curve of the communities (depending on model Bass diffusion - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bass_diffusion_mode l).

To produce the explosion of growth in the Social Network, that is, to maintain a high rate of incorporation of "innovators" who act as a platform on which to form the wave of "imitators / followers" to give the level of real scale community should respond successfully to the elements of the PHASE critical. These are defined by the incentives and facilities that the community provides its members with regard to content generation, navigation and search - for user access and content, with particular attention to the visibility and relevance, and interaction between members of the COMMUNITY. These areas and management and development should be the essential and ongoing community and is the most energy and resources should absorb.

Once the critical factors are at cruising speed, and metrics such as growth or return users, viral content generation on a daily basis be managed successfully, and when it also has achieved a minimum base of users and "entertainers" who have a sense of dynamism, focus is directed to a more strategic approach and enter the PHASE scaling factor, when it begins to prove the viability of the business model and perception Value of users - customers and suppliers as appropriate.
Two aspects form the content of this phase. The SEGMENTATION , in order to increase the effectiveness of any marketing or sales activities - and the perceived value of potential suppliers or advertisers. The MONETIZATION , or the ability to generate revenue without significantly altering the dynamics and culture of the community.
Monetization implies in turn, the definition revenue models (transactional, half or hybrid), the plans business development through the continuous incorporation of elements that increase the perception value and allow users to alternative income generation and the constant redefining products and service s.

Over the next few weeks will keep delving into this area so exciting social networking aspects such as motivations for participation, the network types or models of development and growth.