Seeing Into the Future: What Technology Has In Store for Our World

     Remember a few years ago when everyone was talking about going to the moon? Celebrities, movie stars, and socialites throughout Hollywood were paying big bucks to be a part of a special mission to Lunar paradise. During that time, I particularly remember seeing a brief news clip of former N'SYNC band member Lance Bass trying on space gear and practicing his "space moves." It was a hoot watching him get excited for a mission that never happened, but was so highly anticipated by many.


I also saw a YouTube video in late 2013 of Lady Gaga on New York radio personality Elvis Duran's show.

She talked candidly about headlining a show in 2015 on planet Mars. The show, which would be sponsored by entrepreneur Richard Branson (Virgin Mobile and Virgin Atlantic Airways), was only for the elite -- wealthy business people, A-List celebs, etc. If you could pay for it, you would fly first class on "Virgin Galactic" to watch Lady Gaga perform her most memorable hits. Who were Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, again?!

There was a point in time when going outer space seemed like an enigma. Thanks to advancing technologies, however, going to the moon -- and other planets -- is not a farfetched idea anymore.

Have you ever thought about what the world would be like in five, 10, or even 20 years from now? Technology has changed so drastically, in such a short amount of time, it is hard to imagine life differently.

     It is amazing to me the type of innovations humankind has developed in just the past several decades: from being able to record live television, to watching movies and television from a mobile phone. Let's not forget about one being able to read magazines and books on tablets, order food online, deposit checks from a mobile device, have live teleconferences and board meetings from around the world in one location, and be able to find any restaurant or hotel on the planet, with just a touch of a button. As popular recording artist Gwen Stefani would say, "This is bananas!"

Some scientists and technology experts believe that someday, technology will become one, gargantuan unit.

     Kevin Kelly, publisher and former executive editor for WIRED magazine, says that the World Wide Web is only 5,000 days old. He mentions that technology – these “handhelds, cellphones, laptops and servers," etc., are one big machine. This “global” mechanism gets “100 billion clicks per day,” with “55 trillion links between all the web pages of the world.” In addition, Kelly says there’s “two million emails [made] per second,” “170 quadrillion transistors,” "55 trillion links,”  "emails running at two megahertz itself,"  "31 kilohertz [of] text messaging," "246 exabyte [of]storage” [that's] generated by this global machine. In addition, the machine runs with “nine exabyte RAM,” and with “seven terabytes per second” of total traffic. Kelly says in the next “5,000 days” or 10 years, we will become completely “codependent” on this big machine.  We won’t be able to function without it.

In the years to come, Kelly also believes that everything will be connected to, or feed off of, the web – including spreadsheets, Word documents, cell phones, and things we make or manufacture.  Kelly says eventually, every idea -- or every piece of data -- will be supported by the Web.

Kelly also says that in order for users to have more “personalization,” they must be willing to showcase “transparency" at the same time. In other words, in order for the process to work, we have to be willing to be open to disclosure. This “machine” will automatically “know us” (individually) without much effort from us. This super computer and humans will simultaneously work together – unified.

     World Wide Web creator Tim Berners-Lee believes that all of this information, or data, is about creating powerful relationships. Lee says the more information you have, the better for the whole. Government, enterprise, institutions and individuals, cannot hold onto data, but must be willing to share it for mass consumption. According to Lee, this "unlocking" of massive data will help to solve some of the world's most pressing problems and answer many plaguing questions.

     After considering what both Kelly and Lee have said, I wonder if these current technologies have spoiled us? I often sit back and wonder what we as humans would be like without some of the things we have become accustomed to? We have seen what the world looked like in 2000 and 2010. What will the world look like by 2020? Twenty-30? What about 2050?

     Will we be able to log onto a computer using our brains? What about being able to dump all of our thoughts and/or brain contents and activity onto a computer to be researched? Will we actually have the first human clones living among us? You've heard of tracking devices in dogs who stray from their homes, but what about tracking devices placed in more than 90 percent of Americans? Will I have a robot as a next door neighbor? Will there be such places, cities and towns, such as "Robotville" or "Drone City?" Will I, or a family member, have an opportunity to live beyond age 200? What about actual human life on other planets?

Technology will be so advanced that humans will no longer have to eat the same foods or take prescription medicines for diseases or health and wellness purposes. Let's not forget about transportation: We all may one day own spaceships or be able to touch our wristwatches to travel to other cities instantly! What about eye glasses that offer us out-of-this-world visuals of a certain city before we even decide to travel there? It seems impossible, but so did many of the other high-tech inventions we have today. As technology continues to advance and expand, who knows what human kind will look like?! Somehow, the 2002 thriller Minority Report doesn't seem so Science Fiction after all!


 
 
 

     As I've mentioned before, it is my belief that technology is just making us lazy as a nation and world. Everything can be done at a touch of a button or a voice command, without much effort from us. Though advantageous in a lot of ways, opening the door for many to have advance knowledge and access, technology encourages us to be more dependent rather than independent. We depend on technology to purchase our goods and services. We depend on technology to educate us. We depend on technology to care for us. We depend on technology for almost everything.

It has been said that many scientists believe that in the years to come, humans will no longer have to have secret passwords or codes to gain access to certain sites. Pretty soon, computers will be able to recognize our voices, gestures, and physical appearance, and be able to unlock our brains to produce a desired output. Some even say that computers, not humans, will run the universe! Did you hear that? Humans will have to answer to robots! This is quite scary to think about.

     The global technology that Kelly mentioned, will eventually have access to every human. There will be no need for special identification or social security numbers. Whatever the next millennium may bring, technology seems to be going in the direction of a one world mentality, with a one-world-order. Are we ready for this as individuals, as a nation, and as a world? I don't think I am.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Youth and Technology: Is it a bad thing?

     You've heard the saying that "children are the future" and never has this saying been more true than it is now for this generation of tech-savvy Millennials.

There have been many debates of whether technology is beneficial or harmful to young people's overall development. Some may consider technology such as the internet and Social Media a "waste of time," promoting narcissism  and shamelessness. Others may say technology is the next logical transition in today's society. Personally, I agree with the latter group. I believe that if used in the right way, technology can be both useful and advantageous for our children.    

No one can deny that the youth of today are much different than the youth of yesteryear.

In her 2008 article "Taking risky opportunities in youthful content creation: teenagers' use of Social Networking Sites for intimacy, privacy and self-expression," Sonia Livingstone says the following:

"Today's teenagers are staying young for longer in terms of education and economic dependence but becoming independent younger in terms of sexuality, leisure and consumption."

With this being said, many young people look to media to express themselves, create relationships and be relatable, and entertain themselves. Many young people will gain self-identity through peer feedback on Social Media Sites and observation (i.e. someone liking one's posts; a friend sharing one's wall post on his or her wall, a person liking one's personal style and/or photos on Facebook). Social Media Sites can be the avenue for people to showcase their personalities in a broad setting. Social Media can even be addictive, as teens may check their profiles every few minutes to see if 'likes' have been updated, or comments have been added to a recently uploaded picture.

          

                                          

     Livingstone says, "Social Networking sites enable people to 'codify, map and view the relational ties between themselves and others.'"

As older generations may be confused or apprehensive about new technology and its purpose, the current generation seems to already understand it -- figuring out how to use various forms, and not being afraid to disclose personal information (such as age, address, job, hobbies etc.) on the internet.

According to "Coming of age with the internet: A qualitative exploration of how the internet has become an integral part of young people's lives (2006)," researchers Sally J. McMillan and Margaret Morrison say the current generation may be "more literate, creative, and socially skilled" due to early exposure to the internet and its immersion in everyday life. Of course, this doesn't mean all hope is lost for you parents, who may know little to none about current technology. Maybe our young people can teach you a thing or two? smile.

Research by The Pew Internet and American Life Project, found that college students (specifically the class of 2001) are more likely than other generations to "be online, check email, use multiple addresses, browse [online] for fun, download music files and use instant messaging," due to their early exposure to the internet boom. These college students use the internet regularly -- using it for both academic and social purposes.

                            

     The use of mobile phones are also a normal activity among young people in current years. As I've mentioned in a previous post, it seems many of us cannot leave our homes without our mobile devices! Mobile phones have become a necessary part of our every day lives, and we can't imagine life without them! Just like any other technology, the mobile phone is one that must be used responsibly. These devices can be a quick, convenient way, for parents to stay connected with their children when they're away from one another.

    In a sense, a young person with his/her own mobile phone, may feel self-empowered and independent. Some young people may even feel safer knowing they have a device to connect with someone in the case of an emergency. Even with this technology, parents should remain vigilant and monitor their children's activities regularly -- asking questions when necessary, and being actively involved with their children's lives, to build rapport and establish trust. It may even be advantageous for parents to learn more about current technology to close the communication gap between them and their offspring, which will decrease personal apprehension and encourage dialogue between parent and child. In addition, parents should not be afraid to discuss the pros and cons of technology with their children. Both parties should gain an understanding of how to use technology correctly, given the particular setting.

    

      

                                      
                               
     When it seemed as though all of his classmates had the iPhone and its latest accessories, my sister matter-of-factly told my 10-year-old nephew that he wouldn't have a phone until he was 13. Even though my nephew would probably use the phone for games (he is a serious gamer), the phone would primarily be used to keep my sister "in-the know" about my nephew's whereabouts (i.e. his afterschool plans or needing to be picked up because he got sick at school, etc.).  Most of the conversation was (you guessed it) via text.

    This is no surprise then that researcher Kerry Devitt and Debi Roker showed in their 2010 article, "The Role of Mobile Phones in Family Communication," that children and teens text their parents more than converse with them over the phone, especially as it pertains to discussing tough subject matter or checking-in. An interesting fact about the research showed that older teens (age 13 and above) had more cellphone contact with their parents than those who were younger. Could this be due to older teens having a sense of greater responsibility when checking in with their parents? In addition, female teens ages 14-17 used phones more frequently (every day) than their male counterparts. I wonder why? Is it because women like to socialize more and men prefer more face-to-face contact?

     I believe that technology is crucial for the classroom. Current technology will help to put all children of various socioeconomic and geographical backgrounds on the same playing field, closing the digital divide gap. Children will also have a chance to learn the same things together, which will also enhance learning.

Growing up, I remember our classrooms being equipped with Gateway and Apple computers with the best programs of the time installed on them. It was such a joy for me and my classmates to discover something new together, as a unit. Our teachers never discouraged us from collaborating with each other, or giving our individual takes on what we'd learned that day. It was group interaction mixed with handson learning and technology that made lessons stick. When it comes to the latest technology, I firmly believe that students have the capabilities of teaching themselves.

My stance on technology is this: I feel it is a great thing, and a necessary factor in children's overall growth, learning and psychological maturity. I think the key here is balance. Too much of good thing, such as technology, can be harmful.

     Though the internet (for example) can be a great tool to build relationships that can extend offline, encourage self expression, and enhance learning, it can also be a tool that encourages "social isolation," creating information overload and a false sense of self. Young people may look to the internet for social cues (how they should or shouldn't behave in certain settings) and for a sense of belonging and identity, opening the door to possible identity crises.

     Lastly, technology (and its many components) should not be a stumbling block. It shouldn't cause young people to be so informed yet ignorant at the same time. Technology should enhance our lives, not hinder them. Maybe children should also consider traditional or alternative forms of learning and not learning that solely depends on technology? Educational instruction should be interwoven with both traditional formats as well as current technologies for a thorough learning experience. And as always, parents should be aware of what their children are "getting into" as it pertains to online activity and technology. Parents and children should not be afraid to learn from one another.

 

 

 

Beyond the Logo: How Effective Branding Can Connect Company and Consumer

     The golden arches in McDonald's, the "have it your way" slogan for Burger King and the "always" promise from Walmart, have stood the test of time by industry standards. Why have these multibillion dollar companies and others such as Starbucks, Famous Amos, Ford Motor Company and KFC thrived? I believe it's because of their branding, and a continual commitment to pleasing customers.

Somehow, these companies have found the magic formula to remaining viable when so many others have flatlined. These companies have learned the power of placing value and passion behind their brands, while establishing trust with consumers at the same time. You and I both know the above mentioned companies aren't going anywhere, anytime soon, as they will continue to produce quality goods and services that are personalized to each customer.

According to Forbes.com, in order for a brand to be successful, one has to be passionate about it. The person and/or company has to be the brand's "biggest cheerleader" -- connecting with investors who are knowledgeable about the brand, knowing what the specific strengths and weaknesses are concerning the business, and practicing philanthropy. All of these concepts help to establish a brand.

     In his 2012 video, marketer Tim Leberecht says one's brand is "what other people say about you when you're not in the room."

Did you hear that? Your brand is what other people think about you when you're not even present.

What do you want others to say about you and/or your company?

A personal brand should reflect your interest and what you desire to portray or convey to your intended audience. A brand must have meaning. You, as a brand, must not be afraid to be different. Don't be afraid to "stand out" and break the mold.

                 

According to a recent article published by Business Insider online, author Nance Rosen says this about personal branding:

"A personal brand is the reputation and image that you intentionally create, manage and communicate about, in a way that an audience finds engaging." Rosen goes on to say that brands should be "clear, consistent, and compelling."

  Known for its crispy, golden fries and the Big Mac, McDonald's heralds itself as the "world's largest hamburger fast food chain." With nearly 40,000 restaurants and retailers in "more than 100 countries," the food giant claims to serve more than 70 million people daily!

I'm sure you can remember running rampant as a child in the PlayPlace or having to choose (with anguish) between a cheeseburger or chicken McNugget Happy Meal! Oh, the memories! I still remember the commercials featuring Ronald McDonald or the Hamburglar (who by the way, was wanted by police), and children and parents smiling together. There was never a sad commercial.

Every time I saw a commercial, I wanted to go to McDonald's -- no matter if I'd already eaten! This is the marketing angle that I think McDonald's wanted to convey that still holds true: "We are all about families eating a meal together and enjoying one another's company."

 

      
     As McDonald's' menu has continued to expand and evolve -- offering healthier food choices and diversified items, media campaigns have also changed to include more minorities and other demographics in them. One additional positive, is the brand's commitment to serving the community through its Ronald McDonald House Charities. Through donations, the company provides a temporary "home-away-from-home" for children, who are stricken with disease, and their parents. The RMHC's mission is to keep families together and aid them while they endure the tough, painful processes of healing and treatment (http://www.rmhc.org/).


     As I've mentioned before, companies are only as successful as their customer base. Think about it, if no one is purchasing your product or using your service, you won't be in business right? With that being said, it is absolutely imperative for companies to continuously strive to connect with their customers and encourage their feedback. Feedback -- whether negative or positive -- will make, or break, a company in the long run.
                                                    

     One way that companies can gain feedback is through Social Media. Social Media is advantageous to a company's branding, in that it allows companies to have a two-way conversation with consumers and important stakeholders, in real time. The RMHC's website, as well as McDonald's corporate website, allows visitors to contribute to the company's corporate and community initiatives by writing personal blogs, leaving comments on the web pages, reading RMHC success stories, and sharing personal stories of the McDonald's experience. This interactive involvement allows McDonald's to see what it's doing right and what it's doing wrong as it pertains to its customers.

     In their 2011 article, Keeping up with the Digital Age: How the American Red Cross uses Social Media to Build Relations, authors Rowena Briones, Beth Kuch, Brooke Liu, and Yan Jin, state that Social Media Sites can aid an organization in building lasting relationships with its "publics" and those with vested interests (stakeholders). In addition, organizations should use Social Media to the fullest extent, to continue to encourage effective communication between the company and the public.

Researchers suggest that the form of communication known as "organization-public relationship" or OPR, is only successful when the relationship between company and consumer are mutually beneficial. Conversation and feedback can not be one-sided. Additionally, both the consumer and company must be open minded in order to establish trust and credibility from both sides.  Researchers J. A. Ledingham and Bruning state that the company and consumer should be "interdependent" and the actions reflected in the OPR can "impact the economic, social, cultural or political wellbeing of the other."

G. A. "Andy" Marken, president of California-based Marken Communications Inc., demonstrates the above idea perfectly, when he stated the following in an article for Public Relations Quarterly (2001):

"The customer is the center of the universe, not the company." In addition, he says, what matters is "what the customer thinks."

Well said, Mr. Marken! 

     One company that took a severe hit in branding but successfully bounced back after exhibiting transparency with its customers, was Domino's Pizza. After a 2009 YouTube video was uploaded by former employees demonstrating how the company's foods we're unsatisfactory in taste, and employees mishandled food through unsanitary means, corporate took matters into its own hands by responding immediately (and effectively) to the crisis.  
          

   The company later revamped its image as it tried to regain the trust from its devoted customers. The "Our Pizza Sucks" marketing campaign, advertised new commercials which showcased employees and cooks using proper food handling, preparation and cooking practices, making pizzas with new and better ingredients, and changing the company's overall look and website features. Completely interactive, the company website now offers customers several means to leave comments and suggestions regarding all Domino's products. As I just ordered Domino's today, the box even gives customers a chance to be involved in the "pizza making process," by taking pictures of their pizza creations and uploading them to Instagram. In addition, the company now prides itself on using 100 percent real cheese made from milk provided by "unsung heroes": Stella, Edna, Abigail, Estelle, and Nancy. If you didn't know, these are dairy cows. What a great marketing strategy -- making advertising personal, as well as showing an appreciation to farmers and their work!

By being truthful about its past products and improving them, Domino's has reestablished its brand and credibility among pizza lovers everywhere!

     Lastly, consumers want to feel involved. Not only do they want to feel as though they've contributed to a company's success, but they also want to feel like they've made a difference. You've heard the saying, "the customer is always right," and never has this mantra been more true than for industries that want to be successful in branding. The only way that companies can be successful is to continue to be strategic in the messages they want to convey, and be open to the "ever-revolving door" of feedback from the public.

                                                                                   



    

Crowdsourcing Opens the Door to Entrepreneurship

     Do you remember the Lay's "Do us a Flavor: Tastes of America" Contest? Launched in 2013 with actress Eva Longoria and chef Michael Symon as chief spokespersons, the campaign urged foodies and chef wannabes across the country, to create the next, best-tasting chip flavor for the brand. The winning flavor would earn it's maker a $1 million cash prize if chosen.
By February 2013, and after 3.8 million submissions, three final flavors out of 20 were chosen: Chicken & Waffles, Sriracha and Cheesy Garlic Bread.

I don't know the final outcome of the now annual contest, but the campaign is still going strong, with more than 7 million likes on Facbook.

The above example demonstrates what companies and organizations are now choosing to do to gain solutions to their creative process dilemmas. In other words, companies are using crowdsourcing to solve its advertising and business concerns.

According to his 2007 writing "Crowdsourcing as a Model for Problem Solving," University of Utah student Daren C. Brabham refers to crowdsourcing as "a strategic model to attract interested, motivated crowd of individuals capable of providing solutions [services or ideas] superior in quality and quantity" through online means rather than that of "traditional forms of business."

Brabham goes on to say that crowdsourcing is "collective smart" and a means in which the crowd -- not an individual -- solves the problems that puzzle companies and or organizations. Crowdsourcing is a great way to encourage active involvement from the public, as well as creativity.

I believe that crowdsourcing is a powerful tool for businesses that want to know how to better promote their brands and reach a wider audience. If used properly, businesses can get the answers they need from a central place -- such as the internet -- quickly and accurately, rather than through traditional means of times past. Furthermore, crowdsourcing invites an exceptional talent base, which in turn will yield profits for both the company and customer who chooses to participate in the problem-solving and production process.

   

                        

     I'm sure you can probably think of other examples of companies that have chosen to use crowdsourcing as part of their business techniques. As a result, these companies have been hugely successful. After all, various viewpoints coming from a group are much better than a plethora of ideas coming from one source. It's been said, "two heads are better than one." And in the case of crowdsourcing, this is certainly true but on a much greater scale!

     Whether you manage a business, are CEO of a large corporation, or are an entrepreneur for a small company, you know one thing is certain: a business is its customers. What I mean is that an organization and/or business will only be successful if it treats its customers as top priority. Most importantly, customers want to feel as though they are a part of a company's success and that their personal needs are being met, so a company should therefore allow its customers to actively participate in its decisions. Companies should be transparent with their finances and open to ideas from the public. Social Media Sites and the web help to make this idea-sharing concept possible.

Sites like YouTube help to create a platform for amateurs in any field, professionals and entrepreneurs a like, to have their voices heard and share their ideas. YouTube users can do so without trepidation or repercussions. Freedom of expression and speech no longer belong to the elitist groups but is available to ordinary people at greater levels. Whether a group of scientists want public opinion on a new breakthrough formula, or a presidential candidate desires a majority opinion on an agenda item, solutions to the specific problems can be found within the millions of videos that have been posted on YouTube or Facebook.

According to Kevin Allocca, trends manager for YouTube, internet users are not spectators but active participants in the decision-making process. He says that users have "ownership in our own pop culture," which was not true in times past. The culture determines what 'goes viral' by what is considered popular or interesting at the time. Social Media Sites offer networking and validation opportunities for its users, as users and customers feel valued when their ideas are heard and recognized.

As the community of likeminded individuals continue to expand with its ideas and opinions, I believe this strengthens the individual to be creative and to venture into entrepreneurship.

In his 2008 speech to Harvard Law students, author Clay Shirky says true crowdsourcing points to "conversation and collaboration" among group members, resulting in better, more substantial ideas.

As crowdsourcing is excellent for business, it can also be helpful as it pertains to covering important events in the news.

     As a former journalist, I loved getting firsthand information that could potentially turn into a breaking news story. Unfortunately, nine times out of 10, I was not always at a particular scene where news was taking place. This is where citizen journalists, as we spoke about last week, would've been helpful. Although I do not agree with citizen journalists writing news content, I am wholeheartedly for them giving news tips or sharing some aspects of news. How else will journalists in America be able to write a story about world news in another country without the aid of photos and videos from citizen journalists? Pictures and videos posted on Facebook, and mini-blogs tweeted on Twitter of worldwide affairs, urge ordinary people to get involved in the news-making and production process. Amateur photographers can make a name for themselves, and aspiring journalists can have their lifelong dreams of working for an established news service come true, all thanks to crowdsourcing.

     There is no doubt that crowdsourcing from this standpoint would carry with it a

"huge level of accountability" and skepticism (as citizen journalists don't always record or produce news accurately), but it will also change the way the public receives and looks at news. London journalist Paul Lewis says that the type of technology found in Social Media, "massively broadens the boundaries of what's possible" from a journalism standpoint. I agree. Thanks to such sites as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, everyone can be a journalist by "witnessing, recording, and sharing" information.  Ordinary people now have the opportunity and power to influence the masses and affect their thinking on various topics such as public policy.

     Whether used in business, politics or news, I believe that crowdsourcing can only be successful if it encourages diversity of people and thought. Research has shown that most internet users and blog readers are those who are white, highly-educated and of a certain socioeconomic status. Therefore, crowdsourcing must include the ideas, opinions, and contributions of various ethnic backgrounds, geographical locations (rural and suburban) and incomes for optimal impact and results.

Blogging: Good for Building Relationships but Not Good for News.

                               
  
 I was introduced to "blogging" for the first time around 2005, while searching the web for various stories on celebrities. One name kept popping up in my searches: Perez Hilton. The Miami native and professional blogger is well-known for his candid and brash opinions on the latest celebrity gossip.
                                                                   

Though I'd read a couple of his postings before, it wasn't until I saw Hilton on comedienne Kathy Griffin's then Bravo reality show, "My Life on the D-List (2005-2010)," that I really started paying attention to this outlandish, yet intriguing fellow. Hilton, who was not shy of telling it like it is, had a unique and comical way of relaying information to the public. He seemed both knowledgeable and relatable at the same time through his writing. I believe his brand is the very reason his celebrity column/blog -- PerezHilton.com -- is still so popular. He has become a celebrity in his own right -- making guest appearances as a judge on the Miss USA pageants and other popular network shows.

Why am I saying all of this? Simply to say that blogging has become a popular medium to relay information like never before. Yes, Social Media can be used as a tool to inform as well, but blogs have grown (in some cases) into an authority for news, entertainment and other specialized areas.

According to Technorati.com, there are more than 9 million blogs published online. People have taken this blogging thing seriously.

Blogs have become so instrumental because they are a way for not only people to connect with family and friends, but they give people who wouldn't normally have a voice, a chance to speak their minds openly and freely without fear of rejection or restriction. I like to refer to blogs as online journals. Through these "online diaries" so to speak, bloggers can create a fan base, build and maintain relationships, and become an expert source on certain subject matter. Thanks to bloggers like Perez Hilton, your average Joe or Jane can make a name for him or herself, just by showcasing vulnerability through writing.
                                                           

     I personally believe that blogs are a great way for people to connect with others and express themselves. Blogs are pivotal devices that help to solidify our First Amendment rights when it comes to self expression and freedom of speech. Just by perusing the web, users can see thousands upon thousands of commentary on any and every subject. From opinions on Kim Kardashian's rear end and other Socialites, to personal perspectives on politics, finance and money management, relationships, home decorating and fashion, hygiene and skincare, and spiritual matters, bloggers have a platform to be authentic and set themselves a part.
 

                                                                
     As someone who enjoys writing, I believe that blogs are beneficial in that they allow writers to brainstorm and be creative on a public scale.  However, there are dangers to being "too personal" or appearing to be ignorant or inept through one's blog. Negligence, grammatical and English errors, libel, as well as an absence of couth, could lower a blogger's credibility.

This is true when it comes to a blogger and the news. Because there is news happening all the time, it is sometimes inconvenient and difficult for a reporter and news crew to get to a scene of a natural disaster or crime as it happens. Therefore, bystanders who choose to take photos or video, can be useful. These "citizen journalists" can instantly upload their images and footage to Facebook or Twitter, informing the public of what happened before authorities arrive. This partnership between news professional and member of the community can be beneficial, creating a sense of involvement in the mind of the citizen journalist. That person can feel as though he or she was a part of the news-making process. However, if all the W's (who, what, when, where, why) and proper questions are left unanswered before publishing news, this can result in misinformation and replication, which is dangerous by news standards.

As I've mentioned before, I do not have a problem with bloggers. I just have a problem with bloggers as they pertain to the news aspect.  Is your information well-sourced? Have you answered the necessary questions so that your story can be thorough and accurate? Have you checked your facts, or is the story mostly subjective and opinionated?

As the public expects its news to be timely, accurate, and thorough, a blogger who is not properly trained or educated as a reporter, is more susceptible to error. Moreover, if one is blogging on such subjects as money, health, or any other area that can affect people's wellbeing, without being specialized in that area (i.e. doctor, attorney, physical trainer, educator, etc.), your authority on the certain subject matter is questionable. Just as it is advantageous for reporters, journalists and public relations professionals to be knowledgeable about Social Media and how to use it, I believe citizen journalists should be trained and well informed in news concepts and principles.

For some, blogging can be therapeutic in that it allows those who write them to vent. For others, it can be a way to get one's name out there or build a network of persons who share common interests and similar opinions.

In his web video, "The power and the danger of online crowds," finance journalist James Surowiecki states that blogging and Social Media encourages users to be on one accord and of "one mind." He goes on to say that though this is a benefit to blogging, the danger is that people will become less independent and more codependent, relying on members of the group and trying to fit the status quo, in order to survive or be relevant.

     I understand that many people rely on the content in blogs for just about anything. However (and I know I will receive some flak for this), I am not a firm believer in blogs being used as a primary tool for news. As lovers and users of the World Wide Web, we must be vigilant in ensuring that information we view is thorough, accurate and original in thought. In addition, as we use our freedom of speech and expression to our advantage through blogging, let's not abuse it or violate others'.

Follow & Friend Me: How Social Media Has Changed the Way We Do Business

     It seems like everyone is a part of Social Media. Sports teams, businesses, celebrities and your average Joe, have Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. Social Media has become the primary means in which we all communicate with each other, create social circles and friendships, and glean important -- and not so important, information.

There was a time when Facebook and Twitter for example, were just a mere means to connect long-lost friends or build a circle of new ones (a step up from a chat room). As more and more people caught on to this new form of technology, however, the godfathers of social media sites had to evolve and revamp their platforms in order to remain viable. Now, Facebook and Twitter are the first places where most Millennials go for news on politics, current affairs and social issues.

 

     I believe Social Media is most useful when disseminating content of mass appeal and interest that is more specialized. In other words, when companies and businesses want to promote their brands and increase publicity, Social Media is the way in which to do that.

One advantage of Social Media Sites, or SMSs, are that it keeps issues "in the news" and companies operable. In addition, they offer companies a chance to thrive. Think about it: major news outlets will continue to cover a story based on viewer polls, tweets and Facebook likes or posts, on the subject. And because the current generation will continue to use SMSs for news, news organizations can determine what are the most fascinating topics of interests for their viewers and capitalize on them. In addition, advertisers can also make products that will coincide with what the target audience is tweeting about, resulting in two-way communication at its best! Social Media users are major participants and catalysts in making and spreading news and helping companies stay afloat.

     It is important for businesses and/or companies to have a niche or specific brand in order to survive. Through great marketing and public relations techniques, I am sure that companies can successfully market and promote their brands, especially through Social Media Sites. A niche that resonates with the public will be easier to spread and be more popular than just a company trying to promote itself on company values and services alone. A company's image is everything, and Social Media can help to promote that image effectively. In addition, people who are passionate about a product and/or company will more likely be enthusiastic in promoting it. Contrary to popular belief, customers want to believe they are involved in a company's success. Customers want to feel they had a hand in developing a company's brand or product. Social Media is a powerful tool in which customers and companies can stay connected and share common goals.

I agree with Business Insider's writer Max Nisen, when he had this to say in the February 2013 issue, "It's up to organizations to equip [business] leaders so they feel first comfortable, then confident in using these tools [of Social Media]."

In the area of sports, especially college and pro football, is where Social Media users can really have their voices heard. ESPN's Sports Center's analysts, often read tweets and Facebook comments from the day's breaking headlines on-air. News of Minnesota Vikings' running back Adrian Peterson's alleged child abuse scandal, and former Baltimore Ravens' running back Ray Rice's alleged abuse of his fiancée in an elevator, sparked national outrage. Social Media users provoked debates on the topics of domestic violence, race, and family issues, through innumerable tweets and Facebook comments. Undoubtedly, these tweets and posts probably kept the stories in the news longer than they needed to be!




   Another company that encourages customer involvement through Social Media is Allstate Insurance. During its sponsored 2015 Sugar Bowl featuring the Alabama Crimson Tide and Ohio State Buckeyes, Allstate did something unique to encourage younger visitors to its site. The company's advertising character "mayhem" breaks into a couple's home and tries to auction off their belongings via the internet! Viewers were urged to visit Mayhemsale.com or tweet #MayhemSale to "Buy Matt & Shannon's Stuff" for one day only. According to ABC News.com, traffic to the Mayhem site reached 18 million hits during the Bowl alone! Not only was that smart advertising and proof that Social Media works for companies that know how to use it, but the campaign encouraged a new wave of customers (mainly young people) to use caution while surfing the web and using Social Media.

     We know that many people use Social Media Sites for entertainment purposes. However, many still use them as a way to "fit in" socially. A perfect example of this would be sending out friend requests to real life friends and to total strangers. The more "friends" someone has socially, the more popular that person is presumed to be. Social Media has changed the way we look at ourselves on a social, as well as psychological and emotional level. The belief that we are "accepted" due to the magnitude of Facebook 'likes' to our personal posts and pictures is somewhat disturbing. Why are we seeking approval through Social Media to determine our self-worth?

 

  
Every form of technology has its pros and cons. As with any novel technology, there will be some who are in favor of Social Media Sites and some who are totally against it. When television first came on the scene, I'm sure many who were accustomed to getting all of their information and news through radio channels felt the advent of television was a death wish to the country's wellbeing. On the other hand, as more and more families brought the television into their homes or were exposed to it, the television became widely accepted as a positive new medium for communication and advertising. The same is true with current technology such as mobile phones and tablets. As technology and Social Media become more widely adopted, people will see it as a natural part of a society. In the end, the important factor to consider is this: How can Social Media improve (not hinder) the way of life for everyone?

 

 

Everything: Yep, there's an App for That.

    
     Many of us can't even fathom leaving our homes without our mobile phones or devices. Just like our keys, wallets and/or purses are essential to our wellbeing, so is our cellphone! By this point, if you don't have a mobile device, you're probably archaic! (No offense.) Smile.

From candlestick and cradle phones, to payphones, Motorola’s DynaTAC  phone of the 1980s, and smartphones of today, mobile communication has launched a new means of spreading and sharing information.       

 

     Recent research indicates that 3 billion people around the world own a cell phone. According to data from Flurry.com, a site affiliated with Yahoo!, people are spending 127 minutes per day with their smartphones, up from 66 minutes per day, in 2010. This means we spend more time with mobile phones and apps than we do on the web or watch television.

According to Mary Meeker, an investor at Silicon Valley’s  Kleiner Perkins, many of the robust internet usage is coming from countries other than the U.S. Her research concludes that in 2012, there were 2.2 billion global internet users, with the highest being China with 538 million and the least being Argentina, with 28 million. Other countries, with the exception of three – China, India and the U.S., remained in the double-digits.  The U.S. had 244 million internet users. In terms of global smartphone subscribers, China took the lead again with more than 270 million subscribers. The U.S. took second place with 172 million.

The research shows that the onset of iPods, iPads, and Android devices have grown astronomically since 2008, causing the technology industry to explode! Who knew that the telephone would morph into the thin, sleek and unintimidating mobile device it is today? As in the famed words of Sherlock Holmes to his trusty companion Dr. John Watson, "It's elementary, my dear ..."   

 

                                                                   

     I think it’s cool that smartphone and tablet users do not have to leave the comfort of wheverever they are to go into a store and purchase products. As I’ve mentioned before, the smartphone is a one-stop-shop for buying goods and services. Using what Meeker mentioned as “natural user interface,” the smart phone allows consumers to buy groceries and order food, buy airline or concert tickets, stream live videos, pay bills, download paycheck stubs and financial info, deposit checks, and secure a car or home among other things, using the touch of a finger, voice recognition, or gestures in realtime. I personally like that fact that I don't have to buy an Atlas or GPS for traveling, but can download a turn-by-turn GPS on my Droid for free. Where atlases can be outdated and cumbersome, the satellite GPS on one’s smartphone can pin-point specific locations and directions both immediately and accurately.

As we are all aware of, social networking through mobile (or mobile social media), allows users to stay connected wherever they are "without barriers" so to speak. It seems there is no distance between virtual and reality, as various commands are simultaneous.  There is no longer a do-it-yourself attitude because a smartphone and/or wireless device can do whatever you want, when you want, on its own!

Although the above can be exciting, it is also somewhat scary when considering all future possibilities. iPhone already has Siri -- the intelligent talking assistant, and Android devices have an aide of its own. It may sound bogus, but what if advancements are made to the mobile phone, causing it -- and it's user -- to develop feelings for each other? This is starting to sound a lot like the movie, "Her." (weird.)

     There is no doubt that the development of the modern mobile phone and social media have changed the way people communicate, especially on an interpersonal level. When proper ways of communication included telephone calls, emails or even written letters in times past, we as a culture, have instead opted for more impersonal methods, such as texting or tweeting our thoughts and feelings to friends and loved ones.

In his work, “Mobile Telephones and the Disturbance of the Public Sphere (2010),” researcher Rich Ling, Ph.D, demonstrated how ‘mobile telephony’ shapes social norms –what is deemed appropriate or inappropriate, as it pertains to phone etiquette and social interaction. I'm curious to know the direction communication will go in terms of dating relationships. How will the marriage proposal be? What device will be used or deemed appropriate for the occasion?

In the long run, I believe mobile social media will encourage people to be disconnected, rather than seemingly connected. We don’t ever have to interact with an human face again. This concept emphasizes selfishness and discourages altruism. Just like some colleges identify their students by social security

numbers, and prisons locate inmates via personal identification numbers, we all may be known one day by a cellphone number or carrier! It's a stretch, but it's also a possibility. 

As many pioneers of the 20^th century invented breakthrough patents and enterprises to serve humankind, modern advances have caused Americans – and parts of the world, to be individualistic and self-oriented. The attitude seems to be:

"How can this device 'help me' or make 'my life' better? Not, "how will this invention help a whole group of people or future generations?"

 

                                   

 

     I understand the notion of mobile phones being a strategic, beneficial device to connect and unite industrialized and underdeveloped countries. Mobile social media allows underdeveloped countries to be more modernized in education and healthcare, for example, with resources at their disposal. With appropriate content (which is important), the internet and social media will allow more jobs to be created on an international scale, due to the need for innovative ideas and evolving technologies.

Let's be honest. Desktop computers and laptops are losing their popularity, whereas tablets and mobile phones continue to gain momentum across industries. Mobile social media is where the growth is. Millions of people are choosing to use mobile phones as the primary means for social activity, entertainment (games and music), and news.

The "mobile-first" platform allows companies to distribute pivotal content to target audiences more quickly than anywhere else. Speaking of shopping, news of Apple's latest development, "Apple Pay" just flashed across my phone. According to Forbes.com, Apple Pay (launched in October) is set to take the shopping world by storm! The program will enable iPhone users to make online purchases directly through the app. It seems promising, and an effective example to what I meant by using our mobile devices for everything!

As I close today's post, I don't want you to think that I'm this jaded skeptic of all things technology. In fact, technology, especially mobile social media, is very much a part of my everyday life. I just want all of us to consider why technology was created in the first place: to connect and to unite us all in a positive way.