Traditional Media vs. Social Media

Using the Internet to your advantage is what’s going to keep your brand name out there. Social media is a powerful tool when used correctly. Social networking sites are popping up seems like every other month, making it hard to even keep up. Similar to other forms of marketing, social networking has its pros and cons.

By definition, social media describes web sites that allow online users to share information, media, content, etc. Common examples are the popular social networking sites:

• Facebook
• MySpace
• Friendster

Other popular social media sites that offer a slightly different type of membership include:

• YouTube (video sharing)
• Photobucket (image sharing)
• Flickr (image sharing)

Studies show that people gain more information, education, and news by electronic media and print. The Internet and social media is more popular than traditional media, such as newspapers, televisions, and film.

Described below are the differences and similarities between social media and traditional media:

• Both grant the ability to reach a global audience.
• Traditional media is owned privately or by government, while social media tools are available to anyone at little or no cost.
• Social media typically doesn’t require specialized skills and training.
• Once created, traditional media cannot be altered. For example, once a magazine article is printed and distributed, changes cannot be made to that article. Social media can be modified at any time.
• Social media is available in different forms. Online users are able to choose from forums, weblogs, social blogs, microblogging, social bookmarking, podcasts, and video sharing.

About CODANK Web Design

CODANK is a top rated Web Design and Internet Marketing firm located in Charlotte, NC. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality, cost effective custom software development services, delivering a broad range of business consulting and outsourcing services.

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