Social Networking Site Guidelines

Before you use social networking

First, know what you're after

First answer the POST questions:

People. Who are you trying to reach?
Objective. What's the main thing you want from them?
Strategy. What kind of social interaction will lead to what you want?
Technology. What tool will best support that interaction?

And know how you'll know when you get it

You should be able to answer these two questions:

How will you know if you've reached your audience?
How will you know if you've accomplished your objective?

Mashable has some articles that may help you determine how best to evaluate your social networking.

Then, look for a U of M-based tool

By doing so, you'll help enhance the University's profile, promote a consistent U of M image, and support the U's investment in technology!

And beware, if you use social networking technology not owned or administered by the University you risk losing control (ownership) of material you share with others through it. Read more about the risks of using outside social networking sites.

See the Social Networking Tools Compartison Chart for social networking tools available through the University.

Summary and introduction : Best practices for social networking : Policies related to social networking : Details related to social networking

Social Networking Tools

See the Social Networking Tools Compartison Chart for social networking tools available through the University as well as outside resources and what each has to offer.

List of Social Networking Sites

Wikipedia has an interesting, but not exhaustive list of major social networking sites.