The Unpredictability of Online Social Networking

by Paulo Kluber
Considering the meteoric rise of YouTube and MySpace, it's not surprising that people use online networks for various reasons. But, it is the challenge posed by trying to ring a profit out of these vast networks that has many business analysts worried. To be sure, problems lurk on social networking sites, from privacy concerns to cyberstalkers. Still, the strong interest shown in this technology by major business players--as evidenced by recent blockbuster purchases--suggests this unpredictable segment of the web is off to an exciting start.
-Interested in Paulo Kluber's article? Contact him at pfk2104@columbia.edu