MySpace and Corporations

Are corporations finally understanding MySpace and the power of social networking? OK, sure, it's scary to hear that Reuters wants to become the "MySpace for the financial services community" (yeah, like I really want to have my accountant on my friend's list). And USA Today is adding Web 2.0 features to its site in an attempt to better engage readers. But the real evidence can be found in a recent New York Times article noting that Cisco Systems is developing a new social networking service for corporations. The new technological service will help corporations develop social networks to bring their customers together online.

Some view this as the "evolution" of social networking -- giving people more tools to create their own networks outside the bounds of sites like MySpace and Facebook. Sites like Ning.com are positioning themselves as social networking without rules or straight jackets, and corporations and special interests alike are hopping on board. It's even hitting the presidential campaign through the recently launched my.barackobama.com (I know many women who like the sound of that).

Social networks are breaking out of the world of teenagers and technology dorks -- are you ready?