Online social networking services, such as MySpace and Facebook, allow users to connect and share ideas on many different topics. These tools can be used by different groups to no only promote their services, but also keep potential users informed. Communities also use these This can be especially useful as people rely on these services for their information needs. Transportation agencies and groups can utilize this media to connect with users effectively. As more people consolidate how they receive information online, through tools like RSS readers, or aggregators, it’s important for agencies to make their news and information available on these platforms. Participating in online social networking is a relatively simple way to connect with users and provide a less formal, friendlier face to the public.
Some examples of Social Networking…
AC Transit has a profile on Facebook, and you can be their friend! Using an individual profile, rather than a group or a page, AC Transit takes on a less formal, more candid person with their fans. The profile updates friends of system news and events.
American Planning Association uses their MySpace profile to advertise their organization, highlight upcoming events, and connect with members. They share news, videos, and other resources.
American Road & Transportation Builders Association has a Facebook page to promote the association’s publications and other functions. The page acts as another venue for advertising and a means to connect members and other interested parties.
There are a number of interstate highways that have MySpace profiles. These profiles are not created or maintained by any particular organization, but are a sign of people’s affection for different roads. I-80, I-43, and I-95 are just a few of the highways with MySpace profiles that let fans connect with their favorite stretch of pavement.
You can be a fan of the ITS Library on Facebook. The library uses the Facebook page to extend services to users in an environment they spend a lot of time in. Fan can see the library’s recent acquisitions, hours, information, and news about library events. There are also pictures from library hosted function, which add another connection with the library’s users.
Los Angeles Metro on MySpace is a marketing tool that not only lets Metro let their riders know about services and awards, but also allows riders to show how they feel about the system.
You can become a friend of theMetro Library on MySpace. The Metro Library uses their MySpace account to republish their news feeds and headlines to be accessible to their riders on MySpace. Acting as something of an extension of the physical library, and their website, Metro Library utilizes MySpace not only as a marketing tool, but also a way to provide service to users.
Missouri Department of Transportation uses their Facebook page to syndicate and republish news from their blog, share photos, and promote conversation about projects.
Santo Domingo Metro, of the Dominican Republic, uses their MySpace profile as another website. They provide background on the system, news about upcoming lines and projects, as well as videos about the transit agency.
ZDNet has a post today about SF BART’s partnership with the geo-based service Four Square. Definitely worth checking out. Could this be a new way for transit agencies to follow how riders are actually getting around and why?
