Social Networking

Technology has developed tremendously within the past decade and many new uses for these developments have come about. Recently, during the most recent presidential election, President-Elect Obama (at the time) used Facebook and other online websites to reach out to his supporters. He overcame fellow Democrat Hillary Clinton and opponent John McCain with his use and understanding of what technology could do for his campaign. He was able to reach thousands of his fans with just a few clicks through emails. His supporters were notified of rally and campaign updates on Facebook and he raised a record breaking $600 million online. ("How Obama Tapped Into Social Networks’ Power," by David Carr, The New York Times. November 10, 2008)

Corporations have also turned to developments in social media technology when it comes to hiring employees. Sites like Linkedin, where professionals can set up profiles, network with each other, and list their job skills, allows users to advertise themselves as well as giving recruiters the opportunity to browse through candidate profiles. This could lead to potential job offers and company additions that are particular to the position in question as the site allows recruiters to filter their searches to find individuals with specific desired skills. (Social Networking Technology Boosts Job Recruiting by Frank Langfitt, NPR, March 16, 2008)

Internationally, countries like India have also used new technology developments to help them in law enforcement. New Delhi's traffic police created a Facebook page initially for supporters to join and post comments or suggestions. People began posting videos and images of traffic disobeyers which led to the issuance of violations. Without the help of these photos/videos, many of these violations would've gone unnoticed with a force of just 5,000 and a population of 12 million. ("In India, Using Facebook to Catch Scofflaw Drivers" By Heather Timmons, NY Times, August 1, 2010)

However, though these advances in technological uses are productive and positive, certain consequences may also arise. For example, photos of traffic violators may have been tampered with to falsely incriminate individuals or for entertainment purposes. Sites like Facebook, where users can post pictures, may deter businesses from hiring an individual if they find inappropriate photos. Presidential campaigns though over, may use their email list for future campaigns or projects. The individuals on these email lists may feel pestered if they receive too many emails concerning subjects they do not wish to be a part of.

In the future, technology may become even more interactive. Perhaps, a site similar to Linkedin, Myspace, or Facebook will be developed specifically for colleges to use. Potential students can create profiles and submit applications over this interconnected network. This network should encompass the majority of colleges worldwide so that everything can be done on one site, rather than applying to each school separately. The site should retain a professional atmosphere rather than a casual one such as Facebook or Myspace.