Online Com

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Online communities are virtual groups of people who share common interests, goals,

or concerns and interact with one another through online platforms. These
communities can be formed around any topic or theme, from politics to sports, from
music to health, and beyond. They offer an avenue for individuals to connect with
like-minded people, share information and ideas, and provide support to one
another.
 
One of the earliest examples of online communities is Usenet, which was
established in 1979. Usenet was a system of discussion forums where users could
post messages on a wide range of topics. Since then, the proliferation of the internet
has led to the creation of numerous online communities across various platforms.
 
Online communities can take several forms, such as forums, message boards, social
media groups, and chat rooms. The common feature of these platforms is that they
provide a space for individuals to participate in discussions and share their thoughts
and opinions on a given topic. Members can communicate with one another in real-
time or asynchronously, depending on the platform's features.
 
Online communities can have a significant impact on individuals' lives, allowing them
to find support, information, and resources that they might not otherwise have
access to. For example, patients with chronic illnesses can join online support
groups to connect with others who share their experiences and learn about
managing their condition. Online communities can also help individuals build social
connections and form new friendships, especially in situations where they might feel
isolated or lonely.
 
One of the most notable examples of online communities is Reddit. Reddit is a
website that hosts thousands of user-generated discussion forums on a wide range
of topics. Users can create their own subreddits (i.e., discussion forums) or
participate in existing ones. Reddit has become a hub for online communities, with
members discussing everything from current events to hobbies and interests.
 
Another example of online communities is Facebook groups. Facebook groups are
spaces where users can join discussions and connect with others who share their
interests. Groups can be public or private, and members can share text posts,
photos, and videos. Facebook groups have become a popular way for individuals to
connect with others in their local community or with those who share their interests.
 
TYPES OF ONLINE COMMUNITIES:
Personal
Professional
Commercial
Investment
Play
Personal online communities are primarily represented by social media platforms
that allow people to share their private lives, make new connections, and engage
with friends and families. Members of online personal social communities engage
and interact with one and another via social networks. Thanks to online communities,
members can keep themselves up to date with the latest community social
news.Personal online communities are podiums of expressing thoughts and opinions
from politics to fashion.Examples of personal online communities: Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Snapchat.
 
Professional online communities are all about networking amongst professionals and
industry specialists.Professional community members are looking to expand their
connections, expand business opportunities, or find new jobs.Some online
communities are focused on professional support and education.These types of
online professional communities offer their members the possibility to obtain more
knowledge on their field while allowing others to become community leaders. By
answering questions and offering solutions or knowledge, members can add value to
their online community.Examples of professional online communities: LinkedIn, Xing,
Opportunity, Jobcase.

Commercial online communities represent brands’ community courtyard.Besides


being an online space for companies to offer their goods and services, commercial
communities help brands build authentic relationships with customers.Social media
marketing plays a big role in forming commercial online communities from small to
big niches, all throughout online platforms.In these types of online communities,
companies have the opportunity to reap the benefits of customer experience sharing
and create fitted community management strategies for their business and
audience.Combining customer feedback and customer stories, brands can work on
securing customer loyalty.Examples of commercial online communities: Sephora
Beauty Insider, Glossier, GoPro.

Investment online communities are the type of communities that focuses on finding
resources for the expansion of certain actions.The resources can be monetary but
also social. For example, non-profit organizations use the power of social
communities to raise awareness of their causes. They can create crowdfunding
programs, event community groups, or advocate communities.Examples of
investment online communities: WWF, Red Cross, SumZero, local fundraising
groups. 

Play communities address human leisure time. More specifically games.There are
around 3 billion game players around the world.Play communities have endless sub-
niches that offer their members a sense of camaraderie and belonging.Depending on
the community type, members can be encouraged to participate either virtual or
physically in community events.For example, action communities are more likely to
get together in physical space than advocate communities.
 
In conclusion, online communities are a vital aspect of the internet, providing a space
for individuals to connect with like-minded people, share information, and provide
support to one another. They have become an integral part of the digital landscape,
offering individuals the opportunity to participate in discussions and form new social
connections. With the rise of social media, online communities are likely to continue
growing and evolving, providing individuals with even more opportunities to connect
and engage with others.

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