230 likes | 339 Vues
Join Robert W. Harris and Linda Osborne as they explore the evolving landscape of online communities and monetization strategies. Discover how community dynamics have changed from traditional geographical interactions to modern digital forums. Learn about the value of niche verticals, community targeting, and innovative revenue models, including classifieds, auctions, and subscription services. This discussion offers a comprehensive overview of how authentic communities can generate income and thrive in today's digital marketplace.
E N D
First, a little about us... • Robert W. Harris (comm ‘79) • COO - International • Original team member at About.com • HBO, Paramount, CPA • Linda Osborne • VP Content • Programming Director, ParentSoup.com/iVillage Inc. • Programming/Journalism background
Community and Monetization Community (What is it?) How can you make money from “community” now?
What is Community? • In the “Old Days” (pre-internet) • Primarily geographical • Online Buzzword • Chat • Boards (Forums) • True Community • “Communities of Interest” • Buzzword still in use
Community makes money - I • Traditional Community • Classifieds • Special interest publications • Old Online world • Chat and boards made big money because the meter was running
Community model changes • Online money model changes • Time - $ connection ends • Chat now monetizes poorly • Low ad rate • Communities of interest grow on the web • Highly valuable content
Community Makes Money - II • A true community is a highly desirable audience • Portals are broad • Rise of verticals • What’s a vertical? A community! • iVillage, VerticalNet, Marketwatch, Sportsline • Monetize pageviews at a high rate • Commerce in context
About.com’s way of making money The leading network of niche vertical sites
Expert - Trained - Supervised Professional - Entrepreneurial - Passionate Committed Overview Communities Overseen by Trusted Human Guides
Scale! Network Effect 650 sites
Scale! Network Effect 650 sites 40 “channels” $ $ $
High Monetization From macro to micro targeting RON Channels Sections Site Specific 1 18 113 650
Other ways communities make money • Classifieds • Auctions (replacing classifieds) • PR/Brand Value • Affinity • Subscription Model
The Future? • Branding Ads • Wireless • Micropayments • Business-to-Business Communities • SAP (mysap.com) • ?