Social networking info-graphics
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Rapid development of social networking rostrums on the internet has not in any way made redundant distinct differences in preferences, online customs and user ethics and culture across regions. Research conducted on the World Wide Web by Global Web Index, a renowned market research organization, has mapped the info-graphic differences for the online community successfully. Trendstream, a London based consultancy service has also conducted six sets of surveys, all related to the manner in which the online global consumer has taken to the usage and information on the Internet and whole arena of online social media.
The research surveys conducted spanned 36 markets worldwide and gained from a stronghold of data recorded previously (February 2011) that covered the responses of 750-2,000 people in each of the markets covered. The aim of the surveys was to clearly define three basic behavior responses from (1) those exploring messaging possibilities, (2) groupers and (3) those who share content. The research revealed that while in the Asian countries the preference was more for content sharing, across the UK and Canada, the emphasis was more on sending messages.
The company also used data to map the extent of penetration with regards to social networking in each of the markets. Each region followed a distinct trend with regards to usage of social networks. Japan displayed the lowest percentage of users signed on to social networking sites. This is surprising as the Asian Giant is recognized as a leader in technology and only recently had everyone hooked onto QR codes, the internet and smart phones. Japanese data also revealed that Japan actually has a divergent inward-focused market, quite like what one would observe in emerging and advanced global markets.
It is observed that the recent earthquake and tsunami has opened up a vista for social networking in Japan, more as an open communication platform. Responses from all over the world are questioning why there was no distinction made with regards to the usage of the term ‘online’. The query is more to clarify about whether or not mobile connectivity or direct internet connection is in any way different. People responding to the surveys are wondering if the lack of distinction is why Japan doesn’t amount to much on the map. Carefully scanned, the info-graphic data on social networking activity offers insight into specific platforms.
With Mixi functioning as the Japanese Facebook, it has in no way affected the one-third Japanese Facebook social networkers. Places like Egypt have users who are now exploring the paradigms of social networking more for revolutionary objectives. On the other hand, a nation like Singapore displays a sky rocketing mobile and Smartphone dependency, according to the survey, with mobile data ‘unlimited’ plans wired to provide data on the go. Responses to the survey also reflect on the percentage of users in certain countries who use social networking sites as a way to express themselves. Not only are inferences drawn on specific age groups and/or traditions, but also the social strata and status of users within the region.