Social Networks and Communication Devices

by

Acknowledgement

I would take this opportunity to thank my research supervisor, family and friends for their support and guidance without which this research would not have been possible.

DECLARATION

I [type your full first names and surname here], declare that the contents of this dissertation/thesis represent my own unaided work, and that the dissertation/thesis has not previously been submitted for academic examination towards any qualification. Furthermore, it represents my own opinions and not necessarily those of the University.

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Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of “Social Networking” in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on “social networking websites” and its relation with “individuals and organizations”. The research also analyzes many aspects of “social networking” and tries to gauge its effect on “communication”. Finally the research describes various factors which are responsible for “communication of individuals, organizations and government bodies” and tries to describe the overall effect of “social networking” on “business and individuals”.

Table of Content

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTII

DECLARATIONIII

ABSTRACTIV

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION1

Social Networks1

Social Network Concepts1

Networking Websites and the Future of Journalism3

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW5

Dynamics of Social Networks5

Social Network Platforms6

Types of Social Networks7

Analog or Off-Line Social Networks7

Horizontal social networks8

Vertical social networks8

How to join social networks?8

Types of Social Networking Sites9

MySpace9

Twitter10

HI510

Xing10

Linked In11

Flickr11

Content in Social Networks11

Forums12

Blogs12

Wiki13

Polls13

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY14

Mixed Research14

Classification of research methods14

Multi-method studies15

Mixed-method studies15

Steps in mixed methodology15

Strength and weakness of the mixed research:16

Strengths16

Weaknesses16

Research Design17

Research Instrument17

Literature Selection Criteria17

Search Technique17

Keywords Used17

Case studies on charity organizations using social networks18

Social Networking in Charities18

Peer-to-Peer Fundraising18

MOIZEMLYAKI19

CAUSE WORLD21

CHAPTER 4: DISCUSSION22

The Benefits of Social Networking22

Members are the commodity22

Branding and marketing23

Attitudes are changing23

Barriers and risks social networks24

Opportunities for an Individual Using Social Networks24

Risks for an Individual Using Social Networks25

Difference between Wireless Ethernet Card and Mobile Broadband Card26

Fastest European Smart Phone Operating System26

Findings28

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION38

REFERENCES39

APPENDIX42

Questionnaire42

Chapter 1: Introduction

Social Networks

The 21st-century landscape is characterized by increasing globalization and a very accelerating change. As systems become more complex and interconnected, social networking is undergoing a transformation. One of the recent trends in the study and practice of social networking is the focus on how individuals and businesses in networks shape the environment, unleash innovation, create access to resources, and increase their performance. This study examines social networking and its importance for individuals and organizations. It begins with an overview of core social network concepts and their implications for social networking. It then illustrates how networks benefit individuals, organizations, communities, and fields. It also emphasizes on the risks and dangers involved in the excessive use of social networks.

Social Network Concepts

In the simplest terms, a social network is a set of people with a set of connections representing the existence of a relationship, or lack of relationship, between each pair of people. The study of social networks has a long interdisciplinary history rooted in the fields of anthropology, psychology, sociology, and mathematics. Interest in social networks has exploded recently in the fields of leadership development, business, economics, and computer science, to name just a few. Because of its history and its adaptation for use by many, a diverse field, the science of networks is ...