My Views on Twitter

I have to admit, but when I first heard about Twitter I thought it was a tool for the young and well connected. Instead of text'ing friends individually, a college student could Tweet her thoughts and let her friends know what clubs and parties to attend that evening.

Boy, was I wrong.

Then the bloggers and social media enthusiasts picked it up. PR picked it up. And today I saw to what extent newspapers participate on Twitter.

So why does Twitter Interest me?

The 140 character format has created a new DNA for messaging. It's the enforced elevator pitch. You can get on the soap box for 140 characters including the link to the full story.

A new media format. The message DNA, along with following other Twitters (the most basic social connection) has created a new media format. I'll read my favorite blogs on Google Reader, follow business topics on Business Exchange - but now have a new stream of interesting content from Twitter based on users I follow. It's easy to scroll through and find interesting stories to read, especially on my blackberry as I commute to the office.

Very democratic. I'll Follow people who have interesting Tweets . I can always Leave people who don't fit my interests.

Openness. Their APIs are open allowing developers the opportunity to build core and derivative applications.

Gives users control on professional and personal contributions. The most interesting Twitters strike a good balance and provide a "real life" view of themselves.

So despite being a late adopter of this site and still have ways to go in building a following, I'm sold on participation. I now tweet as a compliment to this blog, I'll post links to articles I find interesting, and occasionally will provide a view of my personal life. I'll provide small technology insights or just a thought of the day. I'm @nyike.