A Guide to Curation in Community: Welcome to the Spontaneous Internet

A Guide to Curation in Community: Welcome to the Spontaneous Internet

In today's digital age, where information is abundant and readily accessible, the art of curation has become increasingly important. Curating content in a community is not just about creating a resource for members to access, but it is also an exercise that creates immense value for both the community builder and its members.

For members, the value of community curation is clear. It provides them with the ability to access trusted and vetted information quickly. Instead of sifting through a sea of content, they have a source filled with hand-picked information that they can rely on. However, the value of curation for the community builder goes beyond just providing a resource.

When we curate, we are forced to process what our members are sharing. We can't help but learn and understand the community we serve. It is during the process of curating content that new ideas often pop up and spread. As we learn, we can pass on this information to our community, further enriching their experience. In this sense, community curation is for the community builder first and the members second.

But how do we decide what is worth saving? Before saving anything, we must ask ourselves whether it has value. Essentially, we are deciding if something is valuable enough to be curated. It is important to exercise caution here because if everything is special, then nothing is special. We must be selective in what we choose to curate.

A repository of anything can be helpful for anyone in a business. However, the true power of curation lies in the ability to connect the dots. It is through curated content that we can help our people, not just our members, but potentially every employee in our company. By curating content that is relevant and valuable, we can foster a sense of community and collaboration within our organization.

Now, let's shift our focus to the concept of the "Spontaneous Internet." As we enter 2021, there is a rush to create new online spaces that embody the principles of spontaneity, social interaction, and rawness. These next-generation social platforms aim to bring serendipity and friendliness back to the internet.

There are three common elements that these platforms share: spontaneity, social connectivity, and rawness. They seek to create open spaces where people can hang out, providing them with moments of excitement and spontaneity. The success of these apps reminds us that we all crave a little more humanity, immediacy, and unpredictability in our online lives.

One example of such a platform is Clubhouse. On Clubhouse, there is a sense that anything can happen. Raw, unedited conversations keep listeners on their toes. Scheduled shows and special guests build hype and grow audiences. It is a space where people can listen in and be part of engaging discussions.

Another platform, Discord, offers a different kind of hangout experience. Discord servers provide a perfect place for people to come together and contribute. Whether it's a server dedicated to a video game franchise or a restaurant chain, fans and community members can bring their thoughts and opinions to the platform. It fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

Dispo, on the other hand, focuses on bringing spontaneity and serendipity to photo sharing. By releasing timed photos every day, it creates a network of curious users who eagerly wait to see what others have captured. Unlike curated feeds, Dispo allows for a more authentic and unfiltered glimpse into people's lives.

And let's not forget Parsec, a platform that enables remote access to computers in a network. In a time where remote work has become the norm, Parsec allows for collaboration and connection regardless of physical distance. It brings people together and facilitates a sense of togetherness.

In addition to these examples, we can expect to see more apps tackling old types of content in new and innovative ways. The key to success will lie in designing for immediacy and providing people with new and exciting places to hang out online.

To conclude, community curation is a powerful tool that not only benefits members but also community builders. By curating content, we can learn, understand, and connect with the community we serve. The Spontaneous Internet, with its emphasis on serendipity, social connectivity, and rawness, is reshaping our online experiences. As we navigate this ever-changing digital landscape, it is important to embrace curation and explore new platforms that foster spontaneity and human connection.

Actionable advice:

1. Embrace the art of curation in your community. Take the time to process and understand the content your members are sharing. This will not only benefit them but also help you deepen your connection with the community.
2. Be selective in what you choose to curate. Not everything is valuable, and by being discerning, you can provide your community with content that truly adds value and fosters collaboration.
3. Explore new platforms that embody the principles of spontaneity, social connectivity, and rawness. The Spontaneous Internet is a growing trend, and by immersing yourself in these spaces, you can stay ahead of the curve and offer your community exciting and engaging experiences.