How content can create a worldwide network

In today's economy, we are faced with extremes: An extreme surplus of information and an extreme deficit in economic stability. In this strange environment, people are coming up with new ways to create and connect. Digital and Tech entrepreneurial hopefuls seem plentiful and all of these people want and need the same thing: Information. Smart networkers know that although content is king- you needn't rely on original content alone. Yes, it helps if you can provide some thought leadership and opinion of value, but it isn't necessary to churn out volumes of original content every day. Simply curating and commenting on existing content and helping like-minded people wade through the informational over-load is a a valuable service. Once you establish yourself as a credible source of quality content, you can expand your network. As long as you provide something of value to an audience- they'll ask for more. The following blog is about young people who started a site called Under 30 CEO. These people started in their dorms and homes curating content (creating some as well). Reinventing and re-purposing what was widely available, building a network with trust and credibility. The blog talks about how the content they curate and promote has given them access to a broad network of people around the world. Essentially, social media at work, making the world a smaller place.  

Link to original blog here: http://bit.ly/s5N8Ql

Google+ enables epic "Hangout"

Over the weekend, two epic figures from across the globe were able to hangout via Google+ Hangout. The Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, who have foraged a cross-global friendship, were able to have a video conversation (along with many many others listening in). On one hand this seems like something so simple, a meeting between friends; a social engagement.  On the other hand, this is symbolic on so many levels. The technology that has enabled this is amazing in itself but coupled with the collaborative and inclusive spirit that these two people exemplified in this meeting, it gives hope for great possibilities in the future. Collaboration enabled by technology is opening doors for change- if these two old guys can see the power in that, imagine what else is possible. Link to video of the hangout here: http://bit.ly/nvrIFN 

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

This never-aired commercial that was narrated by Steve Jobs years ago seems like a fitting tribute to the innovator and agent of change.

Social Media Week Begins around the World

Beirut, Berlin, Bogota, Buenos Aires, Chicago, Glasgow, Los Angeles, Milan, Moscow, Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Vancouver: These are the cities around the globe that are hosting concurrent events on the topic of Social Media this week September 19-23. 

Speakers, panels and workshop events will take place at different locations in the cities involved on topics ranging from Social Media and Social Change to Engaging Consumer Audiences.

Educated Change is excited to be part of this global event- Tuesday in Chicago, Meghan Poulsom will be speaking as part of a panel discussion: Do you need a Social Media Policy?

Link to Social Media Week Here 

First B2B App- more to follow?

New B2B App store seeks to enable digital collaboration within the travel industry. This brings to mind a myriad of application opportunities in other industries. This collaboration may already be taking place in the real world, but apps designed to make collaboration easier and more intuative could mean increased business for everyone involved. In a world where ease of use is key and fast and easy is always better, I wouldn't be surprised if other industries develop similar initiatives.

Link to article here