How to Comment on a Blog: The Air Force’s Flowchart
by Peter Kafka
Posted on December 31, 2008 at 9:57 AM PT
I know there are lots of people out there who are employed as “social media” experts or consultants or professionals. (A lot of them, oddly, seem to follow me on Twitter.) But until today, I’ve been unclear about what they actually do.
Now I think I get it: They help people at big, hidebound organizations wrap their heads around the Web. Depending on your perspective, this is either a ridiculous boondoggle of a profession or a worthwhile pursuit, given the right parameters.
Here’s a good ink blot test–what do you think of this chart (click twice to enlarge), designed by Capt. David Faggard, Chief of Emerging Technology at the Air Force Public Affairs Agency?
My gut reaction was to assume this was a parody. And the next was to deride it as some sort of post-Yossarian artifact that ought to be a parody.
Then I read it. It’s actually quite reasonable.
I operate in a hothouse world of bloggers who tend to type first and think later. And none of that tends to matter much, because, well it’s just bloggers typing.
But for people with real jobs–and real bosses, some of whom may handle weapons–weighing in on the Web isn’t a natural act. And so a guide like this may not be the worst thing. Perhaps some people I know ought to read it, too.
Thanks to Ellen McGirt, Joey DeVilla and David Meerman Scott.
Comments
Peter,
A much larger and clearer image is at http://freshspot.typepad.com/......970b-popup
,dave
Posted by Dave Barnes at December 31st, 2008 at 10:13 amThanks, Dave. Helpful.
Posted by Peter Kafka at December 31st, 2008 at 10:52 amHaha, I can think of many larger organizations that could benefit from this kind of chart. As you say, the world does not consist of a hothouse of bloggers, yet… Stock market corporations still often show that they have not understood the threats and opportunities with social media. A chart like this will feel familiar to them. It is wise to communicate using a language that they understand!
Posted by Henrik Ahlen at January 2nd, 2009 at 2:20 am