The array of social networking choices on the Web for kids these days is exhausting: MySpace, Facebook, Friendster, Connexion, MSN Spaces, etc. etc, but what about social networking for older folks?
According to a Reuters report, German media group Bertelsmann is planning to transform its Direct Group of book, CD, and DVD clubs into an Internet networking destination for older people. The media
conglomerate aims to unify Direct Group's aging customer base of around 35 million users in 22 countries by changing its traditional clubs into little Internet communities organized by cultural
interests. The initiative would have to be supported by advertising, but analysts warn that it could be difficult to persuade the older set to use these kinds of social networking tools. As Jupiter
analyst David Card said, "It may not be a natural thing, but it could work if they do a good job data mining and finding people with like passions." If they can find the audience, and that's a big if,
then advertisers will surely follow.
Read the whole story at Reuters.com »
