Update: I updated and revised the matrix somewhat, and blogged about it here:
A Revised Matrix of Social Network Effects on Alumni Relations
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This morning I was lucky enough to hear Altimeter Group's analyst and consultant Jeremiah Owyang address the Council of Alumni Association Executives (CAAE) on "Social Marketing and Research Strategy" for alumni organizations. I have quoted Owyang here on occasion and it was great to have a chance to discuss directly his ideas for alumni groups using social technologies.
Every alumni professional should read the blog post that Jeremiah wrote to accompany his presentation:
Matrix: Impacts to Alumni Organizations in a World of Social Networks
His comments are self-explanatory, but the reader comments are illuminating as well. And be sure to read the five use cases in the matrix, which shows a simple snapshot of the risks and rewards of various approaches.
I'll post a follow up article here soon, discussing some of Owyang's specific comments about the opportunities available to alumni organizations connecting with alumni where they live online.
