LinkedIn has been observed to move more rapidly to address enterprise social computing needs than Facebook, according to CMS Watch, an independent analyst firm.
CMS Watch’s 510-page Enterprise Social Software & Collaboration Report 2009, evaluates twenty-six social computing platforms using eleven potential enterprise use-cases. Vendors reviewed include IBM, Microsoft, Google, Oracle, Jive, Telligent, Awareness, Drupal, SocialText, Lithium, Ning, Facebook, and LinkedIn. LinkedIn outperformed Facebook in CMS Watch's "Professional Networking" and "Community of Practice" use-cases. The report also found that from a functional standpoint, LinkedIn surpasses Facebook in Information Filtering and Discussion -- although neither platform provides the broader Blog, Wiki, and Project Tracking services that support broader enterprise collaboration.
The report notes that, with LinkedIn
- Enterprises can use groups as internal and external discussion boards and link-sharing areas. Unlike Facebook, LinkedIn participants can be pre-authorized by e-mail domain, they can keep track of discussions through notifications, and they can search group content;
- LinkedIn controls the release of applications by “approving them” professional use; unlike Facebook, which allows any developer to post applications; and
- LinkedIn is perceived as more professional by members.
The Enterprise Social Software & Collaboration Report 2009 is available for purchase online from CMS Watch.
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