The Evolving Dynamics of Online Community Engagement and Strategy
The Evolution of Online Community Management
Over the years, online community management has evolved and taken many forms. These gradual changes are reflective not only of the innovation and technology surrounding the craft but also of the shift in attitudes as brands value community growth and engagement more. Let’s have a look at how these technological advancements have shaped community engagement as a whole.
The start of online communities
The first concept of online communities was quite simple in its founding, starting with basic and read-only pages. It then evolved into Bulletin Board Systems, to emails, to real-time chats, to what we now know as social media (Web2). Through these applications, it became more feasible for online communities to be formed for individuals around the world who shared the same passions and interests.
Now, these communities have evolved to become more than their initial concept, offering diverse experiences. For example, many have applied hybrid community models, spaces that combine in-person interactions with digital communication. Beyond that, many technologies also now allow for community monetisation strategies to be implemented to offer incentives for members willing to pay for more content, features, etc. Indeed, the idea of online communities continues to progress, and technology and innovation are largely responsible for this shift.
Challenges in online community management
Despite the strides we’ve made for a more improved community experience in the digital space, challenges in online community management still exist. Some of the most common community management challenges are:
- Lack of engagement
- Lack of a strong, defined relationships between members
- Lack of a clear direction for the community
- Lack of a space to freely speak without limits or censorship
With such challenges still in place, new community management models and technologies are needed to address them properly. Fortunately, technology is always evolving and coming up with new ways to help clear these obstacles.
The role of Web3 technology in community engagement
With the rise of Web3, decentralisation, and the blockchain, the emergence of Web3 communities helps address these challenges and concerns. These technologies help address the challenges in online community management typically faced by community managers.
The decentralised blockchain technology of Web3 makes online community management much fairer. Rather than being overseen by one party, these communities give voting and decision-making power to everyone. This leads to more collaborative and engaging discussions resistant to censorship.
Such a strong and empowering community fosters an environment where everyone is encouraged to speak up and listen, leading to better relationships and a unified direction for its members. Furthermore, the fact that these communities are conducive for feedback leads to a more personalised community experience where every member is happy and catered to.
Aside from that, another improvement that Web3 brings is that every transaction that happens within the community is transparent from start to finish. Members are assured a trustworthy community because everything is on the blockchain’s ledger. Smart contracts are also involved to make transactions smooth and automated. Such technologies help make online community management more convenient and establish trust among the members.
Through Web3 and its decentralised platforms, the dynamics of online community engagement and strategy will continue to evolve. As a brand looking to get into the digital space, you should keep such innovations in mind the next time you want to build and engage with your own community. Maximise these new technologies to achieve a strong, empowered, and loyal community.
Need help in managing your online community on Web3? At No Standing, we employ only the best practices in community management. Improve your engagement strategy by partnering with us!
