Last week I took to the podium again to discuss something I believe could be the single biggest difference between a mediocre social media programme and an excellent one – an effective community map.

At ISM we have been thinking about community maps a lot.  In fact it is becoming a bit of an obsession.  The reason being, is that done right, a community map could ensure that your social media programmes are efficient, effective and targeted and your communities are well managed.

So what are the benefits of using a community map in your social media programmes?

  • Using it to define your audience universe will allow you to set meaningful and well thought out targets for community size and engagement
  • It will improve the accuracy and speed of your community growth
  • It will ensure your engagement with a community is effective, including in crisis situations
  • It will help you to make content go viral
  • It will enable you to measure success and plan strategically for the future.

So here are some of our thoughts on community mapping and the importance of the Social Cartographer, any questions or comments please get in touch. 

Jeremy Farmer

The Social Cartographer, Figaro social media seminar, 1st December 2011