While reading the collections of mobile 2012 predictions is a great way to gain perspective, I miss deep analysis of these trends that allows us to plan and prepare for the developments likely to impact models and strategies far beyond 2012. Understanding this gap — and the need to collaborate with many mobile authorities , rather than leave such a work to a single writer — GigaOM PRO has published a new report that provides us a valuable roadmap to navigate mobile for the months (and years!) ahead. First, more about GigaOM PRO. Mobile search landscape. Precision search needed. ” Why? MORE >>

I’m the first to agree that any website obviously engaged in piracy (vs. having independent users leverage the platform in unintended ways) should be shut down, and if this is the case with Megaupload, it should be shut down. However, the way Megaupload was shut down raises scary implications. With cloud based storage becoming primary for many, it is rather jarring to have people losing legitimate  files in the process, with no recourse to immediately find or recover them. I One has to wonder how many users have less faith in these next-generation systems as a result. to our industry. MORE >>

Lizzie Gold currently works for The Social Practice as their Community Manager for a range of clients. She started her career as an Online Producer for GCap Media. Later, she went on to be the in-house CM for Global Radio before moving to Yelp UK , as their Community Manager for London. You can follow Lizzie on her blog , Twitter and Linkedin. G: What are your top resources for community management? L: The community itself should never be underestimated as a resource. From motivation to content, no one knows more than the people who take part. What can I say? m a purist! L: Ownership. MORE >>

Below are 5 must-reads on using Instagram for business that we wouldn’t want you to miss. 23 Brands Using Instagram And What They’re Doing Right. By Jason Keath So the question is, can brands get real business value out of a photo sharing app that is not focused on link sharing or buying products or distributing specials to fans? The jury is still out, but there are some big brands testing the platform for spreading awareness and cultivating relationships with their biggest fans. Key Takeaways From Brands Rocking Instagram. 25 Ideas On Using Instagram For Business. MORE >>

An important aspect of setting up a social media strategy is building a team to make the program work, regardless of the scope and goals. Social media is not a free lunch, and you need your internal team of social media experts to make it happen. Tips and considerations. Let’s agree on terminology first. [.]. Blog Connected marketing Management Social media marketing Christopher Barger personal branding social media strategy social media team The Social Media Strategist MORE >>