Rock Creek Roundup (December 9 Edition)

Posted by: Amy Hooker, Director of Online Marketing Dec 09, 2011 0 Comments

OhMyGov! lists the top 10 statistics to know about social media, the State Department launches a virtual embassy, the New York Times releases an app for the upcoming election, and the Department of Defense remembers Pearl Harbor through social media, all in this week’s version of the Rock Creek Roundup!

—While social media might be a rapidly evolving environment, knowing the basics is key to a successful social media program. OhMyGov! has put together a list of top 10 facts to know about social media for communications professionals. The list includes trends and statistics that outline user behavior globally, such as the fact that the average Twitter user logs in for 23 minutes. In addition to the list, the blog provides three helpful infographics: “How the World Uses Social Networks,” “The World Map of Social Networks,” and “In 60 Seconds.” While the information might only apply to global users rather than national segments, the post provides interesting insight into user behavior that can help in a pitch, presentation, or daily strategy.

—On Tuesday, the State Department launched the Virtual Embassy Tehran to bring Iranians and Americans together. While there is no physical embassy in Iran, the virtual embassy will open up communications between the two countries. Even though the embassy cannot issue visas, it contains videos from public officials addressing the Iranian people, Voice of America news articles, and information about U.S. study abroad programs and travel visas. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton addressed the visitors in a video message urging open dialogue and more understanding between the two nations. While the U.S. has no diplomatic presence in Iran, the website is an attempt to circumvent the system and create a safe space for conversation without fear.

—Thursday, the New York Times released its 2012 Election App as a resource for political coverage and campaign news integrating online content with its own editorial coverage. Through the central news feed, users can access articles, blog posts, videos, and tweets aggregated by the application. Currently, the app is only available for the iPhone and iPod Touch, but is free to download. The app’s content is also accessible from a desktop browser, but only New York Times subscribers have access to all the content.

—— On the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, people all over the world remembered, discussed, and honored those who fought and died. Unlike decades past, people took to social media to commemorate the day, including the Department of Defense. The Navy turned to social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and blogs, to engage the public in the week leading up to December 7. Through social media, the Navy shared content and stories of Pearl Harbor encouraging comments, sharing, and conversation. The military used social media to connect, show the relevance of the past, and remember those who fought and lost their lives seventy years ago.

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Amy Hooker

Director of Online Marketing

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