I started the Brand Index many months ago as preparation for my value analysis. (Note: This project is on-going, but it seems that valuation of intangibles is a pretty difficult matter to work through. I hope to have an update in the next few months).
Since the inception of the Index, there have been a number of other lists covering government, newsppers and media and even Cape Cod!
I am grappling with a number of questions:
- Do these lists provide any value? I could see twitter improving profile information to make these lists moot.
- There are many lists but few attempts to validate identity. Does anyone see this important in why they choose to follow?
- Will 2009 be the Year of the Business Model for Twitter?
Any thoughts? Please, post up!
Thanks for mentioning the Cape Cod Twitter list I created and I’d like to take a stab at these questions. I certainly would advocate Twitter offering a better way to find others by interest, location, field etc but also believe (some) people like seeing these lists and sharing this information with others. I know I received positive feedback on my list (via Tweets primarily).
I do agree that striving to provide an additional “why” component would be of value for these lists. I don’t see Twitter offering this, but the lists from others could. In my case, I did not include those on Cape who had private updates or very limited activity as an example. Also, the Cape is different than other locations (in terms of why a list of Cape Codders may be of value). I don’t think a list based on geography makes sense in all cases – but since there is a very select group here, it made sense.
As far as business model, it has to make sense but only time will tell. I don’t think I know the answer but the widespread adoption of companies and brands using Twitter means there certainly is something there.