E2F Communities : Connecting the Online and Offline Worlds

• Main Author: Piper, Monica
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: Södertörns högskola, Institutionen för kommunikation, medier och it 2012
• Online Access: http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:sh:diva-17387

This paper will discuss hybrid communities that connect users online with the intention of facilitating offline interaction.  These electronic-to-face (e2f) communities provide social benefits to members through the unique interaction of their online and offline components. They offer members the opportunity to pursue new offline experiences, increase social capital and develop weak-tie relationships. To develop an environment that encourages members to participate online and offline, the physical design of e2f systems should include functionality that encourages a sense of community, trust and generalized reciprocity. Following a set of e2f development guidelines proposed by the author, a new e2f system called Mix It Up was created. It aims to provide the social benefits of an increased social circle by enabling users to connect online with the purpose of meeting people to organize and enjoy activity-driven offline experiences. By engaging in an online community, members can be exposed to new offline opportunities that are not currently available in their limited offline social realms. Utilizing user research, this community was evaluated in reference to suggested conceptual points of departure for the creation of e2f communities.