Other social media

After Facebook, there are several other social media platforms that are used by small businesses. Some of the these are listed below:

• Twitter is also very popular amongst sporting clubs. It is different to Facebook in a number of ways, the main one being that text messages (or 'tweets') are limited to 140 characters. When a Tweet is sent to someone's 'handle', they are able to 'Re-Tweet' it out to their 'followers'. Twitter also allows photos and videos to be posted. For some reason, many sporting club volunteers are more confused about Twitter than Facebook. This video by Common Sense Media provides a very basic introduction to Twitter.
• Instagram and Flickr are two online platforms that are mainly used for sharing photos and videos. Whilst Instagram is generally more popular within sporting clubs, some clubs use Flickr as they claim they can store their photos in higher resolution (or greater detail). It is quite common to link these tools with Facebook or Twitter accounts.
• Strava is an application that is mainly used by running and cycling clubs. Strava can operate in conjunction with GPS tracking devices and modern 'smartwatches' and 'smartphones' to keep track of running and cycling workouts, allowing athletes to post the distances they have covered, elevations (above sea level) and the times taken. Strava is mainly used to record informal activities, such as training or recreational runs. Whilst a few clubs have formally set up Strava pages, many are set up informally by club members.
• Whats App is an online messaging tool that has been used by sporting clubs to set up closed groups around specific events or matches. It has been used to assist in managing team selections in cricket clubs.
• Doodle is an online scheduling service that has a 'polling' option. Doodle polls have been used to see who is available for team selections or to indicate attendance at upcoming social events.
• Accumulators, such as Team App, can also be used as social media tools. These are described on the accumulator page of the guide.