An article posted today on Ragan.com discusses how social media is helping during the crisis situation in Haiti by serving as a tool for information and donations. Organizations providing relief have been able to provide updates, correct misinformation and more through Facebook and Twitter. Even the White House is getting involved, encouraging fans and followers to text donations to the Red Cross.
On the darker side, some users have used Twitter to start rumors surrounding the tragedy. The organizations involved in these rumors were paying attention and have dealt with the situation.
This brings up something that we here at KMK Media have heard a lot about lately. Social media is not perfect. Anytime there is a new medium there is resistance to change. Most of the time this resistance to new technology is expressed through in the form of, “See all the bad stuff that can happen.” Yes, but what about all the good that can happen.
In this situation for example, if it weren’t for social media tools like Twitter and Facebook people wouldn’t know as much information as they do about the situation, people wouldn’t be able to correct information as fast, and people wouldn’t be able to donate as easily – text message, Facebook causes, etc.
Texting donations = amazing! Texting is also a newer technology in the sense that many outside of the Gen X/Gen Y are still resisting it’s use. You no longer have to send a check in the mail. You can text a five or 10 dollar donation to the Red Cross and provide immediate assistance.
Good, bad or indifferent social media is proving to be a very influential communication tool.
Social media sites rife with activity after Haiti quake
Mary Grimborg
