Lotus Knows Facebook

Bilal, can you tell me what, exactly, Lotus knows about Facebook other than it is popular? As far as I know I can't get my Facebook news feed in Notes and I can't update my Facebook status from Notes. Are either of those features coming in 8.5.1? Are they part of Connections? This Lotus Knows campaign is starting to come across a little trite and conceited since it's lacking specifics.

We are utilising facebook as another channel to connect with our audience. One of first rules of social engagement dictates that we make the connection as painless as possible. Instead of making you come to us for information, we will provide it where you feel comfortable.

In regards to Notes and Connections supporting social media, it already incorporates linkedin, twitter and RSS feeds. Unfortunately, in its current state, Facebook's limited appeal in true business applications along with its very limited and very restrictive API does not make it a feasible business platform to support. Of course, IBM's own decision might be different - but I personally see more of a connection with Twitter and Linked, which are both supported in Notes and already being utilised in a business setting.

I'm still puzzled at the fact that twitter is blocked from corporate networks when its already showing its value from business perspective. Facebook is blocked from majority of networks as well.

At the end of the day, if enterprise market is asking for it, it WILL happen. Whether it be facebook status messages or pokes! Pending support from facebook's API. ;)

Of course this is not a OFFICIAL IBM statement and merely my opinion based on current state of social media.

I understand Facebook is part of the marketing campaign, but you made a statement with the title of this blog post: Lotus Knows Facebook. I'm asking for follow-through because as you confirm, no Lotus software integrates with Facebook. Therefore, as far as I know, Lotus *doesn't* know Facebook.

At some point Lotus needs to explain how it knows these things, why I should care and how it effects me. I hope the campaign gets stronger and more interesting as it progresses. You say the intent is to give me information where I want it. Trite sayings with no substance don't help much.

Incidentally, in case this seems like an ad hominem attack, I'm challenging the statement, not you personally. :-)

Point well received. In fact, this is just a start the title was picked so that I could optimize it for the SEO from Web Marketing perspective.

I was just commenting from business standpoint and actually sad to read today that over 50% of companies out there block social networks. (http://mashable.com/2009/10/06/employers-block-...)

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