`Autistic´ social networking

Social networking is growing exponentially. Still, the software that supports applications such as Facebook often cannot live up to the userŽs expectations, according to David Geerts of the CUO research group at the Catholic University of Leuven. "The software attempts to copy our social behavior without any real insight into our interactions."

Current social software does not take into account the more subtle differences in our social interactions. "You communicate quite differently with friends than you do with colleagues or business associates. With parents or family you may want to share completely different things. Social networking sites do not enable you to make such subtle distinctions effectively," observes David Geerts.

Lack of knowledge about social interactions

A large portion of important, even essential, non-verbal elements and the group dynamics of communications tend to get lost. David Geerts: "Sometimes technical limitations are to blame, but often a lack of knowledge on how people actually interact with one another is the root cause. This is often referred to as the `autismŽ of social software."

Today, various IBBT research groups focus on the genuine needs of users. What motivates users to actively participate in a community or a particular set of communities? How do Web 2.0 services affect their behavior, their relationships, and their cultural experience? And how can user interfaces help to stimulate and support social interaction?

Observing users

"We do not limit ourselves to just asking users what they expect. We also try to observe their actual social behavior, on line as well as in reality. Our findings deliver useful input for everyone who is involved in social networks and Web 2.0 services," concludes David Geerts.