Second International Conference on VCs

Volume 16, Number 6 • June 1999

Second International Conference on VCs — This year's gathering in Bath, England, focused primarily on software tools
by Ev Brenner

Recaps the Second International Conference on Virtual Communities (VCs), held in Bath, England. Says that the topics addressed by speakers included types of communities, tools for building them, the legal and regulatory environment, and different approaches for determining what services to offer. Notes that many new enabling tools for VCs were introduced, including polls, photo albums, and surveys. Adds that polls were presented as an effective approach to drawing in new members. Indicates that several speakers underscored the importance of providing services based on the actual needs and desires of VC members, and emphasized that community managers must practice hosting in moderation to avoid being too loose or too controlling.