ICTworks by Inveneo

Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn - these social networking technologies are driving ICT adoption worldwide. They're also increasing revenues and efficiencies in leading American and European companies.

But what's the impact, if any, of social networking technologies on businesses and communities in the developing world? Are they really driving ICT adoption and business revenues in rural areas? Or does Facebook, Twitter, and the like just reinforce the techno-elite echo chamber - bypassing the Global South completely?

Join us for the February #ICT4D Twitter Chat, where we'll explore these vital questions with our guides: ICTworks, Michael Downey, and Chloe Feinberg.

We'll start at 12-noon Eastern Time (noon worldwide) with introductions, then move into the discussion, using the #ICT4D hashtag in Twitter. Be sure to RSVP here.

• Handy Re-Tweet
  Feb #ICT4D Twitter Chat:
  Social Networking 4 Development -
  Feb 26 @ 12:00/noon Eastern -
  RSVP: http://ow.ly/18WdH

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For those new to Twitter Chats, its a freewheeling conversation around our central questions on the Twitter platform. Our hope is to learn from each other and find ways we can increase our impact using social media.

We'll archive the Chat too, in case you miss out.

Be sure to follow ICTworks on Twitter and RSVP today!

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There's no doubt that social networking technologies have increased revenues and efficiencies in leading American and European companies. But what's the impact, if any, of social networking technologies on African businesses?

Facebook in Swahili

In my observations and conversations with technology companies in Africa, I've learned that Facebook is driving ICT adoption but has it, LinkedIN, Twitter, and the like actually increased business activity?

What have you seen? Are businesses really making money with social networking in urban or rural areas of Africa?

And if so, what technologies are they using? Is it web-based or does SMS still rule? Can voice mail be the killer sales app?