Can Blogs Make Money?

Self-publishing is the newest fad.  I'm no exception – with this blog, I'm sharing my thoughts with everyone (or no one) who happen to stumble into my site.  Implicitly, I'm hoping for an audience; otherwise I would have written a diary, or created a personal digital journal.  The exact number of blogs created to date is unknown – WSJ had an article quoting numbers ranging from 10-30 million.  Quality and purpose of blogs varies.  What's universal is the format: a simple, chronological record of thoughts.

By definition, a blog is independent, subjective and opinionated.  There are no editors, no publishers, no advertisers, no shareholders.  It is a form of self-expression and promotion.  Some would argue that blogs are less biased than traditional media – I tend to think otherwise.  What blogs give, however, are ample choices for readers to match their individual tastes (thus appealing less biased to the eye). In other words, it serves an expanding number of micro-segments.

The creation of micro-segments is great for consumers, but challenging from a revenue standpoint. I suspect advertising will trump subscription – and that targeted marketing will override mass advertising. Yet, will advertising dollars directed towards micro-segments be sufficient to support good quality content? On this, I remain bullish, and I am optimistic that blogs will in time find a strong footing.

Image Credit: http://www.geek.com/gtoons/gtoonsmain.htm

Google Mania

The current craze about Google suggests a 2nd wave to the Internet boom.  Same sentiments apply: Google is indestructible, it revolutionizes the Internet, and yes, it can crush everyone and anyone in its way.  Oh, and btw, we don't know exactly how it can sustain the growth, but we'd give it the benefit of the doubt.  Enthusiasts will tell you that Google is the new Microsoft, the new Berkshire Hathaway.  I beg to differ… and of course, I could be very wrong.

I'd be the first to admit that I love Google's products – I use Google Search religiously, I was in awe to see Google Map (how about overlaying subway lines on top?!), and I thought Google Answers and Google Images were ingenious.  What lies in its core is the rare ability to innovate consistently and execute with needle-sharp focus.  It's most valuable asset? – People.

Here is where Google is walking on thin ice – With the lure of an IPO removed, and the weight of being a public entity weighs in, can Google retain the best entrepreneurial minds?  Will employees remain focused and dedicated when and if market sentiment shifts to the next big thing?  Can it contain its oversized ego or will it be tainted by arrogance and complacency?

The test will come when the company hits a bump down the road (which, I'd argue is inevitable for any growth company).  I believe then, Google will find itself as vulnerable and destructible as any.  In the meantime, I'd download Google Earth and view my apartment from space.

Image Credit: http://www.wla.lib.wi.us/waal/newsletter/211.html

Purpose of Think Media

Think Media is subjective, opinionated and largely biased.  This is, after all, the definition of a blog!  I'd strive, however, to be factual and analytical…  The purpose of this blog are threefold: 1) to organize and express my thoughts on media trends; 2) to engage in a dialogue with like-minded individuals; and 3) to experiment firsthand with blogging.  I look forward to our dialogue – AF.