Twitter is a simple web site with one simple purpose: to let people know what you’re doing, and to get an idea of what other people are doing.
You can update Twitter with your status through their web site, or via SMS or IM. If you have Twitter set up with your cell phone, you can receive updates whenever one of your contacts updates their status. I was initially dubious of the usefulness of a site like Twitter, but after a bit of convincing by a colleague, I’ve come around to the possible usefulness of such a site. Here’s why:
While Twitter, if used poorly, can potentially be a HUGE timesink, it can, like most tools, be put to use for the forces of good, as well. For example, a family wanting to keep track of everyone’s whereabouts could make great use of Twitter; a development team might use Twitter to keep an eye on what everyone’s up to; and a group of friends could use Twitter to coordinate activities on a night out. Alternatively, you could end up using Twitter to make dumb jokes (see screenshot).
If you’ve tried out Twitter, let us know how it’s panned out for you in the comments.
