Consider social networking software products if you've looked through the offering of online social networking communities and haven't found one with the structure or features you have in mind.

As you search, create your own B2B social networking software directory to include any social networking software manufacturer you have heard about in your research. Develop a social networking software list of criteria you require for the social community you have in mind.

1. Select a social networking software vendor who offers the product you need with the customer service you expect.

2. Find a social networking software supplier who can assist you with choosing the best-fitting social networking software for your business or organization.

3.Keep your priorities in mind. You may require a feature such as flexibility to expand your online community.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Start your own online social network the easy way with social networking software providers

There is no reason to build your own online social business community from the ground up. There is a lot of social networking software for sale, so you will be able to comparison shop to find what best fits your company's needs.

I recommend: Web Scribble Solutions' webNetwork can get you started. The company has optional plug-ins available to expand the features of your online community, too. Request a demo of any of the products available through Small World Labs to see what online community structure best fits your business or organization.

Try social networking software online shopping

Comparison shopping is always a good idea, regardless of what you need. The list you started off with may expand as you read and learn about current social networking software product offerings. Perhaps as you see demos and delve into products, you may realize you no longer want a particular feature.

I recommend: ONEsite offers service from inception to implementation in regard to online community solutions. Check out the company's offerings and see if any of them fit your needs and your budget. VivaLogo has a significant listing of free downloadable open source social networking software.

Enlist the experts in social networking software with custom builds, support solutions

Staying up to date with social networking software trends is challenging since it is an active field. New developers and products are always coming and going. For the absolute best in no-worry social networking community software, turn to custom networking software gurus. Top-tier companies offer support and continuing education, from the planning stage and for years to come.

I recommend: Lithium offers services from planning to launch and beyond, including a continuing education weekly Webinar for social networking community managers or those considering a software purchase. Consider the enterprise-level social networking software products from Ramius, such as the fully-hosted and customizable business networking software CommunityZero.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Social networking software isn't only for businesses and individuals. Academic and public libraries are finding benefits to using social networking software, too.