As one of my first tasks as a summer intern at Agent Wildfire, I’ve been researching sports based social networks. I try to rate the sites based on look, functionality, performance, level of complexity and overall user experience. My favourite networks have something fresh and innovative. They jump outside the standard mould of user profiles, adding friends, posting photos and joining groups. The following is a list of my favourite features of sports based social networks.
A Sexy Look
Nike+
This network is likely one of the best looking social networks going. Not to mention, it is any runner’s dream. Nike+ is the perfect spot for training tips, tracking kilometres, mapping a run, setting goals, and finding the best tunes for sprinting up the final hill. A visit to the homepage reveals a running total of the community’s collective kilometres – one of my favourite features. Create a challenge for yourself or another user and partake in the Trash Talk to encourage friends. It is super easy to use, looks great and works like it should.
A Challenge
FanNation.com
FanNation might not be one of the best looking sites I’ve ever seen it is definitely one of the most entertaining. Check out the Throwdown tab. Users create challenges for other each other and then debate using short 150 character throwdown statements. Each user gets three throwdowns to make their case and then any member of FanNation can vote on the winner of the debate. What an interesting way to engage the troops.
Speculations
Footbo.com
What sports fan doesn’t love predicting the final score or guessing which player will be named MVP? As we all know, the range of guessing games and gambling in sports is endless. Of course a predictions page on this soccer network would be in my top favourite features. I like this one most because it’s easy and it’s not a money gambling operation. Users gain points for correct predictions and get ranked based on their points. It’s very competitive and keeps users engaged. I should also mention that I like this site for a variety of other reasons. It is simple to navigate, easy to interact with other players, has tons of information about every level of soccer and it has many enthused users participating regularly.
Recognition
FanVoice.com
The creators of this NBA social network should take a pat on the back for knowing their target audience. This network is aimed at hardcore NBA enthusiasts who love competition. Why not challenge the users to be the biggest fan and win awards like Fan of the Week or Fan of the Year. There is no doubt in my mind that these users love competition and love a little success. NBA Insiders get to choose and vote for their favourite fan profiles. Users are eligible to win based on the detail in their profile and their contributions to blogs and message boards. What a great way to engage users and recognize their vital role in the network.
Connections
ILoveToPlay.com
A cornerstone of social networks is their ability to connect users from around the world and around the corner. The ILoveToPlay network does just this. For example, if you are playing hockey in Toronto and you need a goalie for Saturday’s game, just post it. If you want to start kayaking and you need some direction, just post it. I love this network because it offers athletes an easy way to hook up with each other and play sports. The design is nothing special and the level of complexity is quite low. But it does the job it should.
Of course there are dozens of great sports based social networks out there but these are my favourite features. Can you think of anything I missed out on?
Cheers!
Jasmine
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