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This one is a tall order.  We’ve all heard the big networks spin the fact that they are providing “Fair and Balanced” coverage and “No Bias, No Bull” reporting.  Sure. Right.

Well, in the world of technology, is it reasonable to expect otherwise?  Real, unbiased news? I don’t think so.

For example, I love what the guys at TWIT.tv are doing.  The TWIT network is probably the biggest, most impactful next-generation “network” online.  But can we say it is unbiased?  Not in my opinion.  But, is that all bad?

Here is one example of why I make this assertion:

In a recent LA Times news post, TWIT founder Leo Laporte shared his thoughts about Twitter, the social media phenomenon.  Author David Sarno writes “The more he [Leo] talked about Twitter on his show, the more followers he accrued — and the more publicity he gave his brand rival.”  Then he quotes Leo as saying ” ‘I thought, jeez, I’m building value in this company that is ultimately vying for my trademark,’ he said recently via phone. ‘So I left.’ ”

So, here is the point.  When we listen to or read news, even tech news, is it reasonable to think we can be getting an unbiased view?  I’m not picking on Leo and TWIT - his position makes a lot of business sense.  But, given such a position, there is clearly bias involved.  In fact, one of the reasons I like TWIT is because I like hearing the contributors voice their biases and have good, solid debate on the tech issues.  Without bias, it would just be boring!

Comments?

This post by Tony Pittman – tony@getthenext.com

On February 26, 2009, I posted about the Twitter uprising here.  Well, as a result of that post, several people  signed up and began using Twitter.  That’s good.  But, because they don’t have many followers, the experience is not what it could be.  Therefore, TweeterGetter becomes essential.

If you are new to Twitter and want to increase the reach of your network, check out this link and follow the instructions.  Once you have a viable list of followers, you should begin to see the value and power of Twitter.  

This post by Tony Pittman – tony@getthenext.com

If you plan on becoming, or staying, relevant in business, Twitter better be on your radar screen.  If you don’t know what Twitter is, you’d better learn fast. And, if you know what Twitter is but you don’t think it’s something you need to concern yourself with.  Think again.

Come on, we saw Twitter play a major role in the Presidential Election – Barack Obama amassed the largest Twitter following of all time as he raced toward the White House.  As of this writing, he has 328,764 followers, which is #1!  He is ahead of CNN, The New York Times, and even Britney Spears and MC Hammer, who rank #5 and #23 respectively.  Finally, if you watched the February 24, 2009, Presidential address to Congress, you may have noted commentators talking about how many congressional representatives were seen “Twittering” during the address.  Come on, if those folks get it, shouldn’t everybody? Do you use Twitter to reach your valued associates and constituencies? your customers?

About six months ago I introduced Twitter to a group of people I know.  Many of them checked it out.  Some of them signed up.  But just about all of them ended up “dropping out”, as we say.  Well, since then, we’ve seen Twitter become a true force in business, and I hope that traditional businesses, especially traditional media companies, don’t continue to miss the boat.  Twitter represents the new paradigm for how people will be reached.  No longer is Twitter just a tool for standard cell phones and teenagers.  iPhone and PC applications now vastly expand on the impact Twitter can have.  Don’t get caught out in the cold on this one.  Get in the loop and join in.  And, while you are at it, don’t’ forget to follow @tonypittman.  

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This post by Tony Pittman – tony@getthenext.com