Years before social networking sites like MySpace and Facebook became popular, the magazine and web site Fast Company started the Company of Friends list, which combined online communications with occasional in person events.  Eventually the group disappeared, apparently out of lack of support and interest.

In the April 2008 issue of the magazine, Fast Company not only apologizes for that decision, but rolled out an entirely new version of their web site which has as many social networking features as I’ve ever seen on a home page.  The new site includes almost all personalized content, access to groups, blogs, contact lists etc.  Is this where the web is going?  Do nonprofits have the resources to develop sites like this?  I just signed up for an account and will report back at a later date.