P is for Pinterst

 

What makes Pinterest different from the others?

You may have heard of the social network, Pinterest - a virtual pin board which allows users to “pin” images from the web and other users’ boards, or as Pinterest describes itself:

…lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web.

Yes, another one to add to the list of networks to join, through fear of missing out or being left behind. But I can’t help but think there could be something more to this latest platform that plays on human motivations that other networks don’t tap into, and that set it apart from the rest.

It’s all about me

Pinterest is simple; in its design, functionality and user experience. But the key thing that this network has over others is that it’s all about the user. There is no need to have friends in order to get involved. All boards are open and users can view any image pinned anywhere on the network. Of course, connections can be made, either by following people you know or those who have created boards on a topic that interests you.

Pinterest provides, for some, a welcome break from newsfeeds populated with mindless status updates and drivel. In this case, pictures really do speak a thousand words, evoking an emotional response which can be left via a comment.

The collector within

Collecting is a basic human motivation, and Pinterest unleashes this instinct by allowing the user to instantly, easily and neatly showcase their collections. Pins are automatically arranged in an aesthetically pleasing way. Pinning is also inspirational, with one board or pin inspiring the next, and each creation can be constantly tweaked until the user is happy with their masterpiece, and they can gain recognition and approval from other users with similar interests.

A brand’s best friend

Pinterest has worked well for early adopters such as those in the arts, design, architecture, crafts, food, travel and fashion categories. It allows users to create boards to represent how they want to be perceived, or the status they feel it gives them by associating themselves with that brand or image. This could be a certain fashion that they like or even the images they pin on their home decor board. It goes a whole step further than just “liking” a brand’s fan page.

So what do you think about Pinterest? Is its simplicity going to work in its favor against other social networks? Or is this just one network too many.

I'd love to follow me on Pinterest. I'll be happy to follow you back too! :)