Publication Summary

The explosive growth of online social networks has transformed the way many consumers interact with each other and with businesses. Facebook and other online social networks have made it possible for consumers to instantly share travel experiences and photos, give travel-related advice or recommendations, and engage with travel companies online. With the proliferation of online social networks, travel companies must be up-to-speed on how consumers use them, and how this usage impacts their travel planning and sharing.

PhoCusWright's Traveler Technology Survey 2010: Social Networks presents and analyzes a range of parameters regarding consumers' use of online social networks, with a focus on travel-related communications and activities. Based on a consumer survey of online travelers in the U.S., report highlights include:

• Overview of participation in online social networks, including log-on frequency and participation by age
• Analysis of the most common social media activities, including posting comments or photos, becoming a "fan" or "follower" of a company, and posting while traveling
• Examination of the preferred methods online travelers use for sharing travel experiences, communicating travel recommendations, and interacting with travel companies

Table of Contents

15 Pages\n\nSection 1: Overview, Methodology, and Research Highlights\n\nSection 2: Online Social Networks and Travel-Related Communication Media\nCommunication Channels\n\nLIST OF TABLES\n\nActive Participation in Online Social Networks, by Age\nLog-On Frequency for Social Networks, by Smartphone Usage\nSocial Media Activities\nCommunication Medium for Personal Travel Recommendations\nMethods for Sharing Travel Experiences, by Smartphone Usage\nMethods of Interacting with Travel Companies