Should Social Networks Make You Pay

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There has been a recent debate on whether or not users should pay for social networks. Pardon me while I burst into an absurd laughter. Pay? For Facebook, Twitter and YouTube? In your dreams. Though I may utilize these social networks for the greater part of the day, there isn't a part of me that find these things worth paying for. Even if it were a mere dollar a month, I'd protest—(I wonder if I'm exaggerating with that one? Can't say I'm sure). There are several useless things that I have spent a dollar (or significantly more) on but I am by no means looking to add social networking to that list.

The entire notion that social networks charging users comes into play as these networks scramble to find new ways to generate money. I understand that the company's that host these networks are in this as a business venture where money is to be made but they should leave me (and other users) out of it.

I am almost certain that the billion (I made this figure up, so don't quote me) current Facebook users will slowly begin to close accounts if a charge was applied.

The real issue here is that before even ...
... entertaining the thought of charging user's for access to these networks a careful brainstorm should take place. Ask yourself, networks, if we charge, what do we have to lose? Here's a quick answer for you: you lose me! I believe that's something like a big deal.

Fred Wilson, a venture capitalist for Union Square Ventures wholeheartedly shares my sentiments. During a recent panel at the Guardian's Activate conference in New York, Wilson argued that companies should eliminate the thought of asking users to pay. Instead, these companies should look to support themselves entirely with advertising. For services like Facebook and Twitter where the user provides all the value, it's absurd to expect users to pay. They're the ones creating value. To ask them to pay is the most ridiculous assertion ever, said Wilson. I could not have said it any better.

Don't go and get too greedy, networks. Part of the primary reason that you are as popular as you are is because you're free. The minute you lose sight of that simple factor, you lose so much more in addition.

Just imagine a bill showing up to your home every month indicating ________ usage resulting in ________ price. HA! I can just picture myself ripping the bill and deactivating my account in one seamless swoop.

Considering the value that we put on certain things offers such perspective. Chicken Nuggets at Mickey's D's for 99 cents-sure, why not? Facebook for 99 cents a month-I most certainly think not! I'm sure I've spent more time on Facebook than I have with the nuggets but for some reason the time spent doesn't at all affect my decision.

Don't be alarmed by this post, there is no sign of social networks charging any time soon. Just take this as a heads up, networks. You charge, I'm out!