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Michael wrote:
> Does anyone know whether there is some kind of formal (academic)
definition of the term 
> "social media" and probably even a classification approach in order to
structure this vast area?

Michael:

As a matter of fact, I follow this pretty closely. The best work I've seen
on this (technically not "academic", but from one of the most highly
respected practicing social media thought leaders) is Brian Solis'
"Conversation Prism":

http://www.briansolis.com/2008/08/introducing-conversation-prism.html

You should also check out:
http://www.briansolis.com/2007/06/future-of-communications-manifesto-for.htm
l 
http://www.briansolis.com/2008/06/essential-guide-to-social-media-free.html 

For another approach, my coauthor and I created a classification system for
"The Virtual Handshake", which you can find on p. 41 (free download at
http://thevirtualhandshake.com/free-book-download.html ).

I'll be happy to discuss it or provide additional resources if you need.

Scott Allen
512.215.9720
http://TheVirtualHandshake.com

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