http://www.imediaconnection.com/content/23465.asp

“”Social networks” may be a popular buzzword these days, but the whole concept of the internet was based on social networking from the start — going all the way back to bulletin boards, email, and forums right up to today’s blogs, social networking sites, and, yes, Twitter.”

This. Is. Fact. I remember ten years ago pitching the Web as a great means for brands to build communities. As Jason points out in the article, the only difference is that the usability of the tools has become far better over time.

Whether Twitter (or Facebook, or YouTube) becomes obsolete over time is not important. The tools may change but the relationships built up with customers, prospects and employees should not.