Thoughts on User Generated Content

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 User-generated content.

We see it every day. Consume it, create it. It has fundamentally altered how we approach social media and connection in the digital age. Now, someone does not need a platform, status, education, or professional background to create content and put it on the web. Think of your Instagram stories from the past week or that photo collage your friend shared. Even this blog you're reading right now. User-generated content is everywhere.

User-generated content has certainly grown in popularity, and it appears to be here to stay. But in a world full of micro-influencers, social media, blogs, amateur photographers, and countless other individuals who participate in user-generated content, what are the pros and cons? Have you stopped to consider if user-generated content is helpful or harmful? Do you know your stance?

First, let's discuss the current environment. The age of user-generated content has given everyday people the opportunity to contribute to the content produced across the web. I'm participating in that right now as I write this blog. This can be seen as a huge advantage to the average Joe. Now, everyone, no matter their background or popularity, can share their thoughts, opinions, and talents with the world. We have opened the world up to wonderful gifts that might have gone overlooked. Now, you don't need to win a Pulitzer for your writing to excel.

On the flip side, there is so much content in the world. When was the last time you watched the news? Like the actual local news channel. Have you read any academic journals or newspapers recently? For some, the answer may still be yes. For others, these are sources of a different age.

I am a part of Gen Z. Facebook came out the same year I was born and I never knew a day unconnected with user-generated content. Even before I had a phone or social media, I recall scrolling through Pinterest for hours. User-generated content has been all around me for as long as I can remember.

In this generation, we are increasingly turning towards user-generated content to supplement our lives. According to Statista, 50% of Gen Z get their daily news from social media, and over 40% report never looking to the radio, cable, or newspapers as their source. As user-generated content becomes more prevalent and easy to access, what will happen to other forms of media like journalism or publishing? 

As someone who creates content for an organization, I am a huge supporter of user-generated content. It is a world that I live in and interact with daily. However, as I look to consider the big-picture impacts of user-generated content, I am forced to see that its growing popularity begins to choke out some very important and, arguably, more reliable sources of content. There are journalists, designers, photographers, filmmakers, publishers, authors, and more out there with amazing work. And, to me, it would be sad if the volume of user-generated content forced these people and their work to go unnoticed by society. At the same time, it would be equally discouraging for big names in industries to grow so large that user-generated content fades into the background.

Personally, I encourage a balance. Can there be enough space for user-generated content to coexist with professional industries in a way that lets each shine in its own way? I believe the answer is yes, but it is up to the content consumers.

The content creators do not have a say in how individuals react to their content, they are simply responsible for producing it. I believe it is time to educate consumers on how to engage in the digital world we are living in. So yes, scroll through Pinterest to get your ideas for a craft with your kids, but also look to what educational institutions are encouraging for developmental milestones. Follow the influencers who speak out about social issues that are important to you, but take some time to watch the news or read the New York Times while you're at it. Content consumption does not have to be all or nothing. We can enjoy the ease of access to user-generated content along with the reliability or professionalism of organizations and institutions.

Now, readers, it's your turn. Let's carry on the conversation! Do you agree or disagree? Maybe you have different life experiences or come from another generation and have a different perspective on the matter. I give this over to you to share your opinions.

Let's talk user-generated content.

Thanks for joining my bit of the conversation, I can't wait to read more.

Until next time,

Logie

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