Many websites have incorporated the distribution of pictures, videos, documents, and music between other websites and/or users. This not only enables the website to be more user-friendly but also allows for advertising of the company. Social networks are prevalent because they grant the user the ability to get more for their money and allow them to share what was free to start with. Having the correct platform is imperative as there are different types of social networks on hand, depending on the needs of the consumer. Each type has its own benefits/drawbacks. Making sure you choose the options that are right for you and your website will help to ensure that the website will be fully functional.

Sending documents is a crucial part of the online exchange of ideas. We can't always communicate what we'd like to say effectively, but could use documents we or others have written to vocalize what we are lacking. Sending pictures is also significant. Customers appreciate being able to share what they have seen with other customers. Sending music and videos is also entertaining and can spell more advertisement for your company or website. There are many people who use social networks for a variety of purposes, personal and professional. Whether you are keeping in contact with friends/family, your boss and coworkers, or customers and potential customers, it is important to be able to connect with people. Having a social network guarantees that you both are on servers that are compatible, and chances are higher that you will both be able to both send and receive essential and pertinent information.

There are many websites that either host social networks or incorporate the software to allow your website to host the same events. You should research each before deciding on one to be sure that the software will fit your business or personal social networking needs.

osTube allows the sharing of videos, pictures, documents, and music. There are three versions available: community (free), enterprise (free), and professional ($199-249). Needs: Apache Linux, MySQL

PHPMotion is a free social network software that supports both video and audio formats. It requires more hard drive space to run, but is easy to download and use.

Requirements:

Lame MP Encoder, Libbog/Libvorbis, Mencoder/MPlayer, FFMpeg-PHP, GD Library 2, etc.

SocialEngine is a well-programmed social network web software that comes with a trial download (regular version is $30) to allow users a chance to acquaint themselves with the software before purchase. It permits the user to include groups, photos, and blog albums on their website.

Needed:

PHP 4.3+, MySQL 4.1+, GD 2.0+

WebNetwork is designed for fans, filmmakers, and musicians and allows them to share the music, blogs, events, pictures, and documents that they need to in order to work efficiently. However, it comes with a $199 price tag.

Needed:

PHP 4.12, Zend optimizer 2.62, MySQL