Thanks Darren Barefoot for the Image

Today a new social networking tool launches in Vancouver, its name is Foursquare. It’s a game-based application that lets you explore the city and earn points, badges, and in some cases, free drinks by “check-in” at different establishments.

There are hundreds of social networking tools out there, but Foursquare is getting more buzz than usual. Earlier this week it was profiled in the Georgia Straight and I’ve heard some people say it’s “the next big thing”. Now, that’s a bold statement. And personally I wouldn’t dare to make such predictions, especially when it comes to social media. Nonetheless, I want to keep an eye on it and think you should have it on your radar too.

Foursquare seems fun and catchy. The problem, like anything in social media, is privacy. The whole point of “playing” Foursquare is to “check-in” at different locations with your mobile. Obviously, if you’re at Cactus Club, you’re not home… and there lies the privacy concern. I know people that stay clear of Twitter because of this concern (though many people use Twitter effectively without revealing their locations).

So, will Foursquare catch on? Personally, it’s hard to say. I don’t think it’s a done deal because I’m already hearing conversations around privacy, but it could make it.

One thing is for sure, if you would’ve asked me if Twitter would be “the next big thing” back in 2006, I would’ve said, “no freakin’ way.” Hence, this time I’ll say, “honestly, it’s hard to say.”

Go play Foursquare and let us know your experience!

Posted on Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 and filed under Online Marketing, Web 2.0, social media monitoring.