How much benefit are there in online social communities?

I'm looking at starting a niche online social community and am curious if people think that there's true use in these communities.

How much benefit are there in online social communities?
I have a membership in a couple of online social communities, like linkedin a another one whose name I forgot.





To date, there has been no benefit.
Reply:You get to share knowledge and information, see things from different perspectives from people from all around the world and learn things that would be harder to learn through any other media. I'm just guessing.
Reply:Interesting question... There might well be some benefit to them. Most people have the need to feel a "part" of something...- Look at how successfull the "My Space" site is with young people! It wouldn't surprise me if you couldn't start up a "niche" group- as yet unrepresented Online... Give it some thought, research it through- %26amp; see where it goes... Good luck!