Facebook Governance Vote Closes June 8th – 2 More Days to Put Your 2 Cents In
Many users don’t realize it, but Facebook actually allows its users to vote on proposed changes to certain policies, including the Statement of Rights and Responsibilities (SRR) and Data Use Policy as of late.
Proposed changes to the Data Use Policy (previously referred to as the “Privacy Policy”) appear to be geared more towards provided language for clarity and administrative changes vs. fundamental changes in policy that would impact users. Per the Explanation of Changes to the Data Use Policy provided by Facebook, changes would include the addition of “examples and explanations”, “new language to explain (their) policies around new features, and “administrative and organizational changes.
Proposed changes to the SRR (commonly known as “Terms of Use”) appear to be a bit more substantial, and impact Sections 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 13, 14, 17 of the policy. You can review a detailed list of the proposed changes, as well as some Q & As about the updates by reading the Statement of Rights and Responsibilities Update.
As far as voter results, per Facebook, if 30% of all active registered users vote, then the results will be considered binding. If less than 30% vote, the results will be considered advisory. At the same time, there’s a mixed bag as to whether or not users believe their vote really counts when it comes to impacting the end result.
I do have to say, though, that this is—in my opinion—an interesting and smart tactic in way of PR and promotions for Facebook. They’re doing what any local business should do by helping their target audience—their users—feel they have a say in how they’re impacted and treated when using the Facebook platform. They’re giving the users—the equivalent to consumers to a local business—the opportunity to have a voice if they so choose. Results indicate that when you do this, it builds brand loyalty, appreciation, leads, referrals, and more. Of course, Facebook doesn’t really need to worry about these items being the powerhouse that they are, and given the fact that even an unhappy user will typically continue to use the platform for networking and communicating with family and friends; but it’s great that they still give their users a say in how they’re impacted by changes to Facebook policies and procedures.
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