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# QOTD: digital backfence, third place and fad of the day
- URL: https://www.lorcandempsey.net/qotd-digital-backfence-third-place-and-fad-of-the-day/
- Published: 2007-07-19T09:14:19.000Z
- Updated: 2020-10-28T09:32:54.000Z
- Author: Lorcan Dempsey
- Tags: Social

It seems to me that whether or not Facebook is in our future, some form of the social experiences it enables will be. Susan Mernit has a [nice post](https://susanmernit.blogspot.com/2007/07/fads-of-ther-moment-10-things-we-can.html?ref=lorcandempsey.net) which acknowledges that it may be a fad, but goes on to explain some of its appeal. And it clearly has strong appeal!  
When I am asked about it I mention the background low-cost connection it provides with folks. Here are two of her points:  
\* “We want to be local, not global. Small is beautiful, and a digital backfence like Facebook’s status updates or twitter, has irresistible appeal.”  
\* “Forget Starbucks, the third place is digital. Got 5 minutes? Need a break? That place you like to go is probably right on your screen.”  
Via [JOHO](https://www.hyperorg.com/blogger/mtarchive/susan%5Fmernit%5Flearns%5Ffrom%5Ffads.html?ref=lorcandempsey.net).