Without Web 2.0 and crowdsourcing, the DuQu virus would have remained a mystery for far longer than it did. Researchers only had to reach out online to get a flood of help from programmers all over the world offering insight on the puzzling language contained within the virus code. This same collaborative effort and outreach can help any business connect with their audience, collect data, and use data to better serve the audience. Businesses should always strive to understand their audience, and gain insight into audience needs and desires to help tailor a better experience for the customer. Wouldn't it be wonderful if all businesses extended that hospitality? Think about the businesses you frequent and the treatment you receive. Think about where you put your dollars and cents. How have those experiences been for you?

Getting to know you...

Crowdsourcing is a valuable tool for businesses going social. As a business, social gives you the power to reach out and interact directly with the people you offer products or services to. Why not ask your customers what they want? The possibilities for collecting audience information and gaining insight to your audience are endless. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Ask your audience questions to get to know them better! Poll them, survey them, find out what they like, what they do, and what makes them happy! All of that information is data you can use to help tailor the customer experience.
• Set up a contest. Ask customers and fans to share photos, videos and stories for a chance to win a prize. You learn more about your audience, and your audience has fun sharing their world with you. A fun by-product of these activities is virality. 
• Invite fans to share ideas they have about your product or services. Idea platforms give customers a chance to tell you what they need to have a better experience. Check out Starbucks' cool idea-share platform HERE. Let your customers tell you what they need, and use that knowledge to deliver those needs.

Facebook's tabs offer invaluable resources for businesses to hold contests, polls, sweepstakes and other interactive forums for audiences to participate in. The best way to improve business and increase sales? Ask your target audience what they want, need, and desire. Gain insight into the audience you serve, and serve them better. Nothing beats a custom-tailored experience. What are some of your favorite social businesses or brands? We'd love to hear some feedback!