With so many social networks being ripe for the joining, it may give us pause when we trip over sites with restricted access.

For those companies weighing what type of network to use, Laura Woods lays out some of the pros and cons of an open social network on the Social Media Strategies Summit Blog:

Pros

  • Opening up your network to the world is better for search engine optimization.
  • If the content is free, your company can get a lot more exposure.
  • Having an open network means satisfied customers will be more likely to serve as brand advocates.

Cons

  • Many people aren’t comfortable posting comments in a forum with public access, so a closed network might encourage more genuine feedback and engagement.
  • If the company deals with sensitive topics, such as health-care issues, keeping a tight lid on the network may be best, she says.
  • Spammers, “trolls” and haters are far less of a problem on closed networks, and if there are issues, access can be revoked.