Here at 815 Media, we like to pride ourselves on staying pretty up-to-date on the latest technology. Gadgets, social networks, web trends, etc…  We’re interested in that stuff, and what it can do for our clients.  So when we see an emerging trend out there, we pay careful attention.

Pinterest is one of those emerging trends that has caught our eye recently, and for good reason. According to USA Today and Hitwise, Pinterest is now one of the web’s Top Ten social networking sites.

So what is this phenomena?  Well, think of Pinterest as a sort of online cork board.  Just like some other social networks, you can “Like”, “Repin”, comment, and share content from Pinterest to the masses.  If you are familiar with the basics of Facebook and Twitter, you will quickly pick up on Pinterest.

So, if it’s so similar to Twitter, Facebook, etc…, what makes it different, and why should you join it?  That’s probably largely a matter of personal opinion, and since Pinterest seems to still be an emerging trend, we probably don’t quite know exactly what it is yet.

I think of Pinterest as the new-age way to flip through a magazine.  For example, when I am flying, I am fascinated by the “Sky Mall” magazine.  Not because I necessarily need anything, but because it’s a potpourri of various items.  For somebody like myself, who is quite visual in nature, Pinterest is a great experience.  In just the several weeks that I have been a Pinterest member, I have gotten great ideas for my house, our office at 815 Media, my kids, and I’ve even bought a watch that somebody Pinned.  It’s a marketplace of visual ideas.  A marketplace that you can filter and browse with relative ease.

That’s a real short-winded, basic explanation of what Pinterest is.  It’s fun.  It’s helpful.  It’s free.  And, contrary to popular belief, it’s not just for women!  And, I’m betting that retailers, mom and pop shops, and other people looking to sell products, will start catching on to the Pinterest craze.  Time will tell, but Pinterest seems to be here for the long haul.  Leave us a comment, if you’re interested in an invite!