Terrific question! I think the biggest reason (and most compelling) to have a conversation on Twitter vs a hosted web chat or a forum is that the platform creates a more living environment that invites new participation, discovery, and sharing. One of the most popular things to do via Twitter is share links, and thus during a Twitter-based chat you see many resources being shared and suggested. The hashtags and the public-ness of Twitter also create much more of an open environment for people to pop in and out, join or contribute to the conversation than a webchat or forum that may require a log in or a membership.

Hope that provides a bit of context. Of course, that isn’t to say Twitter chats are always the best option; there are terrific examples of webchats or forums where those platforms are more appropriate and successful (the Change the Web chat series for example, or the myriad topics covered in TechSoup.org’s forums).

Thanks for joining the conversation here!

I think the point about encouraging the moderators or leaders of the chat to use another back channel for conversation like skype simultaneously is a perfect example of something that really helps a chat to be successful but isn’t visible by participants. Especially in the July #4Change chat when twitter search was lagging and it seemed like the chat wouldn’t even work, it was invaluable having the back channel of skype open to coordinate with other chat leaders – we could confirm whether messages were going through, and eventually when we would call the chat closed early.

It’s also really important to share results, thoughts, and highlights after the chat, back on the website or blog or other “landing pad” area – this keeps the conversation going and builds momentum.

Thanks again for adding your thoughts!

It’s always interesting to point out that sometimes giving people open rein actually isn’t a way to stimulate more creative responses … it often ends up overwhelming or confusing people, who then decide not to jump in. Your idea of creating a landing pad and creating specific questions is very valuable.

I’d be curious to hear your thoughts on why a Twitter chat can be more valuable than a forum or live web chat… 🙂

8. Pre-Twitter conversation planning

– Identify influencers and invite through multi channels; perhaps email is more personal/ one-on-one.
– Vary each chat with people – early adopters, newbies, specialized knowledge brokers: adds value to the chat.

9. During Conversation –

moderates talking through backchannels (Skype, GChat) – to anticipate/coordinate should any problems arise. (ie 4change conversation with Tash)

Identify two or three key learning outcomes/action points.

Parapharsing and reflecting conversation – ensure ppl understand tweets. (through RTs and questions)

10. Post Conversation

– Summary and learning outcomes – distribute according; make sure all moderates use their SM channels
– If you are hardcore: get a list of all those who participated and thank them individually, ask them if they having any thoughts/questions they want to contribute. Allows people who are not 100% comfortable speaking out in public to have their say.

All this stuff is easy to say though – harder to do. Persistence I suppose.

Umhhhh NetSquared or #4change ebook to having Twitter Conversations effectively.