User Generated Content (UGC)

User Generated Content is a key characteristic of Web 2.0. It is the process of using two-way media to enable the public to upload their own content and have others review this content. It is used extensively across many major eCommerce services.

There are two elements involved in accepting User Generated Content onto a website. The first of these is the ability to allow the direct upload of content information, or even the digital content itself, into the site database. The MPP platform allows just such automatic ingestion of content. This means that User Generated Content can be uploaded and sold directly to consumers, or fed directly to other users if this content is free of charge. Of course, we include the ability for our clients to accept or reject each new content item if required.

The second element is more passive, in that it simply allows users of the site to upload extraneous content information. For example, MPP can allow signed-up members of it’s services to rate products and leave product reviews. This method is almost becoming a required element on many major eCommerce sites today. Enabling customers to write honest and unedited product reviews is of great benefit to other users of the websites. Consumers are obviously much happier making CNP (Cardholder Not Present) purchases if they have been vetted or even praised by other people in their position. All this leads to greater revenue for the site.

An example of such as service can be seen on the Sonik Pollen website (www.sonikpollen.com). This solution was created by MPP to allow music creators the opportunity to commercialise their content online, without the need to set up their own store. It enables artists and record labels to upload, distribute and sell their music direct to consumer.

User Generated Content

UGC is the term used to describe any form of content such as video, blogs, discussion form posts, digital images, audio files, and other forms of media that was created by consumers or end-users of an online system or service and is publically available to others consumers and end-users. User-generated content is also called Consumer Generated Media (CGM).

(Source: Webopedia - UGC)