Why is Kevin Rose Joining Google?
The acquisition of Kevin Rose by Google has sparked a lot of buzz in the tech community. The rationale behind this move is both strategic and timing-related. Google pays top dollar for social influencers, and Kevin Rose is a prime example of how having a fan base can translate into high value. The company understands the importance of leveraging such influence to drive user engagement and conversion.
Theoretical Impact of Kevin Rose's Joining
Google's strategy with Kevin Rose is not just about his personal brand, but also about his network. The theory is that Kevin Rose's extensive fan base will be a powerful force in driving engagement. These fans will sign up as active users of Google products to stay updated with Kevin's frequent content. This fan base, when activated, can serve as a network effect_multiplier, attracting even more users who belong to Kevin's followers.
Why Now?
Kevin Rose joined Google at a pivotal moment. The timing was critical because Google is currently focusing heavily on its advertising and social media initiatives. Kevin Rose, with his ability to add style to substance, can complement Google's often plain and utilitarian UI. His influence can sway his fan base to become active users, providing Google with a fresh wave of engaged customers.
Integration with Google's Developers
Another key aspect of Rose's addition to Google is his developer fan base. Google is keen on having his developer followers on board, especially as the API development progresses. This move ensures that Google can leverage this community to create innovative and user-friendly applications. For instance, instead of having his followers sign up for an app like Oink—which was eventually abandoned—Rose can offer his developer base a more robust alternative: Google.
Strategic Fit for Google
The acquisition of Kevin Rose aligns with Google's broader strategy to enter the social media space. Despite several unsuccessful attempts to break into this domain, Google has seen significant success with its Android operating system. With Rose on board, Google now has access to a battle-tested team that can develop mobile applications with social integration.
Mobile and Social Equation
The mobile and social equation can be distilled to "mobile social success." However, simply tying together existing social platforms isn't enough. Google needs a standout company to push the envelope further, and 37Signals is a prime candidate for acquisition. This small yet innovative company can bring creativity and expertise to Google, providing a significant boost to their social strategy.
Future of Oink and Milk
While Kevin Rose brings his fan base to Google, the status of Oink and Milk remains uncertain. These projects may continue as codebases for future developments or be rebranded for a fresh start. The flexibility to use these resources in new ways is part of the strategic advantage Kevin Rose brings to the table.
The integration of Kevin Rose into Google's fold represents a strategic move towards building a more social and engaging platform. As he navigates this new environment, Rose will find a combination of support, resources, and a paycheck that can help him further his endeavors and contribute to Google's success.