Facebook Trials Subscription Groups

Category: Business

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. subscription / səbˈskrɪpʃən / (n) – an arrangement that allows a person to regularly get a service or product
    Example:

    I pay $15 for my monthly newspaper subscription.


  2. online community / ˈɑːnˌlaɪn kəˈmju·nɪ·t̬I / (n) – a group that allows members to discuss a topic of interest on the Internet
    Example:

    I would like to join an online community about fashion.


  3. exclusive / ɪkˈskluːsɪv / (adj) – available or accessible only to a certain person or group of people
    Example:

    Only those from rich families can attend exclusive private schools.


  4. put in / ˈpʊt ˈɪn / (phrasal) – to spend or exert something (e.g. time, effort) to do a task
    Example:

    I have been putting in more hours lately just to meet my deadlines.


  5. tutorial / tuˈtorijəl / (n) – a reference that helps a person learn how to do something
    Example:

    I learned how to edit photos by watching online video tutorials.


Article

Read the text below.

Facebook has launched a feature that allows charging of group membership fees.


The popular social networking site announced in June that it is testing an update called Subscription Groups, which lets online community administrators (admins) to charge a monthly membership fee of $4.99 to $29.99.


The new feature works by giving admins access to the subscription options and letting them invite members. The members will then see a summary of the group’s exclusive content, as well as the monthly membership fee.


According to Facebook, the initiative is a way to give back to community admins who are putting in a lot of time and effort in expanding their groups. The company added that Subscription Groups can give admins a source of income to help them produce better content for their communities.


Sarah Mueller, owner of the group Organize My Home, is one of the community admins seeking support for their work. Her group charges a $14.99 monthly membership fee. According to her, Facebook’s new feature will provide her community with access to tutorials, projects, and tips on home organization.


Aside from financially supporting community leaders, Facebook also launched other initiatives that help support content creators. Last year, Facebook introduced the Facebook Creator App and the Facebook for Creators website. Facebook Creator App helps creators create original videos and exclusive features to better connect with their community. On the other hand, Facebook for Creators provides creators with resources that can help them improve their content and grow their community.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• If you were a Facebook user, would you support Subscription Groups? Why or why not?
• In what other ways can community admins increase funding for their groups?

Discussion B

• If you were to create an online community, what would it be about? Discuss.
• What strategies would you employ to attract members? Discuss.