There's no question anymore about the power of social media and online video. Revolutions have been born, causes have been promoted, products have been sold, stars have been created and dreams have been fulfilled as a direct result of social technology.
Just how to create an effective online video, however, is a an art that's largely elusive to many businesses and organizations.
The County of San Diego Department of Animal Services, however, is discovering that it's worth the time and effort to create fun, entertaining online videos - distinctly different from the typically schmaltzy tug-at-your-heartstrings videos that have so far dominated similar efforts by animal organizations.
Tiffany Shields, Supervising Animal Care Attendant with the County, teamed up with a video savvy volunteer, Greg Baldwin (who happens to be my nephew), and together they've created over twenty videos promoting not only adoptable animals, but the people and ethics of their department - and always with a broad sense of humor that makes the videos fun to watch - even if you're not intending to adopt an animal.
In this interview, I talk with Tiffany and Greg about the evolution of these videos, their impact on the community and on the department itself.