And, as the year 2023 is ending, I just have time to jot down a few lines about what awaits us on the other side of New Year’s in terms of online communities. There are a few trends and developments worth keeping an eye on if you, like me, are interested in the subject and function as a community leader.

I have chosen to focus on four things that I found interesting.

AI Integration: A Revolution in Real-Time Interaction

Artificial Intelligence will make inroads into every aspect of B2B online communities. Imagine robust AI systems that moderate discussions, instantly respond to user inquiries, and deliver personalized content to each user. The machine-learning algorithms will be vital in predicting and analyzing user behavior more effectively, making them an intrinsic part of user experiences.

Although AI is on everyone’s lips and is here to stay, I still believe that one of the main purposes of online communities is to bind people closer together. AI must remain a tool to help find information faster, but it cannot and should not replace the human connection.

We will see more and more of the digital assistant in the SAP Build Work Zone

Another example is Udemy for Business,an online learning platform that uses AI to provide personalized learning paths, feedback, and certificates for B2B employees and teams.

Going Mobile: Keeping Up with the On-The-Go User

In 2024, we will see the continued rise of the mobile-first approach. Optimizing for mobile devices means creating an experience that’s user-friendly and accessible on the go. The priority will be given to responsive web design, quick-to-load content, and seamless browsing experiences that keep mobile users engaged and active.

In this connection, I think that less is more – understood in the sense that it is important to simplify content and UX, especially when it comes down to small devices.

Example: SAP Build Work Zone on the mobile, optimized for on-the-go users.

Livestreams and Video Content: Taking User Engagement to New Heights

The power of visual content will be harnessed like never before. Expect more high-quality livestreams and engaging video content offering instant, real-time connection with users. Get ready for more webinars, live Q&As, and immersive product demos, driving a compelling community experience.

One of my favourites, something I would like to look into, the use of (shorter) videos.

Learning and Upskilling Communities: Accelerating Growth Together

The future of business is ever-changing, so the emphasis on constant learning and upskilling will dominate B2B online communities. Companies will leverage these platforms to share insights, run training programs, and facilitate shared learning, promoting a culture of constant growth and development.

There is also an element of the curator role here which is important. With all the information that is available, it is important that we, as community leaders, select and deselect information. This way, it can be served on a silver platter to our community members.

While these trends are set to headline, let’s also quickly touch upon some other fast-progressing technologies and trends.

Voice Technology:

As hands-free browsing and voice-based searches rise in popularity, integrating voice technology into these platforms will become the norm, rather than the exception.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR):

These technologies will spice up B2B communities by offering immersive, interactive experiences that were once the stuff of science fiction.

If you have time, stop by Microsoft Mesh, a collaboration tool that uses mixed reality to let users work together in a shared virtual space, with holographic avatars and 3D content.

Cybersecurity:

Protecting valuable data and preventing security breaches will remain a top priority.

In conclusion, 2024 looks bright and promising for B2B online communities, dominated by exciting innovations and a strong focus on creating engaging, user-centric experiences.

These trends are set to transform the way B2B online communities operate, offering new opportunities for growth and development.

Happy New Year to all of you,

If you have any comments or other input on this I would love to hear from you.

If you want to read my previous posts about Communities, you can find them here