In the vast expanse of the internet, a virtual cityscape thrives, where people from all corners of the world converge to connect, share, and engage. Online and customer communities have become the beating heart of this digital realm, serving as platforms where like-minded individuals and diverse voices find a common space to unite.
As we set our sights on 2024 and beyond, it’s essential to anticipate the trends that will mold the future of online communities. So, what’s trending in online communities as we venture into the future?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the transformative five trends within the communities realm, fueled by the influence of Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs). Let’s get started!
Community Trends You Don’t Want to Miss
Here are 5 ways generative AI will revolutionize online communities:
1. Virtual Assistants: LLM-Powered Bots Leading the Way
LLMs are taking the first steps in providing support to online communities. These AI-powered bots can swiftly respond to routine queries, making them the first line of assistance for community members. However, there’s a catch: LLMs sometimes lean towards the “one size fits all” approach.
To tackle this, frameworks like LangChain are gaining traction, for their ability to fine-tune LLM training datasets to fit specific requirements, enabling models to tackle domain-specific concerns with expertise.
Fun Fact: Did you know that LLMs are so versatile that they can translate languages, and even create poetry and new recipes from scratch?
2. Mastering Moderation: LLMs as Your Online Community’s Digital Sheriff
According to research paper, “LLMs can excel in identifying actor intentions, moderating toxic comments, and rewarding positive contribution.”
LLMs are proving adept at identifying user intentions, moderating toxic comments, and rewarding positive contributions. While there have been instances of playful interactions with LLMs, these can occasionally disrupt community guidelines. For instance, they may struggle to detect sarcasm, leading to unexpected responses.
The future promises LLMs that can expertly moderate communities, promptly flagging offensive language, spam posts, etc., while ensuring a safe community environment. Expect to see the introduction of a “profanity layer” to keep LLM responses in check.
Fun Fact: LLMs may not grasp sarcasm, so be careful when you’re joking with them!
3. Multimodal Magic: GPT-4V and the Future of Community Interaction
While LLMs are celebrated for their text-based interactions, the future of online communities will witness the rise of multimodal LLMs, such as GPT-4V.
These models redefine how we interact with AI, seamlessly integrating text with captivating content formats like images, videos, and interactive walkthroughs. Get ready for a novel community experience where information is delivered in an engaging and visually appealing manner.
Fun Fact: Multimodal LLMs like GPT-4V can not only generate text but also assist with image captions and creative content!
4. Gamification: Where Engagement Meets Entertainment
Online communities are not just about connecting; they are also platforms for engagement. Soon, gamification elements are expected to become a standard feature in community platforms.
For this, ML algorithms can analyze user behavior and preferences to design gamification elements that resonate with individual community members. This level of personalization ensures that users are more likely to engage with gamified features, as they align with their unique interests.
Fun Fact: Gamification has been shown to increase user engagement by up to 47%!
5. Immersive Experiences: Virtual Reality Redefining Online Communities
Virtual Reality (VR) isn’t limited to gaming; it can also transform online communities. Organizations are beginning to explore the immersive potential of VR, which can create lifelike, 3D environments within virtual communities.
This technology opens up new horizons, allowing community members to interact in ways that transcend traditional text-based or multimedia interactions.
The integration of VR promises extraordinary communication, connection, and exploration experiences, taking online communities to new, immersive heights.
Fun Fact: The first VR headset was patented in the 1960s and was named the ‘Telesphere Mask.’
…and these are the community trends we expect to see in 2024 and beyond. But wait, we have some more information to share with you.
Boosting Community Revenue and Engagement with the Right Strategies
Venturing into the realm of online communities is an exhilarating journey, and while it may not be a straightforward path, there are trailblazers who have masterfully navigated it using ingenious strategies.
Tune into our on-demand webinar where industry experts offer valuable insights into the winning tactics that have propelled their communities to excellence. In this interactive session, you’ll discover the tactics that can elevate your community engagement, boost revenue, and take your online presence to new heights. Watch now!