Case Study - Snapchat

Actually, I am not sure if Snapchat is counted as a live platform. The norm of the internet age is to create platforms in which everything is saved — everything is stored and documented digitally. Snapchat went the opposite direction and is predicated on our reality: moments are temporary and that’s exactly the feeling and behavior that Snapchat mapped to.

How is Snapchat been used?

First, let's talk about the three basic functionalities of Snapchat. They are snap, story and chat. A Snap is the main functionality of the app and is what the disappearing photos and videos are called. You can send it directly to friends, which will soon disappear after they open it. A Story is a collection of Snaps put together. Unlike snap, it can viewed by whoever follows you. Stories last up to 24 hours before disappearing. 

What is interesting about it?

I find it interesting because it largely lowers the social burden. Unlike Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp and so on, there is no history. As soon as your friends read the instant message, it disappears and will no longer be exposed to someone or somewhere.

Also, for stories, because all the text, videos and photos will disappear in 24 hours, it provides a incentive for you to view them as soon as possible. As a result, it is amore timely and engaging experience. The friend who view it and the person who post it are more likely to interact with each other instantly.

Generally speaking, I think live platform which is closely associated with time requires more attention. People don't want to miss potentially interesting things.