Chess.com has re-branded itself as a social network. In today’s climate, this is a wise move. I have taken a look at the site. Chess.com is a perfect example of what it means to be a “social network.” What I mean is that a social network is a buzzword that is really hot right now. If you look at what chess.com has done with a more critical eye you see that really they are basically a 1999 chess portal. The difference is that, instead of highlighting really interesting content, they are highlighting people. The other content features are still there, but they take a background to people and people interaction. The big key item that I think will make them successful is that they kept a message board. I think that social networks often toss the message board as old software. The message board is a lot like a book or pencil and notepad. Technology can emulate it, but never really gets it quite right. The message board is a good way to communicate for the average person online.

Go there for yourself (chess.com) and comment on what you think makes it a social network instead of a portal.

(link)