There are two types of sharing, the first is implicit sharing. Implicit sharing happens when an item is shared as a byproduct of participation. On Del.icio.us, for example, your bookmarks are shared by default, so that others can see them even if your original intention was to simply save it for later. The other type is explicit sharing, which is how we usually share: on purpose.

Give them something to share!

If the goal is getting people to share stuff, then there are a few things you must consider. Allow people to share by providing them with a permanent URL, making it embeddable, making it a PDF, and making it printer-friendly. Your next step is to give them something they want to share. It really depends on the person, but in general people like to share:

• Ideas that reinforce what we already believe
• Ideas that surprise us
• Ideas that help explain something we already know
• Things we know another person will find valuable
• Useful tools – anything that makes a tough task easier
• Fun things like pictures & videos
• Things that make us look good.

Last but certainly not least!

I hope that you’ve enjoyed this series, keep in mind that this applies to much more than a social web app. You can’t have successful passionate use without the other four steps. Don’t focus on “viral” focus on passionate! Besides, where do you think viral comes from?