What is User Generated Content (UGC) and why is it so valuable

What you'll learn

Definition of User Generated Content

Value of UGC in Social Sharing

Reasons for UGC Virality

Social Networks and UGC Prioritization

User Generate Content (UGC) is content within your mobile app that a user creates via your app.  User generated content, in a social sharing context, is considered very high worth and valuable content.

The reason it is considered higher value is because the content is considered more relevant.  When a user shares content that was created within your game, it has a much higher visibility and click through rate.  This is especially true when compared to sharing static game content unrelated to that user.

An example of user generated content would be the ability to take a snapshot of a user’s game board and sharing the picture on their social profiles news feed.  This content being shared will have a much higher click through ratio than simply sharing a feed detailing how the user just leveled up within a game.

Why is User generated content more viral

User generated content is more viral for several reasons.  The most important of which is that it is unique content.  It is something that the particular user took effort to create, build and share.  When friends are viewing this content, they view it as much more important than a common feed or post.

Another reason why user generated content is more viral is because social networks treat them as more important.  The social networks recognize that the user is taking steps to actively add this content to their feed or profile.  The social networks value this content much higher than when a game passively posts an activity feed behind the scenes.

User generated content also creates a side conversation.  Let’s look at the recent launch of poly bridge.  This apps allows you to share and post your bridges creation and test run.  In many cases your bridge may be creating a comical routine that others may enjoy seeing.  This side sharing creates a marketing route for your app and content, whether inside or outside of a social network.