…and then there was more social media

First there was Facebook.

Then there was Twitter.

and LinkedIn.

Then Twitter became X.

And the younger generations were branching out into Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram.

As a result, the Maritime Safety Innovation Lab (MSIL) is making a change, as well.  You may have noticed that the X/Twitter feed is gone from our website and we are replacing that with a larger presence on YouTube and Instagram.  In the coming days, weeks and months, you will find an ever increasing amount of our content on these platforms.

But how does one jump into these platforms?  Well, it’s much like jumping off the side of a vessel when abandoning ship.  You assess the waters below, ensure you are not jumping into something that will injure you and, if you have the opportunity, watch those that have gone before you to identify what to do and what not to do.  And keep a firm grip on your life jacket, so that it doesn’t hurt your neck.

For the MSIL, that has meant research into the variety of posts and videos that might be used on a particular platform.  For instance, on Instagram, we have learned the difference between a post, reel and story and how each might be effective.  The ease with which this platform allows video editing on the fly makes it ideal for snippets of information that grab your attention.  Use of the “boomerang” effect/add-on, filters and/or music can enhance a short video easily.  In contrast, YouTube will likely be our choice for longer-form content, that might take longer to produce.

For those whose Instagram profiles and YouTube channels we have used as examples and seek to emulate, thank you!  Keep up the great work!

Til the next time, stay safe – both physically and psychologically – out there!