Ning is a bit different than a social network that you join.
Ning gives you the freedom to create your own social network in any topic or niche you desire and invite friends to join.
You are the creator and administrator of the network and you can manage members and content.
This is your chance to provide a social gathering place on the Internet for a topic that may not have a major social network of its own.
As the administrator you can encourage dialogue, upload videos and advertise your products right on the site.
Ning used to be free, but now is a paid service that allows you to have an unlimited amount of members for the business level package.
The business package allows you the freedom to advertise and promote your social network without any of the Ning ads showing up.
It is a comprehensive site that allows you or any of your members to: Post videos Add to the blog or numerous blogs Start a discussion in the forum Provide links to important resources Send email to you or other members Post images Start a group Promote events The strength of this particular style of network is providing a niche topic with a gathering place where one may not exist currently.
This is important because it provides members with your expertise in your subject.
You can create the needed access to information with your twist on the learning, and the members can pitch in their advice as well, making it a well rounded resource that can attract thousands of members.