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In this article, Jonah Berger explains "what makes things go viral," essentially what common themes tie things together when being virally shared. Berger expresses that there is a science behind why content go viral- for example, he says that virality can depend on the medium of how it's shared and it's level of sharability (ex. Facebook or Twitter). Also, Berger notes that another reason why content goes viral is because individuals want to appear more intelligent by sharing certain links that make them look better. Berger also explains that viral content has a related theme of "triggers," meaning it appeals to our stimuli in the form of sight and sound.

This article explains how although it is not always possible to predict if content will go viral, there are some similarities between content that has gone viral in the past. For example, Walter explains that viral content shares common features like addressing real-world problems, by evoking emotion (such as anger or humour), and usually has an element of surprise. Walter also adds that how material is distributed and by whom (ex. if celebrities are endorsing it) often plays a key role in whether it will reach a level of virality.

Is there a way of predicting if content will go viral? This article, published by Forbes magazine, written by Roger Wu, attributes the viral success of a certain types of media such as videos, images and sound clips into two categories: the "Roadblock Effect" or the "Stagger Effect." Wu explains that viral content can be divided into these two categories and can therefore be used to determine whether or not content will go viral.

Burstein's article looks into the concept of virality from a marketing standpoint and examines how to use social media in order to market a product or brand in a way that it will reach a large audience and reach a level of virality. Burstein says that although you do you know have full control of whether your message will reach viral status, there are ways in which to encourage virality. For example, Burstein explains getting involved with your audience and being engaged with social media outlets. As well, he advises marketers not to come off as "salesly" or pushy, and to instead recognize the needs of your audience.

This article analyzes the idea of how virality can be influenced by the emotions felt by the audience. For example, the article explains how people who feel emotions such as happiness as result of viewing certain content are more likely to share it with their friends and networks, therefore contributing to it going viral. The article also uses data collected from Fowler and Christakis' study in 2008 which monitored the emotions people experienced when sharing things on Twitter.

Having issues getting view counts on your video? Don't fret; instead this resource may help you. Laura Stampler discusses the power of viral video, provides great examples, and even reveals the secrets of making a viral ad. What 2 things are crucial to making a true viral ad? Read on to find out.

Steve P. Young (Director of SmartShoot) provides a simple framework for creating viral video. He provides 5 criteria to create a viral video. This resource is no boring read. It features claims as "be a purple cow", and "promote like a Kardashian". While fun and an interesting read, there is real truth to his points. .

This dynamic and info-packed Infographic highlights how to design for viral growth. The author, Morgan Brown discusses virality, how to make viral designs, and sums its all up in one neat infographic that is compelling, easily embedded into personal websites, and acts as a good reference sheet. A must to keep in mind when designing content for online promotion.

This video provides pointers on how to make your YouTube video viral and very successful.

This video refers to one of our readings, by Jonah Berger. He talks about why things go viral; the causes of it. The video is very informative , and gives us a different perspective of what Berger has to say, since he engages with an audience and demonstrates some pictures and puts emphasis on text on a PowerPoint slide, unlike his article. I enjoyed watching this clip and was able to understand it better than the article itself.

This article could be helpful for anyone hoping to work in communications or as an entrepreneur in the future.  It thoroughly explains how companies make money by using free social medias including Facebook and twitter (even providing visual examples).  Due to the increase of people online, and on social networking websites these tips can largely increase profitability and communication clarity of any public company.  They may also help with the media episodes project whilst trying to create and market social media to a specific audience.   

This article will help teach how to identify appropriate audiences for products and brands, etc.  There is also a short video which demonstrates how the author helps others build effective online platforms.  Without an effective platform to reach the desired audience it can be difficult to branch out and meet the desired goals.