"The Social Pulpit" is a very interesting analysis of how the Barack Obama campaign used social media. The folks at Edelman compiled this report, and there are many lessons that businesses can also apply, so check it out.

For coverage of the Obama inauguration, check out Obama.alltop. Forty five websites and blogs including the Washington Post, New York Times, and Twitter--all at quick glance and updated continuously.

In "Order vs. Disorder: Surroundings Matter" Roger Dooley explains how disorder can affect the behavior of people. He cites a study where 13% of the people snatched an envelope with clearly visible a five-Euro note in it from a mailbox. When the mailbox was covered with graffiti, 27% snatched the envelope. Does this mean that a well-organized store would experience less shoplifting? Or that people will buy more stuff from a neat store? The value of neatness is something to think about.

In a posting called "How to Become a More Effective Learner," Kendra Van Wagner explains ten simple things you can do to increase the effectiveness of your learning. It includes ideas like teaching other people what you've learned, gaining practical experience, and stopping trying to multitask. Important lessons for anyone who wants to change the world.

In "Brands that Tweet" Paul Dunay provides a very interesting list of the big companies that are using Twitter. Worth the read if you're in a consumer-facing business considering the use of Twitter. There's no doubt in my mind that your organization should use Twitter.