Think of today’s most popular sites – Facebook, Twitter, YouTube – they’re all run on user-generated content. It’s more than just a catch-phrase. It’s how web-based companies are attracting users. And making money.

Net firms aside, even established retailers and media brands are turning to user-generated content to rally old fans and garner new ones. Last month, national discount retailer Stein Mart announced it was seeking real-life shoppers for a fall campaign. Over 250 women entered their short videos via Stein Mart’s Facebook page, hoping to win a spot. Also last month, [...keep reading]