Twitter targets businesses with new guide

Twitter launched a new guide for businesses yesterday, in a clear sign that the micro-blogging site believes it can be a useful tool for organisations looking to better engage with customers.

Twitter 101 A Special Guide is the result of research carried out by the firm, and features "best practices, steps for getting started and case studies", according to a blog posting by Twitter founder Biz Stone.

"The results demonstrate how customers are getting value out of Twitter, and suggest techniques businesses can employ to enhance that value," he explained. "While this work was envisioned for businesses, it's also useful for anyone using Twitter, so have a look if you like."

The guide appears to be aimed at a very basic level, listing the meaning of terms such as 'DM' (direct message) and 'tweet' (an individual message), and providing a step-by-step guide to setting up an account.

Case studies include how big name companies such as Pepsi, American Apparel and Coffee Groundz get the most out of the micro-blogging phenomenon.