this book is a masterclass in managing and designing communities.¿. - @GregIsenberg, Community ExpertUncover the fascinating history of virtual communities and how we connect to each other online. The Rise of Virtual Communities, explores the earliest online community platforms, mapping the technological evolutions, and the individuals, that have shaped the culture of the internet. Read in-depth interviews with the visionary founders of iconic online platforms, and uncover the history of virtual communities and how the industry has developed over time. Featuring never-before told stories, this exploration introduces new ideas and predictions for the future, explaining how we got here and challenging what we think we may know about building online communities. You will: Learn what a virtual community is and how it has become an integral part of modern society Review key insights into building virtual communities and platforms from the founders and pioneers who created them See what the current developments and the potential challenges are related to the future of virtual communities