Definition[]
A social media algorithm is
| “ | [a] computer process[] that set rules for the data social media platforms receive. They help operators sort and prioritize content and can be used to tailor what a user sees at a particular time.[1] | ” |
Overview[]
Social media operators use algorithms to tailor some of what each user sees at a particular time on their sites. These algorithms are used to predict the relevance of content to specific users, based on past user behavior, and other factors. Algorithms help social media operators with the logistics of sorting the massive amount of content that users post and to prioritize content based on estimation of relevance for dissemination. Each social media operator determines relevance differently based on the user and usage data it collects and weighs. The data includes contacts and interaction with contacts, specific content read or watched, the amount of time spent reading and watching specific content, specific content liked and shared, and subscriptions to topical or thematic content categories and groups. As data collection grows, the social media providers constantly refine and adjust their algorithms. Social media operators are able to sell narrowly targeted advertising based on their ability to reach specific users.[2]
References[]
- ↑ Social Media: Misinformation and Content Moderation Issues for Congress, at 1 n.1.
- ↑ Id. at 25.