The master shows us. Way back in 2006, Ze Frank practically invented user engagement and community with his web series the show. In this episode, he asked his fans to help create an earth sandwich by placing slices of bread at opposite coordinates on the earth's surface. He even provided a tool for finding your exact coordinates.
Why does this work so well? Why did so many people respond to Ze's call for action?
First, because Ze had an engaged community. He'd been at it a while, collecting an audience with lots of regularly released content. And he was responsive to his audience, he'd share his stage and web space with them, posting their, commenting on and including their contributions. By participating in one of Ze's challenges, you could feel even more like a member of the community.
Second, the request was funny, simple and incredibly imaginative. On the simple front, it compares nicely with successful memes like the Lying Down game. All you have to do to get into the fun is snap a picture of a piece of bread.
Finally, there's room for creativity. if you're clever enough, the slice of bread photo you upload might be the best one!
If you ask... Here are just a few of the many photos Ze received:
