User-generated content, also known as CGM (consumer generated media) or UCC (user-created content) is essentially content produced by the users for other users. Other than having flexibility with acronyms this way of sharing also has flexibility in its delivery. Its potential and current uses span the blogosphere, podcasting, and any new web 2.0 application. The newest application is from Orbitz TLC.

You might know Orbitz from its ridiculously huge pop-up ads on CNN selling discounted airline tickets. I’m guilty of simultaneously disliking their ads and giving them business. Previously one could buy a plane ticket through their site and opt for text messages with flight status information. Flying out of any of New York City’s airports always seem to result in several text messages.

Now the company introduces their UGAA (user generated airport advice). Patrons can choose to contribute both while logged into the site or anonymously — airport conditions. (This has the potential of being bugged like Wikipedia, but we’ll give it time.) Updates include wait times, weather info, traffic (via Google Maps), wifi, and a host of other pertinent travel details. It just launched Sept. 3 and already passengers in Chicago have been “generating” away. The service serves two purposes, really:

a.) To share with others and
b.) Fight boredom

Oops. Perhaps those not already on Facebook will be more inclined to use the service on their fancy Dell’s from those overpriced airport hotspots.

The question I have is how many more text messages will be sent?

Regardless I’m willing to give it a try, and like any other new technology it will either pass, fail, or progress but either way our lives are getting easier!