Nothing speaks to the power of social media more than this: a state board is now using Facebook and Twitter to communicate with licensees. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) joined two online social networks this week with the launch of its Facebook and Twitter pages:

• TDLR on Facebook
• TDLR on Twitter

The notice says, “TDLR’s social media initiative is an extension of its commitment to communicate with its customers in the way they prefer. Facebook and Twitter give the department new tools to deliver licensing information and consumer protection alerts to licensees and the general public. In turn, these social media sites will provide customers with additional outlets to contact TDLR for information or answers to licensing questions. 

TDLR’s Facebook and Twitter pages will facilitate conversations that benefit customers and TDLR alike. The department’s goal is to use online social media to:
• Inform users of important news and changes to TDLR programs, laws, rules, and policies
• Assist customers with TDLR-related questions
• Solicit ideas and feedback from customers
• Foster community
• Inform users of upcoming TDLR events such as commission meetings, advisory board meetings, legislative presentations, strategic planning sessions, and public speaking engagements
• Alert the general public to consumer protection issues

Not a Facebook or Twitter user? TDLR will continue to deliver notifications of new and changing information via e-mail, as well as posting notices and up-to-date information on the department’s website, http://www.license.state.tx.us/.”

Let’s hope more state boards follow suit.

—Sree