Here are some great comments by leading digital experts on the future of social media:

”The future of social media is the core of a massive shift online from a search- and intent-based world to a social, people-based world. The last three years were about the consumer side of social platforms, as we watched Facebook, Zynga and Twitter grow exponentially. The next three years will be about the enterprise side of social, and how companies engage and grow their businesses by tapping into these massive platforms. It’s an era where customers, vendors and partners are no longer anonymous segments that you ‘source,’ ‘manage’ and ‘market to.’ They are people. People you connect with. Talk to. Advocate for. Listen to. And if you’re lucky, they sell for you, solve problems for you, defend you, listen to you and build your business for you, one conversation at a time, while you sleep.” — Mike Lazerow, Founder, Chairman and CEO at Buddy Media

“As people’s networks and interactions expand, massive data sets will generate predictive models that will know what you want before you look for it.”  — Chad Hurley, Co-founder YouTube

“The future of social media is the loss of the distinction between media and social interaction online.  Mass media and social media will be seamlessly integrated across devices and platforms to offer relevant, dynamic, personalized experiences for people anywhere.” – Dae Mellencamp, CEO Vimeo.

”The future of social media is the future of global communication. As the most prolific communication medium of all time, social media is as naturally disruptive as it is a bridge for international organizations. Expect the future of social media to disrupt traditional media methods, and help both commerce and culture flourish. This all from the tips of your fingers, or a tool that fits in the palm of your hand.” – Ryan Holmes, CEO Hootsuite

What does this mean for fundraisers?  Right now, social media is more about engagement than fundraising.  But just like mail, phone and email, real revenue comes as a result of list building. I think social media fundraising will eventually come once organizations build their lists or communities. How are you building your list and creating advocates for your cause?