While we might imagine that belonging to online social networking sites is really just a pastime or extra curricular activity, in fact being able to contribute to online social networks is one of the most significant ways in which people can feel that they are part of their community.

And it’s about more than citizenship and contribution. Belonging to a social network has real benefits, including better health, education and employment outcomes. A recent study suggests that the health benefits of social networks outweigh those of quitting smoking! When we are supported by our friends and families we are more likely to take our medications, exercise, and do all the things that lead to better health outcomes. We also know that people with good social networks tend to make better decisions and are more likely to pursue education and employment opportunities.

This is why the team at PLAN Institute created Tyze. We wanted to take everything that we know about real world personal networks, and use that knowledge and experience to create an online solution that could help to create connections for people who are vulnerable to isolation.

For 20 years PLAN Institute has been creating personal networks for people with disabilities. We’ve seen the power and potential of personal networks to create good lives, and now we’re using the web to extend our learning to as many people as possible.