The document discusses how digital media and social networking have evolved over the past 30 years. It notes that the average time spent online has increased fourfold in recent years, with over 110% mobile phone penetration and 38% expected mobile internet usage by 2012. Social networking has become culturally assimilated, especially among younger users, who spend more time on entertainment, search and user-generated content sites. Brands now recognize that consumers expect involvement, engagement and collaboration. The document cites examples like Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign that successfully utilized digital strategies to engage supporters and raise funds.