Changes at Ning can only be a good thing for GovLoop. As they mentioned in their press release, they are focusing more on delivering premium services to premier, paying networks like GovLoop.

There are lots of additional and different requirements that are needed when you run a robust 30,000 person social network like GovLoop that is different than running a 50-person free, family reunion site. For example, one key problem we have been trying to solve is with over 5,000 blogs, 700 groups, and 30,000 people, how can GovLoop members find the right content, groups, and colleagues relevant to them. These are the types of problems that Ning can focus on.

On a side note, I think it is an interesting development that government should pay attention to in Gov 2.0. I’m a big believer in low-cost to free (and open-source), tools but there is some truth to the statement “nothing in life is free.” The start-ups we all love and appreciate all need business models to survive and provide services so we shouldn’t be against paying for products that provide valuable service – it may be good for all of us in the long run.

We’ll surely see more emerge in the coming months. Recommendations for those that do:

• Explain simply and clearly what the site is about on the home page, who’s running and for what.
• Keep it open.

Marco Rubio

Stand with Marco Rubio is the personal social network for Marco Rubio’s 2010 campaign for U.S. Senate. As a supporter, you can create your own Ning profile and join our social network. By doing this, you will be an interactive member of our network. This will provide you with the ability to add pictures from events, make comments, ask questions about the campaign, as well as donate to our efforts; all on Ning. You will also be able to discuss issues on forums as well as be able to post videos of Marco’s appearances in your area. Ning also allows people to friend and message each other. You will be able to see other people who also support Marco. Please join us as we continue on our road to victory!

Thomas Castillo

MyThomasCastillo.com: Thomas Castillo for Illinois Lieutenant Governor.

Bob McDonnell

McDonnell Action: Bob McDonnell for Virginia Governor campaign.

Tom Campbell

Campbell Connect: Tom Campbell for California Governor campaign.

Tim Ryan

Congressman Tim Ryan’s Ning Network

Joe Mallahan

Joe Mallahan for Mayor: I’m running for mayor of Seattle because I believe that current City Leadership fails to project a bold civic vision, and instead executes small plans and stumbles when delivering the most basic municipal services. Join with me and my campaign as we get moving and together, build a better Seattle.