I don't even think you have to go to "extreme" cases of people who are disabled in some way, and use FB to communicate.
The truth is, Facebook obviously provides some value, since people use it. But because of the sheer number of users using it, the value it provides is multiplied by a lot. The overall value to the world is huge, simply because so many people derive value from it.
I do agree that we hear more about FB because it's highly visible. My friend once told me that a startup that could make the world a whole lot better, is to create something that improves traffic conditions by 10%. Especially in countries with heavy traffic, this would literally save millions of hours for people. But it's not a "sexy" field, so it's doubtful anyone would ever hear about it.
P.S. Sorry to hear about your mother, hope she's doing well.
On the other hand, FaceBook has built a platform where those sorts of endeavors could start from.
For instance they could put traffic info on everybody's page (with option to disable, of course), that would indicate the probability of encountering congestion on their usual travel routes in the next few hours. People could then use this info to plan their journeys better and thus relieve the strain on the roads. Since 'everyone' has Facebook and checks it multiple times per day, the service would have massive reach from the onset.
It's also big enough to sign deals like integrating FB into the cars themselves. Imagine buying a car that would read out your FB voicemail or wall posts as you drive along, voice controlled. If it wasn't something big like FB, the technology could be there but people wouldn't care.
"I don't even think you have to go to "extreme" cases of people who are disabled in some way, and use FB to communicate."
My family's found that to be true. I grew up in San Diego but all the rest of my extended family lives abroad and FB's been a huge boon. It's way richer than email and more convenient than phone or IM.
The truth is, Facebook obviously provides some value, since people use it. But because of the sheer number of users using it, the value it provides is multiplied by a lot. The overall value to the world is huge, simply because so many people derive value from it.
I do agree that we hear more about FB because it's highly visible. My friend once told me that a startup that could make the world a whole lot better, is to create something that improves traffic conditions by 10%. Especially in countries with heavy traffic, this would literally save millions of hours for people. But it's not a "sexy" field, so it's doubtful anyone would ever hear about it.
P.S. Sorry to hear about your mother, hope she's doing well.