For organizations and individuals wanting to create a presence on Facebook for their cause or company, the decision between Facebook Pages and Facebook Groups can be confusing.
The Different Comes Down to 'Like'
So, just what is the different between Pages and Groups? It might just come down to a single "like" button.
Now seen across everything from news websites to church home pages, the Facebook like button seems to be a symbol of status for many, beckoning users to not only press the novel little button, but to participate with your favorite group or company on Facebook, too.
While Facebook Groups and Pages seem similar, Facebook Pages are the only ones which allow users access to a "Like" button, which can help spread word about your new page faster than it would a group.
Similarities
- Both can feature more than one administrator
- Both feature a wall and tabs, as designated
- Both allow users to personalize information
Differences
- Facebook Groups allow for the designation of officers
- On Groups, followers are "Members"; on Pages, they are "fans"
- Facebook Pages allow users to see wall posts from just admins, admins and fans, or just fans, at their discretion. Groups does not allow for such settings.
And now a final word about set up between Groups and Pages: Pages are faster. While they contain often the same information, Groups requires a larger number of pieces upfront whereas Pages require minimal information to start the page. So, if you want to get your group or business on Facebook fast, Pages are probably the way to go.
--Brandon De Hoyos, Guide to IM