The Research Information Network (RIN) has published a useful guide for researchers who want to find out more about how to use social media to better communicate and collaborate in your research:

Social Media: A guide for researchers

It is aimed at researchers who have either not used social media before, or who have not considered the potential of using it in their professional lives. The Guide includes an overview of basic tools which enable blogging, networking and sharing, and then explores how these can be of benefit to researchers. Case studies have been used to illustrate the document with real-life experiences from researchers. Common criticisms are also addressed, such as the association of some social media tools with trivial conversations or the perceived loss of privacy.

The Research Office, along with staff from the Library and CERD, run two monthly training sessions on related topics for University staff: Understanding Google Apps and Working on the Web. Both aim to show how free and easy-to-use web tools can be helpful in both collaboration and communication of research. If you are a member of University staff you can book a place by emailing training@lincoln.ac.uk.