By and large, we can agree that Facebook uses a common platform and interface. However what interested me most was its ability to adapt or cater its content to its users.

For instance, I remember updating my status with regards to my lasik surgery. It went: ‘Zrr zrr (the sound the laser makes) successful!’, followed by comments which enquired what was all that about. I replied that I had gone for lasik surgery. Before I knew it, on the right hand column, I had weblinks that suggested Lasik eye doctors in my geographical area. Now, I thought that was pretty interesting and quick because it is a far cry from the generic enhancement product spam that promises me satisfaction (never mind if they actually targeted the wrong gender segment).

It is very updated, and if you think about it – very adaptable. It promotes live gigs that are touring in my area based on my music interests, including indie bands! They even provide a link for me to purchase tickets without the hassle of googling the outlet (Ticketek or Ticketmaster?).

It may not seem much nor quirky, but I am quite impressed by its adaptability and fit – no longer are users subjected to general spam and adverts that are not only unaesthetically pleasing but has no link or interest to its users.

To be truthful I don’t actually know whether the Simpsons ever took off in Arab markets. Probably unlikely since apart from language and the more obvious cultural markers there is so much cultural subtext that might not sit well with the local culture. But the fact that this even went to air is a powerful example of what can be done to make something palatable to a local audience (at minmal expense).