As I’m sure most users have noticed, the Open Source microblogging site Identi.ca underwent a major revamp on 23rd January. In addition to having a very cool new “Web 2.0″ visual theme, the groups feature was added. As the name implies, this feature allows users to join groups based upon interest, location etc.

Like so many other things, I believe this great feature has one potential downside. Just as one can follow too many people, and therefore become overwhelmed by information overload, it is also quite possible to have groups that fail to serve any real purpose, due to the high level of traffic.

I think part of the issue is due to how easy it can be to confuse groups with hashtags. They are quite similar, aside from the fact that when a message is sent to a group, it is seen by every member. Some people might think that some sort of control mechanism must be built in to regulate group usage behavior, but I am of the opinion that enforcement should be avoided whenever possible.

There are all sorts of unofficial, unenforced rules that govern society, more commonly known as etiquette. With that in mind, what do you think would be some good unofficial guidelines for the group feature? Feel free to comment below, and/or post your ideas. If you do post, please use the #etiquette tag.