Ning Interactive, Inc

Function: Ning.com, originally focused on providing a platform for electronic publishing and creating custom social networks, has evolved. While its initial function was to empower users to build and manage their own online communities with publishing capabilities, its current iteration serves a different purpose. The Ning platform no longer allows the creation of new social networks.

History: Ning was a prominent player in the early days of social networking, offering a customizable platform for businesses, organizations, and individuals to create branded online communities. This service involved aspects of electronic publishing, enabling users to publish content within their custom-built networks. Over time, Ning's focus shifted. Currently, the Ning website primarily directs users to other services or to contact them for a consultation. The specific details regarding their transition from a platform offering to its current state are not publicly elaborated on the website.

Current State: The core functionality of creating and hosting custom social networks under the Ning platform is no longer operational. The website functions primarily as a holding page, hinting at potential corporate activities or services that may be provided upon contact. Information about specific products or services is limited on the website itself.

Conclusion: While Ning Interactive, Inc. started as a company offering electronic publishing functionalities within a social networking context, its current state is significantly different. The company's present activities are not fully transparent from the information publicly available on ning.com. It's apparent that Ning's business model has undergone a considerable transformation, though the specifics remain undisclosed.