The Online Dating Association has officially relaunched as the Online Dating and Discovery Association. This expanded focus will welcome social discovery platforms to the organisation, recognising the growing online friend-finding industry.
“In 2014, the online dating sector came together to create the Online Dating Association (ODA) – a unifying force committed to setting industry standards and speaking out with one powerful voice. The ODA and its members have successfully developed best practice in online dating services, changing how the public view online dating and creating a safer and more inclusive dating ecosystem for both businesses and users”, the association shared.
“Today, we are delighted to welcome social discovery platforms and services to the Association and officially relaunch as the Online Dating & Discovery Association (ODDA). Social discovery is a growing space,where users turn to online services to make new friends, find others who share their interests or hobbies, share tips and experiences of life, or find colleagues for work or travel”, it explained.
“Many online dating companies are already diversifying into social discovery, and there are many new and exciting startups providing a range of options and ways to connect online. Social discovery services share similar opportunities and challenges to online dating services and we look forward to working as one”.
Looking ahead, the ODDA will continue to represent the sector, keeping trust and safety as a priority. “Our mission is to encourage innovative solutions to challenges, while creating a safe, trustworthy, and positive experience for all consumers”, the organisation highlighted.
Jessica Alderson, Co-Founder of So Syncd and ODDA Chair, said “As an organisation, we strive to stay at the forefront of the rapidly changing digital landscape. Expanding our remit to include social discovery apps is a natural progression and reinforces our commitment to promoting safe and responsible online interactions. We are excited to collaborate with these innovative platforms in the pursuit of creating a safer online environment”.
Dr Hannah Shimko, Chief Executive at the ODDA, will be speaking at the upcoming Global Dating Insights & Social Discovery Insights conferences in New York City on the 20th and 21st of March 2024.
You can find out more by visiting the ODDA website here or contacting info@theodda.org
