Twitter: I still don't get it

On average, I read (or at least skim) 2-3 articles or blog posts about Twitter every week thanks to Delicious.com's popular bookmarks page. I don't have a Twitter account, but I'm waiting for a convincing reason to start Tweeting.

I do prefer textual communication, but here's the thing. I use Facebook and e-mail most of the time. (I should say I don't use my phone a whole lot either because I have access to a computer throughout the day. I can hop online to send or respond to messages easily.) That works for me because I can leave a message for someone when I have the time to, and they can reply when they get a chance. We can communicate without being available at the same time. Twitter works like that too, sending and receiving Tweets without you necessarily being at a computer or with your cell phone.

But my point is, if I'm functioning fine, why would I add Twitter? I don't know anyone on Twitter that I can't contact some other way. It's a great way to keep up with people and interests, yeah, but I'm not sure that's enough to make me sign up. I'm not sure that's enough motivation for me to get involved.

I've visited quite a few Twitter pages of bloggers and YouTubers. I can see how Twitter is useful for many people. I'm just talking about me, personally, though, or anyone else who doesn't see a need to use Twitter.

I just read this article and it's well-written, but still...

Readers, I'd like to hear from you. If you're on Twitter:

• How long have you been (actively) using Twitter?
• What do you use it for? (Talking to people, sending links, posting information...)
• What benefits have you seen from your Twitter use?
• Any down sides? (time you spend on Twitter, for example)

Feel free to answer any or all of the questions. Post a comment below or write a blog entry/record a vlog in response and leave a link in the comments.